The Best Things to Do in Ella, Sri Lanka
This complete travel guide includes the top things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka! From hiking to stunning viewpoints and exploring tea plantations to discovering the wonders of Sri Lankan cuisine, I've rounded up the best hikes, activities, and waterfalls to add to your Ella itinerary.
Looking for the best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka? You've come to the right place! I’ve compiled a list of the absolute must-visit attractions and activities in Ella. From mesmerizing hikes to breathtaking viewpoints, from tranquil tea estate tours to thrilling waterfall adventures— there's something for every traveler in this idyllic hillside town. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a culture lover, Ella has it all.
Ella is a small, quiet town in Sri Lanka completely enveloped in nature. Outdoor enthusiasts will be in heaven with all the hikes there are to do, waterfalls there are to visit, and fantastic outdoor adventures there are to partake in. But travelers seeking relaxed destinations with a bit of nightlife are bound to fall in love with Ella too!
I came to Ella after visiting Nuwara Eliya. My initial impression was of how beautiful the town was. I busied myself eating some of the best food during my entire Sri Lankan trip, tiring my legs on hikes up to outstanding viewpoints of the jungle-swatched mountains. There was plenty to see and do despite Ella’s small size. In this guide, you’ll find all the critical information you need to plan an epic trip to Ella, filled with the best things to do.
where is Ella ↴
Ella is only roughly 200 kilometers from the country’s capital, Colombo. The sleepy town’s altitude and mountain setting lend a milder climate than other Sri Lankan tourist stops. Ella's central location in the highlands of Sri Lanka makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the country's beautiful hill country and accessing various natural and cultural attractions in the region. Basing yourself in Ella puts you in close proximity to Udawalawe and Yala National Parks, famous for their wildlife conservation.
how to get to Ella ↴
You’ll definitely want to get to Ella via the famous “Kandy to Ella train”. Not only is the ride scenic, but it’s extremely cheap and part of the quintessential Sri Lankan travel experience. The trip takes 7-8 hours, but I recommend breaking the journey up with a stop in Nuwara Eliya.
There are direct, local buses to Ella from Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, however, they both require a bus change. I rode multiple buses and trains while in Sri Lanka, and as ridiculously cheap as the buses are, you do not get the same views of experience that you do via the train.
Read | Train Kandy to Ella, Sri Lanka: 2023 Ultimate Guide + How to Book Tickets
when to visit Ella ↴
The best time to explore Ella and fully immerse yourself in its natural wonders is during the dry season, which (roughly) runs from December to March. During these months, Ella experiences pleasantly warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes and outdoor activities to the fullest. I visited Sri Lanka for the month of April, and it only started raining in the evening towards the end of the month. The daytime temperatures were high but manageable.
December through mid-April is considered Sri Lanka’s peak tourist season. If you’re a shoulder-season traveler looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Ella between June and August.
Spring (March-May) | Contrary to what you might think, Ella’s spring months are the hottest of the year. Temperatures range from highs around 31°C. There is rainfall, but it’s estimated that Ella only sees 7-12 days of significant rain during the spring, making it a much better time of year to visit than the autumn when you can expect nearly 25 days per month of rain. Because it’s the hottest time of the year, there are fewer crowds and accommodation prices deflate.
Summer (June-August) |Temperatures in Ella during the summer months can hover around 28°C (83°F). Expect more rainfall than the springtime and fewer crowds.
Autumn (September to November) | While the temperatures in Ella tend to be milder in the autumn months, this is also the rainiest time of the year. If you’re keen to do the many hikes and outdoor excursions available around Ella, I would avoid the autumn rainy season.
Winter (December-February) | Temperatures can dip down to lows of around 11°C (53°F). January sees low temperatures, but it also sees the least rainfall.
how many days to spend in Ella ↴
As a strong advocate for slower, more immersive travel, I always recommend spending more time in a single destination. However, I understand that not everyone has a week or more to spend in Ella.
When you’re planning your trip to Ella, Sri Lanka, it's important to allocate enough time to fully experience the beauty and charm of this picturesque hillside town. The duration of your stay in Ella will ultimately depend on your itinerary, but I would recommend spending at least three days in this exciting Sri Lankan destination.
