Since we started planning our Sri Lanka trip, we have been looking forward to visiting Ella. It’s a beautiful, sleepy town surrounded by misty green mountains, jungle, and stunning viewpoints. The laid-back vibes make you slow down and enjoy the nature.
It’s one of those places that should be on every Sri Lanka itinerary.
Ella is home to one of the most iconic Sri Lankan attractions – the Nine Arch Bridge. But there are so many other beautiful places to see in the area.
In this guide, we’ll share the best things to do in Ella, different hikes, places to stay, best restaurants, and a few more valuable tips.
Key Highlights
⭐️ Best months to visit: May – August
⭐️ How to get there: by train, by bus, tuk-tuk, driver
⭐️Must-visit attractions: Nine Arch Bridge, Diyaluma Falls
⭐️ Best viewpoints: Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Lipton Seat
⭐️Interesting activities: zipline, cooking class, tea factory tour
Quick Overview
In our opinion, Nine Arch Bridge and Diyaluma Falls are the two best things to do in Ella you simply can’t skip. While Nine Arch Bridge is easy to visit, Diyaluma Falls requires a full-day trip.
Ella is also known for several different hikes. Little Adam’s Peak is the easiest one, with rewarding views. For something more challenging, visit Ella Rock. Lipton Seat is another interesting viewpoint surrounded by tea plantations.
Adrenaline lovers can enjoy the Flying Ravana Zipline on their way to Little Adam’s Peak or relax in the Ravana Pool Club afterward. Other memorable experiences include a cooking class and a tea factory tour.
How to get to Ella
By train
TIP: Buy your Ella train tickets easily using 12Go.
The best way to reach Ella from Colombo, Kandy, or Nuwara Eliya is by taking the train. This train ride is regarded as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, and it’s an attraction on its own.
You can choose between 1st class, 2nd class, or a 3rd class ticket.
You probably know about this train ride from Instagram, where you can often see people hanging out of the train doors. If you’re after the same shot, skip the first class, as you can’t open the door. The second class offers a perfect balance of comfort and value.
Multiple trains are scheduled daily, but they often sell out quickly. Buying a last-minute ticket is almost impossible, so we recommend purchasing tickets as soon as possible using 12Go.
By public bus
While it’s possible to arrive at Ella from Kandy or Colombo by bus, it’s a long and not as comfortable journey. From Colombo, you’d need to change the bus in Badulla.
If you’re traveling from the south coast (Weligama, Unawatuna) or Udawalawe, I recommend taking the bus.
In most cases, you’ll first need to get to Wellawaya, where you can catch the direct bus to Ella.
The most significant advantage of traveling by bus is the low cost. However, the journey is CRAZY. Prepare for a fast and bumpy ride. It’s not comfortable and not suitable for everyone.
If you get sick quickly, you might prefer one of the options below.
Hire a driver
Hiring a private driver is one of the most comfortable ways to explore Sri Lanka. With a comfortable airport pick-up, you won’t have to worry about getting from point A to point B.
This option offers great flexibility and the ability to follow your itinerary. It also helps you save precious time by avoiding never-ending public transport connections. However, expect to pay much more for the comfort.
Rent a tuk tuk
If you’re after an unusual adventure, you’ll be happy to hear you can rent your own tuk-tuk for the whole Sri Lankan trip! You need to get a local driving license first, however, the rental company will help you with everything.
This is becoming more and more popular. If you’re curious about more details, check out TukTuk Rental.
Where to stay in Ella
Ella offers many accommodation options suitable for any budget, from cute homestays to spacious luxury resorts.
Many options are available directly in Ella town center, but you’ll also find some unusual resorts on the outskirts.
Below are some of the best-reviewed hotels in Ella.
Best hotels in Ella
Check availability
Best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
1. Ride the scenic Kandy to Ella train
Our absolute favorite thing to do in Ella was riding the scenic Kandy to Ella train. The train starts in Colombo, but the best views are after Kandy.
Not only is it a great way to get around Sri Lanka, but you can also combine multiple stops. We would recommend that you include Kandy and Nuwara Eliya in your itinerary.
