Ella was the place on our Sri Lanka trip where we planned two nights and stayed five. This little mountain village has a laid-back, backpacker-meets-boutique vibe, misty tea-covered hills, cracking cafés and some of the best short hikes in the country. Think Blue Mountains meets Byron, with a lot more tea.
Here are the best things to do in Ella for Australian travellers, plus tips on timing, getting around and staying safe on the trails. For an overview of the area, see our Ella travel guide.
1. Watch the train cross the Nine Arch Bridge
This stone viaduct, built during the British colonial era without steel, is Ella’s most famous sight. Walk in along the tracks or the jungle path, grab a king coconut from a stall and wait for a blue train to roll across. See our Nine Arch Bridge guide for train timing tips.
2. Hike Little Adam’s Peak
An easy walk of around 45 minutes each way through tea plantations rewards you with sweeping views over the valley and Ella Rock. Go for sunrise if you can manage the early start. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and older kids.
3. Tackle Ella Rock
The bigger, harder hike. Allow around 4 hours return, with a steep final section through forest. The views from the top over Ella Gap are spectacular. Our Ella Rock hike guide covers the route, timing and safety tips.
4. Cool off at Ravana Falls
One of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, about 6 km from town on the road to Wellawaya. It’s most impressive after rain. Swimming is possible at the base in calm conditions, but rocks are slippery and currents can be strong.
5. Tour a tea factory
Visit a working tea factory near Ella to see how leaves become your morning cuppa, then taste a few varieties. It’s a great option on a showery afternoon.
6. Take a Sri Lankan cooking class
Several family-run guesthouses and cafés offer cooking classes where you’ll grind spices, make coconut sambol and cook a full rice and curry spread. It’s one of the most fun things we did in Sri Lanka.
7. Ride the train in either direction
Ella sits on the famous hill-country railway. Arrive or leave by train for some of the most beautiful scenery of your trip. Our Kandy to Ella train guide has booking tips.
8. Ride the zipline or visit Flying Ravana
Adrenaline seekers can fly across the valley on the Flying Ravana zipline, one of the longest in the country.
9. Explore Demodara Loop and Rawana Ella Cave
History and engineering fans will enjoy the spiral Demodara loop, where the railway passes under itself, and the Rawana Ella cave linked to the Ramayana legend.
10. Café-hop on the main street
Ella’s main street is lined with cafés serving smoothie bowls, wood-fired pizza and Sri Lankan classics. After a big hike, you’ll be glad of a proper coffee and a curry.
Our tip: Ella’s weather changes fast. Do the big hikes early in the morning, when skies are clearest, and save cafés and cooking classes for the afternoon showers.
How many days do you need in Ella?
Two to three days lets you do Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge and a waterfall without rushing. Stay longer if you love hiking or just want to unwind. Our guide to where to stay in Ella can help you choose a base.
Practical tips for Australians
- Weather: Ella is cooler than the coast, especially at night. Pack a warm layer and rain jacket.
- Footwear: bring proper walking shoes for Ella Rock; trails get muddy.
- Getting around: tuk-tuks are everywhere; agree a price first or use a ride app where available.
- Leeches: they can appear on trails after rain. Long socks help.
- Safety: walking on railway tracks is common but risky. Stay alert and step well clear when trains approach.
Frequently asked questions
Is Ella worth visiting?
Yes. Ella offers beautiful hill-country scenery, easy and challenging hikes, iconic train views and a relaxed village atmosphere.
What is the best time to visit Ella?
The driest months are generally January to April, though Ella can be visited year-round. Expect afternoon showers at other times.
Can you do Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak in one day?
Fit hikers can, but it’s a big day. We recommend spreading them over two mornings.
Plan your Ella stay
Our Melbourne-based team helps Australians plan Sri Lanka trips that include the hill country. Get in touch for itinerary ideas.