Three days will allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, explore the lush tea plantations, and embark on the many popular hikes in the area, such as Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. You’ll have time to visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and indulge in the local cuisine and hospitality. With a few days in Ella, you'll have ample opportunity to relax, rejuvenate, and savor the tranquility of this captivating hill station, making your visit truly memorable.
If you have an extended itinerary, five days will allow you some extra time to relax without faffing around looking for things to do. There is plenty to keep you busy over five days and you’ll have no shortage of adventure in Ella.
getting around Ella ↴
Ella is a relatively small town, so it’s (mostly) walkable. It’s possible, and cheapest, to reach most of the main tourist attractions by foot, so it isn’t necessary to rent a motorbike. In general, I found that the best way to see most places is on foot. You’ll save yourself money, and walking allows you to stumble upon things you might have missed otherwise.
Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation in Ella and are readily available throughout the town. They are a convenient option for short trips or reaching destinations that might be a bit too far to walk comfortably. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Renting a bicycle is another excellent way to explore Ella at your own pace. The town has a variety of shops and guesthouses that offer bicycle rentals, and it's a great way to venture into the countryside and explore off-the-beaten-path places.
If you have a valid international driver's license, you can rent a scooter or motorcycle to explore Ella and its surroundings more freely. This option provides flexibility and access to remote areas. Having lived in Asia for so long, Luke and I are comfortable driving a motorbike almost everywhere, and Sri Lanka was no different. We rented a motorbike from our homestay and drove it to Diyaluma Falls for a day at the waterfall. However, the roads are windy. If you’re new to motorbiking, in Asia especially, consider using tuk-tuks to get around. Be sure to negotiate a price with your tuk-tuk driver before you get into the vehicle!
For those looking to explore farther afield or planning a day trip to nearby attractions like Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park, hiring a private driver with a vehicle can be a convenient and comfortable option.
where to stay in Ella ↴
One of the things that surprised me most about traveling in Ella was how much of the small town’s accommodation options were scattered away from the main town in its picturesque hills. To guarantee you have the best possible stay in Ella, make sure you check your hostel or hotel’s distance from the town’s main attractions. If you’d like to be amongst it all, book a stay closer to Ella town. If you’d prefer some peace and quiet enveloped in scenic views, consider booking along Ella-Passara road towards the hill.
Ella is a hotspot for travelers and its increasing popularity has meant that accommodation books up. I would highly recommend booking your accommodation in Ella ahead of your arrival, particularly in high tourist season.
I stayed at Namal’s Great Views Homestay, nestled away in the mountains. The views were, as the name implies, great. The homestay was about a 10-minute walk from the center of town along the railroad tracks. The stroll into town added a level of adventure and atmosphere to our stay, but during the heat of the day, it made the climb up to our accommodation quite the task.
The homestay offered a fantastic breakfast (at additional cost) and the family who ran it organized our motorbike rental! The rooms at our homestay were basic but private and clean. Each level of the guesthouse had a cushioned swing seat— ideal for gazing out into the valley below. We could actually see Ravana Falls, Ella Rock, and Little Adam’s Peak from the top floor’s swing. The top floor is also where breakfast is served.
We love using Booking.com to book the best places to stay around the world.
OTHER ACCOMMODATION I RECOMMEND IN ELLA:
98 Acres Resort and Spa | eco-friendly resort offering luxurious chalets with stunning views of the Ella Gap and Little Adam's Peak, as well as an infinity pool and on-site spa
Ella Jungle Resort | treehouse cabins and eco-friendly bungalows surrounded by lush jungle, offering various outdoor activities to guests
Ella Planters Bungalow | colonial-era bungalow turned boutique hotel provides an intimate atmosphere
The Secret Ella | spacious rooms and an infinity pool overlooking the Ella Gap, ideal for nature lovers
Ella Mount Heaven | comfortable rooms with balconies that provide spectacular views of the surrounding hills
The One Ella | boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace, within walking distance of popular attractions
Ella Flower Garden Resort | a resort featuring cozy cottages set amidst a beautiful garden, with easy access to the town
where to eat in Ella ↴
Ella isn't just a haven for natural beauty; it's also a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. You will not go hungry in Ella! The restaurants are a bit overpriced compared to the northern part of the country. Still, Ella offers a wealth of options and a variety of world cuisines. I did my “homework” and ate a lot of delicious food in Ella, including local street eats, Western cafés, and international restaurants.
