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 - Oct 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.
LOVE OUR PHOTOS? Edit like us with our Tropical Dreams Preset Packs, and Tropical Bliss mobile video filters, inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country
ELLA TRAVEL GUIDE OVERVIEW
BEST FOR | Hill country adventures: hiking, waterfalls, tea fields
BEST TIME TO VISIT | December to March for peak weather
HOW LONG | 3 days for the essentials, 4-5 for Lipton’s Seat or Horton Plains hiking
GETTING THERE | By van, bus, or train. Kandy to Ella train only running Nanu Oya to Ella (Oct 2026) - more info below
DON'T MISS | Ella Rock at sunrise, Nine Arch Bridge, the Ella train, Little Adam’s Peak, tea plantations, waterfalls
BEST HIKES | Ella Rock (hardest, best views), Little Adam's Peak (easiest, sunset), Horton Plains & World's End (most dramatic)
2026 KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN UPDATE | CYCLONE DITWAH CLOSURES
When Cyclone Ditwah made landfall in Sri Lanka in November 2025, it claimed more than 600 lives and brought some of the worst flooding the country has seen in decades.
The hill country was hardest hit, where flooding and landslides destroyed roads, villages and infrastructure, including cutting the Kandy to Ella line in multiple places.
As of October 2026, parts of the line remain closed. Here’s where things currently stand:
RUNNING | Nanu Oya to Ella and on to Badulla
CLOSED | Kandy to Nanu Oya, no confirmed reopening date (reports suggest early 2027)
OUR ADVICE | Book a driver from Kandy to Nanu Oya (~3 hours), then train for the remainder
READ | Timetables, tickets and tips in our Kandy to Ella train guide
BOOK YOUR ELLA TRIP
BEST TOURS | Traditional Sri Lankan Cooking Class, this Ella Rock, 9 Arch, Little Adams Peak, & Waterfall day tour, this Lipton’s Seat, Tea Factory & Diyaluma Falls Tour - get 5% off your first booking via the GetYourGuide app
WHERE TO STAY | Rowinrich Cottages, The Secret Ella, Chill Ville
GET CONNECTED | Organise an Airalo eSIM before you fly and hit the ground running
TRAVEL INSURANCE | Get a quote from World Nomads, with cover for 150+ activities
MONEY MATTERS | Always carry rupees, cash is still king here - but for card payment or withdrawals we always use a Wise card (low fees, free withdrawals, great exchange rates).
For more Ella trip planning essentials, including when to go, how to get around, important travel tips to know, and more, keep reading to the end of this article
WHY VISIT ELLA | IS ELLA WORTH VISITING
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 Nanu Oya 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.
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 THE KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN
STATUS | Nanu Oya to Ella only for now. See our 2026 train update above.
A sauna on rails, eight(ish) hours mostly spent hanging out of a carriage doorway, and a windswept arrival in Ella with dusty, happy faces. The Kandy to Ella train ride is slow, sticky and gloriously unglamorous - and after several rides it’s still one of the best things we’ve done in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s most famous train climbs through misty forest valleys and tea estates, past colourful villages and rushing waterfalls, stopping at hill country towns along the way.
It’s undoubtedly one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, but the scenery outside is only half the story.
While it’s become a popular tourist attraction in recent years (with some questionable behaviour to match), for most passengers this is no bucket-list experience. Instead, these tracks have long been the commute to work, the daily school run, or the ride home to family for the holidays.
Hawkers call “wade, wade!” as they pace the carriages selling crispy fried dal in oily paper and cups of sweet milk tea; school boys sing and drum in the doorways; station masters in crisp white uniforms wave from platforms whizzing by, and all around, strangers strike up conversation or gaze out the window in awe.
In other words, it’s a wonderful glimpse at an ordinary part of everyday life that happens to run through some of the most beautiful scenery on the island, and nobody on board seems immune to its charm.
Read our full Kandy to Ella guide here, but a couple of quick important practicalities:
THE DETAILS
Tips | The Nanu Oya to Ella stretch (reopened in 2026), has always been the most beautiful. Grab a window seat or claim a spot in an open doorway (right side is best!) and watch the tea country go by.
Prices | Range from ~LKR 160 (Third class unreserved) - ~2,500-3000 for First Class / first class reserved
Tickets | You’ll need to reserve tickets at the station 1-2 days ahead (note: there may only be 3rd class unreserved available - we do love travelling here though!). Alternatively, book reserved seats online via 12.go or at Sri Lanka Railways (SLR often sells out quickly).
