Ella is a small and quiet town located in the Hill Country of Sri Lanka, a region well known for its tea plantations and spectacular mountains. It’s a must stop on your 3 weeks route across Sri Lanka. It has become one of the major tourist spots and for good reasons: the scenery is simply breathtaking and there are many amazing things to do around. If you like hikes and nature, this might become your favourite place in Sri Lanka. Arrive to Ella by the world’s most beautiful train ride from Kandy and base yourself here for a few days to explore this epic scenery. In this guide, we will tell you about the awesome things to do awaiting for you in Ella.

Hike Little Adams Peak

Hiking Little Adams Peak is the perfect way to start you adventures in Ella with this guide. This trail ends with unforgettable and breathtaking scenery, the path is well maintained and marked, takes only about 30 min and it is the easiest hike in the area. On the way up, you will pass by tea plantations and have numerous picture opportunities. 

↬ Read : Hike Little Adam’s Peak in Ella – Sri Lanka

Walk on the tracks of the famous Nine Arch Bridge 

This insta-famous spot is a must visit while traveling around Sri Lanka. Located in dense jungle and surrounded by tea plantations, this 30 meters high stone bridge makes up a unique attraction. Walking on the edge of the bridge is a thrilling experience, especially that the tracks are active and trains are passing here few times a day.

↬ Read : Visit the Famous Nine Arch Bridge in Ella – Sri Lanka

Hike Ella Rock

It’s a more challenging hike, but absolutely rewarding. The way up takes about 2 hours and the elevation is pretty high meaning that a big part of the hike involves bouldering.

However, if you are in good shape and like hiking, you will love the adventure and exercise. Then at the top, will be blown away by the marvellous views of the Hill Country.

↬ Read : Hike Ella Rock for its Incredible Views of the Hill Country

Swim at Diyaluma Falls, 2nd highest waterfall in Sri Lanka

Next in this guide, about an hour drive out of Ella rests the 2nd highest waterfall in Sri Lanka measuring 220 m: the Diyaluma Falls. Its a great whole day adventure and a perfect relaxing spot. On top of this 220 meter high waterfall there are multiple falls and natural pools ideal for bathing. 

↬ Read : Hike Diyaluma Falls – 2nd Highest Waterfall in Sri Lanka

Stop at Ravana Falls, 90 m high waterfall

Located 10 min outside of Ella, right by the main road, Ravana Falls are astonishing falls falling 90 m on the side of a mountain. You can enter the falls for free, but it is forbidden to climb them. We tried and were fast stopped and whistled down by the security guard who is always present to assure everybody safety. 

Enjoy Ella Town

Ella is a small town that consists of one main road which will guide you along a number of restaurants and shops on its side and that’s about it! Walk along the street and observe locals life. Stop at a tea boutique to try out some of Sri Lankan delicious tea or shop for souvenirs. But its size doesn’t make it lose an inch of charm, with stunning views all around, great food (kothu rotti ?) and openhearted people.

Practical info

Getting to Ella

If you arrive from Kandy then the best way to get to Ella is through the most scenic train ride in Sri Lanka. The journey is long (about 8H) but totally rewarding with the amazing views.

If you are travelling from the south coast and Sri Lankan beaches, then you can get to Ella by taxi or shared taxi. Alternatively, take a bus. The bus drives very fast (maybe even too fast sometimes), tickets are usually less than 1 EUR. You do not need to book in advance. Just ask your hotel where is the bus stop and how often the bus passes.

Getting around Ella

The best way to get around is by renting a scooter. There are many rental shops on the main street of Ella. It costs 1000-1200 LKR (5-6 EUR) per day. Make sure to wear a helmet.

If you do not want to ride a motorbike then travelling by tuk-tuk is the easiest way to get around. Make sure to agree on the price before the trip.

Where to eat

Cafe Chill located on the main street, Chill cafe is one of the most popular restaurants in Ella, where people from all over the world gather to relax and enjoy delicious dishes, both international and Sri Lankan. The vibe is truly unique and we loved the atmosphere as well as the food. Be aware of the queue outside, however the wait doesn’t usually take too long.

Ella Rotti Hut this laid-back restaurant is located on the main street right next to popular Cafe Chill. Hands down it serves the best roti and kothu roti we had in Sri Lanka. Freshly prepared with good ingredients, its a perfect place to relax on a terrace after a long day of adventures around Ella. 

Matey Hut serves local cuisine and has some vegetarian and vegan options. You can’t go wrong with curry served in this restaurant- its simply delicious. 

Adam’s Breeze perfect place to stop for lunch on the way back from Nine Arch Bridge or Little Adam’s Peak. It has views on the jungle and delicious Sri Lankan dishes. 

Where to stay

The best part of Ella is that you can get a hotel with astonishing views even when traveling on a small budget. Have a look at booking.com

↬ Find all the hotels in Ella on booking.com

We recommend: Zion View Ella Green Retreat  – Rock Side Inn Ella