ELLA
Ella is a small, enchanting mountain town nestled high in the green hills of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. Famed for its breathtaking views, misty mountains, and cool climate, it’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
This single subregion is characterized by its dramatic landscapes—rolling tea plantations, jungle-covered peaks, and stunning waterfalls—all connected by one of the world’s most scenic railway lines.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Landmarks & Viewpoints:
Nine Arch Bridge: An engineering marvel of the colonial era, a beautiful viaduct made of stone and bricks, famous for the iconic photo opportunity when the train crosses.
Little Adam’s Peak (Punchi Sri Pada): An easily accessible hike offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Ella Rock.
Ella Rock: A challenging but rewarding hike to a viewpoint that provides spectacular vistas over the Ella Gap and the distant plains.
Ella Gap: The space between Ella Rock and the peaks to the south, creating a dramatic valley view that stretches to the coast on a clear day.
Lipton’s Seat: A viewpoint high in the surrounding tea plantations where Sir Thomas Lipton himself used to survey his empire. Located near Haputale, but a popular excursion from Ella.
Dowa Rajamaha Viharaya: A historic cave temple near Ella, featuring a large, unfinished Buddha statue carved into the rock face.
Waterfalls & Nature:
Rawana Falls: A wide, impressive waterfall cascading down a sheer cliff face, visible from the main road between Ella and Wellawaya.
Diyaluma Falls: Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, offering a challenging hike to the top pools for swimming and incredible views (a day trip from Ella).
Bambarakanda Falls: The highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, offering a picturesque setting and a peaceful environment (another popular day trip).
Bopath Ella: A unique, heart-shaped waterfall near Ratnapura, often visited as part of a scenic route or day excursion.
Haputale: A neighboring town with a distinct atmosphere, colder climate, and surrounded by beautiful hills and pine forests.
Adisham Bungalow: A beautiful former monastery (now a school) built in the English country-house style near Haputale, set amidst picturesque gardens.
Tea Industry & Local Culture:
Halpewatte Tea Factory: One of the region’s largest tea factories, offering guided tours on the process of tea making, from leaf to cup, and tasting sessions.
Uva Halpewatte Tea Center: A great spot to purchase high-quality local tea and learn more about the industry in the Uva Province.
Newburgh Green Tea Factory: Another prominent tea factory in the region focusing on green tea production.
Koslanda: A village known for its beautiful mountain scenery and quieter atmosphere, an excellent place to experience local village life.
Transportation & Scenic Routes:
Ella Railway Station: A charming colonial-era station, the starting or ending point for the famous scenic train journey.
Kandy to Ella Train Journey: Arguably one of the most scenic train rides in the world, passing through misty mountains, tunnels, and sprawling tea estates.
Demodara Loop: A unique railway loop where the train passes under itself, an engineering wonder visible during the train journey.
Badulla: The provincial capital, often the final destination of the scenic train ride, featuring the Muthiyangana Viharaya ancient Buddhist temple.
Bandarawela: A larger town between Ella and Haputale, known for its cooler climate and bustling local market.
Passekudah: Although on the distant East Coast, the town is accessible by a long, scenic drive and offers beautiful, shallow beaches.
Dunhinda Falls: A beautiful, misty waterfall accessible via a trek from a point near Badulla.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak at Sunrise/Sunset: Take the scenic, moderate climb through tea plantations to this prominent viewpoint for stunning, panoramic views of the Ella Gap.
Hike to Ella Rock: Embark on the challenging but rewarding trek, often starting by walking along the railway line, to the summit of Ella Rock for a breathtaking vista.
Visit the Nine Arch Bridge: Walk through the surrounding tea estates to witness this iconic, colonial-era railway viaduct. Time your visit to see a blue train pass over the arches.
Take a Tea Factory Tour: Visit a working tea factory (like the Dambatenne or Halpewatte Estate) to learn about the journey of Ceylon tea from leaf to cup, complete with a tasting session.
Attend a Sri Lankan Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic dishes like rice and curry, dhal, and coconut sambol (Pol Sambola) from a local cook.
Explore Ravana Ella Falls: Visit this impressive 25-meter-high waterfall, which is linked to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana.
