Ella
Mountain Paradise
Discover the Magic
Ella is a small mountain village that has become one of Sri Lanka's most popular destinations for good reason. Surrounded by lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and endless tea plantations, this charming town offers spectacular natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The journey to Ella on the train from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya is considered one of the world's most scenic railway routes. Once here, hike to Little Adam's Peak, explore the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, or chase waterfalls.
Must-Visit Attractions
Experience the best of what Ella has to offer
Nine Arch Bridge
An iconic colonial-era railway bridge set among lush jungle, perfect for photography when trains pass through.
Little Adam's Peak
An easy 1-hour hike with stunning panoramic views of Ella Gap and surrounding tea plantations.
Ravana Falls
A beautiful 25-meter waterfall named after the legendary King Ravana, popular for swimming and photos.
Ella Rock
A challenging 3-4 hour hike through tea estates and forests rewarded with breathtaking mountain views.
Demodara Loop
A fascinating railway engineering feat where the track loops under itself through a mountain.
Tea Plantations
Visit working tea estates, learn about tea production, and sample fresh Ceylon tea with stunning valley views.
Essential Travel Information
Everything you need to know for your Ella adventure
Best Time to Visit
January to March for clear weather and best views. December is also good but can be busier.
Weather & Climate
Pleasant mountain climate with temperatures 15°C to 25°C. Can be misty in mornings and cool in evenings.
Currency & Costs
Most activities are free or low-cost. Budget around 3,000-5,000 LKR per day for activities.
Language
Sinhala and Tamil. English widely spoken given the tourist-friendly nature of Ella.
Local Tips & Insider Advice
- Take the scenic train from Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya) to Ella - book seats in advance
- Start hikes early morning for clearer weather and better visibility
- Bring layers - it can be cool in the morning and evening
- Visit Nine Arch Bridge between 9-11 AM or 3-5 PM when trains pass
- Try zip-lining for an adrenaline rush with spectacular views
- Ella is small - most attractions are within walking distance or short tuk-tuk ride
Gallery
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ella
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