What to Do in Ella Sri Lanka: 8 Best Activities to Experience

You have the opportunity to do a number of things in and around Ella Sri Lanka. Out of so many, here are the 8 best things that you should not miss while visiting Ella, Sri Lanka.

1. Explore Ella Rock for Stunning Panoramic Views

Ella Rock is famous as one of the best hiking trails in Sri Lanka, with breathtaking views. The track flows through the railway track, small villages, and tea plantations. This will become steeper as it gets closer to the summit. If you are a first-time visitor and need guidance, there are many local guides that you can hire for this journey. They can make the trip safe and interesting with the local knowledge and history.

Best Time to Hike Ella Rock

If your main goal of visiting Ella Sri Lanka, is the Ella Rock hiking, from December to April is the most ideal time, as it is the dry season. Even though the mountain can be explored throughout the year, the trail can become slippery during the monsoon period. Start your journey between 6 am and 7 am. It will help you reach the summit before noon and watch the best panoramic views without mist blocking them.

What to Expect During the Hike

The hike is moderate and takes 2-3 hours to reach the summit. You can stop and enjoy the surroundings if you don’t mind the time. The initial phase of the trail is easy, and it also allows you to capture great views of nature. As it goes, the trial will slowly become a little more challenging, where the path is steeper and you need to be careful in every step. The effort will reward you with 360-degree panoramic and stunning views of the hill country.

2. Visit the Famous Nine Arches Bridge

The Nine Arches Bridge stands as one of the most remarkable architectural structures in Sri Lanka. This is the main reason why locals and tourists tend to visit Ella Sri Lanka. This stunning bridge is located just 15 minutes away from Ella town. The bridge, built in 1921, stands as one of the finest examples of colonial-era railway engineering in the country. To reach the bridge, you can either take the railway path from Ella station or the road that passes through the route to Little Adam’s Peak.

Legend says that a local man named P. K. Appuhami played a key role in the bridge’s construction, offering his expertise in local engineering techniques to ensure the success of this project. The bridge represents a remarkable fusion of British engineering mastery and traditional Sri Lankan building methods, resulting in a structure that has not only lasted through time but also continues to serve as an important connection in the country’s railway network.

Tips while visiting the Nine Arches Bridge

If you want to capture the iconic moment of a train going through the bridge, look for the train timings and reach the location before the time. Usually, the weekends pack the place with a lot of people, and it will be hard to click a better picture. So, better to go there on a weekday in the morning.

3. Discover the Ravana Falls

Ravana Falls is located just outside Ella Sri Lanka, on the road towards Wellawaya. This is an easily accessible attraction as it is located by the roadside. The falls is named after the legend of King Ravana, where he kidnapped princess Sita and took her to the caves behind the falls. This is to take revenge on her husband, Rama.

It is easy to access, and the exploration is completely free of charge. If you want to hike up the Ravana Falls, there is a pathway on the right side that you can take. But it is highly recommended to do this during the dry season and get the help of a local guide for your safety.

Best Time to Visit Ravana Falls

The timing depends on what kind of activities you are expecting to do within the Ravana Falls premises. The monsoon season, from May to September, creates a powerful waterfall with cascades and mist that could be experienced from a distance. This period offers the opportunity to click the best pictures.

If you are planning to hike up the waterfall, the dry season from December to April is highly recommended. It provides safe conditions with little water flow, making the place accessible to hiking and a dip under the water. But make sure there is a local expert around you while you are involved in such things.

4. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak

Hiking the Little Adam’s Peak is easy compared to the Ella Rock hike. Only the last part is a little challenging, but you can make it easily if you follow the right path. The path is flowing across the 98 Acres Resort & Spa. It will take only around 15 minutes to reach the summit. The majority of the path consists of stairs, making the climb even easier. You will see the wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and other locations around Ella Sri Lanka.

What to Pack for the Little Adam’s Peak Hike

This is not a challenging or time-consuming hike. But if you want to have a little snack, admiring the views, pack some snacks that are light and easy to carry. Bring a water bottle along with you, as you might feel thirsty at the summit. Pack all the essentials and your camera in a backpack, so that you won’t feel it’s hard to climb carrying everything in your hand.

5. Experience the Ella Spice Garden

Ella Spice Garden offers you one of the most unique cultural experiences you could have while visiting Ella Sri Lanka. This is a hands-on culinary experience that teaches you how to cook authentic Sri Lankan dishes with fresh ingredients and traditional methods. The owner, who is also a local expert chef, will guide you through all the steps, sharing everything that has been passed down through generations.

During the class, you will first get the opportunity to visit their herb garden. They will teach you everything about local herbs, and also let you taste them. After this, you can occupy their traditional kitchen and learn how to cook an entire breakfast or lunch menu. You’ll learn to prepare classic dishes such as rice and curry with multiple accompaniments, including dhal curry, vegetable curries using locally grown produce, and coconut sambol.

