Nested in the central highlands, shielded by cloud covered hills, beautified by gushing waterfalls; Ella is definitely another most fascinating tourist destination in this teardrop shaped island.
From the most scenic Kandy -Ella train route, to finest tea production to the world, Ella is a perfect example on the highly influenced Sri Lanka’s colonist culture in history. Today, this small town has become busier with the tourist arrival and it has become the perfect place for out door activities such as
- mountain trekking,
- canoeing,
- waterfall
- hunting
and what not. Check out our Best Cost Free Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka comprehensive blog article for further guide!
Heading to Sri Lanka’s Mountain heaven?? Here is every thing you need to know!
About Ella
Located in the southern side of the high lands of Sri Lanka, 200 km east of Colombo; Ella is a popular tourist spot due to its jaw dropping natural beauty. If you need a change from the hot weather of this tropical island, Ella is the best place to spend few days to feel some skin soothing air. While relaxing, there is still many things to do in Ella, if you like to go extra mile to explore more than just typical tourist sights.
Best time to visit Ella
Sri Lanka experience two annual monsoons. One from May- Aug where the southwestern part affects, and the other from Oct- Jan where the Northeastern part affects. Being in the central in the Island, Ella gets affected by both monsoon but not drastically. Since out door activities are the main draw to Ella the best time to go is when it is not raining.
The best times for hiking are the period of January – April. The weather is mostly sunny and dry during this time. The other part of the year the weather in Ella varies and you can expect lot of rainfalls during September to December.
Hint> Covered in the misty hills and stormy rainfalls, May-December season has the perfect weather for honeymooners!
How to get to Ella
As Ella is located in the middle of this small island, travelling to Ella can be done from several routes. But the most popular ride to Ella is by train. Having said that below is the complete guide on how to get to Ella from few of the main destinations in Sri Lanka.
Tip> It’s always good to have the train ride as your no 1 choice!
HIGHLY RECOMMEND you to reserve the tickets early.
Colombo to Ella
Train | Colombo Fort – Ella via Kandy (Recommended)
- Journey: 10+ hours
- Cost: LKR 600 (2nd class ticket)
- LKR 400 (3rd class ticket)
- Departure times: 5.50 am, 8.30am, 9.45am, 8.00 pm
Bus | Colombo Fort – Badulla (get down from Kumbalwela junction)
- Journey: 6+ hours
- Cost: LKR 500
Private Vehicle | Colombo – Ella
- Journey: 6+ hours
- Cost: LKR 15000
Kandy to Ella
Train | Kandy– Ella (Highly Recommended)
- Journey: 6+ hours
- Cost: LKR 310 (2nd class ticket)
- LKR 175 (3rd class ticket)
- Departure times: 8.47am, 11.10 am 5:00pm, 3:30am
Bus | Kandy – Nuwaraeliya- Ella
- Journey: 6+ hours
- Cost: LKR 500
Private Vehicle | Kandy – Ella
- Journey: 6+ hours
- Cost: LKR 10000
Note : booking a ticket is not easy. Try book online just 2 months in advance using the following links or ask your hotel to make a reservation. This is needed only if you need a seat. Just go to the station if you don’t mind standing and going with the train for 7 hours 😉
Down south to Ella
Bus | Matara – Bandarawela- Ella
- Journey: 5+ hours
- Cost: LKR 500
Private Vehicle | South – Ella
- Journey: 4+ hours
- Cost: LKR 12000
Yala National Park to Ella
Bus | Yala- Tissamaharama – Bandarawela- Ella
- Journey: 3+ hours
- Cost: LKR 500
Private Vehicle | Yala – Ella
- Journey: 3+ hours
- Cost: LKR 10000
Link to hire a private driver :
(not quite sure about the prices, please check!)
Refer this article to know things to do in ella
Where to stay in Ella
Being a popular tourist attraction Ella has many accommodation options ranging from hostels, guesthouses, and hotels to luxury resorts. Here are top picks on each depending on online rating and popularity.
Hostels
- Hangover Hostels
- Noname Hostel
Guesthouses
- Morning Mist Guest House
- Waterfalls View
Home stays
- Waterfalls homestay
- Chamodya homestay
Hotels
- The mountain Heavens
- The Secret Ella
Luxury Resorts
- 98 Acres Resort and Spa
- Ella Jungle Resort
Where to eat in Ella
If you like the social interactive tourism experience Ella is a popular spot just like Sri Lankan beach sides. Also, Ella is another few places in Sri Lanka where you can find western style foods and drinks. But you can also find many Sri Lankan food diners for very cheap prices.
Café Chill : A popular café/bar offers Both Asian and western style food options
Matey Hut: Sri Lankan Dishes like roti, parata, koththu, rice & curry
Ceylon Tea Factory: A fine dining restaurant which offers both Asian and western style food options
Café UFO : Popular for it’s amazing architecture which offers both Asian and Western style food options
The Kitchen Garden : A popular authentic Sri Lankan food dining spot
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