Ella is a small mountain village in the heart of Sri Lanka and one of the most popular stops on a tour of the country. It is known for green tea plantations, impressive mountains and a relaxed backpackers atmosphere. Like many travellers before you, you are likely to fall in love with this place immediately. Because despite its popularity, Ella has retained its charm and is an ideal destination for a cool hike, a trip through the tea fields or a dip at a waterfall. Curious about what you can do in Ella? In this blog you will discover all about travelling to Ella, the best sights, fine restaurants and practical tips for your stay.
General information about Sri Lanka
Are you planning your trip to Sri Lanka? Then check out our tips for the best travel period, daily budget and applying for a visa. Find all information on Sri Lanka here.
How do you travel to Ella?
Located in Sri Lanka's central highlands, Ella is easily accessible from several well-known destinations such as Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and the south of the island. Most travellers opt for the iconic train ride from Kandy to Ella, but bus, taxi or tuktuk will also get you there just fine.
From Kandy to Ella by train
The train journey from Kandy to Ella is perhaps the most famous train ride in the world. It takes you about 7 - 8 hours, while the landscape is constantly changing. From small villages to vast tea plantations and high mountains.
Tip: We bought a train ticket on our first trip just at the station, just an hour before departure. We were extremely lucky that a ticket was still available, but had to spend 4 out of 8 hours without a seat. We definitely don't recommend that. So... If you want to be sure of a seat, especially in high season, buy your ticket well in advance via 12GoAsia or the official rail website.
Besides the train, you can also choose to travel the route with your own tuktuk. From Kandy, you'll be on the road for about 7-8 hours. But keep in mind that you'll probably be on the road longer because you'll be stopping often. A good stopover is therefore Nuwara Eliya!
You can also choose to go by local bus. Even then, it will take you longer because the bus stops at several places. Want to travel faster and more comfortably? Then a taxi or private transfer is a fine option. You can easily arrange this via your accommodation or the app PickMe (Sri Lanka).
From Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) to Ella
From Nuwara Eliya, catch the train from Nanu Oya station to Ella. This ride takes 3 to 4 hours and is known for the best views. In fact, this is the last leg of the famous train journey from Kandy to Ella. You can easily order your tickets in advance online at 12GoAsia.
A taxi or tuktuk will take you about as long, but the train is by far the most popular choice. Personally, we found the tuktuk ideal as it allows you to stop wherever you want and enjoy a picnic among the tea fields!
From the south (e.g. Mirissa or Yala) to Ella
Coming from the south coast or from the direction of Yala National Park? Then you usually travel to Ella by taxi or bus via Wellawaya. The drive takes 4 to 5 hours.
But of course, this route can also be done with your own tuktuk! The route is beautiful and we recommend you go via the B35 travel. This is because the road runs right through Yala National Park so there is a good chance of encountering wild elephants!
Travelling through Sri Lanka by tuktuk
We did our entire trip through Sri Lanka by tuktuk and it was, without a doubt, the most fun way to travel around. It is not only practical, but also an adventure in itself! We hired our tuktuk through tuktukrental.com, an absolute must that will make your trip really extra special. And with the discount code ‘THOUSANDTRAVELMILES‘ you also get a nice discount!
Tip: Click through the link in this blog to the website of Tuktukrental, then the discount will be applied automatically. Convenient, right?
Tips for transport in Ella
Most of the sights in Ella are close together. So walking will get you a long way, but if you really want to see everything, a tuktuk, scooter or car with driver are the most practical options.
- Tuktuk: For short drives or if you don't want to drive yourself, it is ideal to arrange for a tuktuk. Fortunately, this is easily and quickly arranged at your accommodation or just along the road. Do you opt for the latter option? Just raise your hand and a tuktuk will stop for you! Always agree on a price in advance though to avoid surprises.
Another option is the app PickMe (Sri Lanka), similar to Uber. Although the app is still quite new in Sri lanka, ‘drivers’ are available in many places. Through the app, you simply enter your destination and instantly see the price, eliminating the need to negotiate. - Scooter hire: For the adventurous traveller, this is a nice option. We hired a scooter more often during our first trip and we found this to be great! Just keep in mind that it is cooler in Ella and the roads can sometimes be wet and steep.