Feel the air in your hair as you hang out of the train door while enjoying the views of rolling tea plantations, hills, and jungle.
Only four trains depart from Kandy each day, all of which are scheduled for the morning. The ticket prices start at 1200 LKR.
For the best views, sit on the right side between Kandy and Nanu Oya. If possible, switch to the left side after Nanu Oya.
TIP: The train ride is very popular, so tickets are often sold out far in advance. Make sure to purchase your tickets ASAP using 12Go.
2. Visit Nine Arch Bridge – top Ella’s attraction
One of the main reasons people travel to Ella is the Nine Arch Bridge. The majestic structure is 24 meters high. As soon as we saw it in person, we understood why it’s so popular.
What makes it unique is that it was built using only stone and bricks, no metal. A few trains pass the bridge each day. However, schedules often change, and trains are delayed, so it’s better to ask locals about the most recent times.
You can reach the bridge from a few different locations. We chose a short 15-minute walk through a jungle starting at Cafe Umbrella.
Once at the bridge, explore the viewpoints above it. You can also walk down below it to get a different perspective. A few simple shops offer snacks and drinks.
TIP: Join this Ella day tour, which will take you to all the best attractions, including Nine Arch Bridge.
3. Hike Little Adam’s Peak for the views
Look no further if you’re looking for beautiful viewpoints that don’t require too much effort. Little Adam’s Peak is an easily accessible peak that overlooks the Ella Gap.
The trail starts close to Ella Flower Garden Resort. Those who want to save some energy can hire a tuk-tuk, which will take them to Ravana Pool Club.
The whole hike to the first viewpoint takes around 1 hour, depending on your pace. Once at the top, you’ll see the second viewpoint in front of you. It takes another 20 minutes to get there.
The hike is relatively easy and can be done by anyone. No guide is required, and there is no entrance fee.
We recommend planning the hike either early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
4. Hike Ella Rock
While more difficult than the short Little Adam’s Peak hike, Ella Rock will reward you with even more mind-blowing views! Enjoy panoramic views over Ella, surrounding hills, and tea plantations from above.
The best time for this hike is the sunrise when golden light makes it even more epic! It’s definitely less crowded than Little Adam’s Peak. Depending on your fitness level, the hike should take 3-4 hours. You can do it with or without a guide.
TIP: Looking for a guided tour? How about this Sunrise Ella Rock Hike!
5. Swim at the infinity pools of Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls is still a somewhat hidden gem, becoming increasingly popular yearly. In our opinion, it’s one of the best things to do in Ella! After some hesitation due to bad weather, we gave it a chance, and I must say this place took our breath away.
Starting from the upper pools, we slowly descended to the edge of a 220-meter-tall cliff. Along the way, we passed multiple natural and infinity pools where we could swim.
For the brave ones, there are even few chances for cliff-jumping from one pool to another!
The water temperature is enjoyable, especially during the hot sunny days.
But the cherry on top lies at the end of the trail. The tall cliff ends here, and a waterfall drops down to the valley. The views from this spot are unbelievable. Three different infinity pools are located here, with the last at the cliff’s edge.
6. Marvel at Ravana Falls
Ravana Falls is a beautiful 25-meter-tall cascade located in Ella Gap. While it’s gorgeous no matter when you visit, its full strength is evident during the rainy season. The peaceful natural oasis is surrounded by lush green jungle and rocky cliffs.
It’s very easy to visit since it’s well visible from the main road. You can walk a few more minutes to get closer to the waterfall. If you hike Little Adam’s Peak, you can also see it from there.
Swimming in the natural pools below is possible, but be careful.
TIP: For an easy day trip, you can join this Ella day tour which will take you to all the best attractions.
7. Go on a Tea Factory Tour
Sri Lanka is known worldwide for its tea production. It’s one of the largest tea producers in the world! You surely must have heard about the famous Ceylon tea.
The tea production industry dates back to 1867 but remains one of the most critical aspects of the country’s economy and tourism.