Crowds | Expect crowds in peak season; some jostling to get on board is normal!
Avoid | Learn from our mistakes: don’t plan your trip over Sinhala and Tamil New Year around April: the country shuts down for celebrations and most take to the rails to visit family. The trains are stampede levels of busy then.
#2 ADMIRE ELLA’S FAMOUS NINE-ARCH BRIDGE
For something that graces so many postcards from Sri Lanka, the Nine Arch Bridge is surprisingly well-hidden.
Follow the path down from the main road and there’s little sign of it, just jungle, a few roadside stalls and the odd monkey. Then, the trees open out and it’s there: nine beautiful stone arches curving more than 120 metres across the valley between Ella and Demodara, tea plantations spilling down its slopes and dense forest framing the train line.
It’s most beautiful on a misty morning (our favourite time to visit), when low cloud settles beneath the arches and surrounding vegetation, lending the whole valley a moody, otherworldly feel.
Known locally as Arukku Namaye Palama, the “Bridge in the Sky”, it’s an impressive engineering feat: completed in 1919, entirely from concrete and stone — the sand, cement, and teak hauled up unimaginably steep hillsides by pack bull, and hand-crafted by labourers with little machinery other than a crane and concrete mixer to help.
A little mystery also surrounds its construction; local and online lore contends it was built without steel as supplies were diverted to the British war effort, yet the engineer’s own report tells a more practical tale: that unstable ground, the valley’s steepness, and available labour all shaped its design, with no mention of supply shortages.
However it came to be, one fact remains true over a century later: it still reliably carries hill-country trains 30 metres above the valley floor, though these days its cargo is more wide eyed passengers than tea.
Our complete guide to visiting the Nine Arch Bridge has everything you need to know, but a few important tips:
THE DETAILS
Go early | Aim to arrive before 7am, when the low mist is still hanging around and the crowds haven’t descended yet.
Timetables | There are timetables online, but ask your guesthouse for the most accurate timings as they’re prone to change (especially at the moment)
Safety | There are no railings on the bridge, and it’s a long way down. Exercise extreme caution when approaching the ledge - and also clear the bridge when a train is coming through, it’s simply not worth the risk.
Views | Head to Asanka Cafe, above the bridge for a sweet tea and the best view of the bridge
Getting there | Take a tuk-tuk from Ella town to Nine Arch Bridge (the easiest option), or 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| Our comprehensive guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, Ella
more of ella | our in-depth guide to the nine arch bridge, ella
HIKE UP THE FAMOUS ELLA ROCK
The views from Ella Rock are some of the most spectacular in the hill country, stretching out over the town, Little Adam’s Peak and the dramatic Ella Gap beyond.
They’re also very hard earned.
Starting at Ella train station, the 3-4 hour return Ella Rock hike follows the train tracks through the valley, past tea plantations, village homes and small stations before turning upwards for the final ascent to the top.
It’s a beautiful hike, but also no simple walk in the park for two main reasons: the heat, which is no joke and needs to be factored into your planning (don’t be like us and hike under the midday sun - do a sunrise hike instead).
The second complication is a handful of unscrupulous touts who deliberately mislead tourists into thinking they’ve gone the wrong way and then offering their services as guides. They’re merely enterprising, but stick to a reliable route guide (this one is excellent, and what we use), and be wary of anyone telling you that you’re lost to avoid spending either rupees or more time.
The summit views make it all worthwhile though, and we spent the better part of an hour taking it all in, refuelling on vegetarian roti, and drinking considerably more water (including a coconut sourced en route!) than anticipated.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ella Rock, Ella
Time | 3-4 hours return
When | Avoid a midday hike, and instead go at sunrise
Best for | fit hikers after the best view in Ella
Getting there| We used this guide, and made it without any hassles!
Tips | There’s little shade, so carry plenty of water. Trains are running again, so step well clear when you hear one
sri lanka’s #1 beachside playground | our guide to unawatuna
ADMIRE THE VIEWS FROM LITTLE ADAM’S PEAK
If a hot, strenuous hike to Ella Rock doesn’t really appeal but you’re still keen to the legs moving and take in the views, Little Adam’s Peak is a much gentler alternative.
Named for its resemblance to its similarly shaped yet far taller big brother, Adam’s Peak, this hike takes about two hours return from Ella town and there are two main routes:
Follow Ella-Passara road, turning off at Ella Flower Garden Resort onto Beera Ella Pathana road (the more ‘official’ route),
Walk through the 98 Acres resort and take the path marked by the white Buddha statue.
