On our 4 week backpacking trip through Sri Lanka, one of our most highly anticipated stops was Ella.
We’d seen it in numerous Sri Lanka itineraries and knew there were so many incredible sights to see and moments to capture.
And guess what … it lived up to expectations, and more!
We had a truly incredible time exploring all of the wonderful things to do in Ella, and thought it best to share our experiences with you.
When it comes to getting to Ella you've got a few options.
Tuk-tuk: Above all else, I recommend hiring a tuk tuk and using that to get around Sri Lanka (here's more info about our tuk tuk rental, as well as a 5% discount code).
If you don't have your own Tuk Tuk like us, then train is your best option!
Train: I'm sure you've heard of the famous Kandy to Ella train ride, which has been voted as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Since we had a Tuk Tuk, we didn't get the train, but we had the same amazing views, so I can imagine that it's true, the train ride is beautiful.
You can book your tickets from Kandy to Ella here.
If you're coming from Colombo (the capital), then it's also an easy option to get the train from Colombo to Ella. You can book your tickets here.
For transfers around Sri Lanka, we always recommend using 12GoAsia.
With so many amazing things to do in Ella, you're probably left wondering how on Earth you're going to get to them all!
Well, things like Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arch bridge are all within walking distance though the round trip will likely take you a good 3 or 4 hours.
In the sun this will be extremely tiring.
As such, I recommend sorting out your own transport.
We had our own tuk tuk which we used, but there are places in town renting out cheap mopeds for the day.
Just be sure to give your bike a good check over before taking it.
Alternatively, you can hire a tuk tuk driver for the day to take you everywhere you need to go.
I can't comment on exactly how much this would be, but I strongly doubt it would be very much. And it would be nice having a guide to talk to and answer some of your questions.
Hostels and hotels are also very reasonably priced, and there's now loads of great accommodation in Ella to choose from.
So, without further ado, let’s get started with perhaps our favourite place to visit in Ella ...
If you’re an Instagram fan, there’s a good chance you’ve seen Ella bridge before.
It’s a famous photographing spot due to the gorgeous, old-school design of the bridge and the surrounding green bushes and trees.
When you dig into the history of the bridge, you once again discover the heavy influence the British had on the region.
Though it is now one of the most popular things to do in Ella, it isn’t, strictly speaking, in Ella …
It’s in Demodora, halfway between Ella and Demodara Railway Station and Ella Railway station.
I recently found out that there’s a chance this famous bridge was once meant to be constructed of steel.
However, due to WW2, Britain was forced to redirect all steel production to the war effort.
As such, local engineers were forced to construct the bridge from stone and cement.
Well, it’s hard now to imagine the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella looking any different to how it does today!
Like most things in Sri Lanka, we always tend to use Google Maps when planning our route. And indeed, if you type in “Nine Arch Bridge” into Google Maps, it will take you there, albeit via a rather tricky way.
Even if you take a tuk tuk or moped, you still have to walk down some small rocky, muddy paths, literally walking next to people’s homes.
After doing this once in the middle of the day, we ended up arriving hot, sweaty and tired! Oh yeah, and the bridge was full with people!
So, we decided on a better way:
First off, you will need your own mode of transport. You can walk, but it might take you roughy an hour to get there from town.
You need to first head up the road given here …
And though it then ends on Google Maps, there is in fact a whole network of roads that extends beyond this point, filled with homes and businesses.
Once you reach that point, keep going straight and then you turn right when you see a big white faded sign that says about the Nine Arch Bridge.
Then follow that road straight, until you have one more right turn up a steep winding road. Again a big white sign marks this spot, however it is almost entirely faded.
It sounds hard to find, but it shouldn't be.
We found it first time with less instruction than what is given here.
As you drive along, you’ll find tonnes of locals who can point you in the right direction.
We drove up there in a tuk tuk, but a moped should do the job as well.
Alternatively, just hire a tuk tuk driver to take you.
It would only cost a few hundred rupees per person and they should take this route.
Also, I recommend doing what we did and arriving there at around 6am.
That way, the sun is up and no one is there.
You can then capture the best shots imaginable.
For us, the first train came at around 6:40am.
But this can change. So speak to a few locals in town and ask for a rough idea of when the train should be passing by.
Just don’t miss it as they only run once every hour or so. Have fun!
More info: Our full guide on visiting the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
Little Adams Peak is nowhere near as challenging as the famous “Adams Peak” in Nuwara Eliya.
