Ella is a beautiful mountain village enveloped by misty hills, lush greenery, and an atmosphere of pure tranquility. Right at the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, the area is filled with breathtaking scenery rolling tea plantations, cool mountain air, and endless views of cloud-covered valleys. Life in Ella moves at a peaceful pace as this is an ideal getaway from the busy city life. Small cafes, cozy guesthouses, and friendly locals create a warm and welcoming vibe within the village. The scent of freshly brewed Ceylon tea passes through the air as far as the sound of trains rolling through hills, adding to the calm rhythm heard throughout the village. The magical appeal of early mornings creates the feeling of golden sunlight breaking through the mist, while evenings bring on a cool breeze with starry skies. The community here lives within closeness with nature and reflects the simplicity of beauty within hill country living. Ella's charm does not lie merely in its scenic views but also in the peaceful spirit of the area; thus, it is the perfect place to relax and have fresh air while experiencing the very slow and soothing side of Sri Lankan life.
Located near Ella Hambanthota road, Ravana Falls is one of the most accessible falls in Sri Lanka. You can stop by this beautiful place and enjoy the waterfall and may even take some photos during your visit to Nurawa Eliya.
Ravana’s cave is situated in Ella. To reach the place you will have to climb about 500m and it is a small journey full of rocks and heavy winds, however, the nature of the surrounding is pristine and breathtaking. It is believed that the caves have been used by the great king Ravana.
Demodara Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ella. The railway bridge is known as an impressive construction, as it has built only with bricks without any steel by a local under the British government in a time the British officials decided to close the project due to the raised prices in steel due to the world war II.
Situated in Ella, Little Adam's Peak is a place where you can enjoy an unforgeable hike along the railway lines. Offering you panoramic views of the surrounding rolling hills, snaked roads and villages on the hills, you can get to point with a 1-hour hike from the Ella town.
Demodara Loop is considered as one of the best engineering wonders of ancient Sri Lanka. If you grab the train from Demodara to Colombo, you will see the real beauty of the Demodara Loop. The loop that spirals down will present you breathtaking views of the surrounding throughout your journey.
Dowa Rock Temple is an ancient monastery in Badulla. The main highlight of the place is the unfinished stone carving of a standing Buddha on a massive pillar of rock. There are lots of statues inside the temple and the paintings will impress you. This is not a crowded place thus you will be able to explore the temple without any rush.
Bandarawela Market is a busy and vibrant center for locals and visitors to experience local life in the hill country. The market is filled with fresh fruits, vegetables and spices, as well as local food, and mirrors the agricultural abundance of the region. Fresh food is at the center of the shopping here, but much more is available. Even if shopping is not on your agenda, you will still have the chance to experience the warmth of the local people and their often simple lifestyle. The recently developed area is a lively encounter with local culture as much as it is a shopping venue.
Ella Gap is a spectacular natural viewpoint in Sri Lanka’s hill country, offering sweeping vistas of valleys, rolling tea plantations, and distant plains that stretch all the way to the southern coastline. It’s especially stunning during sunrise and sunset, when the landscape is bathed in golden light. Visitors come here for photography, peaceful reflection, and to fully appreciate the vast beauty and serenity of the central highlands, making it a must-visit spot in Ella.
Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is an ancient temple situated in Badulla. It is said that this temple was visited by Lord Buddha during his visit to Sri Lanka. Some people say that King Ravana had made this place as the capital city of his kingdom about 5000 years ago.
Located in Badulla, Dunhinda Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The waterfall is 64m high and it has got its name due to the waterfall mist the cascade creates due to the speed of the stream. It appears like a veil of a bride and it is called the Bridal Falls too.
Peessa Waterfall is a beautiful yet lesser-known waterfall in Sri Lanka and is situated in Passara. You will have to hike to get to this waterfall. The path to the falls is beautiful and offers you amazing opportunities to enjoy the pristine nature of the surrounding. Make sure to take your camera with you if not, you will regret when you reach the peessa falls.