Both will take you to the large sign for both Little Adam’s Peak and the Flying Ravana zipline (more below), where the ‘official’ hike begins amongst the tea plantations before slowly snaking up to the first viewpoint.
At the top, you’re greeted with picture-perfect 360-degree views overlooking the giant Ella Rock and Ella Gap towards Udawalawe National Park. We recommend continuing further along the ridge as the views become more beautiful and less busy.
For the return, you can take either path back again, though we tend to head up via the official route and back down the 98 Acres side of the mountain, mostly so we can stop at the little wooden juice hut on the walk back to relax with a coconut!
Avoid 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 (and apparently, we struggle to take our own hike timings advice).
We recommend either a sunrise hike or heading up in the late afternoon - take a torch for when its dark.
THE DETAILS
Where | Little Adam’s Peak, Ella
Getting there | Walk from Ella town, or take a tuk tuk to the base of Little Adam’s Peak before following the signs to the peak.
Time | ~2 hours return from town
Best for | Anyone with general fitness and mobility; it’s mostly a gentle hike through tea plantations before one final scramble along stone.
Best time | Sunrise for the best views and fewer people - or sunset. Bring a torch if you’re walking in the dark.
Tip | Continue past the first viewpoints for fewer people. Combine it with Nine Arch Bridge, just a short walk away
surf + chill | our guide to hiriketiya, sri lanka’s hidden paradise
WITNESS THE BEAUTY OF DIYALUMA FALLS
Forget what the pop songs tell you: at Diyaluma, Sri Lanka’s second-tallest waterfall, you absolutely do need to go chasing waterfalls.
Tumbling 220 metres through the Sri Lankan hill country, Diyaluma is a little further off the beaten track than some of Ella’s better-known attractions - but trust us, it’s worth the trip for the views alone, never mind the natural infinity pools.
On our first visit in 2018, we took a tuk tuk from Ella town through rolling tea plantations for about 1.5 hours to the little village of Poonagala. From there, it’s another 30-odd minutes of hiking downhill through long, dry grass (wear shoes, it’s uneven and overgrown in places) before you catch the first glimpse of the falls through the trees.
A little further, and you’re literally on top of them: watching the water hurrying in a sheer rush down to the valley below. It. is. amazing.
During the drier summer months when the water levels are low, you can swim in the natural pools at the top of the falls. Just be very aware of what you’re getting into: there are no safety barriers anywhere here.
So, while you can swim in the pools right at the fall’s edge, the larger pools upstream are much safer (and definitely our pick). Wherever you get in, check the depth and current first - and don’t dive.
Diyaluma has become considerably more popular since that visit, and guided tours are now readily available. You can still make the journey independently, though, and there are two main routes to the falls: the shorter approach from Poonagala above, or the more strenuous hike up from Koslanda at the waterfall’s base.
THE DETAILS
Where | Diyaluma Falls, Ella
Getting there | Tuk-tuk from Ella town to Poonagala (LKR 8,000 - 10,000 return) then a 30-minute walk down to the upper falls. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk to the town of Koslanda and hike up to Diyaluma falls (much harder)
Cost | Around LKR 8,000–10,000 return by tuk-tuk, including waiting time, plus a small entrance fee in cash. Or book a tuk-tuk tour that also takes in Ravana Falls
Best time | The drier months, when the water’s low enough to swim
READ | Our comprehensive guide to Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka’s 2nd tallest waterfall
the best of the best | 31 incredible things to see and do in sri lanka
VISIT RAVANA FALLS, RAVANA CAVE, AND RAVANA ELLA TEMPLE
Just outside Ella town, on the road winding south towards Wellawaya, lies one of Sri Lanka’s most easily accessible attractions: Ravana Falls.
The falls take their name from the Ramayana, the Hindu epic in which King Ravana is said to have kidnapped Princess Sita, wife of Prince Rama and, according to local legend, hidden her in the caves nearby. The abduction was intended to avenge his sister, Shurpanakha, whose nose had been, rather unfortunately, cut off by Sita’s brother in law, Lakshmana.
Today, the 25-metre high, multi-tiered waterfall is as far from hidden as you could get, given its location right next to the main road. But that doesn’t make it any less impressive, especially in wet season when the water levels are high and the road is soaked in spray.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb to the upper tiers via the tracks to the right of the waterfall, with epic views over the valley below from the top.