However, it still offers breathtaking views of the valley below.
It takes around 15 minutes to climb up, and you then have a ridge to walk along, and can choose to climb down and then up a final peak.
The views all the way along are incredible, so it’s a nice place to relax and take some shots.
The hike itself isn’t too difficult, but it is a direct incline, so if you’re struggling you can stop and catch your breath!
When you reach the top make sure you try a delicious meal, fresh coconut. It was Cazzy’s first coconut experience in Sri Lanka.
Many people take food with them up the mountain and then enjoy it with a view.
However, we did something a little different which I speak about below...
As you drive up to Adam’s Peak, you go through a resort called 98 Acres Resort & Spa.
It is by far the most expensive resort in Ella, however, the restaurant is open to the public and is surprisingly reasonable!
For around 800 rupees, you can have a meal in a fancy restaurant that offers views of Adam’s Peak.
It’s a nice reward for the slightly arduous climb in the hot sun.
Hopefully one day we can return and actually stay in this resort as it look super dreamy!
Now that you’ve completed Adam’s Peak, it’s time to take on a real challenge!
Ella Rock is the ultimate hiking opportunity in Ella and offers the best views you’ll find anywhere. That is of course as long as it isn't too foggy.
In the busier months this is less of a problem. However, for us, in October the mist always seemed to arrive at the wrong time!
You can get a guide to take you up the mountain or walk it yourself.
As it is a bit of a confusing trek and the locals often cover up true markers to the top, I recommend checking out this guide on how to get there.
Price: FREE!
Book: Check Klook
Opening Times: Check Official Website
Due to Ella's location in the “Little England” area of Sri Lanka, it has a different climate, which means it’s got some pretty cool waterfalls, and one of those is Ravana Falls.
Located about 15 minutes from Ella you have Ravana Falls.
These are perhaps the easiest waterfalls to get to in the area as they are literally at the side of the main road you drive down.
You can walk up to them and stand at the edge of the flowing water beneath the falls.
Some people also choose to swim in there, though it is incredibly dangerous.
In fact, there is a giant sign at the base of the falls informing you that more than 30 people have already died there.
Price: FREE!
Book: Check Klook
Opening Times: 24 hours
Whilst visiting Ravana Falls, you might as well take the time to visit the cave there as well.
To get there, you’ll need to climb up more than 600 steep, awkwardly cut steps.
However, the journey is certainly worth it.
Though not a big cave, it is steeped in local folklore.
Rumour has it, King Ravana once used it to hide Princess Sita, whom he had kidnapped.
Their story actually involves many of the local sites in and around Ella and Nuwara Eliya. So if you’re interested, then you can read up on it here.
Read Also: 10 Interesting Facts About Sri Lanka
Once you’ve been to Ravana Falls, you can then carry further on down the same road until you reach Ellawalla Waterfall.
This is a wonderful little spot, located away from the main road and far more secluded.
Actually when we visited, there were only 2 other people there.
To get there, I’ve screenshotted where you need to drive up. It’s not particularly well signposted, but is perfectly accessible.
Once you reach the point shown below, you’ll find a small cafe area and local guides.
They will show you the way to the falls, which is less than a five minute walk from where you parked up.
What’s great is you can also swim in these falls, and the power of the water is incredible!
Once you get to the red point marked on the map, simply head left and up the dirt road.
There are locals living there who will be able to direct you.
It’s simply that Google maps hasn’t yet been updated seeing as the reservoir built there is still relatively new.
Read Also: Nuwara Eliya's best waterfalls
This is the final set of waterfalls I will mention in this Ella travel guide, but I’ve really saved one of the best until last.
Diyaluma Falls are some of the most spectacular waterfalls anywhere in Sri Lanka.
Which is not really surprising seeing as they are also the second highest.
Just like Ravana falls, you can see Diyaluma from the side of the main road.
There are a couple of small cafes there where you can stop and take some nice pictures.
Sadly for us, it started absolutely hammering it down with rain, literally the very second we arrived there!
It was the worst timing ever, so we failed to get the sorts of pictures we’d have liked.
You can also climb up to the upper part of the waterfalls and swim in the natural infinity pools that have been created, but due to the weather situation, this was not possible.
There are two main ways to get to the top: you can either hike from the bottom (which does not seem safe, but perhaps better if you have a local guide), or via Poonagal Village, which is safer and shorter.
