Ella, Sri Lanka - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: July 7, 2025
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HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO | WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
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Living in the Clouds
Ella is the gem of the Sri Lankan highlands, in the Badulla region. Ella and the surrounding areas adopt a cooler climate than most of Sri Lanka. That, in part, is due to its elevation, at just over 1000 meters above sea level.
The area is popular for its mountainous views, rolling rugged green countryside and waterfalls. It truly is the perfect place to retreat from the heat of the Sri Lankan summer.
Furthermore, Ella is famed as the final stop on the Kandy to Ella train journey. Strangely, the journey goes far beyond Kandy and Ella, starting in Colombo and continuing to Badulla, but hey, I didn't name it.
Ella's highlights include hikes to Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock, providing stunning views over the countryside and rugged terrain.
However, the main reason tourists flock in their thousands to Ella is, of course, Nine Arch Bridge. This jaw-dropping viaduct not only bends high over the valley below. But tilts ever-so-slightly, making for beautiful photos as the train heads towards you.
In this guide to Ella, Sri Lanka, I'll show you the best ways of getting here, where to stay, the best food places in town, your safety and all the best things to do in Ella.
What's Ella, Sri Lanka Like?
Despite not having much to do, Ella is one of my favourite places in Sri Lanka.
Valleys of green soar in all directions as shadows cast themselves from one rocky outcrop to another. A carpet of light green, lush grass and dark leafy trees blanket the town and surrounding area. Everywhere you look greenery persists. When the trees finally give way, tea plantations sprawl into the distance and mountains soar through the clouds on the golden crisp horizon.
Likewise, a feeling of peacefulness rises throughout this bohemian jungle town. Furthermore, it's clean and beautifully kept.
From my accommodation on the hills, the only sounds were that of the animals, bar the distant muffled beep of a hurried tuk-tuk horn. Staying in the hills gave us everything: stunning views through the trees, peace, nature and a feeling of pure luxury.
Mist covered the town every morning only pierced by the more towering trees. This wasn't a home away from home, but a spa away from a spa.
In the heart of the town, cafes, bakeries and restaurants line the side of the main Ella Road, each with a unique stilted beach-hut-styled wooden building. Tuk-tuks cover what would be pavement and it is here you discover the beating heart of the town and the people within.
Of course, one of the biggest draws to Ella is the scarily stunning Nine Arch Bridge, which again takes on that jungle backdrop. This is not only one of my best things to do in Ella, but one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.
Ella is a town that proves nature and the natural world can co-exist with humans, and I love it.
How to get to Ella, Sri Lanka
Despite being fairly centrally located in Sri Lanka, unless you're travelling from the north, through Nuwara Eliya or Kandy, getting to or from Ella isn't always easy.
How to Get to Ella from the south
In truth, if you're visiting Ella, Sri Lanka from the south or leaving Ella for the south coast, ask someone local and they will drive you. It will save you hours and hours going in the wrong direction on public transport. Plus, that way, you'll get door-to-door service.
- The driving time from Ella to Tissamaharama and Yala is around two hours.
- Public transport from Ella to Tissamaharama and Yala is just over nine hours.
- The driving time from Ella to Galle is roughly three and a quarter hours
- Public transport from Ella to Galle is between nine and eleven hours.
Again, the same applies if you're heading to Colombo or the airport to the west. Don't even consider a bus or train. You'll be weaving along miles of road or track when you can ask a local, and they will drive you or know someone who can.
- The driving time from Ella to Colombo is about four and a half hours
- Public transport from Ella to Colombo is between eight and ten and a half hours.
How to Get to Ella from the North
If you're visiting Ella, Sri Lanka from the north, the easiest way of getting to or from Ella is via the blue Kandy to Ella tourist train. You can jump on board from both Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.
You will arrive at the most beautiful and well-kept station I've set foot on - Ella train station, which is only a short walk (less than ten minutes) from the main road through Ella with all the cafes, restaurants and bars. If you're lucky your accommodation might have sent a tuk-tuk to greet you. If not, do not fear, numerous tuk-tuks park up waiting for the onslaught of passengers.
