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Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka

Our most recommended things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka

From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa : Day Trip to Ella Highlands

1. From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa : Day Trip to Ella Highlands

Start Ella tour at 7.00 a.m, Ella is pure natural beauty, with its waterfalls, greenery, and hills it is just jaw-dropping. Ella is the perfect place to go to if one wants to refresh the brain. It has many famous places and has been under the attention of tourist for a decent amount of time now. On the way to Ella our first visit is Buduruwagala rock temple. Buduruwagala is an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. The complex consists of seven statues and belongs to the Mahayana school of thought. Next stop is Ravana waterfall, The Ravana Falls is a popular sightseeing attraction in Sri Lanka. It currently ranks as one of the widest falls in the country. After that we will reach to Ella city, Ella is a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province, it is situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters above sea level. Then next we will go to Nine Arch Bridge. It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. Then time to climb little Adam speak, Little Adam’s Peak attracts many travelers who come to Sri Lanka. While climb the Adam speak take lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. It is located on eye-catcher place. 98 Acres Resort and Spa is an elegant, chic hotel that stands on a scenic 98 acre tea estate, surrounded by a stunning landscape. After having lunch you can experience Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line South Asia's Longest and Sri Lanka’s first ever mega dual zip-line, located amidst the luscious green estates of Ella, Sri Lanka. And next visit Halpewaththa Tea factory. Tea while enjoying the magnificent natural beauty of the area. It is the final destination of our tour. Finally, back to the hotel.

From Ella: Shuttle to Mirissa/Galle with Udawalawe Safari

2. From Ella: Shuttle to Mirissa/Galle with Udawalawe Safari

After pick-up from your hotel in Ella, Haputale or Bandarawela, head for Udawalawe National Park, where you'll switch to an open concept safari jeep in order to have the best views. An early morning start ensures you'll see the animals during one of their most active times of day. See herds of elephants for sure and have fun watching for crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, various endemic birds species and much more. Along the way, you'll learn about and observe the natural habitats of the local wildlife while you snap some amazing photos. Then, at the end of your 3-hour safari adventure, switch back to the comfortable, air-conditioned car for the ride on to Mirissa/Weligama/Unawatuna or Galle where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

Ella: Private Ella Rock Sunrise Hike

3. Ella: Private Ella Rock Sunrise Hike

Begin your day with a hike up Ella Rock. Reach the viewpoint and be rewarded by stunning scenes of the rolling mountain landscape and mesmerizing clouds or sun rays. Meet your guide at your hotel or pre-arranged meeting point in the early morning. Hop in the tuk tuk and head towards the starting point of the hike. Climb up Ella Rock and by the time the first light appears in the sky, you will be at its top. Make your way to various points to see the surrounding landscape of the city, mountains, and valleys from different angles, each providing a memorable view on its own. Admire the lush greenery amongst the light of the rising sun or feel at peace with the blanketing clouds depending on the weather conditions for that day. After embracing and capturing your time spent at the top of Ella Rock, hike back down and return to your drop-off location.

From Kandy: Scenic Train Ride to Ella

4. From Kandy: Scenic Train Ride to Ella

The Kandy to Ella train ride in Sri Lanka is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Your train journey takes you on a scenic ride through some of the most beautiful highland countryside areas in Sri Lanka. Watch the brilliant green carpets of the tea plantations. See the picturesque villages with misty mountain backdrops pass by. Peer through drizzle and mist to look at the magical landscapes of Hill Country. Enjoy the amazing sights of intimidating mountains, deep and dark woodlands, and magnificent waterfalls as they go by your windows. Kandy to Ella (trave time 6 to 7 hours)

From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle with Udawalawe Safari

5. From Ella: Shuttle to Tangalle with Udawalawe Safari

After pick-up from your hotel in Ella, Haputale or Bandarawela, head for Udawalawe National Park, where you'll switch to an open concept safari jeep in order to have the best views. An early morning start ensures you'll see the animals during one of their most active times of day. See herds of elephants for sure and have fun watching for crocodiles, monkeys, water buffaloes, various endemic birds species and much more. Along the way, you'll learn about and observe the natural habitats of the local wildlife while you snap some amazing photos. Then, at the end of your 3-hour safari adventure, switch back to the comfortable, air-conditioned car for the ride on to Tangalle/Hiriketiya where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

Ella Rock & 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak with Transfer

6. Ella Rock & 9 Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak with Transfer

Enjoy the convenience of being picked from your accommodations in either Ella, Bandarawella, Haputale, or Wellawaya via tuk-tuk. Begin your tour with an early morning hike to the famous cliff, Ella Rock. Along the way, you’ll journey through tranquil woodlands and tea plantations. Walk alongside the iconic Sri Lankan railroad. Once you’ve reached Ella Rock, you’ll be able to enjoy amazing panoramic views. Hike down from Ella Rock to Nine Arches Bridge, a picturesque bridge which connects the Ella and Demodara railway stations. The bridge consists of 9 arches, which offer a harmonious sense of geometry against the lush green growth of the countryside. The bridge is made exclusively from rock, brick, and cement, and doesn’t use any steel. Stand underneath the bridge and look out into the beautiful “9 skies” framed by the 9 arches. Walk across the bridge and learn about its history from your knowledgable guide as you take in the surroundings. Sit down for lunch at a local restaurant before going for an afternoon hike to Little Adam’s Peak, Ella’s most well-known attraction. Enjoy an easy and gradual climb to the peak. Once there, take in a spectacular view of the Ella Gap. Walk through lush green tea plantations and paddy fields. See local people plucking and collecting tea leaves. Gaze over the valley into the island’s central highlands. Take a refreshing swig of complimentary bottled water. Your tour ends as you are returned to your hotel via tuk-tuk.

