Discover the Beauty of Ella: A Complete Guide to Sri Lanka's Picturesque Hill Country Town

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka and looking for a tranquil and beautiful place to explore? Take a look at Ella, a small town in the central hills of Sri Lanka. This hidden gem offers a wide range of activities that will satisfy all types of travellers.

Arrival at the falls

The falls can be reached by train or bus from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. The train ride through lush green tea plantations and misty mountains is one of the most scenic routes in the world. The train journey takes approximately 6-7 hours and offers breathtaking views of the Sri Lankan countryside. If you prefer a quicker option, it takes about 5-6 hours by bus from Colombo to Ella.

Top things to do in the falls

Hike to Little Adams Peak

Climbing Little Adams Peak is one of the most popular activities in the falls. It is a relatively easy hike and takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the top. The view from the top is breathtaking with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

See the new arch bridge

The New Arch Bridge is an impressive architectural wonder built during the British colonial era. This bridge is located in Demodara and is surrounded by green tea plantations. The best time to visit the bridge is at sunrise or sunset and the light is perfect for photography.

Take a cooking class

Sri Lankan cuisine is a delightful blend of spices and flavours that will excite your taste buds. Taking a cooking class at the falls is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and experience cooking delicious Sri Lankan dishes.

Explore Ravana Falls

Ravana Falls is a majestic waterfall located on the edge of the falls. The waterfall is named after the legendary Sri Lankan king Ravana and is surrounded by lush green vegetation. You can take a dip in the cool water of the falls and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Visit Ella Spice Garden

Ella Spice Garden is a must-visit for all foodies. Located in the heart of Ella, this garden is home to a variety of herbs and spices. You can visit the garden and learn about the different spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Accommodation options in Ella

Acre Resort & Spa

Nestled amidst a tea plantation, the 98-acre resort and spa offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The resort has luxurious rooms, a spa and a restaurant serving delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.

Ella Jungle Resort

Ella Jungle Resort is a rustic retreat nestled in the heart of the jungle. The resort offers comfortable accommodation in eco-friendly bungalows and offers a range of activities like jungle trekking and bird watching.

Ella mountain heaven

Ella Mount Heaven is a budget-friendly option that offers clean and comfortable rooms. The hotel is located close to the city centre and has a restaurant serving delicious Sri Lankan food.