- Car with driver: If you want to go further afield or are with a large party, then hiring a car or mini-van can be interesting. Local drivers know the best routes and viewpoints, and often wait while you take a walk or visit a sight.
Tip: To use PickMe, you need internet. Therefore, arrange a local SIM card or opt for an e-sim, for example via Airalo.
Read also: What to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka? Discover 6x the best tips!
Read also: Tuktuk hire in Sri Lanka: tips, costs and our experience!
What to do in Ella and surrounding areas?
Ella offers a mix of nature, culture and relaxation that can keep you busy for days. This is why most people stay at least 3 days and we definitely recommend it. This is because it gives you enough time to explore the area without rushing or getting bored.
1. Take the world-famous train journey to Ella
The train ride to Ella is often cited as one of the most beautiful in the world. It takes you about 7-8 hours, while the scenery constantly changing: from small villages to vast tea plantations and high mountains.
The most popular routes are Kandy → Ella (± 7-8 hours) and Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya) → Ella (± 3-4 hours), with the direction to Ella often being the busiest. Tickets can be booked online about 30 days in advance at 12GoAsia or on the spot at the station. Would you like a window seat? Then book in time!
Which class is best to choose?
For the ‘open-window’ experience is 2nd or 3rd class the most fun: doors are open, windows slide down and you can literally hang out. The 1st class has air conditioning and closed windows; more comfortable, but you miss some of the magic by doing so.
Tip: Would you like to make your own with a tuktuk through Sri Lanka but also experience the train ride to Ella? Then arrange via Tuktuk Rental (discount code: THOUSANDTRAVELMILES) a transfer. As a result, a local will set up your tuktuk at the terminus, so you only have to get on and enjoy.
2. Take the train from Ella to Haputale
If you didn't come to Ella by train, plan this short stretch as a mini-experience! Haputale is a village away and the stretch between Ella and Haputale is part of the famous train journey between Kandy and Ella. The train slowly tumbles past endless tea fields and along the way you will see pickers at work and look out over deep valleys. Count on about an hour's travel time and preferably choose 2nd or 3rd class for open windows and doors, exactly that laid-back vibe this route is known for.
Tip: go early in the day for clear visibility and a better chance of getting a window seat.
3. Watch the sunrise or sunset on Little Adam's Peak
For maximum scenic views, you have to be at Little Adam's Peak. From the entrance at 98 Acres, it's about a 20-30-minute hike to the first peak, where you look out over Ella Rock and the valley. However, we recommend you walk at least to the second peak! Indeed, at the first section, it can be quite crowded at sunset.
Do you choose to walk to the next hill? Then count on about 15 - 25 minutes of extra ‘climbing’. This is because you will first go down a bit and then steeply up again via a dirt road.
4. Visit one of the many tea plantations such as Halpewatte Tea Factory
Sri Lanka is home to vast tea plantations that provide one of Sri Lanka's most important commodities - tea. Around Ella, everything revolves around Ceylon tea, and at the Halpewatte Tea Factory you can see the entire process from picking to drying and sorting. Preferably go in the morning, when the machines are running and the smell of fresh leaves is everywhere. Tours usually cost around LKR 3,000 p.p. (€8.54) and end with a tasting.
Nice detail: you are often allowed to go into the fields yourself to try your hand at picking. You can buy tea, of course, but keep in mind that you can get it much cheaper in the village!
5. Discover the hidden gem: Pallewela waterfall
If you like to look for a peaceful waterfall, put Pallewela waterfall on your list. From the road, you walk through narrow paths and rice fields to the waterfall's entrance. At the entrance, you pay LKR 100 per person (€0.28) and follow the arrows further down. The last stretch requires a bit of climbing over rocks, but you will be rewarded with several natural pools where you can then paddle or swim.
Don't expect crowds here as the waterfall is not that well known yet! Even on weekends, you can have this place all to yourself. Little bonus: In the water are little fish that gently nibble at your feet, free spa treat!