I was actually pretty disappointed that we didn’t get to experience the full epicness of this waterfall, but you can’t predict the weather!
Price: FREE!
Book: Check Klook
Opening Times: 24 hours
Ever heard of Lipton Ice Tea? Well, this is where it all began!
Sir Thomas Lipton owned acres worth of tea plantations in the area and Lipton's Seat was where he used to go to survey his tea empire.
It is about a 7km walk up to the top. However, you’re not expected to do this anymore!
Instead, many travelers choose to get a lift up to the top and then walk back down.
That way, you get to appreciate the spectacular panoramic views and have the chance to take in the rest of the views on the way down.
It’s best to visit in the mornings, especially if you want beautiful shots of the misty tea fields.
Price: LKR 100 per person
Book: Check Klook
Opening Times: 06:00am - 17:00pm
If you’ve made it all the way to Ella and still haven't been to a tea factory, then that’s about to change!
It's one of the best things to do in Ella when it’s raining, as you can explore the factories and relax in the cafe all whilst the rain hammers around you.
And they're even better when it’s sunny as you can find one with amazing views out across the surrounding plantations.
It’s hard to suggest any one factory to go to.
But perhaps the Halpewatte Tea Factory is the most popular (and the largest) in the area.
We developed quite an addiction to tea in Sri Lanka, it was delicious, and thankfully a very cheap addiction since it was so cheap!
It’s also nice when you can enjoy a nice cake with your tea too.
If you’re looking for things to do in Ella at night, then you have just one real option … hit the town!
Compared to other major tourist locations in Sri Lanka, Ella seems to be one of the most young and alive spots to be.
Though the main town is anything but big, it’s lined with a variety of different bars and restaurants.
Best of all, they are all incredibly cheap and offer cheap cocktail deals late into the night.
We most liked Ella Spice as it has a very modern vibe, excellent selection of food, cheap cocktails, a pool table and live music.
And whilst we were there, it seemed to be ladies night every night!
Where between 6 and 8, all women get 2 free cocktails.
Sorry gents, it’s simply not fair.
The Kandy to Ella train journey just so happens to be one of the best things to do in Ella.
And is also the most famous train journey anywhere in the country, and the world!
The route takes you through vast open tea plantations and is the perfect way to take in the local landscape and fill up your phone with Instagram-worthy shots.
It takes about 4 hours in total, and you can enjoy the journey in either direction.
As we had a tuk tuk, we didn't take the train.
But we still got to see all of the same spots by road, so don’t feel like you “need” to take the train to see certain sights, they’re all visible via tuk-tuk too.
For advice on catching your train, here is a guide for you.
Price: $5-15 per person
Book: Buy train tickets right here
Opening Times: 06:00am - 8:00pm
Ella is bursting with natural beauty and it’s green everywhere (thanks to that wet climate!)
The entire region around Ella seems to be filled with gorgeous tea plantations.
So one of the best things you can do is simply stop off somewhere nice and go for a stroll.
You shouldn't have to worry about any fences, as the entire area is open.
You’ll also get the chance to meet many local women out picking tea in the fields.
We adored wandering the tea plantations and it’s a great opportunity to get some epic drone shots.
If you’ve had a busy few weeks of travelling in Sri Lanka, then this is one of the best things to do in Ella to simply detach and relax within nature.
Finally, why not learn how to cook up some local cuisine whilst you’re in Ella?
Your experience starts with a short tour of the spice garden where you learn about local spices and ingredients.
Afterwards, you head inside for a lunchtime cooking experience, and you also get to eat what you make and take home a recipe book afterwards.
You can find out more here.
Just be sure to book your spaces early as it sells out fast in the peak months.
Price: LKR 2,000 per person
Book: Check Klook
Opening Times: 5-8pm
Right at the bottom of Adam’s Peak trail, you can find the Flying Ravana Zipline. This 500m zipline will bring you across the Ella skyline at 80km per hour. A way to experience the town like no other, if I must say!
It’s one of the more unique activities here which I highly recommend for any adrenaline junkie. This epic ride offers a sweeping view of the hilly landscape, while the dual zipline lets you enjoy the experience along with a friend.
Not only that, this is actually the first mega zipline in Sri Lanka! It costs only $20 USD for adults and $15 USD for children.
If heights aren’t your thing, the Flying Ravana Adventure park also provides other fun things to do.
