The Best Things to Do in Ella, Sri Lanka (2026 Guide - Updated for the Kandy Train Change)
Ella has changed since we first visited in 2016, but the rock, the bridge, and the mist over Ella Gap are unchanged. Here's our honest guide to the best things to do in Ella, updated for 2026.
UPDATED - July 2026
Tucked away in the misty Sri Lankan high country, amongst idyllic green hills and gushing waterfalls lies Ella: one of this tear-shaped island's most appealing destinations.
From scaling the heady heights of Ella Rock to laying eyes on the mystical Nine Arch Bridge for the very first time; standing on the edge of the roaring Diyaluma Falls (the second tallest in the country), and winding through the tea plantations and mountains passes on the famous Kandy to Ella train; many of our favourite Sri Lankan adventures can be found right here.
At its heart, Ella is a charming and laid-back village perfect for relaxing, hiking and escaping the searing temperatures of the southern coast.
It's a place where Sri Lanka's colonial heritage coexists with its rich Sinhalese and Tamil culture, and where abundant natural experiences can be found alongside plentiful cultural ones. And it's a place where learning to cook delicious Sri Lankan cuisine is an absolute must (NOM!).
We do have to warn you, that this once simple hamlet in the hills has transformed into a major tourist stop since our first visit in 2016.
Growing in popularity and in size has led to a number of concrete eyesores now dotting every corner of the village, which has taken away some of the peaceful, rural charms that made the area so incredible.
But there’s still so much to see and do in Ella - if you’re willing to go deeper than just the touristy pretty sights and epic landscapes.
After two visits to this lush hill-country village, we've put together our list of the best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka; a town we feel should be firmly embedded on your Sri Lankan itinerary.
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ELLA TRAVEL GUIDE OVERVIEW
BEST TIME TO VISIT | December – March
HOW TO GET THERE | Train from Ambewela (Kandy section currently suspended full 2026 update here), bus, private transfer from the south coast
DON'T MISS | Ella Rock at sunrise, Nine Arch Bridge before 7am, Diyaluma Falls, Lanka's Cooking Class, the Ambewela–Ella train
BEST HIKES | Ella Rock (hardest, best views), Little Adam's Peak (easiest, still spectacular), Horton Plains & World's End (most dramatic)
BEST VIEWS | Ella Rock summit, the Little Adam's Peak ridge, Lipton Seat on a clear morning, Nine Arch Bridge from the forest above
WHERE TO EAT | Lanka's Cooking Class, Ella Village Restaurant, Cafe Chill
WHERE TO STAY | Rowinrich Cottages, The Secret Ella, 98 Acres Resort & Spa
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO ELLA
WHY VISIT ELLA
What Ella was, and what Ella now is, are two completely different things. 10 years ago, the sleepy hill country town was slowly appearing on every traveller’s bucket list, but it was raw, not yet weighed down by its popularity. Like many places in the world, and especially in Sri Lanka (looking at Hiriketiya, Ahangama, etc.), you can feel it bursting at the seams, hanging onto the last remaining vestiges of slow and authentic.
When we first came in 2016, you could walk across the Nine Arch Bridge at 9 am and share it with roughly four other people and a dog. The main street was a handful of local shops, rice and curry cost 150 rupees, and the train from Kandy arrived half-empty.
Now, it’s home to Pool clubs, a zipline, a cocktail bar that could be in Canggu, and a queue at the bridge before sunrise.
We’re not trying to paint Ella in a negative light, but more a realistic one, because, although it’s changed, it’s still the most wonderful little town, and the adventure capital of Sri Lanka.
Ella Rock at dawn is still one of the finest views in Asia. The tea hills are still extraordinary. The train, currently running from Ambewela to Ella rather than from Kandy, but more on that, is still worth every hour it takes. The restaurants have brought international cuisine to town (although you can’t miss Matey Hut curries), and the tourism product as a whole has drastically improved. There are now pool clubs and zip lines and hiking guides that know their stuff.
So Ella is, without question, one of the main reasons to visit Sri Lanka. Just go knowing what it is now.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT ELLA?
Unlike Sri Lanka's coastal areas, which are governed by the southwest and northeast monsoons, Ella sits high enough in the hill country to have its own microclimate.
It's cooler, wetter, and cloudier than the southern coast, which is part of the charm, but it’s worth planning around to get the best out of the weather.
December to March is the optimal window. The highland dry season brings clear skies over Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, comfortable hiking temperatures (cool enough for layering in the mornings), and the best visibility for the views that define the destination.
This is also peak season, so book accommodation early.
April and May bring the beginning of the southwest monsoon. April in particular is one to approach carefully, with Sinhalese Tamil New Year falling on the 13th–15th, which is a wonderful celebration but effectively halts the transport network for several days.