Matey Hut | Matey Hut sits at the top of the main road in Ella. The food was served fast, hot, and was absolutely delicious. A great option for good quality Sri Lankan food on a budget. With only a few tables available, you’ll need to arrive early to avoid a wait. I highly recommend getting the four curries meal option. Portions are heaping, so come hungry. Matey Hut also offers cooking classes, but spaces are limited so be sure to book a couple of days in advance to secure your spot!
Café Chill | I found this Café Chill on almost every blog about Ella I read. With vegan options and a variety of cuisine types, I had high hopes for the place. The food is a bit overpriced, even by Ella’s standards. However, I understand its appeal to tourists thanks to its chill {get it?} vibe and its Western hipster menu items: chocolate ice cream, vegetarian burgers, and kombucha among others.
The Barn | This little café and bar serves up delicious coffees, cocktails, snack platters, and full breakfasts. In the evening, it’s a great place to have a chocolate milkshake and people-watch, which is exactly what I did. The service was average, but the soundtrack playing throughout the café more than made up for it.
In Reincarnation | Without a question, my favorite meal I had in Ella was at In Reincarnation, a tiny “Mexican” eatery right across the road from Café Chill. Their nachos are to die for! I loved the low lighting and the hole-in-the-wall atmosphere despite it sitting directly on the main road of the town.
local bakeries | Local bakeries and convenience shops sell rotis, samosas, and other baked goods that are perfect as cheap snacks or a quick lunch. Most are vegetarian, which made it easy for me to find simple food to pack for the many hikes and waterfall treks I went on while in Ella. I grabbed Sri Lankan roti meals at little bakeries around the town for as little as USD $0.50.
12 things to do in Ella ↴
hike Ella Rock
Hiking Ella Rock is a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers visiting Ella, Sri Lanka. The trailhead for the hike is easily accessible from Ella town, and the trek typically takes around 2 to 3 hours to reach the summit. The initial part of the hike leads you through tea plantations, where you can witness tea pickers at work and learn about the region's rich tea culture.
As you ascend higher, the trail becomes more challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort. The summit of Ella Rock offers awe-inspiring 360-degree views of the surrounding landscapes, including the iconic Ella Gap, tea-covered hills, and distant mountain ranges. Many hikers prefer to reach the summit for sunrise or sunset to witness the dramatic play of colors across the horizon. I hiked Ella Rock in the middle of the day, and I regretted undertaking the physical challenge in the heat of the day.
Along the way, you'll also encounter friendly locals who might offer assistance or share their insights about the trail. I recommend giving them a smile and continuing on your way. Locals sometimes offer assistance and then demand payment for being your guide at the top.
If you’re stretched for time and have to choose between Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak, I highly recommend hiking Ella Rock! The views are amazing and, unlike Little Adam’s Peak, it’s an actual hike. Wear good shoes and bring lots of water— you’ll need it!
hike Little Adam’s Peak
Little Adam’s Peak is a lovely, short walk that only takes up part of your morning. Located just a short tuk-tuk ride or a leisurely walk from Ella town, Little Adam’s Peak offers a rewarding view of the surrounding lush valleys. The trail begins with a gentle ascent through lush tea plantations, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant greenery and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. As you ascend, you'll encounter charming locals plucking tea leaves, offering an authentic glimpse into the region's tea culture.
After the tea fields, the path gradually becomes steeper but remains well-maintained and easy. The concrete path and signage make it easy to navigate to the lookout point, where the real highlight of this hike awaits.
It's a popular spot for both sunrise and sunset, offering a surreal play of colors in the sky. Be sure to bring your camera, as you'll want to capture this stunning natural beauty. I recommend going at sunrise, but be warned! Even in the early hours of the day, there are still crowds during peak tourist season. I arrived at the top early in the morning, coffee in hand, I was greeted by puppies and lots of fellow hikers.
visit Bambarakanda
Ella is teeming with epic waterfalls. While Diyaluma, the country’s second tallest waterfall is much more exciting (and popular for swimming), it would be silly to not make time to visit Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall. Bambarakanda looms above Ella at 241 meters high. You can hear the thundering of water are it cascades over the edge, especially during the wet season, from the road, but I recommend walking to the waterfalls base. Prepare to feel puny! Close to Bambarakanda are Lanka Ella, Nagadowa Ella, and Uduwara Ella. Make it a full day of watefall chasing and hikes on the surrounding trails.