Tip: If you have limited time in Ella, opt for the Pallewela waterfall instead of Diyaluma Falls. The Diyaluma Falls are more than an hour's drive from the village and tend to be a lot more crowded, while the Pallewela waterfall is little inferior in terms of experience, indeed, the natural pools and tranquillity often make it even nicer.
6. Go train spotting at Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
Amidst lush greenery, surrounded by jungle, lies the famous Nine Arch Bridge. This impressive railway bridge is one of the most famous spots in Ella and is really not to be missed. In our opinion, the place is most beautiful when the train passes. Often, this around 07:30 and 09:30 (check with your accommodation for current times).
Preferably go early in the morning, as it gets crowded quickly after 09:00. From the city centre, you can walk to the bridge in about half an hour, or take a tuktuk and walk the last bit on foot. If you want to linger a bit longer, walk over to Café Soul. From the terrace you have a great view of the bridge, and their fresh mango juice is delicious!
Tip: One of the best viewpoints is at the tea field on the slope opposite the bridge. From there, you have a perfect view of the arches and the train passing over them.
7. Visit the unique Buduruwagala temple
Staying a little longer in Ella and have time and fancy a little road trip? Then hire a scooter, tuktuk or take the local bus to Buduruwagala temple (± 1 hour from Ella). At Buduruwagala temple, you'll find a rock wall with seven imposing Buddha statues carved dating back to the 10th century. Few travellers come here so chances are you will have this place all to yourself.
8. Watch the Ravana Waterfall
Along the main road south of Ella, you'll find the Ravana waterfall. It's an easy stopover if you do pass through but we certainly wouldn't detour all the way for it. So check if it fits into your schedule!
Once you get closer to the waterfall, you will see all the stalls along the road with grilled corn, fruit and souvenirs. In addition, you will find that it is extremely crowded! So keep a close eye on your belongings here and take only what you need. Park your scooter or tuktuk preferably a bit further away and lock it well!
Note: around the waterfall, men sometimes speak to you and want to give you “free” stones or crystals. Nothing is free: as soon as you accept it, they ask for money and the situation often turns nasty! Do not accept such gifts, here or anywhere else, and be friendly but clear in your “no”.
9. Go swimming at Diyaluma Falls
If you can't get enough of waterfalls, plan a visit to Diyaluma Falls. At around 220 metres high, this is one of Sri Lanka's most impressive waterfalls. You can bathe in natural pools both at the bottom and on top, making it a great place to cool off after a hot day. Count on about an hour's drive from Ella to the base of the waterfall; it is easy to reach and quick to view from the road. The real highlight, however, is found at the top, where you can look out over the valley along the edge of the plateau pools.
For the upper part, drive a little further to the starting point of the trail. At the spot, someone will often ask if you want a guide. The path up is usually clear and easy to follow with offline Google Maps, so a guide is not necessary. However, it can be useful because a local guide will know exactly which pools are safe, how to navigate between the different “levels” and where you get the best views. If you go without a guide, follow the tracks, take your time and, if necessary, watch how others do it.
Tips: take enough water and snacks along as there are few facilities upstairs and the sun is bright. In addition, carry sturdy (water) shoes for grip on wet stones and watch for changing water levels after rain. Never swim too close to the edge and respect enclosed areas: the views are spectacular, but safety first!
10. Climb the Ella Rock
The trek to Ella Rock is a classic and should not be missed on your list. You start with a stretch along the track, then duck between tea plantations and finally pick up a firmer forest path uphill. At the top, a wide panorama of Ella Gap and the surrounding hills awaits. Count on some 2-3 hours of climbing (and 1.5-2 hours back) and take plenty of water, sturdy shoes and download in advance the offline navigation app Maps.me. In fact, in this app you will find the complete route and the different hiking trails are clearly marked, so you can always check if you are still on the right route.
11. Enjoy the infinity pool at Mountain Heavens
Fancy a few hours of doing nothing after your hikes or other activities? At Mountain Heavens, even without being a hotel guest, you can use the infinity pool overlooking Ella Gap! Expect to pay around LKR 2,000 p.p. (€5.69) for 2 hours.