Swimming at Ravana Ella Falls offers a refreshing escape in the cool, crystal-clear waters that gather at the base of the cascade. The natural rock pools create a perfect spot to relax and unwind while surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing roar of the waterfall. It’s an adventurous yet calming experience, but visitors should be mindful of safety, especially during rainy seasons when the water flow is stronger.
For the most authentic local lifestyle, you should really check out the Bandarawela Market, which is very close to Ella. There you can find not only an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables but also a variety of spices and crafts that are unique to the area. The market is vibrant, and it is an excellent way to get a quick glance into the daily life of the Sri Lankan people. Or you can combine shopping with indulging in delicious local street food.
Ella Gap Hiking is an exciting experience for lovers of both nature and treks. The hike will take you through terrace tea plantations, forests, and into unique trails leading you to the amazing Ella Gap – the huge valley extending to the southern plains and coastline. Along the way, expect fresh air, views that go on for miles, and nature's soundtrack. It is a perfect activity for photography, unwinding, and embracing nature in the hill country.
One of the most amazing architectural wonders that the world has ever known, the bridge made of stones, is built without any steel, just bricks and cement. The scenic area is tea plantations and rich forest, and it is magical when a train goes through. A lot of tourists stroll on the rails or climb around to get the best viewpoint for the camera, so it is a photographer's dream and a must-see place in Ella.
Perched high above Ella's tea land rolling hills, Nine Skies is a snug 5-bedroom bungalow that combines colonial elegance with modern comfort. Guests begin the day with freshly served garden breakfasts before taking leisurely train rides, tea estate strolls, or adrenaline-pumping zipline rides. Nights invite relaxation with a pool splash, bubble bath, and fireside naps while butlers ply welcoming drinks, creating an ultimate serene and decadent hillside haven.
Snuggled between Sri Lanka's hill country's lush tea plantations, 98 Acres Resort & Spa is an eco-luxury boutique retreat that seamlessly blends rural simplicity and environmental luxury. Built from recyclable materials such as reclaimed railway sleepers and natural granite, its chalets are a symbol of sustainable chic. Thatched roofs and nature-based interiors enhance the resort's relationship with the great outdoors. Soaked in breathtaking views, nature treks, and serene tea fields, it promises an unbreakable escape in Ella's breathtaking countryside.
Carved into a 60-degree rugged hillside of the Ella Gap, HIDE Ella Hotel & Resort blends architectural sophistication with nature's serenity. Panoramic views, comfort stays, and an acre of pristine greenery full of flora and fauna are presented to visitors. Designed for ultimate comfort, the resort boasts a serene haven where sophistication blends with raw nature. Perfect for leisure vacations, it invites travelers to soak in Ella's beauty in tranquility, elegance, and harmony with nature.
Located amidst green and green hills, EKHO Ella offers visitors the best view of what has become popularly known as the Ella Gap. Located strategically near hiking trails and tourist attractions, the hotel places visitors within proximity of Ravana Falls, Ravana Caves, Little Adam's Peak, and the Nine Arches Bridge. With a temperature range of 23°C – 30°C all year round and with scenic views all around, EKHO Ella is the dream getaway for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Situated amidst Ella's breathtaking landscapes, O2 Villas Resort & Spa is an oasis of luxury and tranquility. Offering a much-needed escape from Sri Lanka's tropical climate, Ella's more temperate weather further contributes to the resort's peaceful appeal. Guests can relax in lavishly crafted villas, treat themselves to holistic spa treatments, and become one with nature in the surroundings. With comfort, calm, and wellness combined, O2 Villas provides the ultimate retreat for relaxation.
Located amidst Ella's rolling green hills, The Chillout Ella Bed & Breakfast is a peaceful retreat minutes from the best of Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, and Ella Spice Garden. The cozy, air-conditioned rooms feature balconies or patios that face the mountains for a peaceful getaway. With warm hospitality, modern amenities, and easy access to nearby restaurants, The Chillout Ella is a friendly and comfortable retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
