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Ella Sri Lanka, Uva Province

Visit the laid-back mountain side village of Ella

Hiking Instagram Spot Waterfall
This quaint little village rests on the side of a mountain in south-central Sri Lanka and is the perfect pit stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary. Although the town itself is small, you’ll still need a few days in order to explore the main attraction of Ella: the gorgeous surrounding landscape. You can hike to famous sights, do some exhilarating zip-lining, and get some great tours in, all using the small village of Ella as a basecamp.
Good to know

At a glance

Best time to visit
Dec–Apr
Recommended duration
3 nights / 4 days
Average price per night Partner link

$25.00 / 22,00€ in Ella

Check hotels
Travel guides Partner links
Lonely Planet
Rough Guides
Current weather
18.2°C / 64.8°F
heavy intensity rain
What's around

Highlights

Hike to the postcard worthy Nine Arches Bridge

Set alongside deep, emerald, green growth and a rolling hillside is the famous Nine Arches Bridge in Ella. This iconic spot is known for its picturesque quality and the breathtaking serenity that can be found. The agreed best way to see this gorgeous sight is early in the morning. A sunrise hike to the spot in order to capture a photo of the morning train is well worth it, and you’ll be rewarded with some amazing memories.

Take a small hike to see captivating sights from Little Adam’s Peak

Not to be confused with the larger mountainous Adam’s Peak, Little Adam’s Peak offers a relatively easy hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail takes you through lush tea plantations, providing a picturesque journey to the top. As you reach the summit, you're greeted with breathtaking vistas of Ella's rolling hills, making it an ideal spot to capture memorable moments. If you're craving more adrenaline, you can also stop by the zipline at the bottom of the peak.

Learn about Sri Lankan history in an Ella tea factory

With a selection of tea factories to tour at your disposal (e.g., Halpewatte Tea Factory), visitors in Ella should take a moment to explore the interesting connection between Sri Lanka and tea. Be led through the process of how tea is planted and all the way to how it gets into your cup by a knowledgeable guide as you tour a tea factory and all of its inner workings. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs or even a cuppa on your way out.

Explore the legends behind the famous Ravana Falls and Caves

Steeped in legends and stories, Ravana Falls and Caves are a must for any traveler passing through Ella. Although this famous cave is relatively small, the historical value is immeasurable. Said to have been the holding place of the ancient Indian princess, Sita, the legend surrounding the Ravana Caves makes the short trek worth it. After checking out the cave you can head to the equally famous Ravana falls and take a much-needed dip into the refreshing waters.

Trek to Ella Rock, a cliff set high above Ella town

Located in the clouds above the town of the same name, Ella Rock is a famous cliff with a stunning view. This hike is a combined 4 hours and will take you past a railway station, tea plantation, and a forest of Eucalyptus trees. Once you get the top you are rewarded with incredible views that will be sure to impress even the most experienced hiker.

Hike to the historically significant Lipton’s Seat Viewpoint

Regarded as being one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful viewpoints, Lipton’s Seat is a window into the green, sweeping landscapes of Sri Lanka’s highlands. The famous, Scottish tea tycoon was said to have sat upon this peak and observed the rolling green hills of his growing tea empire, and this is immortalized in a statue of Sir Thomas Lipton with a cup of tea in his hands. The view alone is worth the trek along the tea plantation hills.

Get close to the edge of Diyaluma Falls

With a height of 220 m/720 ft, Diyaluma Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. The falls are best known for their natural infinity pools with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. During the dry season months, you can swim in the refreshing waters of the upper pools and get close to the edge of the main waterfall.* Rent a scooter or get a tuk tuk and drive about an hour south from Ella to see this beautiful patch of nature. If you want to save yourself the strenuous and steep 45-minute hike to the top of the falls that starts near Koslanda, hiking down from Poonagala village is another option.

* However, always take the necessary precautions and check with the locals if you are unsure.

Take a scenic train ride to Kandy or Nuwara Eliya

Travelling by train is a great way to experience Sri Lanka and the scenic route between Kandy and Ella (via Nuwara Eliya) is rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world! You will pass charming villages and have sweeping views of the lush green tea plantations nestled against the steep hills of the region. There are several trains running each day and you can usually buy your tickets at the station office the same day. If you want to make sure you get your preferred seat (especially on weekends and holidays) we recommend booking online. Tip: For the best view, choose a seat on the right side of the train if you're going to Nuwara Eliya, and on the left side if you are heading further to Kandy.
Where to go next

Experiences nearby

All distances are direct distances.
How to get there

Getting there & away

transit
Inbound and outbound transit connections depart and arrive in Ella.
CMB
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo is located about 334 km and 4:48 hrs away if you take a car, taxi or minibus.
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