Ella is one of Sri Lanka‘s most scenic hill country towns, known for lush tea plantations, dramatic views, waterfalls, and iconic hikes. This charming village draws travelers for its relaxed vibe, misty mornings, epic train rides, and unforgettable viewpoints like Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arch Bridge. Whether you’re chasing sunrise views, exploring tea plantations, or hiking to Ravana Falls, this Ella Travel Guide covers the best things to do, the top attractions, and insider advice to make the most of your time in Ella, Sri Lanka.
Where to stay in Ella?
We stayed in the Country Homes, with a great location in Ella town. There is no swimming pool, but you won’t miss that in Ella. It’s near the center for dinner and lunch.
Things to do in Ella
1) Buduruwagala Temple
When driving from Tissamaharama to Ella, you’ll pass the Buduruwagala temple. Make a stop here, enjoy the breathtaking surroundings, and head over to the Buduruwagala Temple.
2) Ravana Falls
Just before entering Ella, you’ll pass the Ravana Falls. This waterfall is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and consists of 3 levels.
3) Nine Arch Bridge
Everyone who’s been to Ella has also visited the Nine Arch Bridge. This bridge has 9 arches, is 24 meters high, and was built in the British colonial period.
Fun Fact: The bridge is built with only bricks, stones, and cement. No steel!
Photo Fact: The most beautiful photos are taken when the blue train passes by (9.15AM, 10.45 AM, 11.50 AM, 3.15 PM, 5.30 PM). Ask locals if the train has passed by. If so, take a beautiful photo in the tunnel (thank you, Mr. Denver, for this idea)!
How to get to the Nine Arch Bridge
One way to reach the bridge is by walking down the train tracks from Ella. This track would take around 25 minutes. The last part of the track is the tunnel (be sure to check if there are no trains coming).
We took a different road. We parked our car at the Ella Flower Garden Resort. From there on, one road will take you to Little Adam’s Peak and the other one will take you to the Nine Arch Bridge. The road to the Nine Arch Bridge goes through the forest and will lead you to a magnificent view of the bridge. Walk further down, and you’ll reach the bridge.
Warning: The road towards the Nine Arch Bridge is surrounded by tall grass. Leeches are hanging in those grasses, and when you walk through them, they will hang on to your leg and try to find a way to your skin. My mother and our guide had leeches (my father and I only on our shoes). So watch out!
4) Little Adam’s Peak
Ella is a hiking place where you can hike to Ella’s Rock or Little Adam’s Peak. Ella’s Rock is a half-day hike, while Little Adam’s Peak is just a 2-hour hike. We chose to do the last one. The hike to Little Adam’s Peak will take you through some tea plantations, a viewpoint on Ella’s Rock, and a viewpoint of everything around Ella. The first part of the climb is easy, while the end is a firm climb with stairs and, at some point, just dirt and rocks.
After 1 hour, we reached the top, and we were lucky enough to see the sunset! The view was just amazing: mountains as far as the eye can see! At one point, I wanted to sit on a rock for a photo with the beautiful view, when suddenly 5 dogs came up to me and sat next to me. The one in the photo was my buddy who walked down with me at the end.
5) Ella Rock
As I’ve said before, you can also hike Ella Rock, but we didn’t do that. But it’s a possibility for you!
6) Ella City
So after all those hikes, you have to just sit down and eat something. Café Chill is the place that everyone has heard about. Our driver and several locals recommended it, and indeed the food was delicious! The only time my spaghetti bolognese tasted exactly the way it should! Besides that, you can also eat burgers, rice and curry, and even a schnitzel!
7) Train Ella to Nuwara Eliya
So, Ella is the ending or the beginning of one of the most beautiful train rides in the world! Most people take the train from Kandy to Ella, we’ll do it the other way around, and we will stop at Nuwara Eliya (train station: Nanu Oya). A shorter ride and an extra stop in beautiful Sri Lanka! Nuwara Eliya is at an altitude of 1,868 m (6,128 ft) and is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for the production of tea! Nuwara Eliya is also the coolest area in Sri Lanka, so be prepared! Read my tips on the Scenic Train Ride in Sri Lanka.
What should I pack for Sri Lanka?
Light, breathable clothing is best due to the tropical climate. When visiting temples, shoulders and knees should be covered. Bring sturdy walking shoes and a rain jacket for hikes. Make sure to bring these top 5 items on your trip to Sri Lanka:
- Snorkel set: for seeing all the fish and coral in the sea
- Camera: to take amazing photos of your trip!
- Sunscreen: don’t get sunburned when visiting Egyptian temples!
- Microfiber towel: compact towel to take everywhere with you & that dries quickly!
- Sturdy Hiking shoes: to make amazing hikes
Use my ultimate packing list to have everything in your luggage for your trip
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Ella
🌄 What is Ella best known for?
Ella is known for its scenic hikes, tea plantations, train journeys through lush hills, and iconic attractions like the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, and nearby Waterfalls.
🚂 Is Ella worth visiting for a train ride?
Yes, the train journey from Ella to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, passing through emerald hills and tea fields.
🕒 How many days should I spend in Ella?
Many travelers spend 2-3 days in Ella: 1 for local highlights and hikes, and an extra day for nearby waterfalls or tea tours.