If you're planning to travel between destinations during this time, Ella is a fine place to stay put and join the celebrations, but don't try to leave.
June to September is the wetter period, but Ella has its own version of this - moody, foggy, atmospheric. The waterfalls (Ravana, Diyaluma, Bambarakanda) are at their most dramatic. If you don't mind occasional rain and want fewer crowds, this works.
October and November are the shoulder season, and our second favourite window. Crowds are thinner, accommodation is cheaper, and the landscape is lush and green after the rains.
HOW TO GET TO ELLA
We’ve arrived in Ella in every way possible - train, tuk tuk, and private car, and each have their own pros and cons. That being said, nothing beats arriving by train, and it’s our recommended form of transport. More below:
By train (2026 update) | The Kandy to Ella train remains the iconic way to arrive, but the route has changed following Cyclone Ditwah (November 2025).
The Kandy section is currently suspended; trains are running between Ambewela and Ella only. From Kandy, you'll take a car or taxi to Ambewela (roughly 2 hours), then board the train from there. It is still worth doing; the Ambewela to Ella section covers the most spectacular scenery on the route.
Full details, current timetables and booking info in our 2026 train guide.
By bus | Buses run from Colombo and Kandy to Ella via Badulla. Journey times are longer and less scenic than the train, but cheaper and more flexible. Expect 6–8 hours from Colombo, 4–5 hours from Kandy.
By private transfer | A private car from Kandy to Ella takes around 3.5–4 hours and costs LKR 12,000–20,000 depending on the vehicle. Worth considering if you're travelling in a group or with luggage. From Colombo, budget LKR 20,000–30,000.
From the southern beaches | Most travellers arrive from Mirissa, Hiriketiya or Galle. Tuk-tuks cover the southern coast legs to Wellawaya, where you can pick up onward transport to Ella (roughly 30–45 minutes).
Alternatively, most guesthouses in Ella can arrange a direct transfer from the south.
WHERE TO STAY IN ELLA
We've written a full guide to where to stay in Ella, covering every budget, from hostel beds to hilltop eco-lodges. Below are our three picks across the range:
ROWINRICH COTTAGES | Loft-style cottages on the hillside, with terraces directly facing Ella Rock. A genuinely lovely base with nothing between you and the valley below. What we love: waking up to that view with a cup of tea before anyone else is moving. Check prices and availability
CHILL VILLE VIEWPOINT HOTEL | Great value, great position — the garden faces directly toward Nine Arch Bridge. Check prices and availability
THE SECRET ELLA | Tucked into a 10-acre tea estate with views over Nine Arch Bridge. The quietest option of the three, removed from the town noise even at peak season. Check prices and availability
READ | Our full guide to where to stay in Ella, Sri Lanka, with every budget covered
HOW MANY DAYS DO YOU NEED IN ELLA?
Three days is the minimum to cover the essentials without rushing. Four is a comfortable amount. Five gives you the room to explore beyond the town, such as Lipton Seat, or hiking in the Horton Plains, any of which deserves a day of its own.
Here's how we'd structure it:
DAY 1 | Arrive and orientate yourself in town. Take the afternoon for a slow walk along the main street and out toward Little Adam’s Peak, as the early evening light is amazing. Dinner at Matey Hut for incredible rice & curry. Early night: you'll want to be up before dawn tomorrow.
DAY 2 | Up at 5:30 am for Ella Rock. The hike takes around 2–3 hours return; go early to beat the heat and catch the mist clearing over Ella Gap. Back to town for lunch. Afternoon at Flying Ravana zipline, or a lazy arvo at the Ravana Pool Club if you need a slower day. Evening: book a cooking class with Lanka
DAY3 | Morning at Nine Arch Bridge before the crowds arrive - we suggest 6 am. Then, book a tuk-tuk to visit Diyaluma Falls, but remember this is an adventure, not a quick stop. Tuk-tuk to Poonagala, hike down to the falls, and swim in the natural pools if the water level allows. Back to Ella for dinner and a final night at Cafe Chill.
DAY 4 (if you have it) | Lipton Seat. Take the early train from Ella toward Haputale (check the current timetable), spend the morning at Lipton Seat, tour Dambethenne Tea Factory, and return to Ella by early afternoon. OR, nearby Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory Tour, which is both insightful and wonderful.
DAY 5 (optional) | By day five, most people have done Ella. This day is about going beyond it, so hiking Horton Plains (the World's End trail). If a long drive and a 10km hike don't appeal, Bambarakanda is Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall at 241m, about 1.5 hours from Ella
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ELLA, SRI LANKA
#1 RIDE ABOARD THE KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN
📍 2026 TRAIN UPDATE
Before we get into it, here’s an update on the current situation with the Kandy to Ella train following Cyclone Ditwah (November 2025).
