Ella sits in Sri Lanka’s hill country, surrounded by lush tea plantations and mountain ridges. The town’s relaxed pace, scenic train links, and easy access to waterfalls, bridges, and viewpoints make it a favorite stop for travelers heading between Kandy, the south coast, and the highlands.
Photos
A glimpse of Ella’s landscapes, tracks, and trails.
History
Ella’s fame grew alongside Sri Lanka’s tea boom in the 19th century. Colonial planters established estates and factories across the surrounding hills, with figures like Sir Thomas Lipton promoting tea to global markets. Legends connect Ravana Falls and nearby caves to the Ramayana epic, while the colonial-era rail line and the Nine Arch Bridge showcase British engineering set amid green valleys.
Highlights
Nine Arch Bridge
A stone viaduct surrounded by tea fields. Arrive for the first trains around sunrise to enjoy the arches in soft light with fewer visitors.
Little Adam’s Peak
A short, family-friendly hike that rewards you with sweeping views of Ella Gap, plantations, and nearby ridges. Plan 45–60 minutes from the trailhead.
Ravana Falls & Ella Rock
Cool off in the upper pools of 220-meter Ravana Falls, then tackle the more demanding 3–4 hour hike to Ella Rock for 360° panoramas of the valley.
Tea factories & zipline
Tour estates such as Halpewatte to learn how leaves are withered, rolled, and fired. Combine a visit with cooking classes or a zipline run near Little Adam’s Peak for extra thrills.
Best time to visit
January to March
Dry, clear mornings make trails less slippery and views crisp—ideal for Ella Rock sunrises.
April to May & July to September
Shoulder months are great for tea lovers: plantations are vibrant, crowds lighter, and temperatures mild.
Tip: Avoid peak monsoon rains (October–December) and pack a light layer for cool evenings. Early starts help you beat both heat and crowds.
Practical tips
- Use tuk-tuks for short hops (roughly 300–2,000 LKR) or walk between trailheads in town.
- Book the Kandy–Ella train early if you want reserved seats; scenic sections are between Nanu Oya and Ella.
- Hike at sunrise for cooler weather and better light, especially for Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock.
- Pack water, a rain shell, and grippy shoes—paths can be slick after showers.
- Stay 2–3 nights to pair hikes with tea factory tours, cooking classes, or a side trip to a nearby safari.
Ready for the hills?
Ella offers some of Sri Lanka’s easiest highland adventures—perfect for slow mornings, scenic train rides, and sunset hikes.