The Ultimate Ella Travel Guide: Sri Lanka's Most Popular Hill Country Paradise
Ella stands out as the number one tourist destination in Sri
Lanka, capturing the hearts of both local and international travelers. Located
in the Badulla District of the Uva Province, this breathtaking mountain town is
blessed with cascading waterfalls, lush green tea plantations, and a cool,
refreshing climate. As night falls, Ella town transforms into a vibrant hub
filled with foreigners, offering a lively and unforgettable night vibe that
every traveler must experience.
How to Get to Ella
There are several convenient ways to travel to Ella. You can
choose the best transport method based on your budget and preference.
1. By Train (The Most Recommended Way)
Taking the train is undoubtedly the most scenic and popular
way to reach Ella, offering a truly magical journey.
From Colombo:
You can board the daily morning trains, "Podi
Menike" or "Udarata Menike," or the overnight "Night
Mail" train from Colombo Fort directly to the Ella railway station. The
journey takes approximately 8 to 9 hours. To fully enjoy the stunning views of
the hill country, taking a morning train is highly recommended.
From Kandy:
If you are starting
your journey from Kandy, you can take the iconic Kandy-to-Ella train ride,
which is world-famous for its beauty.
2. By Bus
Standard Routes:
You can take any bus from Colombo traveling along the A4
highway towards Bandarawela, Badulla, or Passara, and easily drop off at
Ella.
Highway Routes:
For a more comfortable journey, you can take a luxury bus
from Colombo via the Southern Expressway that goes towards Badulla through
Embilipitiya and Wellawaya. Get off at the Wellawaya junction and take a short
connecting ride along the A23 route to Ella. This is the fastest way to travel
by bus.
3. By Private Vehicle
If you are driving your own vehicle, travel along the
Southern Expressway and take the Mattala or Andarawewa exit. From there, drive
straight through Thanamalwila and Wellawaya to reach Ella town within 4 to 5
hours.
Top Tourist Attractions to Visit in Ella
1. Nine Arch Bridge
Built during the British colonial era, this world-famous
railway bridge is a masterpiece of engineering and a paradise for photography
lovers. The most remarkable feature of this bridge is that it was constructed
entirely out of bricks and cement, without using a single piece of iron or
concrete. Travelers gather with great enthusiasm to capture photos whenever a
train passes over the nine majestic arches.
The Legend Behind the Bridge:
According to local folklore, during World War I, the British
were unable to import the steel needed to build the bridge. A local Sri Lankan
mason named "P.K. Appuhami" stepped forward and claimed he could
build the bridge using only stones and cement. The British engineers were
highly skeptical. To prove the strength of his creation, Appuhami famously lay
down under the bridge as the very first train drove over it on its maiden
journey.
2. Little Adam's Peak
This is a stunning mountain peak that can be climbed easily
within a short 30-minute hike. It is perfect for beginners and offers a
panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges.
3. Ella Rock
For those seeking a more challenging adventure, Ella Rock is
the perfect choice. It is a tougher hike compared to Little Adam's Peak, taking
about 3 to 4 hours to complete the round trip through rugged terrain.
4. Ravana Falls and Ravana Cave
Located right by the Wellawaya-Ella main road, the beautiful Ravana
Falls is a must-stop spot for travelers. Close by, you can also explore the
historic Ravana Cave, a site deeply rooted in the legend of King Ravana, who is
said to have hidden Princess Sita inside its depths.
5. Nil Diya Pokuna (Blue Water Pond)
This is a mystical, crystal-clear underground blue pond
hidden deep within a cave system. Due to safety risks, exploring this cave
alone is strictly prohibited; you must hire an experienced local tour guide to
accompany you.
6. Diyaluma Falls
A one-hour drive from Ella town will bring you to Diyaluma
Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Adventurous travelers can
hike to the very top of the falls to swim safely in the incredible natural rock
pools.
7. Ravana Pool Club
Situated at the base of Little Adam's Peak, this is Sri
Lanka’s very first international-standard luxury pool club. It offers an elite,
relaxing experience that beautifully mirrors the famous beach clubs of
Bali.
(Additionally, travelers staying in Ella can easily take
short day trips to explore the serene Pine Forests of Diyatalawa or the scenic
tea estates of Bandarawela.)
Best Things to Do in Ella
Flying Ravana & Adventure Sports:
Located near Little Adam's Peak, this features Sri Lanka's
first and longest mega zipline. Adventure enthusiasts can zipline through the
mountain valleys at thrilling speeds of up to 80 km/h.
Experience Ella's Nightlife:
Ella boasts a vibrant,
lively evening atmosphere that is unmatched by any other hill country town in
Sri Lanka. Street-side restaurants, live music, bustling crowds, and a wide
array of delicious food create a unique vibe that foreigners absolutely
love.
Enjoy the World's Most Beautiful Train Ride:
The train journey from Kandy to Ella is internationally
recognized and celebrated as one of the most scenic and visually stunning rail
journeys in the world.
Join a Traditional Cooking Class:
Learning how to cook
an authentic Sri Lankan Rice and Curry is a favorite activity among foreign
tourists. Many popular culinary schools in Ella town offer hands-on experiences
where guests can scrape fresh coconut, mix local spices, and cook a traditional
meal from scratch.
Where to Stay: Best Hotels in Ella
98 Acres Resort & Spa:
A world-renowned, eco-friendly luxury boutique hotel
beautifully nestled in the middle of a scenic tea estate.
Hide Ella Hotel:
A trendy, modern hotel uniquely designed to offer
magnificent, unobstructed views of the Ella rock and mountain gap.
Mountain Heavens:
A premium hotel offering excellent amenities, conveniently
located very close to the Ella railway station.
Ella Flower Garden Resort:
A beautiful, peaceful resort surrounded by colorful, blooming
gardens, located on the way to Little Adam's Peak.
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