Perched at an elevation of 1,041 metres overlooking the southern plains through the dramatic Ella Gap, this mountain enclave has become Sri Lanka's favourite highland retreat. Famous for the brick and stone Nine Arch Bridge, cascading waterfalls, and emerald tea ridges.
December through May provides clear blue skies, crisp mountain air, and minimal rainfall for trekking.
Arrive via the iconic scenic train from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya), or by private chauffeur drive through tea estate hairpin passes.
Curated attractions and insider experiences recommended by our local drivers.
Perch on the hillside overlooking the 30-metre-tall stone viaduct as trains snake across amidst tea bushes and morning mist.
A gentle 45-minute climb following stepped pathways through tea plantations, rewarding walkers with dramatic 360-degree mountain valley views.
Marvel at the multi-tiered 25-metre cascade associated with the Ramayana epic, located right beside the scenic road toward Wellawaya.
Escape into the cool mist of Sri Lanka's high country. Ascend past cascading waterfalls into Nuwara Eliya (1,868m altitude), renowned for its Tudor architecture and sprawling Ceylon tea estates. Walk through fragrant tea fields, tour an operational tea processing plant, and stroll beside Lake Gregory.
Experience the adrenaline of an open-top 4x4 safari through Yala National Park. Famous for possessing one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, Yala also shelters wild Asian elephants, sloth bears, mugger crocodiles, and colorful storks across its coastal lagoons and rocky outcrops.
Udawalawe is Sri Lanka's answer to the East African savanna. Surrounding a massive water reservoir, its open plains guarantee sightings of large wild elephant herds feeding, bathing, and interacting year-round. Also visit the Elephant Transit Home to watch orphaned baby calves receive their milk feeding.
Ella is Sri Lanka's premier mountain hiking sanctuary. This action-packed day excursion takes you to the iconic Demodara Nine Arch Bridge timed for the scenic train crossing, guides you up the gentle panoramic slopes of Little Adam's Peak, and brings you to the roaring base of Ravana Falls.
Our signature 10-day island journey delivers the quintessential diversity of Sri Lanka. From the ancient UNESCO wonder of Sigiriya to the spiritual heartbeat of Kandy, the vintage blue train over the Nine Arch Bridge, exhilarating leopard tracking in Yala National Park, and golden southern beaches.
A deeply immersive 14-day tour that doesn't rush. Explore both ancient capitals (Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa), hike through high cloud forests at Horton Plains, take the legendary hill train, track leopards in Yala, spot blue whales in Mirissa, and unwind along pristine golden sands.
Crafted specifically for couples seeking intimacy, romance, and unhurried wonder. Wander hand-in-hand through ancient royal water gardens, sip champagne with views of tea-covered mountain valleys, embark on an exhilarating private safari, and stroll sunset ramparts by the sea.
Clear, honest answers to help you plan your journey with confidence.
Let us know how many days you'd like to spend in Ella and what else you'd like to see.