Simply show them where you want to go and they will scoot you off through the town.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Ella, Sri Lanka?
Ella is only a small community in the hills of central Sri Lanka. There isn't loads to do, but what there is, is pure gold.
With numerous hikes, mountain walks and the marvel of Nine Arch Bridge, Ella doesn't need anymore.
Overall, you'll need three nights to enjoy it all and recover from the fast pace of life in the other cities and towns.
The Best Time Of The Year To Travel To Ella Sri Lanka
Like Nuwara Eliya, Ella is located in the central hills of Sri Lanka. However, Ella's elevation is much closer to sea level making Ella warmer and drier. Nonetheless, the same rules apply. It's all about avoiding the rain.
Ideally, for a better chance of staying dry, you should visit Ella during February, March, and April, then move to Nuwara Eliya or south to the warm coastal climate.
Where to Stay Whilst Visiting Ella, Sri Lanka
Ella, Sri Lanka is awash with accommodation, and no matter what type of lodging you want, you'll find it here.
Nevertheless, due to Ella's size and location, it's much quieter than the likes of Kandy, Galle or Colombo.
The nature that Ella is bliss and the woodland cabins and homestays within are a place of beauty and tranquillity.
This is where you come to destress and relax. However, if you want a few beers and a bit of music Ella has that too. Therefore, depending on what type of stay you want, you'll need to know the best location to stay in Ella.
If you want to be in the action, the best place to stay in Ella is around the main A23 (Ella Road) and to the B113 (Ella PassaraRoad) between Ella Village Resort and Hangover Hostel Ella.
Yet, if you want that oh-so-sweet peace and tranquillity, the best place to stay in Ella is on or near Kirimetiya Road in the hills.
Out of season, you can book accommodation in Ella the night before you arrive. However, in season I suggest booking at least a couple of weeks before your arrival. We booked the day before arriving in the town and had many options available.
So let's look at my suggestion in the hills.
Green Heaven Lodge
- What: Smal, basic chalets with staggering views.
- Where: A couple of miles from the centre of Ella, amid the forest. (map)
- Why: It's tranquil, peaceful and has views to die for. Oh, plus a delicious breakfast.
- Why Not: You'll have to take a short tuk-tuk ride to the centre of Ella, Sri Lanka.
We decided to stay somewhere in the mountains called Green Heaven Lodge, formally Ella Gap View.
Ideally, we wanted somewhere with easy access to the town, but just away from the noise. Green Heaven Lodge provided us with everything we wanted. A sanctuary, surrounded by nature, peace and beauty.
The chalets are set within tranquil grounds, but they come with incredible views through the trees. Even more so at sunrise. Not to mention comfortable beds, large rooms, and fantastic balconies to relax with a drink.
The staff were incredible and did anything they could to improve our stay. One evening they even went into town to get us a few beers. They are some of the most dedicated, friendly people I've ever met. They can also arrange all your tuk-tuk rides into Ella and the surrounding attractions.
In addition to all of this, they served up some of the most mouthwatering meals in the town. We gorged ourselves at breakfast and most evenings up on our balconies.
Overall it was a thoroughly lovely stay and somewhere I'd put the Far Out name to.
In December 2024, three adults can stay in one room for 5200₨ (£14) a night. That's almost cheaper than squatting.
Further Accommodation in Ella, Sri Lanka
I would happily stay at Green Heaven Lodge again. However, if it sounds too far from the action I hear you.
Honestly, staying in the lush green forest on the hillsides surrounding Ella, Sri Lanka was perfect and I cannot recommend it enough.
Yet, it's not for everyone. After all, there are so many options in Ella and all with completely different vibes.
Within a few minutes of the main street through Ella, there are hostels, starting at £7 a night, BnBs, and swanky hotels, although the starting prices are a little higher for them.
Ultimately, it's up to you which style and type of accommodation you want. Therefore, to help you in your decision-making, I've added links to my trio of accommodation sites below.
Best Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka
In reality, there isn't a lot to do in Ella, Sri Lanka.
