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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Ella: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Ella
- Ella is a picturesque town located in the central Highlands of Sri Lanka, known for its stunning natural landscapes.
- Ella Rock offers breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountain ranges, making it popular for hiking.
- The Nine Arches Bridge is a historic railway bridge famous for its architectural design and scenic train journeys.
- Ravana Falls is a prominent waterfall near Ella, known for its beauty and mythological significance.
- Little Adam's Peak provides a relatively easy hike with panoramic views of the Ella Gap and surrounding hills.
- The region is renowned for its tea plantations, offering visitors the chance to explore tea estates and learn about tea production.
- Ella Village is a charming area with local eateries, craft shops, and a relaxed atmosphere, reflecting the town’s cultural charm.
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Ella
- Ella is a must-visit destination for those interested in nature and outdoor activities.
- The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Ella Gap, Ravana Falls, and Little Adam's Peak.
- Tourists can board a train on the well-known Ella to Kandy line, which is regarded as one of the prettiest train routes in the entire world.
- Ella is also known for its vibrant local culture, with several markets and street vendors selling traditional handicrafts and food.
- The town is an excellent destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat and a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Ella is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Horton Plains National Park and the Yala National Park.
- The town provides visitors with a unique and memorable experience, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Ella
- The best time to visit Ella is during the dry season, which runs from December to March.
- This time of year offers the most comfortable weather conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
- However, Ella can be visited year-round, offering unique charm and attractions each season.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Ella
Little Adam's Peak
- Little Adam's Peak, also known as "Punchi Sri Pada," is a small mountain located in Ella that offers panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and lush green landscapes.
- The hike to the peak is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it a popular choice for visitors looking to enjoy the beauty of Ella's countryside.
- The trail begins at Ella Passara Road, winding through tea fields, villages, and scenic paths, offering plenty of chances to enjoy the natural beauty.
- As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Ella Rock, the Ella Gap, and the rolling hills that stretch out as far as the eye can see.
- The peak offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to capture stunning photographs and witness glorious sunrises or sunsets if you time your visit accordingly.
- Many visitors visit Little Adam's Peak early in the morning to witness the magical colours of sunrise painting the surrounding landscape.
Nine Arch Bridge
- The Nine Arch Bridge, also called the Bridge in the Sky, is a stunning railway bridge near Ella that spans a deep gorge and is surrounded by lush greenery and tea plantations.
- This iconic Bridge is renowned for its unique design and was constructed during the British colonial period without any steel, using only bricks, cement, and stones.
- The Bridge consists of nine majestic arches, hence its name, and is an impressive example of Sri Lanka's engineering and architectural heritage.
- The best way to experience the Bridge is to time your visit with the train schedule and witness the passage of a train, creating a breathtaking sight as it crosses the scenic landscape.
- Visitors capture stunning photos of the Bridge from various angles, showcasing its picturesque surroundings and the charming train passing through.
- To reach the Nine Arch Bridge, visitors can follow a scenic path that winds through tea plantations and offers beautiful views of the Bridge from different angles.
Ravana Falls
- Ravana Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff face amidst lush green surroundings, creating a picturesque and refreshing sight.
- The waterfall is situated in the Badulla District, just a short drive from the town of Ella, making it easily accessible for visitors to enjoy its beauty.
- The falls are believed to have derived their name from the mythical tale of King Ravana, who is said to have bathed in the pool at the top of the waterfall.
- The waterfall consists of multiple tiers, with the water gushing down and creating a series of pools where visitors can take a dip and cool off in the crystal-clear waters.
- The surrounding area offers scenic viewpoints from where you can admire the waterfall and capture stunning photographs of its natural beauty.
- The hike to Ravana Falls is easy and enjoyable, offering a chance to enjoy the lush greenery and the soothing cascading water.
Ella Rock
- Ella Rock is a towering rock formation at approximately 1,041 meters and offers breathtaking views of Ella's countryside.
- The hike to Ella Rock is a moderately challenging adventure, requiring around 2-3 hours to reach the summit, but the reward of the panoramic views makes it well worth the effort.
- The trail begins at Ella Railway Station, winding through tea plantations, forests, and scenic paths, offering an immersive nature experience.
- As you ascend, you'll pass through charming villages, cross railway tracks, and traverse open landscapes, constantly being treated to beautiful vistas.
- The summit of Ella Rock provides a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and tea estates, allowing you to capture stunning photographs and witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets.
- It is advisable to hire a local guide or join a guided tour to navigate the trail and ensure a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.
Ella Gap
- Ella Gap is a stunning geological formation offering a mesmerising view of a vast valley between the towering mountains of Sri Lanka's hill country.
- From certain viewpoints, such as the popular Ella Gap Viewpoint, you can witness a panoramic vista that stretches as far as the eye can see, with tea plantations, forests, and distant hills creating a captivating tapestry of natural beauty.