Zip-line across the Ella Gap: For the adrenaline seekers, soar over the tea plantations and dense forests of the Ella Gap on a thrilling zip-line ride.
Go on a Waterfall Trek to Diyaluma Falls: Take a day trip to Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall and hike to its upper tiers for natural pools and stunning photo opportunities.
Take the Scenic Train Ride to Kandy or Nuwara Eliya: Experience one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, winding through mountains, valleys, and lush tea estates.
Go on a Spice and Herb Walk: Wander through the local farms and gardens to learn about the various spices, herbs, and local produce grown in the region.
Relax with an Ayurvedic Massage: Unwind after your long hikes with a traditional Ayurvedic treatment at one of the many wellness centers in Ella.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks are King: The primary and most convenient mode of local transport is the three-wheeled Tuk-Tuk. They are readily available and perfect for short trips to Little Adam’s Peak or the Nine Arch Bridge. Always agree on the fare before you start the journey.
The Main Event: The Train Journey: The famous train ride (connecting Ella to towns like Kandy, Nanu Oya, or Badulla) is an activity in itself. Book tickets in advance, especially for reserved seating (1st or 2nd class). 3rd Class is unreserved and offers the most authentic local experience, but can be crowded.
Walking on the Tracks: It is common and safe to walk on the unused sections of the railway line to reach landmarks like the Nine Arch Bridge and Ella Rock. However, be alert and always step aside when you hear the horn or see a train approaching.
Buses for Long Distances: Local buses are a very cheap way to travel to nearby towns (like Wellawaya for the Diyaluma Falls). They are often crowded and fast-paced but provide an authentic, budget-friendly experience.
Renting a Scooter/Motorcycle: While not essential, renting a scooter gives you the most freedom to explore the remote areas and smaller villages at your own pace. Ensure you have the appropriate license and are comfortable with the mountain roads.
Hiking Attire: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip for the mountain trails, which can be slippery, especially after rain. Dress in layers, as mornings and evenings can be cool, but the sun is strong during the day.
The Tea Culture: Tea is a national passion. When visiting a tea factory, pay attention to the different grades (e.g., Pekoe, Broken Orange Pekoe) and remember to enjoy a fresh cup of pure Ceylon black tea, usually taken with milk and sugar.
Dining Times: Dinner is generally eaten earlier than in Western Europe, often starting between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM. Many local restaurants (known as ‘rice and curry’ spots) will serve all day.
Ramayana Connection: Ella is deeply tied to the Ramayana epic. Ravana Ella Cave, Ravana Falls, and Ella Rock are all associated with the legendary King Ravana, who is believed to have hidden Sita here. Locals appreciate an interest in this ancient history.
Avoid Leeches: Especially during and after rainfall, the trails can have leeches. Wear long socks or purchase “leech socks” from a local outdoor shop to prevent them from attaching.
Hidden Gems:
- Kinellan Tea Estate Viewpoint: A fantastic, less-crowded alternative spot to view the Ella Gap, accessible from a slightly different path than the main tourist routes.
- The Hoppers Spots: Seek out small, local bakeries or roadside vendors for hoppers (a bowl-shaped pancake) and kottu (chopped roti stir-fried with vegetables and meat), which are quintessential Sri Lankan street foods.
- Halpewatte Tea Factory: While less famous than Dambatenne, this factory often offers a more personal, in-depth tour experience.
Cultural Sensitivity: While Sri Lankans are warm and welcoming, always ask permission before taking a photo of a person. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting temples or religious sites outside of Ella town.
Top Restaurants
Matey Hut [$5-$10] – A small, cozy, and highly-regarded spot just off the main road, famous for its abundant and authentic local rice and curry, with options to choose your curries.
Matey Rice & Curry [$5-$10] – A simple, small eatery with a strong reputation for serving some of the most authentic and flavorful Sri Lankan rice and curry in Ella town.
Raha Ella [$5-$10] – Excellent for budget travelers, this simple spot offers great Sri Lankan food at a very low price, perfect for a quick and authentic take-out.
