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Ella is a charming small town located in central Sri Lanka, about 200 kilometers east of Colombo, and sits at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level. Surrounded by mountains, tropical forests, and tea plantations, Ella offers a unique and cool climate compared to much of the country.
The vibe in Ella is reminiscent of an Eastern backpacker town, with a central street full of restaurants, shops, bars, and even a nightclub. This lively atmosphere sets Ella apart from other places in Sri Lanka, making it a magnet for travelers who often extend their stay far beyond their original plans. We visited Ella for two nights after coming from Nuwara Eliya, but I recommend dedicating at least three days to fully enjoy the area.
Getting There
Ella is accessible by car or train from cities like Kandy or Colombo.
We arrived in Ella by train from Nuwara Eliya, which is about a three-hour ride. A major advantage of visiting Ella is that the train station is very close to the town, just a 10-minute drive from the center.
Accommodation
Ella offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options in the town center to luxurious resorts on the outskirts.
We chose to stay at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, a five-star boutique hotel located just a five-minute drive from the center of Ella. Built on a hillside, all the rooms offer breathtaking views of lush green mountains and endless tea plantations.
The hotel is thoughtfully designed, down to the smallest details, including a feature where the bed can be rolled out onto the balcony if you'd like to sleep under Ella’s starry skies or enjoy breakfast in bed with a view. The resort also boasts an infinity pool overlooking the mountains, a fantastic restaurant with a delicious breakfast spread, and a spa for ultimate relaxation.
Things to Do in Ella
Nine Arches Bridge
The Nine Arches Bridge is an iconic landmark, built in the early 20th century during British colonial rule as part of the regional railway system. The bridge's impressive architecture and surrounding scenery make it one of Ella's must-visit attractions.
Several trains cross the bridge daily, attracting crowds of tourists eager to catch a glimpse. If you'd like to time your visit to coincide with a passing train, ask your hotel staff or locals for the train schedule.
Ella is rich in tea plantations, and numerous tea factories in the area welcome visitors. We visited the Kinellan Tea Factory, a highly recommended spot.
The guided tour lasted about 30 minutes and included explanations about the cultivation, production process, and different types of tea. We also learned about the predominantly manual labor involved in tea production, which still relies heavily on skilled hands. At the end of the tour, we sampled fresh tea and purchased some as gifts. No prior reservation is required—simply arrive, pay the entry fee, and join the next available tour or enjoy a private one.
Little Adam’s Peak is one of Ella’s most popular hiking trails and offers a relatively easy trek to one of the area’s most beautiful viewpoints.
The trail takes about two hours round trip and is suitable for most fitness levels. The panoramic views from the summit make the climb well worth the effort.
Restaurants in Ella
This fusion restaurant features a diverse menu with a mix of international and local dishes, as well as a wood-fired pizza selection served fresh from the oven on the first floor.
A well-known, vibrant eatery with an extensive menu of international and Sri Lankan dishes. The food is excellent, and the lively atmosphere adds to the experience.
Ella is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and a laid-back atmosphere. With its unique charm and variety of activities, it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again.
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