Ella is about being at one with nature, relaxing in stunning and peaceful surroundings and taking on some of Sri Lanka's most beautiful hikes. Likewise, it's about recouping from the madness of Sri Lankan cities and towns.
That said, there are a handful of things here to make Ella worth visiting, even if it's only for a few nights.
Before I dive into the list of best things to do in Ella, I have to give you a heads-up: walking the train tracks in Sri Lanka is illegal, and despite the temptation in Ella to do so, you shouldn't... wink, wink. I didn't wink, you winked... Legality covered.
But believe it or not, I, I mean people do or have done it, as it's a thing here. Nevertheless, I won't mention it again because it's awesome. Doh! I spelt wrong, wrong again. 😉
Below are four of the best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka.
Marvel at Ella's Magical Nine Arch Bridge
- Why: Nine Arch Bridge amid the greenery is mesmerising.
- Where: Around half an hour's walk northeast of Ella's main strip and Cafe Chill. (map)
- How long: You could easily spend a couple of hours here, especially once you've included the walk from Ella.
- How much: Like all the best things in life, it's free.
Nine Arch Bridge is undeniably, one of the world's most famous stretches of train line. It has been featured in numerous documentaries and is the number one thing to do in Ella, Sri Lanka.
Built in 1921 predominantly from stone, brick and cement this viaduct spans over 91 meters. Nice Arch Bridge is the brainchild of a local man, P. K. Appuhami. The British needed to span the valley with a bridge. However, due to the war, steel and metals were in short supply. P. K. Appuhami told the British his team could build the bridge from stone and brick in under a year.
To begin with, the British were sceptical. There are, however, numerous rumours about how Appuhami proved his bridge could withstand the weight of a train. Each story differs slightly depending on who you ask.
Today, Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.
My advice is to spend a bit of time relaxing here. Ideally, visit the bridge as the blue Kandy to Ella tourist train crosses. I would recommend arriving 20 minutes before, as it can get busy. All the locals know when the trains are due, so check with them first.
Likewise, I would suggest standing on the tunnel side, as you get a better view of the train and get better pictures.
Stroll to Little Adam's Peak
- Why: It's a relatively easy walk with amazing views over Ella's rolling countryside.
- Where: The first of the viewing platforms is around a fifty-minute walk southeast of Ella. (map)
- How long: If you walk from Ella's main strip give yourself two and a half hours
- How much: The walk is free, as are the views.
Whilst you can walk from Ella, most people start the trail from the magnificent Ella Flower Gardens Resort. I cannot comment on the rooms or food, but the gardens are sublime. Nevertheless, be careful around the cactus displays, they hurt.
From there, the road weaves its way through to the main trail. Once on the trail, the beauty and greenery become ever more impressive. The path is hard underfoot and easy to walk with little incline. You'll encounter wonderful views of tea plantations, hills, and forests up to the horizon.
You'll also pass the Ravana Pool Club and 98 Acre Resort helipads. As the incline kicks in you get a birdseye view of both. The walk starts to ascend when you reach the stairway to Little Adam's Peak. It's here that the panoramic views begin to shine.
The previously flat terrain suddenly becomes a trickier climb causing huffing and puffing. However, it's not hard. The stairway is short and rewarding. Views open to 360-degree views around the mountainous wilderness as far as the eye can see. One of the impressive views at the top is that of Ella Rock.
Several shrines await at the peak, adding to the sense of remoteness and beauty. Ultimately, it's easy to see why Little Adam's Peak is a tourist favourite. If you continue along the ridgeline, you'll discover more viewpoints.
I cannot emphasize enough that this isn't a difficult walk.
Hike the Majestic Ella Rock Trail
- Why: You'll explore the beautiful countryside around Ella, get fit and have insane views.
- Where: South of Ella on the western side of the A23. The start point depends on where you're coming from. (map)
- How long: Depending on your starting location, from start to finish with a stop at the top, takes around three hours.
- How much: As any countryside walk should be, it's free. Just avoid scammers at the ticket counter here.
The Ella Rock trail is probably the most famous hike in Ella, and it's easy to see why.
Despite being longer than Little Adam's Peak, the results are worth every step.