Ella: Little Adam's Peak and Nine Arch Bridge Half-Day Tour

7. Ella: Little Adam's Peak and Nine Arch Bridge Half-Day Tour

Discover the beauty of Ella on this half day tour. Your personal guide will take you to the famous Nine Arch Bridge before you witness the stunning views of Ella's natural beauty from Little Adam's Peak. Stroll along the unique attraction of the Nine Arch Bridge railway, spanning 91 meters alongside dense jungle and agricultural settings. Stop for photos of the nine arches. With the forest booming behind the railway and the tea leaves cultivated below from the plantations, the beautiful bridge stands out from the epic scenery as a picturesque masterpiece. The bridge is built entirely from rocks and bricks, without metal or steel. Next, your guide will take you on a small hike to Little Adam's Peak to see the greenery of Ella, surrounded by tea fields and rural beauty. The moderate trail winds through tea plantations, where you may see locals working and picking the tea leaves. The trail offers multiple platforms, rocks and viewpoints perfect for photos, with the view getting more spectacular as you walk along the ridge to the summit. Take in the unbelievable views across the mountain highlands of Sri Lanka, before you walk back down to finish the tour. Transfers are included to bring you to and from your hotel for the half day tour via tuk tuk. Water is provided for you, to keep you hydrated throughout the walk. Chose from a morning or afternoon start time. 

Mirissa, Weligama, or Galle: Transfer to Ella & Yala Safari

8. Mirissa, Weligama, or Galle: Transfer to Ella & Yala Safari

Combine a transfer from Mirissa, Weligama, or Galle to the town of Ella with the adventure of a Sri Lankan animal safari day trip. Experience the immense biodiversity in Yala National Park and stop for a delectable packed meal. Be picked up from your accommodation in Mirissa, Weligama, or Galle. Relax and take in the local scenery on the drive to Yala National Park. Board an an open-topped safari jeep to get the best views and photo angles. See the animals during the day when they are the most active. Watch for leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalos, and a large variety of bird species. Get some great shots of these magnificent creatures. Hear about about the wildlife and get photography tips from your local guide. Let your guide show you the spots where the animals are likely to congregate. Have a nice packed meal before heading back to your air-conditioned car for the ride to your accommodation in Ella.

Sri Lanka: 1-Hour Mega Zip Line Adventure in Ella

9. Sri Lanka: 1-Hour Mega Zip Line Adventure in Ella

The equipment will be provided for you, as will be your instructor and support crew. Cocooned within Sri Lanka’s Badulla District is an inviting haven, filled with an abundance of natural beauty and a cool climate.  Ziplining here is one of the best things to do in Ella, home to an abundance of breathtaking backdrops. Ella allows both the laidback as well as the curious at heart to voyage through some of Sri Lanka’s most cherished destinations.  Situated 3,415 ft. above sea level and 200 kilometers east of the capital of Colombo, this cozy hamlet offers numerous floral and faunal species coupled with towering mountain ranges and scenic waterfalls. Get a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful hills of the island.

From Ella: Full-Day Yala National Park Safari Tour

10. From Ella: Full-Day Yala National Park Safari Tour

Visit Ruhunu National Park and explore its 126,786 hectares including the Strict Natural Reserve (Block II). The most familiar is Block I, established in 1938. Yala is famous for its big herds and large number of elephants, leopards, spotted deer, sambhur, crocodiles, mongoose, wild boar, wild buffalo, and many other animals. More than 130 bird species are recorded, including the resident and winter visitors. Head to the National Park to take an afternoon safari around 1:00 PM, as the time of day when you can see leopards and sloth bears emerge out of the shady jungle and roam around. Head to great spots for birdwatchers. The water holes and tanks are a birdwatcher's paradise, offering the chance to see the famous peacock dance. For wildlife lovers, Yala is a must see site in Sri Lanka. Once you've finished your tour, return back to your hotel in Ella.

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Frequently asked questions about Ella, Sri Lanka

What top attractions are a must-see in Ella, Sri Lanka?

What are the best day trips and excursions from Ella, Sri Lanka?

The best day trips and excursions from Ella, Sri Lanka are:

Nine Arch Bridge

Other Sightseeing Options in Ella, Sri Lanka

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What people are saying about Ella, Sri Lanka

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 63 reviews

Great experience. It was our first safari experience with elephants so up close in their natural habitat. We saw peacocks, birds, and other small animals too. Our guide was great. He picked us up from our hotel and made a few stops on the way so we could try a variety of Sri Lankan desserts and snacks.

There were only 2 of us with our guide buddy. The round trip was very interesting and exciting, well run and lots of tips and since there were only 2 of us, it was also very flexible to our wishes. The selection of hotels was really great, the drive through the country by car was very pleasant!

Beautiful and interesting tour, Sigiriya my favorite but all was amazing with good mix ! Our guide Kaarthe and conductor very professional and always ready to give you a help

Superb adventure, the landscapes are incredible. I recommend doing it if you are passing through Sri Lanka

Highlight of our Sri Lanka Trip. Ella you must visit while tour in Sri Lanka.