Ella - Discovering Sri Lanka

Travelling to Ella

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ella, a pretty good destination in Sri Lanka (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ella and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ella, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sri Lanka, here's everything to know about Ella for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ella

Ella is a charming small town located in the beautiful hill country region of Sri Lanka. It is known for its scenic beauty, with lush green tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Ella is also a popular destination for hiking and trekking, with plenty of trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the must-visit sights in Ella include the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam's Peak, and Ella Rock. Additionally, the town is home to a thriving backpacker scene, with plenty of guesthouses, cafes, and bars catering to budget-conscious travelers.

What to visit in Ella

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Ella, Sri Lanka along with some information: 1. Little Adam's Peak - A popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of Ella and the surrounding countryside. It's a relatively easy climb and takes about 30-45 minutes to reach the top.
2. Nine Arch Bridge - A picturesque bridge that spans a deep valley and is surrounded by lush green tea plantations. It's a popular spot for taking photos and is best visited during the early morning when there is less crowding.
3. Ravana Falls - A beautiful waterfall that is about 25 meters high and is located about 6km from Ella. Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls and enjoy the cool water.
4. Ella Rock - A challenging hiking trail that takes about 3-4 hours to complete. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including tea plantations and waterfalls.
5. Demodara Loop - A railway loop in the mountains that is considered an engineering marvel. It's a great spot for photography, especially when the train passes through the loop.
6. Dova Temple - A hidden gem located in a forested area about 15 minutes from Ella that offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views. It's a great spot for photography and meditation.
7. Tea factories - Ella is surrounded by tea plantations, and visitors can tour tea factories to learn about the process of tea production. Popular factories include Halpewatte Tea Factory and Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory.
These are just a few of the many attractions Ella has to offer. Visitors can also enjoy activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, and visiting local markets.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sri Lanka, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ella.

When to go on holiday to Ella

The best time to visit Ella is from December to March, which is the dry season in Sri Lanka. During this time, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it's important to note that since Ella is a popular tourist destination, it can get a bit crowded during this time. If you prefer a quieter experience, you may want to consider visiting in the off-season months of April to November, although there may be more rainfall during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ella

To get to Ella in Sri Lanka, you can take a train or a bus.
Train: The train journey to Ella is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. You can take a train from Colombo or Kandy to Ella. The journey takes about 6 hours and it is recommended to book your seat in advance to avoid disappointment. You can book your train tickets through the Sri Lanka Railways website or you can ask a travel agent to assist you.
Bus: You can also take a bus from Colombo, Kandy, or other major cities to Ella. The journey by bus takes about 5-6 hours and there are both government and private buses available. You can buy your bus tickets from the bus station or ask a travel agent to help you.
If you prefer to travel by car, you can also hire a taxi or a private car and driver. This will be more expensive but it is a convenient option if you do not want to take the train or bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ella, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ella

Sure, here are some typical foods of Ella, Sri Lanka: 1. Kottu Roti - a local fast food made with chopped up flatbread (roti), mixed with vegetables, eggs, and meat (optional), all stir-fried together with spices.
2. Hoppers (Appa) - a traditional breakfast food and snack made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk batter, cooked in a special round-shaped pan, and served with coconut sambal or curry.
3. Pol Sambol - a coconut relish made with freshly grated coconut, chili powder, lime juice, and salt. It is usually served as a condiment alongside other dishes.
4. String Hoppers (Idiyappam) - a popular breakfast food made with steamed rice noodles, often served with a coconut milk curry or sambal.
5. Fish Curry - a spicy and flavorful curry made with local fish, coconut milk, and spices like chili powder, turmeric, and mustard seeds. It is usually served with rice and/or roti.
6. Wambatu Moju (Eggplant pickle) - a tangy and sweet side dish made with pieces of eggplant, onions, chili, vinegar, and sugar. It is a popular accompaniment to rice and curry dishes.
7. Pittu - cylindrical-shaped steamed rice cakes made with rice flour and coconut. It is commonly eaten for breakfast with a side of curry or coconut sambal.
8. Gotu Kola Sambol - a salad made with finely chopped gotu kola (a leafy green vegetable), grated coconut, onions, and chili. It is a healthy and refreshing side dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sri Lanka here.

Is Ella an expensive destination for tourists?

Ella, Sri Lanka can be considered a bit more expensive compared to other destinations in Sri Lanka. However, the prices still remain relatively affordable compared to other popular tourist destinations around the world. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in Ella can vary depending on preferences, but generally, it is considered a mid-range destination. It is important to note that prices can also vary depending on the time of the year you choose to visit. Overall, Ella is definitely worth the extra cost for the breathtaking views and unique experiences it has to offer.

Where to find accomodation in Ella

The best areas to find accommodation in Ella, Sri Lanka are in and around the town center, as well as the scenic hillside areas with views of the surrounding tea plantations. Some popular areas to consider include the main street in Ella Town, Kithalella, Bandarawela, and the hillsides surrounding Ella Rock. It is also worth noting that many accommodations offer stunning views of the nearby waterfalls, temples, and other natural attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Ella here:
Booking.com

Is Ella a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Ella in Sri Lanka is considered a safe place for tourists. Sri Lanka as a whole is a relatively safe country for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, as with any popular tourist destination, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings, keep your personal belongings safe, and exercise normal precautions. It's also recommended to keep up-to-date on any travel advisories and warnings issued by your home country's government.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sri Lanka here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ella.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ella the most?

Ella, Sri Lanka is a great destination for all types of travelers, but it is especially popular among couples and young people looking for adventure and fun in the great outdoors. The town is surrounded by rolling hills covered in tea plantations and waterfalls, offering hiking, trekking, and panoramic views of the countryside. It's also great for families looking for a relaxing vacation, as there are plenty of family-friendly activities such as picnics, train rides, and elephant safaris. Overall, Ella offers something for everyone, whether they are seeking adventure, romance, or relaxation.

How to get around Ella

The main modes of transportation in Ella, Sri Lanka are by foot, tuk-tuk, motorcycle, or rented car/van. Walking is the easiest way to explore the town center, but hiring a tuk-tuk or motorbike is a good alternative for longer distances or visiting nearby attractions. If you plan to explore the surrounding area, renting a car or van with a driver is a convenient option. Keep in mind that roads in rural areas can be challenging, so it's important to have a skilled driver if you choose to rent a vehicle.

What to see around Ella

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Ella: 1. Little Adam's Peak - A beautiful hiking trail with breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and landscape.
2. Nine Arch Bridge - An iconic bridge that was built during the British colonial era. It is a popular spot for photographers and train enthusiasts.
3. Diyaluma Falls - The second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, it is a great spot for hiking and swimming.
4. Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory - A tea factory that offers guided tours to learn about the tea making process and sample some of the finest teas in Sri Lanka.
5. Ravana Falls - A popular waterfall that is located on the way to Ella. It is said to have been a place where the King Ravana of Sri Lanka bathed.
6. Ella Rock - A challenging hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and hills.
7. Rawana Ella Cave - A mythical cave that is associated with the story of King Ravana. It is said to be the place where he kept Sita, his captive princess.
These are just a few suggestions, there are many more spots to explore around Ella, Sri Lanka!
For every travel information about Sri Lanka you can click here.

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