13 Incredible Things to do in Ella: Exploring Sri Lanka’s Hill Country (2023 Guide)
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Ella! Here’s our selection of the best activities, plus our short guide to the city on where to stay, eat, and how to get around!
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.
TRANSFORM YOUR SRI LANKA PHOTOS | Inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country, check out our Sri Lanka Preset pack here
ELLA
ESSENTIALS
WHERE | Hill Country, Sri Lanka
HOW TO GET THERE | Kandy to Ella Train, bus from Kandy, tuk-tuk from southern beaches
WHAT TO SEE & DO | Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock, Kandy to Ella train, Zip line
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK | Chill Cafe, Matey Hut
WHAT TO KNOW| Save water, bring a reusable water bottle
WHERE TO STAY IN ELLA
There’s a whole myriad of accommodation options opening up all over Ella, including luxurious eco-hotels in the jungle canopy, hostels popping up in town, and a number of budget and mid-range hotels and guesthouses offering the perfect pillow for any budget or travel style.
We’ve written a full guide on where to stay in Ella, which covers everything you need to know about Ella accommodation, plus our recommendations for everything from hostel beds to luxurious stays.
READ | Our guide to where to stay in Ella, Sri Lanka
OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN ELLA
Despite being the centre of a tourism boom, accommodation in Ella is quite easy to come by and is literally teeming with low to mid-end hotels.
We’ve recommended three hotels below:
ROWINRICH COTTAGES | Spacious loft-style cottages with terraces overlooking the jungle-clad valley and Ella Rock. Prices and availability here
CHILL VILLE VIEWPOINT HOTEL | great value hotel is set amongst beautiful gardens close to the Nine Arch Bridge. Prices and availability here
THE SECRET ELLA | Overlooking Nine Arch Bridge, The Secret is tucked away in a 10-acre tea estate in Ella’s hills. Prices and availability here
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN ELLA, SRI LANKA
#1 RIDE ABOARD THE KANDY TO ELLA TRAIN
Hotter than the London Underground on a summer’s day, 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 (read our complete guide to the Kandy to Ella train here — it also includes how to book and our insider travel tips).
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 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 Train Station, Ella
Cost | 2nd class: LKR 240 per person, 3rd class: LKR 175 per person
Kandy to Ella train times | Express trains depart Ella to Kandy - at 0640 and 0924 (subject to change)
Read more | Our complete guide to the Kandy to Ella train
BOOK | Tickets for the Kandy to Ella train can also be booked at 12go.asia
#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 is 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.
Although train times are notoriously unreliable in Sri Lanka, trains tend to pass the Nine Arch Bridge around the following times: 9:30, 11:30, 15:30, 16:30, and 17:30 (read our comprehensive guide here!).
There are many places to view the bridge from, with the most popular being from the actual bridge itself, and below from the tea plantation (this is private land, so please ask for permission before entering).
But for us, the best views are from above, either looking from the forests surrounding the bridge, or from one of the cafe platforms in the surrounding hills. Watching the train slowly made its way across the bridge is a wonderful sight.
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
more of ella | our in-depth guide to the nine arch bridge, ella
#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!
sri lanka’s #1 beachside playground | our guide to unawatuna
#4 ADMIRE THE VIEWS OF ELLA GAP 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.
surf + chill | our guide to hiriketiya, sri lanka’s hidden paradise
#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
the best of the best | 31 incredible things to see and do in sri lanka
#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!
visiting central sri lanka? you must visit pidurangala rock
#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
sri lanka’s intriguing northern capital | our guide to the best things to do in jaffna
#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
the jewel of the south | our guide to galle fort, sri lanka
#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 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
#12 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
#13 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 TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS
WHERE IS ELLA?
Despite feeling a world away from the popular beaches and tropics of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Ella is only about 200km northeast of Colombo.
Perched at an elevation of 1,041m Ella can be found on the south-eastern ledge of the Uva Province, in the Badulla district. Its height gives it a (very welcome) cooler climate than the southern lowlands, and with its beautiful forest-covered hills and tea plantations, it’s the perfect starting point for many Sri Lankan hill country adventures.
WHEN TO VISIT ELLA, SRI LANKA?
Due to Ella's elevation at 1,041m and its position on the south-eastern edge of the Uva province, the average temperature of Ella vary little over the course of the year - it's a comfortable 20 - 30 degrees all year round, although it does get rather cool overnight.
The wet season occurs between September to December, although there's a pretty high chance of rainfall from April to December, with storms occurring almost every afternoon.
The absolute best time to visit Ella is during the months of January to May when the temperatures are slightly warmer and the chance of rain is at its lowest. It's also peak season for tourists, which can make the town and its attractions feel a little crowded.
We did visit in late October and found the weather to be seriously damp, but otherwise fine. Afternoon storms occurred almost every day, however the mornings were generally clear and perfect for hiking.