You can get to Bambarakanda via tuk-tuk or make your own way on scooter/motorbike. Drive up the main road and turn at Kalupahana Junction. Roughly 5 kilometers up the road is a small ticket counter. After a quick 10-15-minute walk, you’ll be standing at the bottom of the powerful falls.
enjoy a swim at Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls is a magnificent natural spectacle that promises a memorable adventure for travelers. Cascading down a series of terraced cliffs, Diyaluma is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, and the journey to the top of it is something you’re likely to never forget. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, and the cool, crystal-clear waters invite visitors to take a refreshing dip or even indulge in an exhilarating cliff-jumping experience from varying heights, ranging from 3 to 30 meters, depending on your level of courage.
It’s a mission to get to the cool pools at the top of Diyaluma Falls, but it pays off with gorgeous views and refreshing water. To reach Diyaluma Falls from Ella, begin by hiring a tuk-tuk or renting a motorbike to drive yourself to the base of the falls. The drive itself is an adventure, as you'll navigate winding roads that cut through picturesque tea plantations and the charming countryside. Once you arrive, a moderately challenging hike through the wilderness, often accompanied by friendly locals offering guidance, leads you to the falls. Remember to wear suitable footwear and bring drinking water, as the path can be uneven and steep in places.
take a cooking class
Cooking classes in Ella offer an immersive culinary experience that allows you to delve deep into the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine. These classes typically take place in family homes or traditional cooking schools, providing an authentic glimpse into the local way of life. During the classes, you'll have the opportunity to learn from home cooks who teach you how to prepare traditional dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, rotis, and various chutneys and sambols.
Most cooking classes begin with a visit to a local market, where you'll select fresh ingredients and spices for the recipes you’ll learn to make. Once back in the kitchen, you'll roll up your sleeves and get hands-on experience in chopping, grinding, and cooking. To cap off your class, you'll sit down to savor the fruits of your labor, enjoying a delicious meal you've prepared yourself.
These cooking classes not only leave you with newfound culinary skills but also with a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka's rich food heritage. It's a fantastic way to take a piece of Ella's culture home with you, allowing you to recreate the flavors of your trip long after you've left this enchanting town.
Both Spice Garden and Matey Hut have fantastic reputations for their cooking classes. Matey Hut’s classes are very small and off-site from their famed restaurant. Portions cooked in the class are as heaping as those served at the local eatery.
stand in awe of Nine Arches Bridge
Most “Instagram spots” do not live up to the beauty portrayed on those tiny little squares you see on the app. Nine Arches Bridge, however, does. Actually, it surpassed my hopes for the railway overpass. The grandeur of the bridge set against the background of an endless green landscape rendered me speechless.
The Nine Arches Bridge is a marvel of railway engineering. Locally known as "Ahas Namaye Palama," was constructed during the British colonial era without the use of steel. Instead, it’s constructed of a combination of stone bricks, cement, and solid concrete. The bridge’s nine arches create a stunning visual spectacle against the backdrop of Ella's tea plantations.
Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge is relatively straightforward. Most travelers choose to walk there from Ella town, which takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers picturesque views along the way. Alternatively, you can hire a tuk-tuk to drop you off at the nearest viewpoint, which is just a short walk from the bridge. Timing is crucial for the best experience; trains typically pass over the bridge around 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM daily. Arriving a bit earlier allows you to secure a good viewing spot to witness the train's passage, which is a breathtaking sight as it emerges from the lush hills and gracefully crosses the bridge.
Watch the train cross the bridge at | 6:35 AM, 9:20 AM, 11:55 AM, 12:45 PM, 1:20 PM, 2:40 PM, 3:10 PM, 5:20 PM, 6:50PM
get misty-eyed at Ravana Falls
Ravana Falls is a natural wonder that beckons travelers with a touch of mythology. This waterfall, which stands at an impressive height of 82 feet (25 meters), is not only renowned for its breathtaking cascade of water but also for its connection to the famous Ramayana epic, where it is said to be associated with the mythical demon king Ravana.
