2025 Ella Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

The streets of Sri Lanka themselves are a unique attraction, allowing visitors to experience the daily lives of locals up close. Walking down the street, one can see bustling small shops, colorful advertisements, and busy motorcycles and small trucks weaving through traffic. At the same time, leisurely strolling cows become part of the urban landscape, creating a stark contrast with the passing vehicles and showcasing the unique rhythm of local life. People chat, repair vehicles, or wait for business at the shop entrances, with every detail reflecting the daily pace of the locals. For travelers who enjoy exploring cultural landscapes, the streets of Sri Lanka offer the most authentic travel experience. No tickets are needed, and there are no specific routes to follow; just wander around and you will feel the charm of this land.

Ella, located in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is a charming town full of natural beauty. Its stunning landscapes and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among backpackers. The most famous attractions here include the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. Climbing Little Adam's Peak in the early morning, surrounded by tea plantations and mountains, offers breathtaking views of the sea of clouds and sunrise from the summit, making it a paradise for photographers. The Nine Arches Bridge is another must-see spot. You can either walk through the tea plantations to reach it or wait to capture the iconic moment when a train crosses the bridge. After your adventure, relax with a cup of freshly brewed Sri Lankan tea at one of the town's cafes. For food lovers, Ella has many local restaurants offering traditional curry rice and roti at affordable prices. In the evening, head to a local bar to enjoy live music and share travel stories with other travelers. For transportation, it is recommended to take the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy to Ella, known as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Ella is not only a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but also an excellent choice for exploring Sri Lankan culture and nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply want to relax, Ella offers an unforgettable experience!

Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka was a magical experience. 🌉 The bridge, with its grand design and nine arches, stands out amidst breathtaking scenery and dense greenery 🌿. I enjoyed walking around the bridge and taking photos because the beautiful landscape blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature 🏞️. The occasional passing train adds to the charm and fame of the bridge 🚂. The Nine Arch Bridge is an ideal place to enjoy the scenery and capture beautiful moments.

During my trip to the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka, I was deeply impressed by the beauty of the country and especially this magnificent archaeological landmark. Upon arriving at the bridge, I was excited to see what a testament to the region's ancient history it was. Look at the massive arches and structures that reflect ancient traditions, I truly admired the splendor of the landscape around me, adorned with rich greenery and beautiful natural spaces. I was amazed and respected the beauty and geometric strength of the bridge, and enjoyed moments of tranquility and serenity, reflecting the beauty and history of nature surrounding the bridge. Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge was a magical and unique experience because it left a connection with Sri Lanka's cultural and natural heritage.

#wheretogo Ella is one of the popular stops along the scenic train route between Kandy and Badulla in Sri Lanka. Located just a stone's throw away from Ella train station, Mandala Cafe and Bar is the perfect place to chill if you have some time to kill before catching your train. The cafe is open 24/7. It is quiet during the day and gets livelier as night falls. We chilled for some time at the cafe while waiting for the rain to stop. The cafe serves a wide selection of drinks as well as local and western food. Decorated with posters of musician Bob Marley, the cafe has a cozy atmosphere with lots of comfortable sofas, bean bags, beds and even swing seats. Location: Mandala Cafe and Bar 18 Ella Station Rd, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka #srilanka #ella #cafe #restaurant #bar #tripblazers

🇱🇰 Our two-night stay in Ella Mount View Guest Inn was nothing but awesome! We stayed in the only room on the top floor with a huge extended balcony which offered the best view of the surrounding mountains and unobstructed starry night sky. We were also pleasantly surprised to have fireflies hanging around the balcony and some even stayed overnight on the mosquito net of the bed. The guest house is located on a steep slope about 700 m from the main road of Ella town. The rooms are not air-conditioned since the weather in Ella is generally cool. We had hearty and delicious breakfast served in the restaurant. The owner and the staff were hospitable and helpful. Location: V2CW+99 Ella, Sri Lanka #srilanka #ella #mountainview #guesthouse #restaurant #balcony #fireflies #tripblazers

I had an incredible 1 week trip in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 I took the most scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella. The very first thing I did the next morning is to make sure to climb up the Little Adam’s Peak. Woke up at 5:15am and left our homestay at 5:30am, started to walk and was very amazed that I have finally touched some real live tea leaves 🍃 It may be still dark during this time however, the sounds of the birds while walking and the nature sounds is just so soothing. I am really stunned when I saw the Ella Rock, what a beauty! 👀 It’s an easy walk going up, and of course, I had to try the popular Orange King Coconut from Sri Lanka. The sunrise view is just breathtaking! Make sure to check the sunrise time, during that time, it was around 5:50am, as you can tell, I had to climb up TWICE, and the second time is just as sweet as the first one. I was sooooo incredibly happy to be able to come to this place. #mytripvlog #bucketlistreboot #campingglamping #srilanka #ellarock #awesomepic #2023travelwish #summervacation #passionpassport