Services are operating between Ambewela and Ella only, with the Kandy section suspended until at least early 2027 due to landslides.
For current timetables, ticket prices, and how to get from Kandy to Ella right now, see our fully updated 2026 train guide here.
Hotter than the London Underground on a summer’s day, it takes eight hours yet only costs £5.
Sounds a little like hell, but trust us, the train ride from Kandy to Ella is the best thing you'll do in Sri Lanka.
Winding through misty forests, verdant tea plantations, over gushing waterfalls and streams, and past colourful towns and excitable locals, this is, in our opinion, the most picturesque train ride in the world. But it's not just the scenery that makes this train ride so incredible. It's also the vibe.
Every person you encounter seems to greet you with a genuine smile; groups of local boys play, sing, dance and play the drums; vendors rush through the train spruiking sweet chai and snacks, while tourists hang their heads out the windows to stare in amazement at the sheer beauty. Literally, everyone is wide-eyed and happy, which in this day and age is hard to find.
The most scenic part of the journey is from Nanu Oya to Ella, through the dense forest of the Horton Plains National Park, so we recommend getting the window seat or standing in between the doorways and enjoying the views as they pass by.
When we first visited Sri Lanka in 2016, the Kandy to Ella train ride was yet to really hit the big time; however, due to its current popularity, you need to book your travel in advance (usually 1 - 2 days prior). The train may also be quite crowded, especially during peak season, so be warned that you may need to push your way on.
Third class may be the cheapest option, and in our opinion, it's also the best as it allows you to sit/hang out of the doorways. You’ll also find it’s filled with friendly locals keen to help you enjoy your experience.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ella Railway Station, Ella
Current status (2026) | Kandy–Ella section suspended; currently running Ambewela–Ella only. Full update here.
Current Ambewela → Ella timetable (station-verified, June 2026)
Train 1005 "Calypso Special" (Daily): Departs Ambewela 09:30 → arrives Ella ~11:25
Train 1015 (Not Wednesdays): Departs Ambewela 15:00 → arrives Ella ~16:55
Cost | 3rd class: ~LKR 130 at the station. Book online via 12go Asia for reserved seating - guaranteed seat, especially recommended for peak season
Read more | Our complete 2026 Kandy to Ella train guide
#2 ADMIRE ELLA’S FAMOUS NINE-ARCH BRIDGE
It's astonishing to think that a bridge could drive tourists in droves to Ella, yet the Nine Arch Bridge, just outside the town, has done just that.
The Nine Arch Bridge is flanked by verdant forests and tea plantations, standing proudly across the valley below. On misty days, a low cloud hangs in the valley, giving the whole area a moody, mystical feel.
Completed in 1921, the Nine Arch Bridge was built entirely out of brick, rock and cement, with no metal used in its construction - an engineering feat back in those days. Spanning 91 meters at a height of 24 feet, the bridge is on the famous Kandy to Bandarawela (via Ella) train line, with trains passing around five times a day, depending on the ever-changing Sri Lankan train timetable.
Given the current service operates between Ambewela and Ella only (see our train guide for the full 2026 update), trains are passing the Nine Arch Bridge less frequently than before, roughly twice daily, around 11:00 and 16:30. Confirm the latest with your guesthouse on the day, as times shift.
There are many places to view the bridge from, with the most popular being from the actual bridge itself and from below, overlooking the tea plantation (please note that this is private land and permission is required before entering).
But for us, the best views are from above, at Asanka Cafe. Not only is the view incredible, but the family who runs the cafe is delightful, and they make a delicious cup of sweet tea
Just get there early, as the Bridge and surrounding viewpoints fill up VERY quickly!
THE DETAILS
Where | Nine Arches Bridge, Ella
Cost | FREE
How to get to Nine Arch Bridge, Ella | You can catch a tuk-tuk from Ella town to the Nine Arch Bridge for around LKR 200-300, which is the quickest and easiest option.
Alternatively, you can walk there by following the Ella - Passara Rd, turning left at Sri Kanaser Temple (where all the street food stalls are). Follow the signs, which will take you past multiple guesthouses until you arrive at the Nine Arch Bridge.
Read more | Here’s our comprehensive guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, Ella
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#3 HIKE UP THE FAMOUS ELLA ROCK
For those who seek spectacular views everywhere they go, the summit of Ella rock, with its views over Ella, Little Adam's Peak, and Ella Gap, is one vantage point you don’t want to miss out on.
