Ella - Scenic hill country town in Sri Lanka
Description
Ella is a charming hill town in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush tea plantations, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering panoramic views of misty mountains and deep valleys. The town has a relaxed vibe with cozy cafés, boutique hotels, and stunning viewpoints.
Visitor Fee
- No entry fee to visit Ella itself.
- Certain attractions like Little Adam’s Peak (free) and Nine Arches Bridge (free) do not require a ticket.
- Hiking to Ella Rock is free, but hiring a guide costs $10-$20.
Transportation
- By Train: The Kandy-Ella train journey is one of the most scenic train rides in the world.
- By Bus: Regular buses from Colombo, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.
- By Car/Tuk-Tuk: Private taxis and tuk-tuks are available for hire.
Things to Do
- Hike to Little Adam’s Peak – A short, easy trek with stunning views.
- Visit Nine Arches Bridge – A famous colonial-era railway bridge in the jungle.
- Climb Ella Rock – A challenging hike with panoramic views of the highlands.
- Swim at Ravana Falls – A beautiful multi-tiered waterfall near Ella.
- Explore a Tea Plantation – Visit Halpewatte Tea Factory for a tea-tasting tour.
- Enjoy the Kandy-Ella Train Ride – Considered one of the world’s most scenic train journeys.
- Relax in Ella Town – Enjoy cozy cafés, Ayurvedic spas, and vibrant nightlife.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here
- Breathtaking natural beauty.
- World-famous train ride through tea country.
- Great hiking trails and outdoor adventures.
- Relaxed atmosphere with trendy cafés and restaurants.
- Cool, refreshing climate compared to coastal areas.
Age of the Town
- Ella has been a settlement for centuries, but it gained popularity as a British colonial tea-growing region in the 19th century.
List of Activities
- Hiking & trekking
- Photography
- Waterfall swimming
- Tea factory visits & tastings
- Train journeys
- Yoga & meditation
- Birdwatching
Additional Nearby Attractions
- Diyaluma Falls (~38 km) – Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall with natural pools.
- Lipton’s Seat (~25 km) – A scenic viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton used to admire his tea estates.
- Haputale (~30 km) – Another beautiful tea-growing hill town.
- Udawalawe National Park (~90 km) – Famous for wild elephants.
- Nuwara Eliya (~56 km) – "Little England" of Sri Lanka with colonial charm and cool weather.