Ella

Sri Lanka, Asia

Nestled in the lush hills of Sri Lanka, Ella is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, picturesque landscapes, and tea plantations. Highlights include the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, the panoramic hike up Ella Rock, and the serene experience at Little Adam's Peak. Nature lovers will be drawn to the tranquil waterfalls and the vibrant flora and fauna. Ella's charming atmosphere, with its friendly locals and quaint cafes, makes it an irresistible spot for both adventure and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Amparai

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Ella

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike to Ella Rock

Challenging trek with stunning views at the summit.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Nine Arches Bridge

Iconic bridge surrounded by lush greenery and tea fields.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Ella Spice Garden

Learn about local spices and enjoy a guided tour.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Ravana Falls

Scenic waterfall ideal for swimming and photography.

No booking required
5

Est. 7 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a train ride to Kandy

Scenic train journey through tea plantations.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Little Adam's Peak

Easy hike with panoramic views of Ella.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour a Tea Factory

Discover the tea-making process and taste fresh tea.

No booking required
8

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ella Museum

Learn about local history and culture.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant

Taste authentic Sri Lankan dishes in local eateries.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ella Rock Temple

Explore a beautiful temple with serene surroundings.

No booking required
11

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Attend a cooking class

Learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes.

Booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ravana Cave

Explore historical caves linked to local legends.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Sri Lanka Rupee

Majority religion

Buddhist

Language

Sinhala

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Sri Lankan Rice and Curry

VE

Rice served with various curries. (National dish)

Kottu Roti

VE

Chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables.

Hoppers (Appa)

VE

Fermented rice flour pancakes.

Pol Sambol

VE

Coconut sambol with chili and onion.

Lamprais

Rice and meat wrapped in banana leaves.

Phrases to learn

English

Sinhala

Hello

Ayubowan

(Ah-yoo-boh-wahn)

Yes/No

Ow / Nae

(Ow / Neh)

Thank you

Sthūti

(S-thoo-tee)

Excuse me

Samāvenda

(Sah-mah-ven-dah)

How much?

Keeyada?

(Kee-ya-da)