Ella is a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province. It is approximately 200 kilometres east of Colombo and is situated at an elevation of 1,041 metres above sea level.
Located in the Badulla District and above 1041 feet above sea level, Ella is one of the small but vibrant cities in Sri Lanka nestled among emerald hills with a myriad stretch of verdant tea plantations. The finest view of Ella is provided through a cleft in green hills, popularly called Ella Gap. Lately, Ella has become a haven for travelers seeking solace among the breathtaking natural beauty of the city and its salubrious surroundings.
Ellas which is a trekkers paradise lies in its diverse array of natural attractions, such as cascading waterfalls, rock cliffs, caves, bird life and panoramic vistas of lush vegetation each more enchanting than the last. No visit to Ella would be complete without experiencing the beauty of its waterfalls.
Ella serves as a gateway to Sri Lanka’s famed tea country, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the island’s tea industry. The surrounding hills are adorned with sprawling tea estates, where verdant tea bushes carpet the landscape in hues of green. Travelers can embark on guided tours of local tea factories, where they learn about the intricate process of tea production from leaf to cup. Sampling freshly brewed Ceylon tea amidst the serene surroundings is an experience not to be missed.
Culinary enthusiasts will delight in Ella’s diverse dining scene, which offers a fusion of traditional Sri Lankan flavors and international cuisine. From cozy cafes serving freshly brewed coffee to roadside stalls offering delectable street food, there is something to satisfy every palate.
Built in 1921 the iconic viaduct, Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is the most famous attraction which is a testament to both human ingenuity and natural beauty. Built entirely of bricks and stone without the use of steel, this architectural marvel can be accessed though many hiking routes and is one of the most popular spots for photographers and train enthusiasts alike. Visitors should check the train timetable and plan the visit accordingly to witness the rhythmic passage of the iconic blue train as it traverses the bridge, creating a scene straight out of a storybook.
For those who enjoy the spirit of adventure, Ella Rock is the ideal for travelers to embark on as it is a thrilling but difficult hike to its summit which needs to be undertaken with the assistance of a qualified guide. The trail located a few kilometers away from the town begins amidst emerald tea plantations, gradually ascending through dense forests and rocky terrain. Travelers are advised to carry plenty of water and snacks as it could be long and challenging. As hikers make their way to the top, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Ella’s verdant valleys and distant mountains. Watching the sunrise or sunset from Ella Rock is an unforgettable experience.
Named after the mythical king Ravana of the Ramayana epic, Ravana is one of the more beautiful falls with a height of 90 meters that is worth visiting. Also referred to as the Bambaragama falls, accessing the site involves an adventure through rough terrain. The thundering roar of the falls and the cool mist that envelops the surrounding area create an atmosphere of awe and wonder. Visitors who are willing to brave the icy cold water can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls or simply bask in the beauty of this majestic cascade.
Ella serves as a gateway to Sri Lanka’s renowned tea country, where verdant hills are adorned with sprawling tea estates. Travelers can embark on guided tours of local tea factories to learn about the intricate process of tea production, from plucking the leaves to the art of brewing the perfect cup. Sampling freshly brewed Ceylon tea amidst the serene surroundings of the tea plantations is an educational as well as an uplifting experience.
Little Adam’s Peak is considered one of the easier and more accessible mountains to climb, which offers a scenic trek with breathtaking views of Ella’s surrounding landscapes. The trail winds its way through lush tea plantations and verdant hillsides, culminating in a panoramic vista from the summit. It is recommended to commence the climb to culminate with either the sun rise or sun set so that you can marvel at the vibrant hues of the sunrise or the tranquility of the sunset, Little Adam’s Peak promises a serene sanctuary for solitude seekers.
Located in the center of the city, the Spice Garden is a sensory delight which offers you the opportunity to witness the cultivation of several spices used in Sri Lankan cooking. Guided tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the garden’s lush grounds and learn about the diverse array of spices grown in the region and also try your hand at some Sri Lankan cooking. From cinnamon and cardamom to cloves and nutmeg, each spice tells a story of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and culinary traditions. You also have the opportunity to purchase some of these spices which are used in the daily cooking.
Flying Ravana is Sri Lanka’s first mega dual zipline located within a 10-minute drive from Ella and close proximity to Little Adams Peak. The two wire zipline stretches for more than half a kilometer, and is suspended around 80 meters above ground and slides at a maximum speed of 80 kmph.
This is very popular adventure enthusiast who crave for an adrenaline rush. It also provides an incredible bird’s eye view of Ella’s lush green scenery, which includes mountains, valleys, the Ella Gap and tea plantations. The zip lines are certified by the European Rope Course Association (ERCA) ensuring maximum safety
The Flying Ravana adventure park also offers four-wheel quad bikes to explore Little Adam’s Peak off the beaten track, Abseiling, Archery and Air Rifling providing a contrast from the laid-back life in the hill county.
Nil Diya Pokuna which translates to “Blue Water Pond” in the Sinhala Language is a natural pond lying underground in the Ella area. This captivating pond is situated 80 meters deep inside a mountain cave and has to be accessed via several tunnels, caves and passageways which could be an arduous trek which is not suitable for the faint hearted. However, once you arrive at the pond with its crystal-clear water which emanates a blue glow due to the geological formations of the mountain and natural springs is a worthy destination.
It is believed to have been built by King Ravana of Ramayana fame who is said to have used this cave system extensively for strategic purposes and as hideouts. The trek is highly recommended for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers and has to be undertaken with the assistance of a guide. However caution should be exercised by all and safety gear such as helmets and lights are recommended as the terrain is fairly rough and challenging.
A journey on the Ella to Kandy Train is one of the most picturesque train rides not only in Sri Lanka but in the world and should be on the bucket list of all those visiting Sri Lanka. The journey takes almost 8 long hours with phenomenal views of winding misty forests, miles of verdant tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and charming towns depicting village life. The most scenic part is from Nanu Oya to Ella through Horton Plains National Park. A morning departure from Kandy (around 8.30) is recommended.
Although the first-class tickets provide comfort and all amenities most travelers prefer the second and third class which cannot be prebooked and has no air conditioning. The open doors and windows of the old-fashioned train enables travelers to experience the wind in their face as they peer through the open windows and witness the green rolling hills, tea farms, waterfalls, and hilltop and the many tunnels that the train passes through. As always caution should be exercised when peering through the windows or standing at the doorways.
The tickets can be purchased through Delmege tours, directly at the station or online.
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