Starting at the famous Ella train station, you’ll follow the Ella to Kandy train line past many beautiful waterfalls, bridges, tea plantations, and homes, before starting your ascent towards the Ella Rock summit - hopefully with a King Coconut in hand for some extra energy. We definitely needed it; the hike to the summit under that fierce sun is tough!
Once at the summit, we enjoyed the incredible views for at least an hour, munching away on our vegetarian roti and some well-deserved water.
The route to the summit can be a little complicated, however, if you follow the clearly marked paths and ignore the (sometimes deliberately misleading) touts, you shouldn't have too many issues (this in-depth post will help you get there). All up, the hike takes around 2 hours round trip, but remember to pack enough water and snacks to power your journey.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ella Rock, Ella
Cost | FREE
How to get to Ella Rock | We used this guide, and made it without any hassles!
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#4 ADMIRE THE VIEWS FROM LITTLE ADAM’S PEAK
If a strenuous hike in the sun doesn’t really appeal, but you’re still keen to get the legs moving and explore the Sri Lankan countryside, the easier hike up to Little Adam’s Peak is absolutely worth checking out.
Named after its similarly shaped, yet far taller older brother, Adam’s Peak, the Little Adam’s Peak hike takes about two-hours roundtrip from Ella town, and starts in the lush tea plantations before slowly snaking its way to the first set of viewpoints. From here, you'll have 360-degree views overlooking the giant Ella Rock and Ella Gap towards Udawalawe National Park, perfect for photos.
We'd definitely advise continuing the hike further down the ridge, as the views become more spectacular and less busy. The return route follows the other side of the mountain, overlooking the incredible 98 Acres resort before slowly making its way back to Ella.
Stop at the little wooden juice hut on the return journey back to relax and grab a refreshing king coconut.
We recommend hiking up during the late afternoon and watching the glorious sunset unfold; and definitely advise against hiking during the middle of the day as there's little shade to hide from the glaring sun - one of our worst-ever travel burns happened right here!
THE DETAILS
Where | Little Adam’s Peak, Ella
Cost | FREE
How to get to Little Adams Peak | It’s possible to catch a tuk-tuk to the base of Little Adam’s Peak, before following the sign-posted pathway to the peak.
It’s also a very easy walk from Ella town. Walk the Ella - Passara Rd, turning right at Ella Flower Garden resort before following the signs to Little Adam’s Peak.
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#5 WITNESS THE BEAUTY OF DIYALUMA FALLS
Forget what the pop songs tell you, Sri Lanka's second tallest waterfall, Diyaluma Falls is so impressive that you absolutely do need to chase waterfalls here.
Cascading from high in the Sri Lanka mountains, Diyaluma may be a little off the beaten track, but the epic views and natural infinity pools make the 1.5-2-hour journey more than worth the effort.
To get to Diyaluma, we jumped in a tuk-tuk from Ella to Poonagala, through quintessentially Sri Lankan tea plantations. Once we’d arrived in the small village of Poonagala, we set off hiking downhill through long, dry grass for around 30mins before getting our first glimpse of the upper Diyaluma falls. A short walk further and there we were, standing above a sheer 220m rush of water to the valley floor below.
It was amazing.
At this point, we need to warn you that safety barriers do not exist, so if you're an adrenaline junkie (like Mark), and like to stand on the edge of just about anything, please be careful.
During the summer months when the water levels have dropped, you can enjoy a refreshing swim at the falls' various natural pools, including right on the edge of the main waterfall. Alternatively, there are larger, safer pools at the upper Diyaluma falls, but again, take precautions before diving in.
There are two ways to get to the top of Diyaluma falls - either hiking from the bottom, which is rather strenuous and hard to follow, or from Poonagala village, which is far shorter yet less popular.
THE DETAILS
Where | Diyaluma Falls, Ella
How to get to Diyaluma Falls | Take a tuk-tuk from Ella town to Poonagala (LKR 3,500 - 5,000 return) and hike from the car park down to the falls.
Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk to the town of Koslanda and hike up to Diyaluma falls.
Read | Our comprehensive guide to Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s 2nd tallest waterfall
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#6 ADMIRE THE RUSHING RAVANA FALLS
Just outside of Ella, on the road winding south towards Wellawaya, lies one of Sri Lanka’s most easily accessible attractions: Ravana Falls.
According to local legend, King Ravana is said to have kidnapped princess Sita and hidden her in the secrecy of the forest-protected caves behind the waterfall, to avenge the slicing off of his sister’s nose by Sita’s husband (Rama).
Today, the 25m high, multi-tiered waterfall is less hidden, given its location right next to the road into Ella from the south, but it’s no less impressive, particularly if you make the effort to hike further up to the second and third-tier falls. From the top of Ravana falls the views over the valley below are majestic, and worth the somewhat tough and precarious hike up.