- The gap provides a glimpse into the sheer depth and grandeur of the landscape, with the valley below appearing like a lush green carpet dotted with small villages and terraced fields.
- Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical times to visit Ella Gap, as the changing colours of the Sky cast a beautiful glow over the scenery, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
- Hiking enthusiasts can embark on various trails that traverse the surrounding hills and offer different perspectives of Ella Gap, allowing for a closer encounter with its magnificence.
Dhowa Rock Temple
- Dhowa Rock Temple is situated amidst picturesque surroundings, nestled at the foot of a rocky outcrop and surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes.
- The temple is renowned for its impressive rock carving, which features a giant Buddha statue approximately 38 feet in height, carved into the face of a sheer rock cliff.
- The statue is believed to date back to the 12th century. It is considered one of the tallest rock carvings in South Asia, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of the ancient Sri Lankan artisans.
- The temple complex also features a sacred cave where visitors can explore ancient murals, intricate paintings, and various Buddhist sculptures, providing insights into the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
- The tranquil ambience of Dhowa Rock Temple makes it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual reflection, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Ella Spice Garden
- Ella Spice Garden is a lush and aromatic garden located in Ella's scenic countryside, offering visitors a delightful sensory experience.
- The garden is home to various spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, pepper, and many others, grown organically and sustainably.
- Guided tours are available at Ella Spice Garden, allowing visitors to learn about the cultivation, harvesting, and processing techniques of various spices.
- Knowledgeable guides explain the medicinal properties and culinary uses of different plants, allowing visitors to gain insights into the traditional healing practices and culinary traditions of Sri Lanka.
- As you stroll through the garden, you can inhale the captivating aromas and witness the vibrant colours of the spices and herbs, creating a truly immersive experience.
- Ella Spice Garden offers aromatic herbal massages and treatments using natural ingredients from the garden for rejuvenating wellness therapies.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Ella Off the Beaten Track
Demodara Loop
- The Demodara Loop is a looped railway track that allows trains to navigate a tight loop, passing over and under the same way, creating a fascinating spectacle for visitors.
- The loop is located between Demodara and Ella Railway Stations, approximately 2.5 kilometres away from Ella, and is a popular stop for tourists and train enthusiasts.
- The loop was constructed during the British colonial period in the early 20th century, and it is a testament to the engineering expertise of that era.
- Trains passing through the Demodara Loop provide a stunning visual experience as they gracefully manoeuvre the loop, creating a surreal and photogenic moment.
- Visitors can witness the loop from the observation deck at the Demodara Railway Station, which offers an elevated vantage point to appreciate the loop's intricate design and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Tea Plantations
- Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea production, and the hill country is dotted with picturesque tea plantations that cover vast stretches of land.
- Tea plantations in the Ella region offer breathtaking views of rolling hills blanketed with neatly trimmed tea bushes, creating a scenic landscape.
- The hill country's cool climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for growing high-quality tea, known globally as Ceylon tea.
- Visitors can explore tea plantations and learn about tea-making through guided tours and factory visits.
- Many tea estates offer the opportunity for visitors to engage in tea plucking, where you can experience firsthand the art of selecting tea leaves and contribute to the tea-making process.
- The aroma of freshly brewed tea fills the air as you visit tea factories, where you can witness tea leaves withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, and grading.
Ella Spice Garden
- Ella Spice Garden is a beautiful garden that showcases a wide variety of spices, herbs, and medicinal plants, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about Sri Lanka's rich spice culture.
- The garden is meticulously maintained, with neatly organised sections featuring aromatic plants like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, etc.
- Guided tours are available at Ella Spice Garden, allowing visitors to explore the garden. At the same time, knowledgeable guides share information about the different spices, their uses in traditional medicine, and culinary applications.
- As you walk through the garden, you can enjoy the aromatic scents and learn about various spices' cultivation, harvesting, and processing techniques.
- Ella Spice Garden offers visitors the chance to experience the flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine through cooking demonstrations and tastings, where you can sample traditional dishes infused with the freshest spices.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Ella Culture and Traditions
- Ella is known for its warm and welcoming locals who embrace their cultural traditions and values, providing a glimpse into the warm hospitality of Sri Lanka.
- Traditional Sri Lankan music and dance performances can be witnessed in Ella, showcasing the country's diverse cultural expressions and captivating rhythms.
- The locals take pride in their cultural festivals, and during special occasions, you may have the opportunity to witness colourful processions, traditional rituals, and vibrant celebrations.
- Ella's cuisine reflects the region's cultural diversity, with a blend of Sri Lankan spices and flavours infused into traditional dishes, providing a culinary experience that delights the taste buds.
- Traditional arts and crafts can be explored in Ella, with local artisans skillfully creating handmade items such as wood carvings, pottery, and intricate batik fabric.