Booking and Session Details

Booking a session at Ella Spice Garden has been made easy while you visit Ella Sri Lanka. You can go to their website and fill out their form, or drop them a WhatsApp message. They will get back to you with the available days, timing, and other details. We recommend booking in advance as it gets booked up by so many visitors. The classes usually end with a meal where everyone enjoys the dishes they’ve made, followed by fresh fruit juice or traditional tea. Many cooking schools also give you recipe cards and spice packets to take home, so you can recreate the authentic Sri Lankan flavours even after your trip to Ella.

6. Zipline at Flying Ravana

Flying Ravana is the first-ever dual mega zipline in Sri Lanka. It is easy to access as it’s located next to Little Adam’s Peak. This zipline stretches for more than half a kilometre, and slides at 80 kmph. The zipline adventure will give you breathtaking views and an experience with the gorgeous surroundings. This will be the best 1-hour adrenaline rush you will ever forget.

Other Essential Details About the Experience

The zipline only allows ages above 6. The individuals should also be in good health. It is recommended to wear athletic dresses. Make sure your shoes are sturdy and securely fastened. A locker will be given to store all your personal belongings.

You will have to fill out a form before you get on the zipline. The guide will give you all the relevant safety instructions and provide you with the safety equipment. They will double-check all the fittings before the flight. After the flight, you will be provided with transportation back to the reception.

There will be temporary closures due to bad weather conditions or repairs. Therefore, it is advised to book online in advance. Take light meals and get hydrated before your adrenaline rush.

7. Explore the Tea Plantations

Sri Lanka is known to be one of the largest tea producers in the world. The tea is popular among every nationality. Therefore, you shouldn’t miss a visit to a tea factory when you visit Ella. There are many factories around Ella Sri Lanka. But the closest and most comfortable one to explore when you visit Ella is Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory. It is located just 15 minutes away from the city center. It is the largest tea-producing factory in UVA province. The activities here include a plantation walk, a tea factory tour, a tea plucking experience, and a masterclass.

Insights into the tea experience

You will be given an experienced guide to educate and guide you through the entire process. The plantation walk will be approximately 30 minutes long, where you will also get the opportunity to experience the life of a tea plucker and take a few snaps. Next, you will be guided to the tea factory, and the tour will cover the entire tea processing. There will be a session where you will learn about and taste different tea grades. If you want to purchase any of them, there is a small shop where you can buy all the fresh tea blends for a reasonable price. This is a whole new experience that you should not miss in Ella Sri Lanka.

8. Take a Train Ride

The Ella to Kandy train ride is one of the most famous train journeys in Sri Lanka. The route falls through rich tea plantations, lush green forests, and the most amazing views you will ever see in Sri Lanka. There is no need to end your journey in Kandy. If you want to come back, you can get down from Haputale and take the next available train to Ella. Haputale also has many amazing places like Lipton’s Seat and Adisham Bungalow, where you can spend some time exploring.

Things to Know Before the Train Ride

If you are planning to go to Kandy, the entire journey will take up to 4 hours from Ella Sri Lanka. There are three different classes in the train, which you can book according to your personal requirements. If you value comfort more, you can book a first-class ticket. But if you want to get the local experience and knowledge, you can book either second-class or third-class.

It is highly recommended to book the train tickets in advance to avoid the struggle. You can use the online ticketing platform or simply ask your travel agent to book them for you.

When to Visit Ella Sri Lanka

The weather in Ella Sri Lanka, is usually cold and misty with some sunny days once in a while. It is perfect weather to get away from the tropical climate around the coastal area. The wet season is usually from September to December. The dry season falls between January and May. If you are wondering when to visit Ella, the dry season is the peak time when a lot of tourists visit.

Make sure you book the hotels and activities early, as they get fully booked during the peak times. Also, bring essential clothing and gear if you want to enjoy some adventure.

How to Get to Ella Sri Lanka

The best thing about travelling to Ella Sri Lanka, is that it involves one of the best train journeys in the world. You can take the train from either Kandy or Badulla to reach Ella. From Kandy, it will take around 8 hours to reach Ella.

Keep in mind that there is no quicker way to visit Ella. Even if you decide to go to Ella as soon as you come to the airport, it will take 6 hours by a private vehicle. This is the most comfortable way to visit Ella. The buses are also available from Colombo, but it is not that comfortable and it will take more time.

Where to Stay in Ella Sri Lanka

When you visit Ella, choosing the best places to stay is important, as it can enhance the overall experience. There are many lovely places where you can stay in this beautiful hill city. The options cater to every budget, travel style, and choice. You can choose from luxury resorts to cosy homestays nestled among the tea plantations. Each type of accommodation offers unique advantages and experiences that can make your visit to Ella truly memorable.

High-End Hotels and Luxury Resorts

The luxury accommodations in Ella Sri Lanka, offer a comfortable and quality stay while having the most spectacular views and the premium amenities. You will get to enjoy buffets, infinity pools, spa services, and traditional Ayurvedic treatments while enjoying the stunning landscape.

When you visit Ella and decide to choose luxury accommodation, you can also expect personalised services that are arranged for your comfort. Many high-end hotels offer both international cuisine and authentic Sri Lankan dishes prepared by experienced chefs with locally sourced ingredients.

