SRI LANKA HILL COUNTRY GUIDE

Discover EllaA Scenic Escape in Sri Lanka and the Perfect Stop Before Tea Taster’s House

Explore Ella’s mountain scenery, tea heritage, scenic hikes and local favorites.

Explore the guide
Ella · Sri Lanka
Travelers walking through lush Sri Lankan hill country

Why Visit Ella?

Searching for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka? Ella is a must-visit destination that combines nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you're a solo traveler, honeymooner, or a family exploring Sri Lanka, Ella offers breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a rich tea heritage that makes it one of the top-rated places in Sri Lanka.

01

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN ELLA

Nature, adventure & tea heritage

  • Nine Arches BridgeA must-see architectural wonder among misty tea plantations and lush greenery. Watch for the iconic train crossing the bridge.
  • Little Adam’s PeakA short, rewarding hike with panoramic views of Ella’s landscapes.
  • Ella RockA challenging trek with stunning summit views, ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
  • Ravana FallsOne of Sri Lanka’s best-known waterfalls, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
  • Tea Plantations & FactoriesDiscover Sri Lanka’s tea production with a visit to a local tea estate.
02

Where to Stay in Ella

Hotels, hostels and budget stays for every traveler.

Luxury Stays

  • 98 Acres Resort & SpaA luxury stay with tea plantation views.
  • EKHO EllaA boutique hotel with panoramic mountain scenery.
  • Mountain HeavensA romantic getaway in Ella.

Mid-Range Hotels & Guesthouses

  • Ella Gap PanoramaAn affordable, comfortable stay with valley views.
  • The Chillout EllaA cozy guesthouse with friendly service.
  • Ella Nature ViewA stay for nature lovers.

Best Budget Hotels & Hostels in Ella

  • Tomorrowland HostelA great option for backpackers.
  • Hangover Hostels EllaOne of Ella’s best-rated hostels.
  • Ella Hide View HostelA budget stay with mountain views.
03

Where to Eat in Ella

Local food, international cuisine and budget-friendly places.

Popular Restaurants in Ella

  • Cafe ChillA lively spot serving local and Western dishes.
  • AK RistoroItalian and Sri Lankan fusion cuisine.
  • Matey HutA small, cozy eatery known for Sri Lankan rice and curry.

Best Budget-Friendly Food in Ella

  • Lanka RestaurantAffordable Sri Lankan meals.
  • Roti HutLocal-style rotis with different fillings at reasonable prices.
  • Ella Village RestaurantAuthentic Sri Lankan flavors on a budget.
04

How to Get Around Ella

  • Taxis & Tuk-TuksTuk-tuks are convenient. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.
  • Scooter RentalsRent a scooter for around $10 per day for flexibility.
  • Buses & TrainsThe scenic train ride to Ella is one of the most beautiful in the world.
05

Beware of Common Tourist Scams in Ella

  • Overpriced Tuk-TuksAgree on a price before getting in.
  • Fake Tour GuidesSome may offer tours at inflated prices. Stick to reputable companies.
  • Unlicensed Trekking GuidesIf hiring a guide for Ella Rock, make sure they are legitimate.
  • Inflated Prices at Local MarketsBargain politely when shopping for souvenirs.
06

Beauty & Wellness in Ella

Spas, hair and beauty salons for unwinding after hikes and adventures.

  • 98 Acres SpaA luxury spa with traditional Ayurvedic treatments.
  • Ella Spa & WellnessFull-body massages, facials and relaxation therapies.
  • Dream Spa EllaOne of Ella’s best-rated spas.
  • Ella Hair & Beauty SalonHaircuts and beauty treatments during your trip.

Our Most Requested Day Tours

All-in-One Day Tour Close to Colombo, Negombo & Airport

Duration: 6 - 8 hours

Highlights:

  • Cave Temple Visit (Dambulla-style cave temple experience)
  • Elephant Encounter (subject to availability & ethical practices)
  • Waterfall & River Visit
  • Traditional Village Experience
  • Colombo City Highlights

*** Flexible itinerary based on guest interest & time frame

Book Now

Colombo City Tour & Cultural Highlights

Duration: 6 - 8 hours

Highlights:

  • Independence Square
  • Gangaramaya Temple
  • Colombo city viewpoints
  • Local markets & street life
  • Seaside areas

*** Flexible itinerary based on guest interest & time frame

Book Now

Negombo Lagoon & Fishing Village Experience

Duration: 4 - 5 hours

Highlights:

  • Boat ride through Negombo Lagoon
  • Mangroves and canals
  • Traditional fishing village life
  • Local fish market visit

*** Flexible itinerary based on guest interest & time frame

Book Now

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage Day Tour

Duration: 8 - 9 Hours

Highlights:

  • Elephant feeding sessions
  • River bathing experience
  • Baby elephants
  • Optional Sri Lankan spice garden visit
Book Now

Kandy Cultural Heritage Day Tour

Duration: 10 - 12 Hours

Highlights:

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
  • Royal Botanical Gardens
  • Kandy Lake walk / Viewpoint
  • Tea Museum
  • Local Lunch Experience
Book Now

Galle Dutch Fortress & Southern Coast Day Tour

Duration: 10 Hours

Highlights:

  • Galle Dutch Fort
  • Stilt Fishermen
  • Turtle Hatchery
  • Unawatuna Beach
  • Sunset by the Indian Ocean
  • Mask Museum & Craft Workshop
Book Now

Dambulla & Sigiriya Golden Triangle Day Tour

Duration: 12 Hours

Highlights:

  • Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Sigiriya Lion Rock
  • Village Cart Ride & Catamaran Experience
  • Local Lunch Experience
Book Now

MAKE THE CITY PART OF A BIGGER JOURNEY

Plan your Sri Lankan stay

Tea Taster's House is a peaceful countryside base for the start or end of your trip, around an hour from Colombo and close to Bandaranaike International Airport. Share a home-cooked meal, discover Ceylon tea with a professional tea taster, and enjoy a slower side of Sri Lanka.

Book Your Stay