Ella Siyapatha Hut [$5-$10] – A fantastic hidden gem known for serving authentic local cooking, especially their delicious and traditional rice and curry meals.
Cafe C [$5-$10] – A very small, simple local restaurant known for its genuine, finger-licking Sri Lankan dishes like fresh roti and noodles at very affordable prices.
Inora Family Restaurant [$5-$10] – A humble, family-run eatery that serves homestyle Sri Lankan food, providing a warm, local dining experience away from the main tourist strip.
The Curry House [$5-$10] – A small, unassuming spot praised by travelers for its delicious and cheap rice and curry, offering a true taste of local cooking.
Roti Hut Ella [$5-$10] – Focuses on the Sri Lankan staple, roti, offering both savory and sweet options for a cheap, satisfying, and very local meal or snack.
Amal Restaurant [$5-$10] – A no-frills local favorite, known for its good, inexpensive Sri Lankan dishes, including tasty kottu and curries.
Little Paradise [$10-$15] – Located slightly away from the center, this guesthouse restaurant is praised for its excellent, home-cooked Sri Lankan curries, often served with a view.
Ella Local Cuisine [$10-$15] – A small restaurant specializing in pure local flavors, offering a menu focused on traditional Sri Lankan methods and ingredients.
Green Leaf Garden [$10-$15] – A relaxed spot with a garden setting that is well-liked for its traditional rice and curry and other local dishes in a peaceful environment.
Chillout Cafe [$10-$15] – A quieter, more local alternative to the large spots on the main street, serving classic Sri Lankan dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
The Golden Curry House [$10-$15] – A cozy restaurant focusing on different types of curries, from vegetable to meat, prepared in a traditional Sri Lankan style.
Home Grown Rice & Curry [$10-$15] – Known for its focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, providing a high-quality, authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry meal.
Sri Lankan Kitchen [$10-$15] – Offers a very authentic and educational experience, often involving a kitchen tour or cooking demonstration alongside traditional meals.
Ella Junction Roti [$5-$10] – Located near the Ella Junction, this small stand is perfect for grabbing a quick, freshly made roti or a cup of local tea.
The View Restaurant [$15-$20] – Offers traditional Sri Lankan food with the added benefit of stunning panoramic views of the Ella gap and surrounding mountains.
Clay Pot Ella [$10-$15] – A must-try spot famous for serving its flavorful rice and curry in traditional clay pots, enhancing the taste and authenticity of the meal.
360 Ella [$10-$20] – Slightly more affordable than its trendy neighbors, this bohemian-themed spot is popular for its Black Mutton Curry and Black Chicken with Coconut Sambal.
Jade Green Tea Center & Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers a unique dining experience centered around tea country, blending local Sri Lankan cuisine with high-quality teas and beverages.
Ravana Pool Club (Dip & Dine) [$15-$30] – Offers a luxurious ‘Dip & Dine’ experience where you can enjoy international and local food with stunning valley views from a luxury pool setting.
The Barn By Starbeans [$15-$25] – Offers a “semi-fine dining” experience in Ella with an emphasis on quality ingredients, popular for its wood-fired pizzas and excellent coffee, standing out from the main street.
98 Acres Resort & Spa Restaurant [$20-$35] – An upscale choice on the way to Little Adam’s Peak, offering refined Sri Lankan curries and international dishes with one of the most incredible panoramic views of the tea estates.
AK Ristoro [$15-$25] – Situated slightly away from the main hub, this versatile restaurant is known for its excellent Italian food, providing a high-quality international break from local cuisine.
Mandala Cafe And Bar [$10-$20] – A vegetarian and vegan-friendly spot with a focus on healthy, fresh, and organic ingredients in a peaceful setting, popular for its bowls and wraps.
Cafe Guru [$10-$15] – A cozy and comfortable spot perfect for enjoying homemade rice and curry while lounging on sofas, with a relaxed and laid-back ambiance.
Ella Heritage Restaurant [$15-$25] – Highly praised for its delicious and inventive cuisine, sometimes offering a unique “tapas” style approach to Sri Lankan and international dishes.