Some of the most popular areas for tea production are Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Kandy. Tourists can hike around the vast tea plantations, watch workers fulfilling their daily duties, or learn more about the history and production of tea by visiting a tea factory.
One of the region’s most popular and largest tea factories is Halpewatte Tea Factory. So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Ella, don’t skip this one!
8. Get a taste of adrenaline on Flying Ravana zipline
As you hike Little Adam’s Peak, you’ll pass Flying Ravana Adventure Park. The park offers multiple activities, from ATV rides and climbing falls to an adrenaline zipline.
The two-wire zipline stretches half a kilometer above the lush green valley. Enjoy the fast ride while marveling at the green tea plantations and Ella Gap from above.
The entry is allowed for kids above 6 years. An adult ticket for a foreigner costs 9900 LKR.
9. Relax in Ravana Pool Club
The luxury Ravana Pool Club by 98 Acres Resort is perfect for relaxing. It is surrounded by mountains and offers beautiful pools, including the infinity pool overlooking Ella Gap. Guests can also enjoy fresh cocktails and tasty food.
What makes this place so unique is its stunning architecture and design inspired by Bali.
The basic 2-hour entrance starts at 4000 LKR, with options to upgrade to VIP Lounge.
Ravana Pool Club is at the end of the Flying Ravana zipline. The area is perfect for a day trip! You can start your day by visiting Nine Arch Bridge and move on to Little Adam’s Peak, where you can experience the zipline or chill by the pool until sunset.
10. Take a Cooking Class
Any food lover will undoubtedly be intrigued by the chance to learn more about Sri Lankan cuisine and try preparing some of the country’s most popular local meals. Taking a cooking class is a perfect way to learn something new!
We recommend this Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class.
Meet your friendly instructor, who will introduce you to all the fresh ingredients. Prepare multiple meals, including traditional hoppers, rice and curry, and honey roti. Once you’re done cooking, it’s time to enjoy the meal!
11. Meet elephants at Udawalawe National Park
Sri Lanka is also known for its incredibly diverse flora and fauna. There’s no better way to learn more about its nature than by visiting one of the national parks. The two most popular choices are Udawalawe and Yala.
TIP: If you prefer a visit to Yala, we recommend joining this Yala National Park Safari.
We chose Udawalawe National Park, which we visited from Ella before traveling to Weligama. Getting to Udawalawe from Ella was easy, thanks to frequent bus connections.
While we spent the night in Udawalawe before heading out for the morning safari jeep ride, you can also visit as a part of a day trip.
You can choose from a morning or evening safari jeep ride. If you want more details about the difference, read our guide to Udawalawe Jeep Safari.
Expect to meet herds of elephants, water buffalos, crocodiles, various birds, and much more. Going on a safari is one of the best things to do in Ella!
12. Visit Lipton Seat
Entrance fee: 500 LKR for an adult
Lipton Seat is a must-visit spot for any nature lover, photographer, or tea enthusiast. The panoramic viewpoint offers views over rolling tea plantations and misty hills.
I’m sure you know the word “Lipton.” This place is named after Sir Thomas Lipton, one of the biggest names in the tea industry. He used to sit at this spot and admire the vast tea plantations.
It takes about one hour to get here from Ella. We recommend renting a scooter or hiring a tuk-tuk driver for the day. The best time to visit is sunrise when the mist is low and the golden hours bring beautiful colors. Expect to pay a small entrance fee.
Where to eat
La Mensa | A great place if you’re looking for excellent traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. It offers affordable prices, large portions, and yummy food.
The White Rabbit | High-quality, tasty meals are served in a lovely restaurant with unique design and great vibes.
Cafe Chill | One of the most popular places to eat, drink, or chill. They mainly offer Western food.
Best time to visit
Dry season: December – March
Monsoon season: May – August
We recommend traveling between December and March to get the most out of your trip. This is the dry season in the South and West, and the chances for good weather are highest during this time.
It’s better to avoid the months between May and August when there’s a monsoon season.
April till June are generally considered shoulder months, which offer an outstanding balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
TIP: These are just general expectations; however, the weather can vary widely. It can rain daily, even when traveling in the middle of the dry season.