12. Follow a cooking workshop: make your own Sri Lankan curry
You've probably already tasted some great curries along the way but in Ella, you can learn to prepare them yourself! There are a number of places where you can take a cooking course such as at Chamathka Cooking Class via GetYourGuide or Ella Spice Garden. At Ella Spice Garden, you will start with a short tour of the in-house spice garden, where you will see and smell fresh leaves and spices up close. Then you will enter the kitchen and learn more about Sri Lankan cuisine and its different dishes. You'll cook your own evening meal step by step and then sit down together afterwards to taste everything!
Tips: workshops fill up quickly in high season. Reserve a spot a day in advance and communicate any dietary requirements, and everything will be ready when you arrive.
Tips for good restaurants in Ella
Good food is a must while travelling, and luckily in Ella you have plenty of choice! In fact, among the tea hills, you'll find everything from simple curries to burgers and pizzas! Below are our favourite places:
- Café Chill: We found it comical to see how big this café has become in recent years. Where just a few years ago it was a small shack, it is now a mega restaurant with a big menu! Ideal for a good lunch or sumptuous dinner!
- Matey Hut: This is surely our favourite. This cosy family-run shop can be found just off the main street and you can get delicious Sri Lankan curries here. Come before 6pm, as a queue invariably forms later.
- Rainbow Inn: The rooftop terrace combined with the laid-back atmosphere and a varied menu makes this a perfect lunch spot!
- Clay Pot: A quiet restaurant overlooking the railway line. Be sure to order the paratha here as it is delicious!
- Rocky Ella Café: We came here by chance due to a heavy rain but can definitely recommend this restaurant. You can get anything here! Think curries, bowls, pizzas ánd good coffee.
- Kiri Kopi: Want to feel like you're at the beach for a while? Then stop by here for a good breakfast or hearty lunch!
- Café Soul: Convenient stop at Nine Arch Bridge: take a seat on the terrace, order a fresh juice and wait for the next train to pass by!
- One Love Café: Nice place with rocking sofas and beanbags where you can have a nice meal. Also cosy for evening drinks.
- AK Ristoro: For those who want something a bit different from curry: mix of Italian and Japanese influences, just outside the crowds.
Our favourite addresses in Ella
Ella has an awful lot of hostels, guesthouses and hotels. So you can find accommodation to suit every budget here. We often book our accommodation last minute and therefore always have a few favourites ready in our Booking.com lists. However, we recommend booking in advance for Ella. It doesn't happen to us often but unfortunately, all our options were no longer available so we ended up at a hotel that we are definitely not going to recommend to you! These were our favourites:
- Adam's Apple Homestay: Affordable homestay just outside the hustle and bustle, with rooms overlooking the mountains. Ideal if you are a light sleeper as you won't hear the noise of the main street here but are still relatively close to the village.
- Zion View Ella Green Retreat: Not the cheapest option but you will find comfortable rooms with panoramic views and a swimming pool! Fine choice if you want just a bit more luxury without losing the charm of Ella.
- Guest Inn Avendra: Located slightly outside the city centre, it is actually very quiet. Ideal if you have your own transport or want to rent a scooter locally!
- Rose Dale Guest Inn Ella: Small-scale guesthouse with a quiet location just off the main street. Great if you want to avoid the crowds in the evening but still want to be in the centre in a few minutes by tuktuk. Some rooms have views of the green hills, ask when booking.
- 98 Acres Resort & Spa: We already knew in the Netherlands that this would not fit into our budget. Then again... who knows, there might have been a last-minute mega deal 😉 At this resort, you stay among the tea plantations, with villas on stilts and a view of Little Adam's Peak. If you want to treat yourself, this is the place to go!
Frequently asked questions about Ella
Over the past few years, we have received a lot of questions and received many of your tips. We have collected them below so that you are fully prepared for your trip!
1. How long should you stay in Ella?
We recommend staying at least two nights in Ella so that you can visit the major highlights (Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arch Bridge, a waterfall) at a leisurely pace. Three nights gives you room for Ella Rock and a day trip (Diyaluma or Buduruwagala).
