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Hill Country Hiking & Trekking Scenic Trails Hill Country Ella

Ella

Misty hills, epic views, relaxed vibes.

About Ella in Sri Lanka

Ella is a small mountain town in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province, about 200 km from Colombo. It sits at around 1,041 meters above sea level and is known for its cool climate and green scenery. The town became popular for its hiking trails, tea plantations, and relaxed atmosphere. Top attractions include the Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, and nearby waterfalls like Ravana Falls. The scenic train journey between Kandy and Ella is one of the most famous railway rides in Sri Lanka

Mountains, mist, and freedom, Ella Gap magic

Sleep, eat, explore, the ultimate hostel adventure

Feel alive in Ella’s lush green landscapes

Let go and wander, Ella is your playground

Best Time

January to April

Avg Temp

20 – 28°C

Elevation

1041m

Distance

5-6h from Colombo

Nine Arches Bridge Little Adam’s Peak Ravana Falls Tea Plantations Scenic Train Views

Highlights

What to watch in Ella - Top attractions and things to do

Scenic Blue train ride

Scenic Mountain Railway Iconic Photo Views

The scenic blue train ride to Ella is one of the most beautiful railway journeys in Sri Lanka. The train passes through tea plantations, tunnels, mountains, and the famous Nine Arches Bridge

6–7 hrs from Colombo

Kandy–Ella famous route

Views of tea estates

Crosses Nine Arches Bridge

Reserved & unreserved seats available

Nine Arch Bridge

Historic Stone Bridge bi-train-front:Scenic Train Spot

Nine Arch Bridge is a famous stone railway bridge in Ella, built in 1921 during the British period. It stands about 30 meters high and is surrounded by green tea fields and jungle.

Built in 1921

Approx. 30m height

15–20 min walk from Ella town

Best for train photos

Best morning & late afternoon views

Adventure Park

Zipline Adventure Hill Country Thrill

Ella has small adventure parks offering zip-lining and outdoor activities with mountain views. The Flying Ravana Zipline is one of the most popular adventure experiences in the area.

Approx. 500m long zipline

Speeds up to 80 km/h

Open daytime hours

Suitable for adults & older kids

Great aerial views of Ella hills

Ella Rock

Popular Hiking Trail Panoramic Valley Views

Ella Rock is a popular hiking spot with wide views over Ella town and the surrounding valleys. The hike takes you through tea plantations, railway tracks, and forest paths

3–4 hrs round trip

Moderate difficulty hike

Best early morning

Start near Ella railway station

Top photo viewpoint

Bamboo pool club

Infinity Pool Experience Live DJ & Music

Bamboo Pool Club in Ella is a popular day-to-night hangout with a swimming pool, music, and mountain views. It offers a relaxed party vibe in the heart of the hill country.

Open daytime to late evening

Food & cocktails available

Adults-only vibe

Best in dry weather

Great sunset views

Nightlife @ Secret City

DJ & Dance Floor Cocktails & Bar

Secret City in Ella is a popular nightlife spot known for music, dancing, and a lively crowd. It is a favorite place for travelers who want to enjoy drinks and late-night vibes in the hills

Open late night

Popular with backpackers

Located in Ella town

Busy on weekends

Colorful night atmosphere

Rawana Waterfall

Tall & Wide Waterfall Surrounded by Green Hills

Rawana Waterfall is a famous waterfall near Ella, falling about 25 meters from a rocky cliff. It is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and is linked to the legend of King Ravana.

Approx. 25m height

6 km from Ella town

Easy roadside access

Popular photo stop

Best after rainy season

Rock Carving Buduruwagala Rajamaha Viharaya

Ancient Rock Carvings Tall Buddha Statue

Rock Carving Buduruwagala Rajamaha Viharaya is an ancient Buddhist rock temple with huge statues carved into a cliff face. The central Buddha figure and six attendant carvings show unique Mahayana Buddhist art in Sri Lanka’s history.

About 25–30 km from Ella town

Dates back to 9th–10th century

Seven figures carved in one rock

Easy short walk on flat ground

Great for cultural photography