From Ella town, you can hire a tuk-tuk or a taxi to reach the falls, which is a short drive away. Once you arrive, there is a parking area from where a short walk through the forested area leads you to the base of the falls. Be prepared to navigate a few steps and uneven terrain. The journey is part of the adventure, as you'll be surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
At the base of Ravana Falls, you can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters or simply enjoy the magnificent view while listening to the soothing sound of the cascading water. For those seeking a bit more adventure, you can hike up to the top of the falls, which leads to stunning panoramic views. Ravana Falls only takes 10 minutes by motorbike to get to from the center of town. The waterfall sits right on the main road. You’ll see people taking photos, so it’s nearly impossible to miss.
shop til you drop at the Wednesday Market
On Wednesdays, Ella has a small market with vendors selling fruits, spices, clothing, and fresh produce. It’s hard to miss, since the market stalls line Passara Road right near the Western-style supermarket in town. The market is a lively social affair for the whole town. It adds an extra touch of excitement to the otherwise tranquil town. The market transforms the area into a hub of activity.
You’ll find an array of stalls selling everything from delicious street food to handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The market often features live music performances and an opportunity to mingle with the friendly locals. It's an ideal place to sample authentic Sri Lankan street food, shop for unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the local culture.
tour a tea plantation
Touring a tea plantation in Ella allows visitors to discover the country's rich tea heritage. Ella is surrounded by undulating hills covered in verdant tea bushes, and its altitude makes it optimal for tea-growing. There is no better way to understand the art of tea cultivation and production than through a guided tour.
Visitors are often welcomed by friendly tea estate workers who share their knowledge about the various tea varieties, cultivation techniques, and the intricate process of plucking, withering, rolling, fermenting, and drying the tea leaves. The tour typically includes a visit to a tea factory, where you can witness the machinery in action and learn about the grading and packaging of tea. The aroma of freshly brewed Ceylon tea wafts through the air, and you'll have the opportunity to savor a cup of pure, locally grown tea while enjoying panoramic views of the tea-covered hills. Touring a tea plantation in Ella is not just an educational experience; it's a sensory delight that immerses you in the flavors and traditions that have made Ceylon tea world-famous.
go ziplining
Ella is home to Sri Lanka’s first-ever zipline! For only USD $20, Flying Ravana allows you to glide through the lush hills of Ella at nearly 50mph. The zipline is one of the most adrenaline fueling activities in Ella. It’s very safe, run by well-trained staff who give a thorough safety briefing before you are flying through the high hills.
You can book your zipline in advance here or in person once you have arrived in Ella.
head up to Lipton Seat
Lipton is an integral part of Sri Lanka’s tea history. Thus, it only makes sense while you’re in Ella to stop by the viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton, the tea tycoon himself, is said to have sat, marveling at the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s tea-covered hills. You can enjoy a piping cup of tea up Lipton’s Seat for yourself. Catch the famous Ella to Kandy train early in the morning. Exit the train at Haputale and hop in a pre-arranged tuk-tuk from the station.
Make it a half-day excursion by combining a trip up Lipton’s seat with a tour of a nearby Dambetanna Tea Factory. You can book this on your own easily enough (it’s what we did). Alternatively, you can book a tour to the tea plantation here.
relax at a spa
One of Ella’s more luxurious accommodations doubles as a spa. 98 Acres Resort’s glass cabins set against the cliffside of the town’s famous tea plantations are what travel dreams are made of. But, whether you are a guest of the resort or not, you can still book a spa treatment at the upscale accomodation’s on-site spa.
After spending nearly a month in Sri Lanka, I popped in for a massage that cost less than USD $30. It was one of the best massages I’ve had in my life. More memorable than the massage? The views from my massage room!
is Ella safe ↴
I found that Ella, like the rest of Sri Lanka, is a relatively safe place to travel. I would recommend remaining aware of your belongings, as you would in any popular tourist destination. Solo and female travelers should avoid walking back to your accommodation alone at night, again, the same as you would traveling most places. Take normal safety precaution while you are out exploring, and you shouldn’t run into trouble. People in Sri Lanka are overwhelming friendly.
Due to the numerous adventure travel activities available to you in Ella, travel insurance is of the utmost importance. I recommend using SafetyWing!