To get to the top, follow the tracks to the right of the waterfall and slowly make your way up, following the well-trodden paths. Be warned though - due to the sheer volume of water this hike should only be completed during the dry months, and with the assistance of a local guide. During the wet months, the torrent that flows down this waterfall is a sight to behold, showering the road and local area in a spray.
We recommend visiting early morning or late afternoon, as the area can get pretty busy during the day. Also, be sure to grab a King Coconut (LKR 50) or boiled corn (LKR 50) at one of the street vendors before heading back to Ella!
THE DETAILS
Where | Ravana Falls, Ella
Cost | Free
How to get to Ravana Falls | We recommend catching a tuk-tuk from Ella, which should cost around LKR 200 - 400 and take around 15mins. Alternatively, you can hike there, following the Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela Hwy until you reach the falls, however, we don't recommend this due to the length and slight chaos of the traffic!
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#7 PARTY, EAT, AND CHILL IN ELLA TOWN
If you’re coming to Sri Lanka looking for a full-on party destination like Thailand or Bali, we need to let you down now because this country is definitely NOT your place. That said, Ella is the one place in Sri Lanka where western food and a small, but a decent, night out exists for those who seek it.
Central to Ella’s backpacker scene is the main street, which has seen a radical transformation (for the worse, in our opinion) over the last few years. What was once a sleepy, quaint main street filled with local markets and restaurants is now a throbbing hub home to hip new cafes and bars, boutique shops, and a vibe that feels slightly more like that of an Asian backpacker town.
If you’re keen to get into the mix, the best place to take it all in is at Cafe Chill, located right in the centre of town. Serving delicious western-style food, cocktails and a decent soundtrack, Cafe Chill is where the cool kids hang out. At night, the upper deck becomes a bar/lounge, perfect for a few Lion Beers. We can highly recommend the vegetarian burger, which was our western-style treat during a month of eating rice and curry.
Further towards the train station are a number of relaxed bars serving beers and cocktails, some of which are open 24 hours, including the Bob Marley-inspired Cafe One Love.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ella town
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#8 ENJOY THE FAMOUS VIEWS FROM LIPTON SEAT
Tea is synonymous with Sri Lanka, and the name Lipton is synonymous with tea, so it was only natural that our Sri Lankan travels would eventually bring us to Lipton Seat. This is the famous viewpoint where entrepreneur and tea mogul, Sir Thomas Lipton, used to sit and contemplate his vast plantation and the magnificence of Sri Lanka's high country and sample some of the world's finest tea straight from the source.
Unfortunately, we weren't able to enjoy the panoramic views as we would have liked thanks to heavy rain and dense fog surrounding the summit upon our arrival, however, we’re told (by our tuk-tuk driver) that on a clear day, you can see as far as Udawalawe National park and beyond to Hambantota port.
Despite the inclement weather, we definitely enjoyed our fresh cup of Sri Lankan tea (LKR 50 per person) at the top, while watching the clouds roll by. The tea, we both agreed, was by far the best we've ever consumed. The drive from Haputale station through the verdant tea fields and colourful towns was also stunning, so if the weather’s looking a bit iffy, we’d still recommend venturing at least part of the way there just for the scenery.
If you're looking to visit Lipton Seat from Ella, we’d advise taking the 6 am Ella to Kandy train and jumping off at Haputale (let’s face it, any excuse to spend additional time on that train is well worth it - it's amazing!), and then pay a tuk-tuk driver to take you to Lipton Seat from the station (LKR 2000 - 3000 for a return trip).
A visit to Lipton Seat and tea plantation tour (more on that below) should take around four hours, providing you with enough time to return to the station for the 11 am return train to Ella.
Alternatively, book this best-selling day tour from Ella which includes Lipton Seat and a Dambatenne Tea Factory tour.
Check prices and availability here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Lipton Seat, Haputhale
Cost | LKR 100 per person. If arriving via tuk-tuk, an additional LKR 50 charge applies
Opening hours | 06:00 am - 17:00pm daily
How to get to Lipton Seat | Catch the Ella to Kandy train to Haputale, then tuk-tuk to Lipton seat.
Total cost should be LKR 2000 - 3000.
DAY TOUR | See Lipton Seat on a day tour from Ella
#9 TAKE A TOUR OF A TEA FACTORY
Did you know that Sri Lankan tea is some of the World's best due to the altitude at which it is grown? Or that tea bushes cover 25% of Sri Lanka's surface? Nope, neither did we until we toured the tea factory in Haputale.
Considering the Dambethenne factory was built by the great tea man himself (Lipton), it’s a pretty darn good place to learn all about what makes this country (and most of the world) tick.