As with many hikes, the best time to walk the Ella Rock Trail is before sunrise. If you reach the summit for sunrise, as the mist lifts and the golden hazy skies appear, the rewards are unrivalled.
At times, the ground underfoot isn't always reliable. Secondly, the pathways are not always obvious. However, it's difficult to go wrong. Hence adequate footwear and a torch are necessary as the terrain changes throughout the hike.
You can start this hike from any destination, and several options are available. However, I suggest starting this wonderful trail by either crossing the train tracks just south of Kital Ella Train Station or the road that turns off the A23 on the sharp bend next to Ella River House. Again, it's illegal to walk the tracks in Sri Lanka, so I cannot suggest you do so... but, if you do, enjoy!
You'll traverse rivers and explore caves, temples and the Stump of Good Faith. Furthermore, you'll explore wonderful woodlands, meet the local wildlife and meander through tea plantations. Follow through the long grass and up to the peak of Ella Rock where the views are to die for.
Splash Around in Ravana Falls
- Why: Who doesn't love a waterfall
- Where: On the main A23, about fifteen minutes drive south of Ella. (map)
- How long: Once there, an hour, maybe two should do.
- How much: A backpacker's favourite word - Free.
Unfortunately, I haven't explored Ravana Falls. Normally, I wouldn't mention something I haven't done. Nevertheless, due to its popularity, and raving reviews, I had to add it to the Ella travel guide.
We passed Ravana Falls in the car on our way to Yala National Park, because the A23 ran straight across the falls as it twisted and turned around the curvature of the mountains.
Ravana Falls consists of numerous falls, all crashing off in separate directions. You get a view from the main road, but if you can, head for the viewing stations just off the road. Both viewpoints get you a little closer to the action, with better views.
Locals told us of adventures climbing and even swimming in the pools. Hence, when I return to Ella, I'm making a B-line for Ravana Falla.
If you have swam or climbed Ravana Falls let me know your thoughts and advice in the comments at the bottom of the blog.
Where to Eat in Ella, Sri Lanka
As mentioned, there are several delightful bars, restaurants and cafes throughout Ella, particularly along the main A23, cutting through the heart of the town.
The more traditionally Sri Lankan and beachy-vibed restaurants and cafes are a marvel. They have a certain something about them that is all too inviting.
In Ella, most restaurants and cafes offer a wide selection of foods from around the world, as well as traditional meals.
During your visit to Ella, Sri Lanka, you should look out for Kottu Roti, a flatbread with egg, veggies, meat (optional) and plenty of spices.
Additionally, try string hoppers, a steamed rice noodle, often served alongside sambol.
You'll also notice that desserts are a massive deal in Ella. No matter the time of day, there are always options for a slice of cake with a cup of tea. To me, that's heaven.
Cafe Chill
- What: A relaxing, chilled juice bar that has grown into a multinational food restaurant.
- Where: On the main road through Ella next to Somasiri Supermarket. (map)
- How much: A main, side, dessert and epic smoothie will cost 5000₨ (£13.53), a lot for Sri Lanka, but still pretty reasonable. (menu)
We stopped off in the magical Cafe Chill on a couple of occasions.
Firstly for a delicious milkshake, which is a must when visiting Ella, Sri Lanka. Then, later, returning for a beer and a light bite, after visiting Nine Arch Bridge.
Its delightful wood spindle design won me over before we'd even entered. It reminded me of a wooden beach bar only not on a beach.
This intriguing design continued to the roof and lighting, which added to a typical Ella Bohimem vibe. Cafe Chill is about as busy as Ella gets, so whilst relaxing it can get loud.
The service was fantastic, the people were friendly, and the atmosphere was great. I would have to recommend a meal here. As with many places in Ella, there is a mix of local and world foods. Both looked great, but I highly recommend sticking with localised dishes.
Dream Cafe
- What: Cafe serving mains and snacks from around the world with accommodation.
- Where: Again, on the main stretch through Ella on Ella Road, next to Chill Cafe. (map)
- How much: Local dishes are cheaper at around 1200₨ (£3.25) per person. Western foods cost roughly double.
