Ella,Sri Lanka
Ella is a small town in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka's Uva Province, renowned for its spectacular mountain scenery, tea plantations, and biodiversity. It sits within the central highlands, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, and serves as a gateway to nearby peaks, waterfalls, and forest reserves. Historically, the area developed around tea plantation expansion during British colonial rule and retains strong tea-culture connections.
Places to visit
- Ella Rock
- Little Adam's Peak
- Nine Arches Bridge (Demodara Bridge)
- Ravana Falls
- Diyaluma Falls (short drive away)
- Ravana Cave and Temple
- Tea plantations and factories (e.g., Halpewatte Tea Factory)
Unique Aspects
- Panoramic views over deep valleys, tea terraces, and cloud-covered peaks
- Iconic colonial-era viaduct framed by jungle and palm trees
- Lush montane forest biodiversity in Horton Plains and nearby reserves
- Cool highland climate compared to coastal Sri Lanka
- Accessible hiking trails of varying difficulty
Things to do
- Hiking to Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak for sunrise/sunset
- Photography of Nine Arches Bridge and surrounding tea fields
- Visiting tea factories for tastings and tours
- Swimming or viewing at Ravana Falls
- Train journeys through scenic hill-country tracks (e.g., Kandy-Ella or Nanu Oya-Ella legs)
- Birdwatching and short nature walks
- Relaxing in cafés with mountain views and sampling local cuisine
Festivals & Events
- Local temple festivals (dates vary and are community-specific)
- Seasonal tea-harvest related events at some estates
- Occasional cultural performances in town or nearby towns (check local listings)
Best Time to Visit
December to April and August to September for drier weather and clearer views; however, Ella can be visited year-round. Monsoon periods (May-July and October-November) bring more rain and occasional trail closures.
Weather Conditions
Cooler highland climate with average daytime temperatures around 18–26°C (64–79°F). Nights can be chilly, dropping to around 12–16°C (54–61°F). Frequent mist and sudden showers are common.
Accessibility
Accessible by scenic train from Kandy, Nanu Oya (near Nuwara Eliya), and Ella stations—train is the most popular route. Roads connect Ella with Bandarawela and Wellawaya; buses and private taxis are available. Nearest major airports: Mattala (HRI) and Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) with road/train transfers of several hours to reach Ella.
Recommended Duration
2–4 days to cover major hikes, a train ride, a waterfall visit, and a tea factory tour. Longer stays (4–7 days) allow more relaxed exploration and day trips.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Layered clothing for variable highland weather, light waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes for trails, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try local Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu. Sample highland teas and buy fresh Ceylon tea, hand-picked tea leaves, and handcrafted souvenirs from local markets. Small cafés and bakeries in Ella offer Sri Lankan and international options.