What to Do in Ella: Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Ella

Ella is one of the best places a traveler can visit if they go to Sri Lanka and enjoy their time fully. It is one of the most unique towns in all of Sri Lanka and is very distinctive. When I visited Sri Lanka for the first time and went to Ella, I was amazed by the beauty and culture.

And from there, I realise I had to tell my readers about this incredible trip, as well as some of the top things to do and locations that are known as Must-Visit Places in Ella.

Why you Should visit  Ella in Sri Lanka?

From my personal experience, I can tell you this much: Ella is full of fantastic accommodation options. If you research well, you can find some of the best hotels in Sri Lanka there. These hotels are located right in the center of town and offer some amazing views, and it’s also low-cost.

Ella is where one can feel all of Sri Lanka’s culture, delicious foods, and vibrant festivals. You’ll also find stunning views and beautiful tea plantations with amazing waterfalls that make this town really special.

What I love most in Ella is that each part of it has something to tell—from the local food which warms your heart to the breathtaking views that take your breath away! Each side of Ella I explore seems like finding pieces of heaven in every other direction.

Adam’s Peak

The number one of all Must-Visit Places in Ella is Little Adam’s Peak. Sure, it’s smaller than the real Adam’s Peak, but don’t let that fool you—it’s still super impressive! The ridge is made of three green peaks that look down over a gorgeous valley.

You’ll hike through nature that’s just beautiful, passing little villages and tea fields where you might see local ladies picking tea. If you want to take pictures, be sure to ask them first and maybe give them a little tip—it goes a long way! These women are working hard all day in the sun for really low pay, so it feels nice to show some appreciation.

Once you get to the top, trust me, the view is totally worth it. You’ll see amazing sights all around, and standing up there feels like you’re on top of the world.

The walk from Ella town to the base of the mountain is about 45 minutes. I was lucky enough to take a tuk-tuk right to the bottom, which only took about 15 minutes. Let me tell you, I was grateful for that shortcut!

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Higilaits:

• Historical Significance: Little Adam’s Peak is named after its larger counterpart, Adam’s Peak, which is a significant pilgrimage site in Sri Lanka.
• Tea Plantations: The area is known for its organic tea farms, where you can learn about the tea-making process during your visit.
• Local Wildlife: Spot rare bird species like the Sri Lankan Blue Magpie or endemic butterflies along the trail.
• Sunrise Hikes: Many visitors opt for early morning hikes to witness breathtaking sunrises that illuminate the surrounding landscapes.
• Eco-Friendly Tips: Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to minimize waste during your hike.

Nine Arch Bridge

The next best travel destination in Ella and also a Must-Visit Place in Ella is the Nine Arch Bridge. This famous bridge is just a short walk from Ella town, and it’s an awesome spot for snapping photos and watching trains go by.

The bridge stands a whopping 25 meters tall and stretches 91 meters long—yes, I was impressed too! It’s right outside town and on the same path as Little Adam’s Peak, so you can knock out two must-visit spots in one day.

Walking through the bamboo forest to get there feels like stepping into a movie scene, and when you finally see that bridge, it’s like a postcard come to life.

Here’s a tip: If you want a quieter walk, take a left into the jungle near Café Umbrella. There’s a path that takes about 10 minutes and gives you a unique view of the bridge. You might even see a lady selling fresh coconuts there—seriously, she has one of the best views in Ella.

Grabbing a cold coconut while watching the trains go by? It’s a small moment of bliss, and I’d totally recommend taking that path.

Highlights:

• Architectural Wonder: The bridge is made entirely of stone and cement, with no steel used in its construction, making it a marvel of colonial-era engineering.
• Best Time for Trains: The train usually passes over the bridge around 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM, offering a perfect photo opportunity.
• Drone Photography: This is a popular spot for drone enthusiasts due to the stunning aerial views of the bridge cutting through the lush jungle.
• Sunset View: The bridge looks particularly beautiful at sunset when the surrounding greenery is bathed in golden light.
• Café Spots Nearby: Several small cafes around the area offer great vantage points for relaxing while viewing the bridge and trains.

Ravana Zipline

Number three on the list of must-visit places in Ella is flying the Ravana Zipline. If you’re into adventure and love a good thrill, this is one of the best travel destinations in Ella for you. The zipline is over half a kilometer long, 82 meters high, and you can zoom through the air at speeds up to 80 kilometers per hour.