From ATV and quad bike rides, to abseiling, archery, and even air rifling. Without a doubt, I think this park will be a paradise for travelers who thrive on adventures and want to immerse in the charms of Ella’s outdoors.
Price: $15 (Child)/ $20 (Adult)
Opening Times: 8:30am - 5pm
While this is not exactly in Ella, the Udawalawe National Park is a truly magical place to go on a safari. It can be an excellent way to get to know the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air of the open park.
Despite being one of the country’s smallest national parks, there are over 500 elephants roaming freely within. You will see hordes of elephants in their natural habitat and cute baby ones too.
Other than that, the park is also home to other wildlife: water buffalo, monkeys, crocodiles, and lizards. Not to mention the vast array of birds and insects.
It takes roughly 1 hour 40 minutes to drive there from town, although there are a lot of full day tours offering the complete package. Hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport, entrance fee, and a safari on jeep!
Price: $15 USD entrance, plus around 5000 LKR for jeep rental and driver
Opening Times: 6am - 6pm
If you’re always on the lookout for a good scenic hike, then Horton Plains is a must-visit. It’s a beautiful national park that is still rather hidden from mainstream tourism, which is why it’s also a great place to escape the crowd!
With that said, Horton Plains National Park is home to the infamous World’s End trail. You will need to pay around 4000 LKR per person to enter the park, which gives you access to the many waterfalls there.
The trail itself winds 9.5 km along the hill and cliff with some truly magnificent views. When the occasional mist and fog arrive, the whole area is transformed to an ethereal wonder straight out of a fairytale!
Additionally, this hike could be an excellent alternative to the more popular Adam’s Peak. It’s much less packed, just as beautiful, and only a 1.5 hour’s drive from Ella.
Price: 4000 LKR
Opening Times: 5am - 4pm
Lion beer is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic beers. After a full day exploring Ella and all these things it has to offer, head over to the town center and grab a bottle of Lion.
For me, one of the most charming things about the center is its bustling yet quaint character. The line-up of bars and restaurants along the main street are mostly busy but still has a fun and relaxed ambience.
If you haven’t already, I recommend trying Lion beer at least once! It is known for its traditional brewery technique and recipe. The price itself can range anywhere from LKR 170 to 500, depending on where you buy it.
Price: LKR 170 to 500
If you visited the Nine Arch Bridge, then you should stop by the nearby Demodara Loop. This spiral railway is undeniably the country’s most impressive engineering feat, and you can either drive past or walk along the rail.
The mechanism is a fascinating remnant from the British colonial era, whereas the Loop itself refers to where the track line passes beneath itself to form a loop that goes out from a tunnel under the Demodara train station.
It’s trippy trying to put this amazing 441 feet long construction into words, but I promise that this is worth a visit!
The Demodara Loop is also the only spiral loop in the world that has a railway station located right above the tunnel.
It’s hard to talk about Ella without bringing up its rich Ravana history. Why not stop by the Dowa Rock Temple to learn even more about it?
The temple is only several kilometers away from Ella and was built by King Walagamba back in 1 BC. This was when the king was taking refuge during an Indian invasion.
You can marvel at the 38 feet Buddha Statue that has been carved into the granite rock. But I think the most fascinating aspect of it is the secret history!
There is a stupa located on top of this statue’s boulder, where a cave is hidden and holds the passage to an old tunnel known as the Ravana Guhawa. Unfortunately, the entrance to it has been long sealed off by vandals.
Everywhere in Sri Lanka is surprisingly cheap.
And, despite Ella being such a famous spot, it still follows this same rule.
If you’re eating out, then expect to pay anywhere from 600 rupees to 1000 rupees for a nice meal in somewhere like 360 or Ella Spice.
Drinks are cheap, just make sure you head out during happy hours.
Though these seem to run all the way up until 10pm in many places.
Getting around by tuk tuk is cheap, and locals are very fair.
In fact, we needed to replace a tyre on our tuk tuk whilst in Ella.
We asked 3 local tuk tuk drivers to help and they ended up doing it all for me.
When I tried to give them money they all outrightly refused.
It’s nice that no one there is out to rip you off.
Well, that's about it! If you have any recommendations on other things we might have missed whilst there, just drop me a comment below. Have a great time!
After Ella you're in a great position to visit beautiful Kandy or Nuwara Eliya, or if you're craving beaches then head straight to the epic coastline of Unawatuna or Mirissa.
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