2. What is Ella like in Sri Lanka and what can I expect?
A laid-back mountain atmosphere, green tea fields, accessible hikes and photogenic railway bridges. The village is compact and geared towards travellers (cafes, cooking classes, massages), with nature just steps away.
3. Why is Ella so popular?
The famous train ride, the combination of short and longer hikes, and the ‘mountain village-meets-backpackers’ feel make Ella an obvious stop for many routes.
4. Is it worth going to Ella?
Yes, we absolutely think so! Even with little time, you can combine several highlights in 48 hours without long distances.
5. Is 1 day in Ella enough?
For a quick impression: yes (e.g. Little Adam's Peak + Nine Arch Bridge). But you then miss Ella Rock, a tea factory or a waterfall. Personally, we recommend spending at least 3 days in Ella.
6. What is the best travel time for Ella?
Visit all year round but want to minimise the chance of rain? Then we recommend the months December to March choose.
7. Do I need to book train tickets in advance?
Yes, we definitely recommend booking your tickets in advance for the stretch between Kandy and Ella. Second class fills up quickly but offers the best experience! A good alternative is to catch the train near Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) to Ella.
8. Do I need a guide for Ella Rock?
No this is not necessary although the path does have a few ramifications. We therefore recommend using the app Maps.Me with it. If you don't feel like searching, a local guide is handy and you support the community right away.
9. What is the difference between Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock?
Little Adam's Peak is short, easy and ideal for sunrise/sunset; Ella Rock is longer, steeper and quieter, with sweeping views. Many travellers therefore do both.
10. Which waterfall do I choose: Ravana, Pallewela or Diyaluma?
Ravana waterfall is an easy stopover by the road but also often crowded. Pallewela waterfall is quieter and has natural pools but you have to hike a bit for this. Diyaluma Falls are ideal as a day trip with spectacular ‘infinity pools’ on top.
11. Can you combine Ella with other places?
Sure! Ella combines well with a day trip to Nuwara Eliya.
12. Where is the best place to stay in Ella?
For the best views, stay just outside the city centre, towards the tea fields. If you prefer something more comfortable and closer to restaurants and shops, then a place near the main street is more convenient. Either way, it's smart to book in advance so you can find accommodation that really suits your needs.
13. How do I find fun activities in Ella?
Ella is bursting with things to do, which is why a shortlist works best: list your must-sees (Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam's Peak, Ella Rock, tea plantation, waterfall) and plan them by neighbourhood/route so you have less travel time. Focus your planning on sunrise/sunrise for the hikes, and save afternoons for tea, massages or a waterfall; that way you get the most out of your activities in Ella without rushing.
For tours and tickets, check out GetYourGuide. This way, you lay down the basics and leave room for spontaneous stops.
14. What to do in Ella (Sri Lanka)?
Visit the Nine Arch Bridge, walk Little Adam's Peak or Ella Rock, make the train ride Kandy-Ella, book a tour of a tea factory and cool off at the Pallewela waterfall. Plan 2-3 days for highlights; combine mornings for hikes with afternoons at waterfalls or cafes with views.
We understand that this blog gives you a lot of options, so above options we at least recommend you do! Got more time? Keep on planning.
Plan your trip with our Sri lanka map!
Plan your ideal itinerary through Sri Lanka with our handy Google Maps map. Discover the best local eateries, iconic sights and hidden gems. With this map, you'll have all hotspots at your fingertips and won't miss a single highlight of this beautiful country.
Ella is one of those places you don't really want to skip. You will find green tea fields, short and long hikes and quiet waterfalls to cool off in. In other words: you won't get bored here. As far as we are concerned, Ella belongs in every itinerary through Sri Lanka. We hope our tips will help you plan your days here in a smart and relaxed way. Do you have any questions or want to share your itinerary? Feel free to send us a message at Instagram, we are happy to think with you.
Want to know more about Sri Lanka? Check out here all our blogs about this beautiful country. Prefer an organised trip? Then check out the website of Srilankatravel or Riksjatravel. They have been specialists in organising trips to Sri Lanka for years. Together with you, they will look at the possibilities so you can have the trip of your dreams!
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