Honestly, it’s the closest thing to feeling like you’re flying! Soaring over the treetops and looking down at the valley? Pure adrenaline! The best part? It’s only a 10-minute drive from Ella town, making it a perfect afternoon activity.

Oh, and don’t forget: they’re open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM, so you have plenty of time to fit this into your day.

Highlights:

• Safety Standards: The zipline uses top-tier international safety gear, ensuring a safe experience even for first-timers.
• Two-Person Ride: There’s an option to zipline in tandem, allowing you to share the thrill with a friend or partner.
• Scenic Views: While flying, you can spot landmarks like Ravana Falls and distant mountain ranges in the Ella region.
• Suitable for Beginners: Despite its speed, the zipline is beginner-friendly, with a brief training session before you take off.
• Eco-Friendly Operation: The zipline company takes environmental conservation seriously, with minimal disruption to the natural landscape.

Ride from Ella to Kandy

Now, number four on the list is hopping on Sri Lanka’s most beautiful train ride. It’s rare for a journey to be one of the must-visit places in Ella, but this train ride is something special. The ride from Ella to Kandy is iconic.

Imagine riding an old-fashioned, colorful train with the doors wide open, wind in your hair, and the sound of the train clacking along the tracks. You’ll pass through the jungle and tea plantations, and the views are just amazing.

I found it to be a smooth ride, even with a one-year-old in tow—no tantrums, just smiles!

Highlights:

• Best Seat: Sitting on the right side of the train offers the best views of the lush landscapes and mountains.
• Duration: The train ride takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, but the scenery makes the time fly by.
• Third-Class Experience: Traveling in third class offers a more authentic experience, often with local travelers, and the chance to hang out of the open doors for the best views.
• Photogenic Stops: Popular stops along the way include Haputale and Nuwara Eliya, perfect for short breaks and photo ops.
• Purchase Tickets Early: It’s best to buy tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure a window seat.

Tip: Ella is a great place in Sri Lanka, but the country is known for more than just Ella. Sri Lanka is a water-locked island with over 20 beaches, making it famous for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. If you want to learn more, check out our article on this topic.

Must-Do: Hiking in Ella Rock

Number five on the list of must-visit places in Ella is hiking Ella Rock. Wherever you are in Ella, you’ll always see the huge Ella Rock standing tall. This beautiful green mountain is one of the most popular hikes and definitely one of the best travel destinations in Ella.

The cool thing about this trail is how wild and overgrown it feels—it’s perfect if you want a real adventure! The hike takes about two hours from Ella town to the top. When you finally reach the summit, it’s an awesome feeling. You can sit on the edge of the rock, dangle your legs, and look down at the valley. It’s a view that’s totally worth the climb!

I’d say, start as early as possible in the morning so you don’t have to deal with the heat later. Also, be smart and bring layers—it’s chilly when you start but much warmer by the time you’re heading back down.

Highlights:

• Top tip: The path is adventurous, and it’s super easy to take a wrong turn, so make sure you get clear directions from your guesthouse manager or other travelers before you set out. And don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks and water—you’ll thank me later!
• Less Crowded: Compared to Little Adam’s Peak, the Ella Rock hike is less crowded, offering a more secluded and peaceful hiking experience.
• Sunrise/Sunset Views: Hiking early for sunrise or staying for sunset gives you breathtaking light and colors over the valley and tea plantations.
• Hiring a Guide: Local guides are available if you prefer to avoid getting lost, and they often share interesting stories about the region’s history and nature.
• Flora and Fauna: The trail is rich in biodiversity, with unique plant species and occasional sightings of monkeys or exotic birds.
• Rock Formations: At the summit, you can explore the interesting rock formations and natural cliffs, making for great photo opportunities beyond just the view.

Summary

Sri Lanka is a great place and has very unique visiting places for travelers, like beaches, for example. Sri Lanka has some of the best beaches in the world, and after that comes Ella. Ella is a must-visit place in Sri Lanka among many other places.

Ella might be a fantastic site to visit if you went to Sri Lanka because it includes some of the most gorgeous hills, waterfall hiking spots, and other things.

As I mentioned earlier, Ella in Sri Lanka has some of the best places, and they’re loved by everyone who visits. Some must-see spots in Ella are Little Adam’s Peak, the Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Zipline, Kandy, and hiking up Ella Rock. If you’re in Sri Lanka, you’ve really got to check out Ella!

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