TOP 12 Tourist spots in ella
Attention, digital nomads seeking a peaceful getaway, look no further than Ella. Nestled amidst the stunning mountains of Sri Lanka, this delightful town offers a carefully curated selection of experiences that will leave you in awe. From invigorating hikes to mesmerizing viewpoints, we’ve selected the top 12 must-do activities in Ella just for you. Immerse yourself in the embrace of nature, savor the local flavors, and discover endless inspiration at every turn. Prepare for an unforgettable journey in Ella, where adventure and tranquility await, perfectly tailored for the discerning digital nomad.
1. Hike to the summit of Ella Rock
2. Go on Safari in Yala or Udawalawe National Park
Sticking around Sri Lanka? Check out our other things to do around Sri Lanka!
3. Fly The Ravana Zipline
4. Admire the ‘Bridge in the Sky’: Nine Arch Bridge
The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky,’ is a picturesque railway viaduct in Ella, Sri Lanka. Spanning around 300 feet, it connects two hills and facilitates train passage. Numerous viewpoints offer stunning perspectives of the bridge, with the most popular being from its side. It’s advisable to check train schedules with the station, although train timings can be unreliable. Combining a visit to the Nine Arch Bridge with section 16 of the Pekoe Trail allows for a hike along the bridge and further exploration of the secluded tea country hills. Beware there are angry wasps here, listen to locals regarding the dangers of this. The wasps may attack if you use a drone, so this is highgly discouraged.
5. Experience folklore and legends at Ravana Falls
6. Lunch With A View At The 98 Acres Resort & Spa
7. Take the train to Haputale or Kandy
The train journey from Ella to Kandy is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful routes, meandering through expansive tea plantations in Sri Lanka. The trip takes approximately 4 hours, offering three classes of travel. First-class provides greater comfort, while third-class offers a more local experience. Ticket prices range from 50 to 1,100 rupees, depending on the destination and class chosen.
Trains from Ella to Kandy run several times a day, and tickets can be booked in advance through 12Go Asia or a tour company. Opting for a tour company is recommended to ensure a reliable experience. Alternatively, consider stopping in the charming town of Haputale, which is closer to attractions like Lipton Seat. Haputale offers a variety of activities and is worth exploring for a night or two.
8. Visit Lipton Seat
9. Cool Off At Ellawala Waterfall
10. Discover Ravana Cave
11. Hike Little Adam's Peak
12. Day Trip to Sigiriya
Common questions about things to do in Ella
The hike to Little Adam’s Peak usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your fitness level and how fast you walk. It is considered a relatively easy hike suitable for most people.
In Ella, you can enjoy hiking to iconic viewpoints like Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, visit the beautiful Nine Arch Bridge, explore the tea estates and factories, take a relaxing walk through Ella town, visit the Ravana Ella Falls, and try the famous Ella train ride.
The Nine Arch Bridge is located about 2 kilometers away from Ella town. You can easily reach it by walking along the railway tracks or taking a short tuk-tuk ride from Ella. It’s a must-visit spot for its stunning architecture and picturesque surroundings.
Yes, there are several guided tours available for the tea estates in Ella. These tours offer visitors a chance to learn about the tea-making process, explore the lush tea gardens, and even get hands-on experience in plucking tea leaves. Some popular tea estates to visit include Halpewatte, Uva Halpewatte, and Halgolla.
The best time to visit Ravana Ella Falls is during the months of April to June, after the monsoon season when the waterfall is at its fullest. During this time, you can witness the cascading water from a height of about 25 meters, creating a breathtaking view.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to book tickets for the Ella train ride in advance. The train tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis at the Ella train station. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a seat, especially if you want to experience the scenic journey from Ella to Kandy.
Start Planning Your Sri Lanka Trip Now!
Book Your Flight:
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flights. A travellers favorite way to book flights, as it searches websites and airlines around the world with one click.
Book Your Bus or Transportation Within Sri Lanka:
There are two ways to book your transporation, ask your hotel or hostel, go to the local bus terminal, or book online, for a less stressful trip using CheckMyBus or 12go.asia
Book Your Accomodation:
Find the best hotels or hostels at HostelWorld, Booking.com, Agoda.com. Perks include with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out and Free cancellations.
Dont Forget Your Travel Insurance:
Two popular choices are SafetyWing and WorldsNomads. A traveler should buy traveler’s insurance to protect themselves against unexpected events such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen baggage. It provides peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Useful Apps
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Want More Information On Sri Lanka?
Be sure to check out my nomad travel guide on the Sri Lanka for even more tips
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