#mountainview The Kandy to Ella train ride is arguably the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka, if not in the world! Highlight - On the train from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya to Ella, you will experience breathtaking views of lush green tea plantations, mountains, viaducts, valleys, and dense jungle. What’s more, it’s the perfect way to experience Sri Lankan life. You will meet smiling locals on the train, you can wave to the running children along the tracks, and eat the spicy snacks sold by vendors who board at each stop. After spending several days in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, I boarded the train in Eliya. I was on a slow train and it took almost four hours to reach Ella. But honestly, I didn’t even want the train to arrive that fast at all. I remember after about one hour on the train, it moves higher and higher up into the rolling green highlands where the big tea farms are and many beautiful hilltop villages and waterfalls. The views were so stunning that I constantly felt like I stepped into a postcard. I can’t wait to go back to this beautiful little country and experience everything all over again. #naturalwonders #awesomepic #tigeryear2022

if you are in Sri Lanka, please consider to hike this place, Ella Rock. It is one of the beautiful viewpoints in Sri Lanka. However Ella Rock isn’t a very easy hike to do compared to Adam's Peak. reason being is mainly because of the lack of clear directions indicating the trail. We were lucky to have met a local uncle that voluntarily offered himself as a guide. We tipped him quite a lot knowing that we'd be able to save lots of times and most importantly, an official photgrapher for us. yeay The hike is approximately a 10km round trip, which took us around 4 hours. The terrain itself isn’t particularly hard but i can assure you will enjoy the luscious tea plantation, a stream & the abundance of faunas on the way up which promises you a grand vista of the earth #ellarock #hiking #srilanka

Ella is great landscape#foodie#

With around 15 minute walk through the forest located just a 5-10 minute from the Main Street of Ella, Nine Arch Bridge is a must visit! Simply beautiful architecture, Nine Arch Bridge was built by the British with its nine stunning arches. It is located between Ella & Demodara station. Trains pass the bridge about 6 times a day. The exact times change all the time in Sri Lanka but there should be one every hour. unfortunately when we arrived here, it was quite late in the evening and it was starting to rain heavily that we didnt get to wait for the train. we took the tuk tuk on the way back because we will get all soaked with the heavy rain. #scenictrain #ninearches

nine arches bridge Ella#welcome to visit Sri Lanka#most senic train 🚆 ride#travelinspiration #travelsnacks #travelcompanion#travelblockbuster#travelstories#holidayhotel#holidayvacation#trip#naturalwonders#photo #photographyguide#photooftheday #

Nine Arch bridge in Ella #tripinspired

we trek this Adam peak to see the sunrise you can't believe the sunrise to be this kind of beautiful and we are so much fortunate that during our visit we saw a rainbow #happynewyear

The 9 Arch bridge deep in the tropical jungles of Sri Lanka. I waited for aboiut an hour for this blue train to come over the bridge! Definitely worth the wait.

#celebrateit The "Nine Arch Bridge", a brick railway arch bridge about 92 metres long and 25 metres high between Ella Station and Demodala Station of the Sri Lankan Railway, as its name suggests, is a beautiful bridge with 9 arcs and tea fields spread over the ridge. The track is also used as a sidewalk, so it is possible to walk on the bridge, and if you look at the arch from directly below, you will be surprised by the level of technology. In addition to the superb view of the bridge, it is also the best thing to enjoy the train running in front of you. There are many delays, so if you want to photograph the train, we recommend that you visit with a relaxed itinerary.