Cafe Chill [$10-$20] – A famous, bustling multi-story venue in the heart of town, popular for its varied menu of Western and Sri Lankan dishes, great cocktails, and a lively, social atmosphere. This is a very popular tourist spot but is included as it is truly an institution in Ella.
Cafe UFO Ella [$10-$20] – A multi-level restaurant/bar with a fun, bohemian theme and affordable food, offering a massive menu with plenty of international and local favorites.
Rainbow Cafe [$10-$15] – A self-proclaimed vegan cafe in Ella, offering a very friendly atmosphere and serving up delicious, healthy food like smoothie bowls and avocado toast.
One Love Ella [$10-$20] – Famous for its multi-level, chilled-out vibe, radiating a classic ‘hippie’ feel. It’s a great late-night spot for drinks and simple food.
MozzarElla By Nero Kitchen [$10-$20] – A popular spot with an excellent name, known for serving what many consider the tastiest, authentic wood-fired pizzas in Ella.
Remo’s Restaurant [$10-$20] – A good option for European and Italian-inspired cuisine with some Eastern dishes, offering a pleasant and quiet dining setting.
Rocky Ella [$10-$20] – Known for its fusion of Western and regional cuisines and its creative use of fresh strawberries in desserts, as well as a great coffee bar.
Ice Cube Bar & Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers a modern take on regional food with an emphasis on Sri Lankan dishes, excellent bar bites, and a great selection of mocktails and cocktails.
Adam’s Breeze [$10-$15] – A simple, friendly cafe on the main street, known for its hearty breakfast options and good coffee before a day of hiking.
Chill Cafe Ella [$10-$15] – A well-regarded alternative to the bigger ‘Chill’ establishment, known for its relaxed atmosphere, good service, and range of international dishes.
Dream Cafe ELLA [$10-$20] – Offers a great overall experience with tasty food, a good atmosphere, and a variety of international options on the menu.
Starbeans Cafe [$5-$10] – A great spot for a morning coffee, known for its high-quality espresso drinks, perfect for an early start before a sunrise hike.
The Reincarnation [$10-$15] – A fun, casual spot offering Mexican fare like tasty tacos and burritos, a good option for an international break.
Rose Cabin Mexican Restaurant [$10-$15] – Another good option for Mexican food in Ella, praised for its generous portions and flavorful dishes.
Fish & Chips Restaurant and Rotti Hut [$10-$15] – Offers a straightforward menu focusing on satisfying fish and chips alongside the local staple of Roti.
Container Cafe [$5-$10] – Located just outside Ella town, this local favorite offers good value for money with a mix of local and Western dishes in a cool, casual setting.
Cafe One Way [$10-$15] – A relaxed venue offering a good mix of Sri Lankan and international fare, popular for its casual and friendly ambiance.
Wild Resort Ella Restaurant [$15-$25] – Located in a resort setting away from the main street, this restaurant provides a quiet atmosphere and a menu featuring both local and Western cuisine.
Dowa Rest [$10-$15] – A simple eatery located slightly outside the town center, popular with locals for its filling and inexpensive meals.
Bake House Ella [$5-$10] – Excellent for a quick and cheap snack or breakfast, serving local baked goods, short eats, and fresh tea.
Green Hut [$5-$10] – A very small, local joint known for its tasty and affordable short eats and simple Sri Lankan breakfast options.
New Countryside Restaurant [$10-$15] – Offers a menu of both local Sri Lankan and popular international dishes in a comfortable, mid-range setting.
The Secret Garden Ella [$10-$20] – A slightly more hidden spot with a peaceful garden setting, offering a pleasant atmosphere for a meal or drink.
Cafe Kandy [$10-$15] – A casual eatery serving a mix of Sri Lankan staples and Western comfort food, perfect for a straightforward and satisfying meal.
The Hideout [$10-$15] – A relaxed place often tucked away from the main road, known for its comfortable vibe and decent food selection.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cafe Chill: The heart of Ella’s main street, this two-story bamboo structure is the town’s most famous and busiest spot. It serves delicious Western and Sri Lankan food and a wide array of cocktails, maintaining a vibrant, energetic, yet laid-back atmosphere well into the night.