- The ancient Buddhist temples in and around Ella offer insights into the religious and spiritual traditions that have shaped Sri Lankan culture for centuries.
- Engaging with the local community through cultural activities, visiting local markets, or participating in traditional ceremonies can deepen the appreciation of Ella's cultural heritage.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Ella: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Food
#FOOD
- Ella cuisine showcases Sri Lankan cuisine's vibrant and diverse flavours, known for its aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and rich heritage.
- Rice and curry are staples in Ella's culinary scene, with various curries featuring different meats, vegetables, and lentils accompanied by fragrant rice.
- Traditional Sri Lankan dishes like hoppers (appam), string hoppers (idiyappam), and roti are popular choices for breakfast or a quick snack in Ella.
- Sri Lankan street food is a must-try in Ella, with mouthwatering treats like kottu roti (chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and meat), vadai (deep-fried lentil fritters), and samosas (crispy pastry filled with savoury fillings).
- Ella is known for its flavorful tea, and a visit to a local tea plantation or factory allows you to sample various types of tea, from the classic Ceylon black tea to aromatic herbal infusions.
Fun
#FUN
- Hiking to Ella Rock is a popular adventure in Ella, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the iconic Ella Gap.
- Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Ravana Falls, a stunning waterfall located near Ella, providing a fun and rejuvenating experience.
- Explore tea plantations, enjoy tea-tasting sessions, and learn about the tea-making process while savoring Sri Lanka's Ceylon tea.
- Embark on a thrilling train ride through the scenic hill country, with the Ella to Kandy train journey being particularly famous for its picturesque landscapes.
- Discover Ella's fascinating history and legends by visiting iconic sites such as the Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by lush greenery.
- Enjoy a stroll through Ella town, exploring its quaint shops, local markets, and vibrant cafes, where you can sample delicious food and engage in lively conversations with fellow travellers.
Fashion
#FASHION
- The fashion style in Ella leans towards relaxed and casual attire, with lightweight and breathable clothing being popular choices due to the town's cooler climate.
- Many travellers in Ella opt for comfortable clothing such as t-shirts, shorts, jeans, and light jackets, along with sturdy footwear suitable for hiking and walking.
- As tea plantations and scenic landscapes surround Ella, it is common to see visitors sporting hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun's rays.
- Locally made accessories like handmade jewellery, woven bags, and scarves can be found in small boutiques and market stalls, adding a touch of local craftsmanship to one's fashion choices.
- Traditional Sri Lankan garments such as sarongs and saris may be seen on special occasions or during cultural festivals, allowing visitors to appreciate the region's cultural diversity.
- In Ella, shopping options are limited, but visitors can find unique clothing and handicrafts at souvenir shops and small boutiques.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Ella: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- Ella is surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and scenic landscapes, providing a serene and picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts.
- The area is home to several stunning waterfalls, such as Ravana Falls and Diyaluma Falls, where visitors can marvel at the cascading waters and even take a refreshing dip in the pools.
- Ella Gap, a natural gorge, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below, creating a perfect spot for capturing memorable photographs.
- Birdwatching is a popular activity in Ella, with the region being home to a diverse range of bird species. The surrounding forests and plantations provide a habitat for colourful and exotic birds.
- Nature hikes and treks are abundant in Ella, with trails leading through tea plantations, dense forests, and scenic viewpoints, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty.
- Safari excursions to nearby national parks, such as Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park, offer the opportunity to encounter Sri Lanka's incredible wildlife, including elephants, leopards, deer, and various bird species.
- A visit to the Ella Spice Garden provides a chance to explore the region's rich biodiversity, learn about different spices, and witness the cultivation of aromatic plants.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Ella Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- The Sinhala and Tamil New Year, known as "Aluth Avurudu," is a significant festival celebrated in Ella and throughout Sri Lanka. It marks the beginning of the traditional new year and is observed with joyful festivities, cultural performances, and classic games.
- The Vesak festival, commemorating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha, is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Ella. Colourful lanterns, illuminated decorations, and spiritual activities can be witnessed during this time.
- The Esala Perahera, one of the grandest Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, takes place in nearby Kandy, but it's vibrancy and cultural significance attract visitors from Ella. The procession features beautifully adorned elephants, traditional dancers, drummers, and devotees.
- The Ella Flower Festival is a local event that celebrates the region's vibrant blooms and floral diversity. Visitors can enjoy floral displays, exhibitions, and cultural performances amidst a colourful and fragrant atmosphere.
- The Ella Jazz Festival is an annual musical event that showcases local and international jazz artists. Held in picturesque outdoor settings, this festival brings together music lovers and creates a lively and festive ambience.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Ella Holiday
Places similar to Ella to visit
Places similar to Ella to visit
Places similar to Ella to visit