Below the Indian subcontinent, there is an island country that looks like a crystal pendant. That is Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. In that remote place, in addition to the coastal train that many people have seen, there are also rich historical relics and natural scenery. In just 6 days, you can feel the unique charm of this island country DAY 1: Arrive in Colombo → Galle | First sight of sea breeze and ancient castle 🌟 Highlights: Galle Old Town, seaside city wall, pink post office Arrive at Colombo Airport (BIA), take a train or charter car (about 2 hours) to the southern European-style coastal city of Galle Check in Galle Fort and explore the alleys of Galle Old Town; go to Unawatuna Beach in the evening, drink coconut water, and watch a romantic sunset. 📌 Accommodation recommendation: A characteristic B&B or seaside hotel in the old town of Galle, within walking distance of the ancient city! DAY 2: Mirissa → Whale Watching & Coconut Swing 🌟 Highlights: Whale watching at sea, pink sand beach, the most beautiful coconut grove Depart in the morning and head to Mirissa, one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. You can take a boat out to sea and have the opportunity to see blue whales, sperm whales and dolphins! (It is recommended to book the boat ticket in advance) At noon, return to the beach and find a seaside restaurant to have a Sri Lankan curry + freshly squeezed mango juice, which is super satisfying! In the afternoon, we went to Secret Beach, which is a small private beach with few people and beautiful scenery! Check out Sri Lanka’s internet-famous swing: Go to the famous Coconut Tree Hill, stand on the small hillside in the coconut grove, and enjoy the unbeatable sea view. Every shot you take will be a blockbuster! 📌 Recommended accommodation: Mirissa Beach Hotel, enjoy the sound of waves as you fall asleep! DAY 3: Ella → Take the most beautiful high mountain tea garden train! 🌟 Highlights: Nine-hole Bridge, Tea Garden Train, Internet-famous Mountain View Hotel Depart from Mirissa in the morning and take the famous "Blue Mountain Train", passing through forests, tea gardens, waterfalls, and experience the most beautiful train route in the world! Arrive at the alpine town of Ella in the afternoon, where the climate is cool and the scenery is picturesque. Hiking on the Nine Arches Bridge: This is an iconic attraction in Sri Lanka. The moment when the train passes through the stone bridge is super shocking! Stay at a mountain view hotel, make a cup of Ceylon tea, sit on the balcony to watch the sunset, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: Ella Cliff View Hotel, with a whole tea plantation right outside the room window! DAY 4: Horton Plains National Park → Nuwara Eliya 🌟 Highlights: Little England, World’s End, Tea Tasting in Tea Garden Hike in Horton Plains National Park in the morning, where the famous “World’s End” is located. Standing on the cliff overlooking the endless forest, it is amazing! In the afternoon, we will go to the plateau town of Nuwara Eliya, which is known as "Little England". It has British-style architecture and alpine tea plantations, full of exotic atmosphere! Visit the black tea estate, experience the most authentic Ceylon black tea production process, and take a few boxes home as gifts for your friends! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: English Manor Hotel, experience aristocratic afternoon tea! DAY 5: Kandy → Temple of the Tooth Relic & Stroll along the Lake 🌟 Highlights: Sri Lankan Cultural Heritage, Royal Botanical Gardens In the morning, head from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy, the cultural center of Sri Lanka. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, where the tooth relic of Sakyamuni is enshrined and is a holy place in the hearts of Buddhists! Take a walk along the Kandy Lake and watch the sunset reflected on the lake. It is so beautiful! Watch the Sri Lankan traditional dance performance in the evening and feel the charm of local culture! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: Kandy Lake View Hotel, the night is super beautiful! DAY 6: Back to Colombo → Return trip Return to Colombo and finally go to ODEL Shopping Center or Independence Square to buy some souvenirs. 🛂 Sri Lanka Visa & Entry Information ✅ Electronic Visa (ETA): Chinese tourists can apply for a Sri Lanka Electronic Visa (ETA) online, which costs about US$50 and is generally issued within 24-48 hours. ✅ Entry requirements: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months, and you may be asked to provide a return flight ticket and hotel reservation upon entry. 📌 Travel Tips 🔹 Best travel season: December - April (best beaches in the south), June - September (most beautiful high mountain tea plantations). 🔹 Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is recommended to bring a small amount of cash and pay the rest by credit card. 🔹 Transportation: The train experience is excellent, and you can use a tuk-tuk for short distances (be sure to bargain!). 🔹 Dress: Long sleeves and long pants are required for temple visits, while casual clothing is acceptable for beach and city visits.

#celebrateit Here is an idea to celebrate a birthday when you are travelling on Sri Lanka 🇱🇰: ⏩️ go to Ella and stay there for 1 night at least. 🏨 Find a cosy hotel overlooking the nine arch bridge 🥞 have a breakfast with the view and accompanying by birds singing ✔️ask the hotel staff about the train schedule passing the bridge so you can observe it from above and also from the bridge itself. Note that there is an old train that makes a stop on a bridge 🤯 📸 go down to the bridge and make some memorable photos ☕️ go inside a cafe near the bridge (take a drink and observe the trains from different angle) 🏔️ hike Little Adam’s peak mountain 🏊 Don’t forget to take your bathing suit with you because there is a pool beach party area with the Little Adam’s peak view, so you can chill there for a while 🎂 return to the hotel, blow a candle on a cake and make a wish 🌌 enjoy the sunset and evening trains passing by

A nod to the island's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. It’s pristine Beaches, from the golden sands of Unawatuna and Mirissa to the serene shores of Nilaveli and Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s coastline is a tropical paradise. The beaches are perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or watching breathtaking sunsets. Lush Hill Country and the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya and Ella are adorned with rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls like Dunhinda and Ravana Falls, and cool, refreshing climates. The iconic Adam’s Peak offers a spiritual and scenic trekking experience. Truly a magical place to be.