Just north of the town of Haputale, this tour will take you through the whole tea production process in great detail, from the picking, rolling, drying, fermenting, cutting, sieving and grading of the tea, through to the final auction process (80% is on sold to Colombo and exported to the world).
For an avid tea drinker like Mim, learning the science behind a perfect cuppa was enlightening and something we definitely recommend for any traveller visiting Sri Lanka.
THE DETAILS
Where | Dambethenne tea factory, Badulla
Cost | LKR 250 per person
Opening hours | 09:00 am - 17:00pm, Mon - Sat. Closed Sunday
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#10 GET AN ADRENALINE KICK ZIP-LINING IN ELLA | THINGS TO DO IN ELLA, SRI LANKA
There’s just something about the adrenalin kick from zip-lining that really makes you feel alive.
Fortunately, with the opening of Sri Lanka’s first-ever zip-line, you can now experience that adrenalin rush here in Ella, for the cheapest price we’ve ever experienced (USD $20!)
New to Ella’s burgeoning adventure tourism scene, Flying Ravana stretches more than half a kilometre across the green hills of Ella. Reaching up to 80 kmph, this zip-lining adventure isn’t for the faint of heart, but truly is one of the most exciting things to do in Ella, and Sri Lanka.
The zip-line is super safe - the latest equipment is used, and staff are well trained, and run through a comprehensive safety procedure before sending you on your way.
We recommend including the zip-line as part of a visit to Little Adams Peak - Flying Ravana is actually located super close to 98 Acres resort, so is the perfect way to finish your hike.
We suggest pre-booking your zip-line fun here or alternatively buying tickets on-site.
THE DETAILS
Where | Flying Ravana, Ella
Cost | USD $20 per person
Opening hours | 9 am - 5 pm daily
BOOK | Pre-book your zip-line fun here
#11 LAZE BY THE POOL AT RAVANA POOL CLUB
We’re not going to beat around the bush - Ella is a fundamentally different place to that which we first visited in 2016.
Development is rampant, and the once sleepy hillside village is now Sri Lanka’s adventure capital. And Ravana Pool Club is a shining example of the ‘new’ Ella.
Located in the middle of a tea plantation alongside Flying Ravana, with sprawling views over Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Gap and Ella Rock, the pool club is reminiscent of those found in Bali or Ibiza. Part of us wishes Ella was still sleepy, but the evolution of the tourism offerings here is understandable.
Featuring an infinity pool, jacuzzi, sun beds, bar and restaurant, the pool club is quite well done, and fits the bill of the emerging Ella tourism landscape.
While we wouldn’t spend the whole day here, a half-day visit for some lunch, a cocktail, a lazy swim and some much-needed chill time is worth it.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ravana Pool Club, Ella
Entry Fee | Starts from LKR 2,500 per person (2 hours). Prices available here
#12 TAKE A SRI LANKAN COOKING CLASS
In our humble opinion, Sri Lankan cuisine is amongst the absolute best in the world, so we recommend joining a cooking class in Ella to learn how deliciousness is made!
Ella seems to have become quite the hub for (overpriced) cooking schools, judging by the signs that dot the entire main road and its surrounds. But skip over the super touristy options and head to Lanka’s Cooking Class instead, about 15 minutes walk from the centre of town.
Run by Lanka himself out of a purpose-built kitchen area at his family home, and using traditional clay pots over a fire; this is about as authentic a cooking experience as you can get in Sri Lanka.
Under Lanka’s (sometimes gruff) tutelage, our class of eight was whipping up an assortment of curries, including potato, okra, beetroot, pumpkin, and jackfruit curries in no time at all - and they were pretty amazing if we do say so ourselves!
THE DETAILS
Where | Lanka Cooking Class, Ella
Cost | LKR 2,000 per person
Opening hours | 5 - 8 pm daily - must book in advance
BOOK | This highly-rated cooking class
#13 VISIT SRI LANKA’S TALLEST WATERFALL, BAMBARAKANDA
If it’s not already abundantly clear, Sri Lanka’s hill country is filled with epic waterfalls, so it would be remiss to visit the Ella and not make the trek to see Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, Bambarakanda.
Standing at a mighty 241m, the sheer power and size of these falls is awe-inspiring, especially if visiting during the wet season. Although you can see the falls from the road, we suggest taking a short walk to the base, where you really feel their overwhelming power and magnificence.
If you are keen to chase more waterfalls on your day trip from Ella, there are a number close by including Lanka Ella, Uduwara Ella and Nagadowa Ella. The surrounding area is also gorgeous, with a number of hiking trails and lookout points offering stunning views of the falls and the surrounding misty landscapes, including a hike to the top of the falls, through a picturesque pine forest, which takes about 1.5 hours (1.6 km).