SAFETY IN ELLA, SRI LANKA
Overwhelmingly, we’ve found Ella to be extremely safe, much like the rest of Sri Lanka. We suggest taking all the usual precautions when visiting, especially as a female traveller - don’t walk home alone in the evening, store your valuables in a safe place, and if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
One thing we will say though is to keep your wits about you when visiting the various natural attractions in Ella. The Nine Arch Bridge, Diyaluma Falls, and Ravana Falls, in particular, can be dangerous.
For everything you need to know about safety in Sri Lanka, including the historical context, common travel scams, safety on roads, and advice for solo and female travellers, check out our full guide to Sri Lanka safety here
RELATED | How to stay safe in Sri Lanka
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, 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). If you need to get cash out, we suggest only doing this at recognised banks.
With that being said, the beauty of Ella is eating from the small hole-in-the-wall cafes, which accept cash only. As do most local attractions and transport options in the area.
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
HOW TO GET TO ELLA, SRI LANKA
TRAIN
If you’re keen to experience the magic of the Sri Lankan train network (and we really hope you are!), we’d really recommend travelling to Ella by train.
We’ve outlined some of the more popular train routes below, and if you’re plotting out your journey with more than a month’s notice, you can actually book your tickets for the train online at 12go.asia up to 32 days before you travel.
COLOMBO TO ELLA
The direct train from Colombo Fort to Ella encompasses the world-famous Kandy to Ella train ride, however, we’d highly recommend breaking up the journey and spending time in Kandy.
If you’re keen to get straight to Ella, be prepared for a 10+ hour train ride.
THE DETAILS
Where | Colombo to Ella Train Station
Cost | 2nd class: LKR 600 per person, 3rd class: LKR 400 per person
Colombo to Ella train departure times | 0555, 0830, 0945, 2000
KANDY TO ELLA
One of the great train rides in the world, and one of the best things you’ll do in Sri Lanka.
Expect the train ride from Kandy to Ella to take between 6-8 hours.
We recommend booking 3rd class for the most authentic experience.
THE DETAILS
Where | Kandy to Ella Train Station
Cost | 2nd class: LKR 240 per person, 3rd class: LKR 175 per person
Kandy to Ella train departure times | 0847, 1110
BUS
COLOMBO TO ELLA
If you’re on a very tight budget, it’s possible to take the local bus from Colombo’s Pettah bus station to Ella, however it’s a long, arduous journey or around 7 - 8 bumpy hours.
From Colombo/Pettah bus station, take the bus to Bandarawela (around LKR 200 - 700), where you’ll need to change and jump on a connecting bus to Ella (LKR 50 - 100). Or, for the final part of the journey, hire a tuk tuk to Ella town (LKR 500)
KANDY TO ELLA
To be honest, don’t even think about taking a bus on this route - the train ride is too beautiful to miss
THE SOUTH TO ELLA
The best way to travel from the south (Unawatuna, Mirissa, Hiriketiya) to Ella is to take a local bus to Matara bus station (LKR 50 - 200), and then change onto the Matara - Bandarawela bus (#31, or 31-1 bus), which will stop in Ella via Wellawaya.
This 5-6 hour trip should cost around LKR 200 - 500.
EDIT YOUR PHOTOS WITH OUR SRI LANKA PRESETS
The Sri Lanka Lightroom Preset Packs are finally here! Inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country, they’re perfect for bringing your epic Sri Lanka images to life.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR SRI LANKA
Overwhelmingly, we’ve found the country to be extremely safe and friendly, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t issues with petty theft or personal safety at times.
You absolutely need to have travel insurance that ensures you and your belongings are protected here.
Plus, as the pandemic has taught; many things can go wrong anywhere in the world and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.
WE RECOMMEND:
For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out-of-pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.
For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.
Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy
SRI LANKA BACKPACKING ESSENTIALS
Travelling through Sri Lanka comes with a unique set of needs.
To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:
Reusable water bottle | THE BEST INVESTMENT WE’VE EVER MADE! We use the Grayl water purification bottles, which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!).
Biodegradable Wet Wipes | Keep clean without destroying the planet!
Hand sanitiser | not something we’d actually recommend normally, but in Sri Lanka it can be a bloody great investment.
A spork | to cut down on unnecessary plastic usage at meal times
Power bank | don’t get caught out without power for your devices
READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Sri Lanka consciously and comfortably
EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | 31 incredible things to do in Sri Lanka, Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary, Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary, Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!), Where to stay in Galle
SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Jaffna, Hiriketiya, Mirissa Beach
CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala, A guide to Polonnaruwa, How to visit Yala National Park, and Udawalawe National Park
TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train, how to get from Colombo to Kandy, how to get from Colombo to Galle
ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella, a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, How to see Diyaluma Falls, Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)
ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella, a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge, How to see Diyaluma Falls, Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)
PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Read our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and your friends travel more consciously around the globe
ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials
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.