A note of caution: the hike is somewhat precarious due to the steep and slippery rocks. Additionally, it’s too dangerous in wet season due to the sheer volume of water. Only do in dry season, ideally with a local guide.
The falls get a little chaotic through the day, between being on a main road and a popular tourist site, so as always, we recommend visiting either early morning or late afternoon. There are a few street vendors around selling coconuts and roasted corn, if you’re feeling snacky too.
If time is of the essence, the falls are a very easy stop on your journey in or out of Ella. But if you’d like to turn your visit into more of a Ravana-themed adventure, take the turn-off to Ravana Ella temple (a few km before the falls) and incorporate the Ravana Cave and Ravana Ella Temple to your visit:
RAVANA ELLA TEMPLE | A small cave temple tucked into the rocky mountainside, believed to have been established during King Valagamba’s reign in the 1st century BC and featuring ceiling paintings from the Kandyan era. It is a legitimate temple, so cover your shoulders and knees, take your shoes off, and leave a small donation.
RAVANA CAVE | About 600 uneven steps and a scramble up from the temple, Ravana Cave, where Sita was held, is also said to be part of a network of tunnels that formed Ravana’s hideaways all across the hill country. Myth or not, archaeological studies have found evidence of ancient human habitation in the cave some 25,000 years ago. There’s also a hut selling sweet chai before the stairs.
Would we go out of our way to see these last two? Honestly, probably not.
The cave hike is steep and only suitable for those with decent mobility, and the cave itself is dark and somewhat underwhelming. But if you have a special interest in the Ravana legend, or you’re after something a little different, it could be worth the quick detour.
THE DETAILS
Where | Ravana Falls, Ella
Cost | Free
Best time| Early morning or late afternoon, January to April for swimming at the base pool. Any other time, especially after rain, admire but don’t swim
Getting there | Grab a tuk-tuk in Ella (around 15mins). We wouldn’t walk it: the road is narrow and chaotic, with no proper footpath.
Add ons | Ravana Ella Temple and Ravana Cave: turn off a few kilometres before the falls, then climb around 600 steps. Allow about 2 hours
visiting central sri lanka? you must visit pidurangala rock
GO CAVING AT NIL DIYA POKUNA
For anyone seeking a proper offbeat adventure beyond Ella’s tried and tested ones, Nildiya Pokuna is the place.
Hidden deep inside a cave system at Karandagolla, about 30 minutes by tuk tuk from Ella town, the ‘blue water pond’ is an underground freshwater pool that glows a deep luminescent blue in torchlight, due to the mineral-rich rocks around it.
As with so many places in and around Ella, Nil Diya Pokuna comes wrapped in the mythology of the Ramayana; Ravana brought Sita here to bathe, and the pond is said to be connected to his network of caves.
In terms of practicalities, this is proper adventurous caving: the whole experience takes about 4 hours, and involves ropes, ladders, and crawling through narrow, muddy, dark tunnels with no safety railings. As you might’ve guessed, it’s not suitable for children or anyone with limited mobility - but if you’re fit, not concerned by small space, and happy to get utterly filthy, it’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience.
Do note the site isn’t managed by Sri Lanka Tourism - so we can’t stress enough that you should only go with an experienced local guide on an organised tour (such as this one).
THE DETAILS
Where | Nildiya Pokuna, Karandagolla, off the Ella–Wellawaya road
Cost | There is an entrance fee of around 5,000 LKR, separate from the tour cost
Time | 3–4 hours in the cave
Getting there | Book a guided tour from Ella, or ask your guesthouse to arrange a local expert guide
Best for | Fit, adventurous travellers who don’t mind tight spaces
Tip | Wear clothes you don’t mind ruining, and shoes with good grip. Never go alone
SLOW DOWN 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
sri lanka’s intriguing northern capital | our guide to the best things to do in jaffna
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
VISIT A TEA ESTATE
The green rolling hills that surround Ella are so synonymous with tea that it’s hard to imagine that they’ve only looked this way for around 140 years.
This is the heartland of Sri Lanka’s billion-dollar tea industry, and where some of the country’s most prized leaf varieties can be found.
Naturally, you can’t come all the way to Ella and not see how it’s all produced at one of its many tea factories.
We’ve visited both Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, a large family-run factory about 6km out of Ella town, as well as Dambatenne near Lipton’s Seat. For proximity to Ella, we’d recommend Uva Halpewatte, particularly so if you’ve got kids with you.