Firstly, don't do, as I did, and head down the stairs, only to head back up two flights. Go straight up the stairs from the main road.
Upstairs is the slightly more formal, yet just as imaginative and exquisitely designed Dream Cafe.
With that open front and pitched roof, the building is distinctive, yet blends well with the surrounding landscape and other buildings.
We treated ourselves to a mug of tea and a remarkable cheesecake. As I write this I can taste it once again. The cake was beyond delicious, not to mention a very good-sized slice. Both of which were music to my ears.
Additionally, the service was again friendly and polite as we had come to expect in Ella.
Whilst only having a cake and tea, I did see the main dishes being served, and the local dishes, as you'd expect, looked far better than the Westernised foods. I'd highly recommend eating Sri Lankan or Asian foods here.
Ella Village Restaurant
- What: Traditional family-run Sri Lankan curry house
- Where: On the main road through Ella, near the train station. (map)
- How much: A table full of food, fit for a king for under 1000₨ (£2.71) per person is magic.
Lastly, but by no means least is the wonderful Ella Village Restaurant.
Ella Village Restaurant has a more authentic vibe than my previous suggestions, and I'm all for that.
The food is out of this world. Each ingredient is fresh and packed with flavour. Numerous colourful side dishes fill the table with customary Sri Lankan foods such as roti, dahl and rice. Honestly, it's proper home cooking with recipes passed down from generation to generation.
Not only is the taste sensational, but the smell is out of this world too. Likewise, the staff are kind, attentive and always there when you need them.
Eating here is like being invited into the family home. It's homely, relaxing, tasty and one of the best meals in Sri Lanka.
Where to Party when Backpacking Ella, Sri Lanka
Where to Party in Ella is a bit of a misleading title.
There isn't much of a party atmosphere. Ella isn't one for wild nights out and drunken riotous stories. Its nights out have a very laid-back approach. As a result, the bars offer friendly, chilled vibes, making for a nice place to be
Nevertheless, numerous bars and open-fronted cafes provide beers, cocktails and more. Most are on the main A23 (Ella Road).
In spite of that, during the evenings we tended to drink on our balconies up in the hills, taking in the peace. We weren't in Ella for the commotion, we were here to rejoice in the scenery and nature.
It is now that I would normally go into more detail.
Nevertheless, I have mentioned all the places we drank above, in the where to eat section.
Is Ella, Sri Lanka Safe?
Ultimately, yes, Ella, Sri Lanka is safe to visit.
There's very little to upset your Sri Lanka tour here in Ella.
Crime is low, and due to its central position within the hills, Ella isn't affected by many natural disasters, such as tsunamis, either.
Furthermore, traffic in Ella is somewhat diminished compared to the larger cities of Kandy and Colombo. Hence, the roads are safer here than elsewhere.
Ultimately, Ella is a hiking destination, and this is where the greatest risk to your safety lies.
If you're hiking or walking solo through the insanely beautiful countryside, there are always possibilities of injury. Likewise, Sri Lanka is teeming with wildlife, and whilst Sri Lanka's predators aren't local to Ella, other cheeky monkeys and bugs are. Keep an eye out for the wildlife and of course, the biggest risk, sudden drops and cliff edges.
Some of Ella's best hiking trails involve climbing. Be careful near the edges and you'll have a safe time in Ella.
Leave a Comment
Thank you for checking out my travel guide to Ella, Sri Lanka.
While only small and requiring a couple of days, Ella will capture your heart, and I think no trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting. After all, you can arrive in style aboard Sri Lanka's famous Kandy to Ella train.
With many picturesque hiking and walking trails including the superb Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, as well as, sublime views and some of the best sunsets in Sri Lanka, Ella will be somewhere you'll remember for a lifetime.
In summary, Ella is Sri Lanka's bohemian, chilled and relaxing town amid lush greenery and powerful waterfalls. Nevertheless, don't forget to visit the best thing to do in Ella - Nine Arch Bridge.
As always, please leave any comments at the bottom of the blog, good or bad. I'd love to hear your thoughts on my guide to Ella, Sri Lanka or what you think of Ella itself.
Thanks
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