Little Adam’s Peak is a must visit in Sri Lanka! It is such an amazing place and Ella is such a vibe in its own! Do not miss this on your next trip to Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka can be traveled to by direct flight from Japan or in combination with India. If you are from South India, you can get there for about 10,000 yen one way. The town of Ella is very famous, but it is a small and convenient rural town and the town itself is comfortable. There are mountains where you can trek and you can relax in the greenery. Wellawaya is a birdwatching paradise. You can see colorful birds everywhere, and the bat tree where tens of millions of fruit bats perch is a masterpiece. If you love animals and nature, it's a place you should visit in combination with Yala. Everyone's Uwanatuna Talpe If you hit the right spot, you'll find beaches that are more beautiful than you can imagine. There are beaches that look a lot like the beaches of Seychelles in Africa, and there's beach fashion apparel that's so cute I want to buy it and start selling it online, so it's a recommended area for beach lovers. Maybe because there are a lot of mountains, public transportation sometimes has to take a little detour or the route isn't great, but traveling by train in Sri Lanka is a part of traveling in Sri Lanka. It's also fun to travel on a packed local bus. There's no particular problem with transportation, the hurdles to traveling are not high, and Sri Lanka is a safe place to travel, so I've traveled to 90 countries and I think it's my favorite place in Asia☺︎♡ #SriLanka #Nature #SoloTravel

Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 amazing wildlife with the combination of culture is wonderful! Beautiful Buddhist temple and monasteries and the efforts on conservation of colonial architecture! Indulge in local Sri Lankan cuisine - String Hoppers, Rice and Curry and stop by to have a king Coconut 🌴 make time for a cooking class, had mine at Ella and learnt to appreciate the food that’s serve after! Spend at least 10 days if you can to truly enjoy Sri Lanka

📍The Hill Country Train～First experience There are quite a few carriages, and one of them is semi-open, where you can enjoy the breeze, the scenery, and afternoon tea, which is a very good choice. If you don't like the outdoors, there are indoor seats where you can sit down and enjoy the slow-paced train journey. Along the way, you can see many Sri Lankan people, crops, and many animals and plants (quite interesting). There are also waterfalls to enjoy. There will be many people greeting everyone along the way. It is really a smiling country. The train will stop in the middle to take photos for everyone 📷 (just pay attention to the height difference between the train and the ground ~ please be careful) There are also many vendors selling things ➡️Must take photos of the Nine Arch Bridge📍 (the photo position must be at the angle of the vendor to take a good view) Sri Lanka is a tea-producing country. Take the train and enjoy the scenery of the tea plantation. Personal recommendation: The right side of the train is the best place to take photos (with a clear view) Recommended reason: You can stick your body out of the train (there are no doors on the train) and take pictures with the whole train 📷Super beautiful❤️

| A Must-Experience in Sri Lanka: The Highland Tea Garden Train! 🔶🔶🔶Sri Lanka has a tropical marine climate, so there are no seasons. Winter is the dry season, and the central mountains have little rain and a pleasant climate, making it a great place to escape the cold winter. 🚞The Highland Tea Garden Train is a major attraction in Sri Lanka. The train travels slowly through the highland tea gardens, with the fragrance of tea and fresh air. The train passes through small towns and villages, where you can see the local residents' life along the way. 🚋Transportation: I took the Nuwara Eliya to Ella section, which is a classic route for the Highland Tea Garden Train. I bought a ticket at the Nanu Oya station in Nuwara Eliya. There are 3 trains a day to the south. 💹Ticket prices: LKR 3,000 for first class, LKR 2,000 for second class, and LKR 1,500 for third class. 🎏The destination, Ella, is a picturesque town with many hiking trails, Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, waterfalls, etc. These are popular with European and American tourists, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the surrounding highland tea gardens and canyons. 🌟Tips: 1️⃣The climate in Sri Lanka is mild in winter, but the temperature difference between morning and evening in the highland tea garden area is large, so bring a light jacket. 2️⃣The train schedule will be adjusted during the dry and rainy seasons, so check the schedule before departure and arrive early. 3️⃣Choose a seat on the left side of the train, so you can take pictures of the long train. The scenery is different in each section.

#2024mapped

Sri Lanka's hill country, located in the central highlands, is a breathtaking region filled with lush greenery, rolling tea plantations, and mist-covered mountains. Cities like Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Hatton showcase colonial charm, cool climates, and picturesque landscapes. The region is famed for tea production, with vast estates offering serene views. Train journeys through hills, such as the Kandy-to-Ella route, are a highlight, providing panoramic scenes of waterfalls and valleys. Rich in biodiversity, Horton Plains and Adam’s Peak attract nature lovers. The hill country offers peace, beauty, and an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking nature’s tranquility. #travel #Sri Lanka #couplestrip #naturalwonders