Ella is a picturesque town located in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s Central Province. Nestled amidst the breathtakingly beautiful Hill Country, Ella is renowned for its stunning landscapes, tea plantations, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
One of the most famous attractions in Ella is its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The town is situated at an elevation of around 1,041 meters (3,415 feet) above sea level, offering visitors panoramic vistas of rolling hills, tea gardens, and cascading waterfalls. The iconic Ella Gap provides a breathtaking glimpse of the distant southern plains of Sri Lanka.
The town of Ella itself is charming and laid-back, with a handful of restaurants, cafes, and guesthouses. It has a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the midst of nature.
Ella offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and serenity. Whether you want to soak in breathtaking views, explore hiking trails, immerse yourself in tea plantations, or simply unwind in a serene setting, Ella is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience.
Ella, Sri Lanka offers several must-visit places. Here are some of the top attractions in and around Ella:
Little Adam’s Peak
Little Adam’s Peak, also known as “Mini Adam’s Peak,” is a beautiful hill located near the town of Ella in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands. Situated about 2 kilometers northeast of Ella town. It stands at an elevation of approximately 1,140 meters (3,740 feet) above sea level. The mountain is a part of the larger Ella Rock and is surrounded by lush green tea plantations, creating a serene and scenic environment.
The hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak is relatively short and straightforward, making it accessible to hikers of various fitness levels. The trail is well-marked, starting from the base near Ella Flower Garden Resort. It ascends gradually through tea plantations, offering glimpses of the beautiful landscape along the way.
Little Adam’s Peak offers a delightful excursion for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking stunning vistas of Sri Lanka’s hill country. It’s a chance to connect with nature, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.
Nine Arch Bridge
The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the Bridge in the Sky or the Demodara Nine Arch Viaduct, is a remarkable architectural masterpiece located near the town of Ella in Sri Lanka.
The Nine Arch Bridge is a stunning railway bridge that stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the colonial era. Built in the early 20th century, the bridge is constructed without the use of steel, and its arches are made of solid bricks and rocks. It is a marvel of precision and craftsmanship.
The bridge is still an active railway line, and trains pass over it regularly, providing an incredible sight for visitors. You can witness the old-world charm of the locomotives as they traverse the bridge, creating a mesmerizing scene against the backdrop of the surrounding greenery.
The Nine Arch Bridge is a popular spot for photographers, both amateurs and professionals. The combination of the impressive architecture, scenic landscape, and passing trains offers numerous opportunities for capturing stunning images.
Demodara Loop
The Demodara Loop, also known as the Demodara Spiral, is a fascinating railway engineering marvel located near the town of Ella in Sri Lanka. The Demodara Loop is a section of railway track that forms a spiral loop, allowing the train to gain or lose altitude while navigating the challenging terrain. It is an ingenious engineering solution to overcome the steep gradient of the surrounding hills.
The loop consists of a complete 360-degree circular loop, which allows the train to pass over itself while changing elevation. This loop formation ensures that the train can smoothly transition to a higher or lower level without the need for excessive slopes or tunnels.
Visitors can observe the trains passing through the Demodara Loop, providing a captivating sight. As the train approaches the loop, it slows down, navigates the loop, and then continues on its journey, offering a unique visual spectacle. The Loop is located amidst a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, tea plantations, and verdant valleys.The lush greenery and stunning vistas add to the beauty of the area and provide a delightful backdrop for witnessing this engineering feat.
Ella Gap
Ella Gap, also known as Ella Pass, is a natural marvel located in the town of Ella. It creates a visible gap or valley, allowing for breathtaking views of the southern plains below. The gap is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,041 meters (3,415 feet) above sea level.
Ella Gap offers stunning panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. From various viewpoints, visitors can witness the sprawling southern plains stretching out as far as the eye can see.
Ella Gap serves as a starting point for several trekking and hiking trails that lead to various scenic viewpoints and attractions. The trek to Ella Rock is a popular choice for adventure enthusiasts, offering rewarding views of the gap and its surroundings.
Ravana Ella Falls
Ravana Ella Falls is a majestic waterfall that plunges from a height of approximately 25 meters (82 feet). The water cascades down a rocky cliff in multiple tiers, creating a spectacular sight and generating a cool mist in the surrounding area.
The waterfall derives its name from the famous ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana, where it is believed to be associated with the mythical king Ravana. According to legend, Ravana hid the beautiful princess Sita in the caves behind the waterfall.
Ravana Ella Falls is set amidst a backdrop of lush green vegetation, including tropical forests and tea plantations.The surrounding landscape adds to the natural beauty and tranquility of the area, providing a serene atmosphere for visitors.
The volume of water flowing over Ravana Ella Falls can vary depending on the season and rainfall. The waterfall holds cultural significance for the local people, and it is often visited by pilgrims who believe in the healing properties of its water. It is also a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, who appreciate its natural allure.
Ravana Cave
Ravana Cave is believed to be associated with the legendary king Ravana from the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to the epic, Ravana, who abducted Princess Sita, is said to have hidden her in these caves during their time of captivity.
Within the cave complex, visitors can find remnants of ancient structures and archaeological ruins. These remnants are believed to be the remnants of Ravana’s palace or related structures, adding an intriguing historical element to the site.
Ravana Cave holds spiritual significance for some locals and pilgrims. It is considered a sacred site, and devotees often visit to pay their respects and offer prayers. The serene and mystical atmosphere of the caves adds to the spiritual ambiance.
The area surrounding Ravana Cave is naturally beautiful, with lush greenery and scenic vistas. The caves are nestled amidst towering rock formations, offering a picturesque setting for exploration and contemplation.
Ella Rock
Ella Rock is a popular hiking destination and it is known for its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is a favorite spot among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Ella Rock is situated approximately 2 kilometers away from the town of Ella, which is a scenic hill station in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The trailhead for the hike is easily accessible from Ella. The hike to Ella Rock takes you through beautiful tea plantations, dense forests, and steep terrain. The trail is well-defined but can be challenging in certain sections, so it’s recommended to wear proper hiking shoes and carry enough water.
The hike to Ella Rock takes you through beautiful tea plantations, dense forests, and steep terrain.The highlight of the hike is reaching the summit of Ella Rock, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the top, you can see the lush green valleys, tea estates, and distant mountains, creating a picturesque setting.
The trail is well-defined but can be challenging in certain sections, so it’s recommended to wear proper hiking shoes and carry enough water. The best time to hike Ella Rock is during the dry season, which is from December to March when the weather is relatively pleasant.
It’s recommended to hike with a local guide who is familiar with the trail to ensure your safety and to avoid getting lost.
Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls is situated in the Koslanda area of Badulla District in Sri Lanka. It is approximately 6 kilometers away from the town of Koslanda.
The waterfall has a total height of approximately 220 meters (720 feet), making it one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Diyaluma Falls consists of a series of cascades, creating a mesmerizing sight as the water flows down the rocky slopes.Along the way to the base of the waterfall, there are several natural pools formed by the cascades. Visitors often enjoy swimming in these pools, especially during the dry season when the water flow is not too strong.The base pool of Diyaluma Falls is particularly beautiful, with crystal clear water surrounded by rocky cliffs and verdant vegetation. Many visitors enjoy relaxing by the pool or picnicking in the area.