The falls themselves are hard kinda hard to get to from Ella, so you’ll need to arrange a tuk-tuk or tour in town (or make your own way via motorcycle). From the main road, turn at Kalupahana Junction (160 km from Colombo) and drive around 5 km where you’ll find a ticket counter by the road. From here, there’s a short path, and after 15 minutes, you’ll reach the base of the waterfall.
The best time to visit the waterfall is between April to September, when the waterfall is not too dry or heavy.
While the aforementioned Diyaluma Falls is far more spectacular if you have the time, a visit to the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka needs to be added to any Ella bucket list.
THE DETAILS
Where | Bambarakanda Falls
#14 ELEPHANT SPOTTING ON SAFARI IN UDAWALAWE NP
Udawalawe National Park is the place to spot elephants in the wild on your visit to Sri Lanka to spot elephants.
In fact, during our early morning safari, we spotted well over 15 elephants including a number of impossibly cute bubs.
Sprawling across the southern lowlands, nestled near the towering Horton Plains, Udawalawe is one of the most popular parks in Sri Lanka. Although the park's landscape is fairly monotonous, it provides the best viewing opportunities for elephants and other fauna.
It’s also possible to spot buffalo, monkeys, deer, crocodiles and leopards (although the latter is extremely rare).
In many ways, we preferred our safari in Udawalawe to Yala National Park, mostly due to the numerous elephant sightings, and the lack of crowds which overrun Yala in peak season.
It’s surprisingly easy to visit Udawalawe National Park from Ella, with this popular 10-hour day tour taking you directly to the park, and back to Ella. Alternatively, do what we did, and take a tuk-tuk to the town of Udawalawa, stay overnight and arrange an early morning safari, then return to Ella in the afternoon for more mountain adventures.
To learn more about Udawalawe National Park, read our detailed guide here.
THE DETAILS
Where | Udawalawe National Park
Cost | LKR 3,500 per person entry. An eight-seater safari jeep will cost around LKR 3,500 for a morning hire
Where to stay in Udawalawe | Search and book Uda Walawe National Park accommodation here
BOOK | This popular 10-hour Udawalawe day tour from Ella
A MAP OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ELLA, SRI LANKA
Here's our map of what to do in Ella, including all the major sights outlined in our guide.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN ELLA
CHILL CAFE
The best place to enjoy the vibrant traveller scene in Ella is at Cafe Chill, located right in the centre of town.
Cafe Chill is where the cool kids hang, and has distinct Bali/Thailand vibes - the airy, boho-inspired interior is super welcoming, while the kitchen serves delicious western-style food, cocktails and a decent soundtrack.
At night, the upper deck becomes a bar/lounge, perfect for a few Lion Beers. We can highly recommend the vegetarian burger, which was our western-style treat during a month of eating rice and curry.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ella town
Where to eat | Cafe Chill for western style grub and an array of alcohol, AK Ristoro for an Italian/Sri Lankan infusion
Cost | Mains start from LKR 650
AK RISTORO
After a two year hiatus due to the pandemic, AK Ristoro is back open, and serving up a delicious array of European and Italian-inspired cuisine (there’s also a smattering of Eastern-inspired food, too).
And we’ll admit, when we found this restaurant, we were in need of some home comforts after a month of eating rice & curry.
We sat in the bean bags, ordered a Lion beer and delved deep into the menu, and settled on two pasta dishes to satiate our appetite - the arrabiata, and carbornara. Both were delicious - the pasta al dente, and the flavours rich and tasty.
Prices are on the high side for Sri Lanka, but we highly recommend stopping here and enjoy a little taste of home.
THE DETAILS
Where | AK Ristoro
Cost | Mains start from LKR 700
RICE & CURRY AT MATEY HUT
We’re happy to admit to anyone that asks that Sri Lankan cuisine is among our all-time favourites. The taste, texture, and aroma of the Sri Lankan kitchen are impossible to beat, especially when done well.
After too much western-style food, we ventured into town and found Matey Hut, serving up a delicious array of authentic rice & curry. We tried the tray of 5 curries, with the Aubergine curry (brinjal) the absolute pick of the bunch, and after a massive, we left wildly satisfied.
We soon realised Matey Hut was the place to eat Sri Lankan food in Ella, so we returned the next day to devour more delicious curries.
If you’re after some of the best Sri Lankan cuisines, and some wonderfully authentic hospitality you simply can’t miss Matey Hut. Just be prepared to wait.
THE DETAILS
Where | Matey Hut
Cost | Mains start from LKR 300
OTHER RESTAURANTS TO VISIT IN ELLA
THE WHITE RABBIT | Super cosy tropical yard overlooking the train tunnel, where you can eat delicious Sri Lankan and international cuisine, drink tea, cocktails or coffee and just relax. Try the hibiscus-lime iced tea.
