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Panoramic view of Ella town nestled in misty mountains with tea plantations and the famous Ella Gap

Ella Town

Sri Lanka's Most Scenic Hill Station Paradise

Uva Province, Hill Country
1,041m Above Sea Level
18-25°C Year Round

Welcome to Ella: Where Mountains Meet Magic

Perched high in Sri Lanka's central highlands, Ella is a small town that has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide. With its cool climate, stunning mountain vistas, emerald tea plantations, and laid-back atmosphere, Ella offers the perfect escape from the tropical heat and bustling cities below.

Whether you're seeking adventure on hiking trails, Instagram-worthy views from mountain peaks, or simply want to relax in cozy cafes overlooking tea gardens, Ella provides an unforgettable hill country experience that combines natural beauty with warm Sri Lankan hospitality.

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Ella Town Essential Facts
Elevation: 1,041 meters (3,415 feet)
Climate: Cool, 18-25°C year-round
Famous for: Nine Arch Bridge & scenic railway
Province: Uva Province
Specialty: Tea plantations & mountain views
Best time: December to March

Top Attractions in Ella

1. Little Adam's Peak
Easy hike with spectacular 360-degree views
Hikers on Little Adams Peak summit with panoramic views of Ella Gap and surrounding tea plantations

The most popular and accessible hike in Ella, Little Adam's Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views without the challenging climb of its bigger namesake. The trail winds through tea plantations and takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit.

  • 45-60 minute easy hike
  • Best at sunrise or sunset
  • 360-degree mountain views
2. Ella Rock
Challenging hike for serious adventurers

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, Ella Rock is the highest point around Ella town. The trail follows railway tracks and jungle paths, offering incredible views of the surrounding valleys and distant mountains.

  • 3-4 hour challenging hike
  • Highest viewpoint in Ella
  • Requires good fitness level
Adventurous hikers on Ella Rock summit with dramatic mountain landscape and tea estates below
3. Nine Arch Bridge
Sri Lanka's most famous railway bridge
Iconic Nine Arch Bridge with train crossing through lush jungle and tea plantations

Just a 15-minute walk from Ella town, this architectural marvel built during WWI without using any steel is now Sri Lanka's most photographed bridge. Time your visit with train schedules for the perfect shot.

  • 15-minute walk from town
  • Multiple viewpoints available
  • Active railway with daily trains
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Where to Stay in Ella

Budget Options
$10-25 per night
  • • Ella Flower Garden Resort
  • • Dream Cafe & Hostel
  • • Ella Mount Heaven
  • • Various guesthouses

Basic but clean accommodations with mountain views and friendly service.

Mid-Range Hotels
$25-75 per night
  • • Ella Jungle Resort
  • • Zion View Ella Green Retreat
  • • Hill Safari Eco Lodge
  • • Ambiente Ella

Comfortable rooms with great views, good restaurants, and helpful staff.

Luxury Resorts
$75+ per night
  • • 98 Acres Resort & Spa
  • • Ella Eco Lodge
  • • Ravana Heights
  • • Melheim Resort

Premium accommodations with spa services, fine dining, and spectacular views.

Best Restaurants & Cafes

Must-Try Restaurants

Cafe Chill

Famous for views and Western food. Great breakfast spot.

Adam's Breeze

Rooftop dining with panoramic mountain views.

Ella Spice Garden

Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with fresh spices.

Dream Cafe

Popular backpacker spot with good food and atmosphere.

Local Specialties to Try

Ceylon Tea

Fresh from surrounding plantations - try different grades.

Kottu Roti

Chopped roti with vegetables, egg, and meat.

Rice & Curry

Traditional Sri Lankan meal with multiple curries.

Fresh Fruit Juices

Passion fruit, wood apple, and tropical blends.

Getting to & Around Ella

Getting to Ella

By Train (Recommended)

The scenic train journey from Kandy (6-7 hours) or Colombo (8-9 hours) is one of the world's most beautiful train rides.

  • • Book reserved seats in advance
  • • Observation car offers best views
  • • Bring snacks and water

By Car/Bus

5-6 hours from Colombo, 3-4 hours from Kandy. Mountain roads can be winding.

Getting Around Ella

Walking

Ella town is small and walkable. Most attractions are within walking distance.

Tuk-tuk

Available for longer distances or when you don't want to walk uphill.

Motorbike Rental

For experienced riders only - mountain roads can be challenging.

Best Time to Visit Ella

Peak Season
December - March
  • • Dry weather, clear skies
  • • Perfect for hiking
  • • Best mountain views
  • • Higher prices, more crowds
Shoulder Season
April - June, September - November
  • • Occasional rain showers
  • • Fewer tourists
  • • Better accommodation rates
  • • Still good for activities
Monsoon Season
July - August
  • • Heavy rainfall
  • • Misty, atmospheric views
  • • Lowest prices
  • • Limited outdoor activities
Your Ella Adventure Awaits

Ella is more than just a destination – it's a feeling. The cool mountain air, the endless tea gardens, the friendly smiles of locals, and the breathtaking views create an atmosphere that's hard to leave behind. Whether you're here for adventure, relaxation, or photography, Ella delivers experiences that will stay with you long after you've descended from the mountains.

Take your time to explore, don't rush between attractions, and remember that sometimes the best moments in Ella happen when you're simply sitting in a cafe, sipping Ceylon tea, and watching the mist roll over the mountains.

Welcome to Ella – where every sunrise is a masterpiece! 🏔️🌅