Their tour guides you through Sri Lanka’s tea heritage and process, from plucking to withering and rolling, fermenting and drying, then cutting, sieving and grading until each leaf eventually resembles the product you see in your daily cuppa.
There’s more than enough to keep little humans interested, from the clattering machinery to helping with picking the leaves before you all finish off the visit with a tea tasting in their showroom overlooking the estate.
2026 NOTE | Since our last visits to Ella, many of the ethical concerns surrounding Sri Lanka’s tea industry (more below) have become clearer, and we now believe there are better ways to see how tea is made.
If you’d like your money to directly benefit the people doing the work, we now recommend visiting Amba Estate, in the hills near Ella. Operating as a social enterprise, they’ve raised their workers wages by more than 800%, added bonuses and overtime, plus an additional 10% revenue share with their workers. The estate also employs its team from the local village, and processes its organic tea on site by hand.
A factory tour is a great way to understand how Sri Lanka’s famed tea is made, but understanding the industry’s complicated history is something we also recommend for any traveller to the area:
THE STORY BEHIND THE CUP
A woman in a colourful sari, basket balanced against her back, plucking tea among the misty green hills: it’s one of the hill country’s most recognisable images, found on plenty of postcards and guidebook covers alike.
The history behind it, however, is much less idyllic.
Until the British took the Kandyan Kingdom in 1815, the hill country was forest, paddies, and small communal farming plots (chena). Before long, all were seized, sold to planters, and cleared for coffee fields.
From the 1820s, South Indian Tamil workers were brought across to farm them in dire conditions, most arriving already in debt for their passage and then bound to the estates by laws that made leaving a crime.
When coffee leaf rust wiped out the fields from 1869, they were replanted with tea. Before long, Sir Thomas Lipton was selling it “direct from tea garden to tea pot” from his Haputale Estate (today’s Dambatenne Factory), and ‘Ceylon tea’ was brewing in teapots across the Empire and beyond.
Meanwhile, the Malaiyaha (hill country) Tamil remained trapped in exploitation; debt passed from parent to child; when independence came they were left stateless, or deported “back” to India despite never having been.
Their descendants — predominantly women who’ve worked barefoot since childhood through heat, monsoon, mud, leeches and snakes — still do most plucking by hand, for a few dollars a day.
Many families still live in 150-year-old estate barracks, lacking basic services, on land they don’t own - and when Cyclone Ditwah struck in late 202, these line houses were some of the hardest hit.
There are early signs of change: a 2026 wage rise, new homes with deeds for some families near Ella, and formal agreements to improve conditions. But progress is slow, and much is still based on promise than action.
All of this begs a pertinent question:
should you still visit a tea estate?
Overall, we think so - with the caveat of being aware of the complexity, thoughtful about where your money goes, what questions you ask, and how you engage with the people involved.
We have a full post on visiting tea estates coming soon, but in the meantime:
Choose where your money goes | Where you can, visit and buy from smaller, family-run producers with proven improved conditions. We recommend Amba Estate, a social enterprise in the hills around Ella.
Ask questions | On tours, ask about working conditions, wages, and living arrangements. If tourism now plays a large role in estate income, visitor attention can help progress move forward
Be respectful about photography | Many tourist photos of tea country are taken of women at work, often without consent. Ask first, and always accept a no.
the jewel of the south | our guide to galle fort, sri lanka
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
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
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
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
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 Nanu oya and Ella only. From Kandy, you'll take a car or taxi to Nanu Oya (a couple of hours), then board the train from there. It is still worth doing; the Nanu Oya 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.
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 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 Nanu Oya and Ella only. For the full current situation — including timetables, how to get from Kandy to Nanu Oya, 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 Nanu Oya — 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 flight, a tuk tuk mishap on a busy coastal road, travel insurance is the difference between a slightly stressful story and a catastrophic one.
After 10+ years of full-time travel, here's what we use:
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 | World Nomads
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!
DISCOVER SRI LANKA WITH OUR TRAVEL GUIDES
Some of the links on this Ella travel guide are affiliate links.
If you choose to purchase using these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by using these affiliate links, you're directly supporting The Common Wanderer to stay wandering, the running costs of the site, and our ability to provide you with free content to help you on your travels.
That, and you're officially a legend.
Getting to Hiriketiya is easier than it looks, from private transfers and coastal trains to local buses and tuk-tuks. Here are our experiences, what actually works, where to get off the train, and the option we’d choose.