Ella, Sri Lanka: The Ultimate Guide to Sri Lanka’s Scenic Hill Country

Introduction

Nestled in Sri Lanka’s picturesque Hill Country, Ella is a charming town known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush tea plantations, and thrilling hikes. With its cool climate, misty mountains, and endless greenery, Ella is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers looking for a peaceful escape.

From hiking to Little Adam’s Peak and crossing the famous Nine Arches Bridge to exploring waterfalls and tea plantations, Ella offers an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka.

Why Visit Ella?

1. Witness the Iconic Nine Arches Bridge 🌉

• One of the most famous railway bridges in the world.

• Built during the British colonial era with no steel, just bricks, stone, and cement.

• Best time to visit: Morning (6 AM - 9 AM) or Evening (4 PM - 6 PM) to catch a train passing over the bridge.

2. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak 🏞️

• An easy 45-minute hike with breathtaking panoramic views.

• Named after Adam’s Peak, but much smaller and easier to climb.

• Ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

3. Explore the Stunning Ravana Falls 💦

• One of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush greenery.

• According to legend, King Ravana of the Ramayana epic hid Princess Sita here.

• Best time to visit: After the rainy season (November - February) when the water flow is strongest.

4. Enjoy a Scenic Train Ride to Ella 🚂

• The Kandy to Ella train journey is one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

• Passes through tea plantations, mountains, and misty landscapes.

• Book 1st, 2nd, or 3rd class tickets for different experiences.

5. Visit the Diyaluma Falls 💧

• The second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka (220m high).

• Offers natural pools at the top for a refreshing swim.

• A short hike is required to reach the upper pools.

6. Discover the Ella Rock Hike ⛰️

• A moderate to challenging hike (2-3 hours).

• Offers stunning views of Ella town and beyond.

• Best time to hike: Early morning (before 9 AM) to avoid the heat.

Best Time to Visit Ella

🔹 Tip: Ella is a year-round destination, but the best weather is from December to March.

How to Get to Ella

📍 Ella is located in Sri Lanka’s central highlands, about:
✔ 6-7 hours from Colombo
✔ 3-4 hours from Kandy
✔ 2-3 hours from Nuwara Eliya

Transportation Options

✔ By Train – The Kandy to Ella train is the most scenic way to travel.
✔ By Bus – Buses operate from Colombo, Kandy, and Badulla.
✔ By Car/Taxi – A private taxi from Colombo or Kandy offers more flexibility.

Where to Stay in Ella

✔ Luxury Hotels – 98 Acres Resort & Spa, EKHO Ella, Ella Jungle Resort.
✔ Mid-Range Hotels – Oak Ray Ella Gap, Zion View Ella.
✔ Budget-Friendly Stays – Hangover Hostels, Ella City Hotel.

Travel Tips for Visiting Ella

✔ Book train tickets early – The Ella train ride is very popular!
✔ Wear comfortable hiking shoes – Many attractions require walking.
✔ Visit tea plantations – Try freshly brewed Ceylon tea at a tea factory.
✔ Carry a jacket – The nights can be chilly in the mountains.
✔ Try local food – Don’t miss Sri Lankan hoppers and kottu roti.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

📍 Lipton’s Seat – A scenic viewpoint near Ella, offering panoramic tea estate views.
📍 Adisham Bungalow – A historic monastery in Haputale, near Ella.
📍 Haputale Tea Estates – Visit tea factories and learn about tea-making.
📍 Bogoda Wooden Bridge – One of the oldest surviving wooden bridges in Sri Lanka.

Conclusion

Ella is a magical destination that combines adventure, relaxation, and stunning scenery. Whether you're exploring waterfalls, hiking mountains, or enjoying the peaceful vibes of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, Ella promises an unforgettable experience.

🔥 Planning your Sri Lanka trip? Don’t miss the breathtaking town of Ella!