LITTLE RESTAURANT | Blink and you’ll miss it hole in the wall serving authentic rice and curry at very affordable prices
RAINBOW CAFE | International cuisine in a cosy, backpacker-style cafe opposite Chill. They serve really good brunch, if you’re after a nice smoothie bowl, pancakes or poached eggs on toast - winning!
CAFE ONE LOVE | Bob Marley-inspired cafe with chilled vibes, good music, amazing drinks and wonderful staff.
ELLA, SRI LANKA: YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
How many days should I spend in Ella? Three to four days gives you time to do Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arch Bridge, Diyaluma Falls and a cooking class without rushing. Add a fifth day if you want to reach Lipton Seat or do the Udawalawe safari. Ella is one of those places that quietly keeps you longer than you planned — we've never managed to leave on schedule.
Is Ella worth visiting in 2026? Yes — but go in knowing it's changed significantly since the pre-2019 years. It's busier, more developed, and more expensive than it used to be. But the landscape is unchanged, the hikes are still outstanding, and the food scene has only improved. Our honest view: it remains one of the best two or three stops in Sri Lanka, full stop.
What is the best time to visit Ella? December to March is the dry season in the hill country, which means clear skies, manageable temperatures (cooler than the coast — bring a layer for evenings), and the best visibility from Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. Avoid mid-April (Sinhalese New Year) unless you're planning to stay put — travel between destinations becomes near impossible
Is the Kandy to Ella train running in 2026? Partially. Following Cyclone Ditwah (November 2025), the Kandy section of the line remains suspended. Trains are currently running between Ambewela and Ella only. For the full current situation — including timetables, how to get from Kandy to Ambewela, and whether to book online — see our updated 2026 train guide.
What is Ella famous for? Three things above everything else: the Nine Arch Bridge, the Kandy to Ella train journey, and the hiking. But the town has expanded significantly — there's now a zipline, a pool club, cooking classes, tea factory tours, and a surprisingly good food and bar scene. It's become Sri Lanka's adventure capital, and it earns that title.
How do you get to Ella from Colombo? The train is the classic route — take the Colombo Fort to Kandy service, then continue toward Ella (currently via Ambewela — see our train guide for the 2026 update). Total journey is around 8–10 hours. Alternatively, long-distance buses run from Colombo to Badulla, with Ella on the route — slower but cheaper. A private transfer from Colombo takes around 4–5 hours and costs LKR 15,000–25,000 depending on vehicle.
What should I not miss in Ella? In order of priority: Ella Rock at sunrise (hike out by 5:30am to beat the heat and the crowds), Nine Arch Bridge in the morning before 8am, Diyaluma Falls for a proper adventure, and Lanka's Cooking Class for an evening you'll still be talking about when you get home. If you only have two days, that's your list. Don't try to squeeze in everything — Ella rewards people who slow down.
Is Ella safe for solo travellers? Yes. Ella is one of the safest places in Sri Lanka for solo travellers of all genders. The town is well-lit, well-frequented, and the local community is generally hospitable. Standard precautions apply on the hikes — take water, wear proper shoes, and let someone know your route for longer ones like Ella Rock. The only real hazard is the traffic on the main road, which moves fast and in ways that reward paying attention.
CASH OR CARD IN ELLA? If you’re visiting Ella, you’re probably wondering whether to take a big wad of cash or if cards are available to use. The good news is that ATMs are readily available in Ella, and most popular tourist restaurants accept cards. If getting cash out, not all ATMs accept foreign cards, so just make sure your card is suitable (this is usually obvious on the ATMs).
So, we suggest taking out enough cash to last 2-3 days, and topping up regularly in town when needed.
where to stay in ella | a complete guide for all budgets
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SRI LANKA
Honest take: if something goes wrong, a medical emergency, a missed ferry, a scooter accident on a coastal road, travel insurance is the difference between a stressful story and a catastrophic one.
After 10+ years of full-time travel, here's what we use and recommend:
FOR TRAVELLERS | World Nomads offers travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families. Their policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
Get a quote from World Nomads →
READ | Our ultimate guide to travel insurance
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
Make the most of your time on the island with our complete Sri Lanka travel guides.
EXPLORE ELLA
Where to Stay in Ella — hotels, guesthouses and hostels for every budget
PLAN YOUR TRIP
ITINERARIES
DESTINATION GUIDES
WHERE TO STAY
Galle Fort Hotels — from boutique homestays to Amangalla
WILDLIFE & CULTURE
Have you been to Ella yourself? Help your fellow travellers our by sharing your favourite things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka in the comments below!
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