A charming town nestled in the hill country of Sri Lanka, Ella is renowned for its stunning landscapes, forest-clad mountains, and the beautiful emerald tea carpets. With these captivating features and numerous other natural wonders, Ella truly offers an unforgettable holiday at this unique destination to discerning visitors.
01. Sunrise at Little Adam’s Peak
Catch the magnificence of an island sunrise and do so atop a mountain. The Little Adam’s Peak, situated 1,141 m above sea level, is a 3 km climb and is not difficult for visitors with moderate fitness. Although waking up at dawn, as you need to start before 5 am, may seem too much during your holiday, witnessing the golden glow from the top and the surrounding valleys being bathed in light as the town awakens is a rewarding experience. This peak has many an Ella accommodation in the vicinity for such keen visitors.
02. Ravana Falls
Situated a 10-minute ride away from Ella town, Ravana Falls is in proximity to the main road. It is unmissable as many passersby tend to stop for a photo capture of this pretty waterfall, known as one of the widest waterfalls on the island. Ravana falls cascade down in three tiers from a height of 82 feet. There is also a viewing platform by the roadside from which you can view the falls.
03. Ella Rock
Starting early in the morning is best to summit Ella Rock, which is a moderate hike. During this time, it is cooler, and the view is clear and magnificent. Taking around 3 hours, this climb takes you through lush greenery and tea plantations. There are two strategic viewpoints affording spectacular views of the terrain and surrounding areas. A short tuk-tuk ride of less than 20 minutes is sufficient for guests from properties like 98 Acres Resort and Spa to get to the trailhead for the Ella Rock climb.
04. Ella Gap
This captivating valley, called the Ella Gap, is a beautiful creation of nature that can be seen as you approach the town. On one side is the Little Adam’s Peak, and on the other side, the Ella Rock. The spectacular Ella Gap takes on a mystique aura at dawn and dusk when mists surround the peak, the rock, and the valley. Apart from seeing it on approach, it is also visible on the hiking trails and Little Adam’s Peak.
05. Ella Rock Cave
The secluded cave, also known as Ravana’s Cave, can be accessed on the northern slope of Ella Rock. The access path can be reached by climbing several steep steps from the main road. The cave is supposed to be connected to tunnels and a large cavern with many rooms, offering an unusual excursion.
06. Diyaluma Falls
The second-highest waterfall on the island, Diyaluma Falls, drops from a height of 220 m, offering stunning views of the dramatic drop as you view from the bottom of the falls, which is close to the main road.
07. Nil Diya Pokuna
This underground pool, at nearly 80 m below surface level, is off the main road passing Ravana Falls. This natural pool with sparkling, clear blue water is mesmerizing. This pool is connected to underground caves in the area and can be reached with the help of a local guide.
08. Picturesque Ella to Badulla train ride
A combination of natural features surrounding the Ella region makes a lazy morning train ride a memorable one. Ella to Badulla is just an hour’s ride each way. Although most tourists get off to enjoy the beauty around Ella, the natural beauty on the train ride is exceptional and must be experienced. As the train is almost empty on this stretch, you can get many different views. You see the gorgeous emerald beauty of lush landscapes over the famous Nine Arch Bridge and the jungle-clad mountains looming up against a brilliant blue sky, which are epic natural vistas. You get to enjoy the same views on the way back.
09. Secret Waterfall
Also known as Ella Wala Falls, this pretty waterfall is nestled within a jungle not far from Ella on the road to Wellawaya. The falls drop approximately 5 m into a natural pool that offers a tempting dip to keen visitors who like to cool off.
10. Admire the beauty of Ella on a Zipline
Adding colour to Ella’s adventure activities is Flying Ravana, the nearly one km long zip lining adventure reaching up to 80 kmph, taking locals and visitors on an exciting ride offering spectacular views of the natural beauty around Ella, including the quintessential tea fields in this hilly region.