The guest capacity is limited in these hotels as they ensure the intimate experiences and personalised attention. You can also get help from them to experience other things, like tea plantation visits, hiking, and sightseeing. They will arrange the transportation and a private guide for you to get the best out of the trip.

Mid-Range Hotels and Comfortable Stays

These types of accommodations are the best option for travellers on a budget to stay when they visit Ella. These still offer the comfort and the quality on a similar level to those high-end hotels. They offer standard rooms with modern amenities like air-conditioning and hot water showers. They also have balconies or terraces that showcase the stunning views that make Ella Sri Lanka, unique.

These mid-range hotels are often run by the local families. Therefore, they provide a complimentary breakfast made with fresh ingredients. You will get to taste the authentic Sri Lankan food made in a local household. These properties are often located a little away from the city centre. Therefore, they often provide shuttle services to the city and the major attractions in Ella Sri Lanka. If you need guidance or assistance, you can ask these owners, and they will either guide you themselves or help you hire the best local tour guides.

Guesthouses and Hostels

These are very affordable and cheap if you are looking for such options in Ella Sri Lanka. You can allocate more of your budget to other activities when you choose to stay in these accommodations. These places usually include dormitory-type rooms and beds with shared bathrooms. You will still get other amenities like ceiling fans and hot water. These are highly recommended for solo travellers, backpackers, and groups.

These welcoming places often occupy traditional houses thoughtfully converted to house guests while maintaining their authentic architectural nature and providing insights into local life that larger hotels cannot match. They also include complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and laundry services at reasonable rates. The hosts often serve as valuable sources of local knowledge, recommending hidden hiking trails, optimal viewing times for popular attractions, and authentic restaurants that might not appear in typical guidebooks.

Homestays

If you want to experience the most authentic local life in Ella Sri Lanka, go for a homestay. It will give you a cultural experience while allowing you to live alongside a local family. These accommodations offer insights into traditional customs, family life, and local perspectives that simply cannot be experienced in commercial hotels or guesthouses.

Families offering homestays in Ella Sri Lanka, typically provide private rooms within their homes, shared meals prepared using traditional recipes and locally grown ingredients, and opportunities to participate in activities such as cooking lessons and religious ceremonies. This unique experience creates a meaningful cultural exchange that enriches both guests and hosts while supporting local communities directly.

These authentic interactions create lasting friendships and provide travel memories that extend far beyond typical tourist experiences, making homestays an invaluable option for culturally curious travellers.

How many days do you need in Ella Sri Lanka?

This is one of the common questions travellers ask when they plan to visit Ella. The answer depends on many factors, including your travel style, the number of days left in Sri Lanka, and your interests. Here is a brief idea of how long you should spend in Ella Sri Lanka, based on your preferences.

For a Quick Ella Experience,

If you only have a limited time, a 2-3 day stay in Ella Sri Lanka, will give you the time to cover the major attractions and experiences. It can be assured that you will not feel rushed by doing this. The experiences include hiking to Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise views, visiting the famous Nine Arches Bridge for photographs and train spotting, and exploring the main waterfall, Ravana Falls. You’ll have time for one cultural experience, such as a cooking class or visiting a sacred temple. This shorter stay works particularly well for travellers who prefer a packed itinerary and don’t mind moving at a faster pace.

A Balanced Adventure,

A 4-5 day stay defines the sweet spot for most travellers when they visit Ella, providing the perfect balance between wide exploration and relaxed enjoyment. This duration allows you to experience all major attractions without rushing, while including both adventure activities and cultural experiences that create lasting memories.

With 4-5 days in Ella Sri Lanka, you can be involved in major hikes, visit multiple locations, and spend quality time. You can also keep a separate day to relax and reboost. You will have plenty of time to get cultural and local life experiences.

The Deep Dive Experience,

Extended stays in Ella Sri Lanka, enable you to set routines such as regular sunrise hikes, afternoon tea plantation walks, and socialising with locals and fellow tourists. You can repeat favourite activities multiple times, explore every hiking trail in the area, visit all nearby attractions multiple times, and even take day trips to other hill country destinations via train while maintaining Ella Sri Lanka, as your home base.

This duration is perfect for digital nomads, relaxation seekers, or travellers who prefer slow travel paces that highlight quality over quantity.

The Magic of Hill Country Awaits in Ella Sri Lanka

Ella Sri Lanka stands as one of the island’s most enchanting destinations, where lush green tea plantations cascade down misty mountains and every sunrise brings new opportunities for adventure. Whether you visit Ella for a quick mountain escape or an extended hill country retreat, this magical town has an extraordinary ability to touch the hearts of all who wander through its scenic trails and welcoming communities.

From the moment you first glimpse the Nine Arches Bridge nestled in its verdant valley to your final sunset viewed from Little Adam’s Peak, Ella lets you take the best travel stories with you when you return home. So, your adventure in Ella Sri Lanka, awaits. May it be filled with breathtaking views, meaningful connections, and the kind of travel that reminds you why you fell in love with exploring this beautiful world.