Cafe One Love: Located near the Ella Railway Station, this popular hippie-themed bar and restaurant is known for its multi-level setting with unique seating like beanbags and swing beds. It often features DJs and live music, creating a lively party atmosphere and is perfect for late-night drinks.
The Barn by Starbeans: Situated centrally, this spot offers a more refined, cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. It’s a great choice for quality cocktails and a mix of international and local cuisine in a charming setting.
360 Ella: Known for its panoramic views over the town and mountains, this bar offers a stunning backdrop for enjoying a cocktail. It has a relaxed vibe and often hosts live music, making it a favorite for sunset and early evening drinks.
AK Ristoro: Found close to the main strip, this restaurant/bar is known for its excellent Italian cuisine but also serves as a relaxing spot for a few drinks. It offers a simple, rustic atmosphere for unwinding after a day of hiking.
The White Rabbit – Ella: Located on the main street, this establishment blends local ingredients with international flair in its menu and drinks. It provides a comfortable setting for travelers to mingle.
Hiking bar & Restaurant: Positioned along the road, this spot is ideal for hikers returning from Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak. It provides a casual atmosphere, refreshing drinks, and local cuisine.
Tiki Bar Ella: Offering a tropical escape on the main road, this bar is known for its themed drinks and exotic atmosphere, providing a fun, vacation-like setting.
Ella Tavern: A cozy, central bar that offers a great selection of drinks and a welcoming ambiance, perfect for a casual drink and meeting other travelers.
On The Rocks Bar: Found in the Ella town area, this bar offers a unique setting, as its name suggests, with a focus on great views and a well-stocked bar for classic cocktails.
The HILL 180°: Located a bit elevated, this spot provides a fantastic 180-degree view, making it an excellent location for a quiet, scenic evening cocktail.
Oak Ray La Ella Breeze Bar: Situated within the Oak Ray hotel complex, this bar is known for its comfortable setting, offering cocktails and liquor under starlit skies, ideal for a more serene experience.
Spice Ella: Located near the heart of town, this bar often features a lively atmosphere and live music performances, making it one of the better choices for an energetic evening.
Cafe C Ella: This spot is known for its relaxing environment and great views, offering a good selection of beverages to complement the breathtaking surroundings.
Beyond Nomad Cafe: A delightful and cozy cafe/bar on the main Ella road, perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing atmosphere and a good coffee or drink.
Cafe One Love (Late Night): While also a bar and restaurant, its three-floor layout and consistent DJ/live music sets transform it into one of Ella’s primary late-night dance spots, often hosting the latest parties in town.
Ella Ravana Pool Club: Located slightly outside the main town, this is one of the few locations that offers a true party experience with a heated pool and a lively atmosphere. It is known for its “Dip & Dine” packages and great cocktails.
Chill Cafe (Late Night): After the dinner rush, the main level of Cafe Chill often turns into a highly energetic late-night venue with music, flashing lights, and a vibrant dance floor, popular with the backpacker crowd.
360 Ella (Late Night): While starting as a sunset bar, its live music and central location often keep the energy high and the crowd dancing, functioning as a popular, medium-sized club alternative later in the evening.
Bustop Ella: Located on the main street, this venue is known to be one of the late-night gathering points in Ella, often hosting DJ music and providing a high-energy dance atmosphere for tourists.
Mandala Cafe and Bar: This spot has a serene cafe and bar vibe, but it is known to occasionally pick up the pace with music, attracting a younger crowd looking for a chill-but-lively night.
The Pub Ella: A more traditional “pub” on the main road, it is a reliably busy spot and an excellent pre-party venue that maintains a bustling, club-like noise level and atmosphere well into the evening.
Dream Cafe Ella: Located close to the main strip, this venue is known to have a lively atmosphere, good music, and is frequently cited by travelers as a place to hang out late and enjoy the Ella party scene.
Udayanga Pub Ceylon: A traditional pub setting in Ella that often gets loud and busy in the evenings, offering a place to drink and socialize until late.
Rocky Ella Cafe – Sri Lanka (Late Night): Found in a scenic location, this spot provides a mix of good food and a lively atmosphere that extends into a late-night bar scene popular with travelers.