Ella

Misty Hill Town with Tea Plantations, Waterfalls, and Scenic Hikes

Ella

Misty Hill Town with Tea Plantations, Waterfalls, and Scenic Hikes

Ella

Misty Hill Town with Tea Plantations, Waterfalls, and Scenic Hikes

Introduction and History

Ella is a charming mountain town nestled at 1,041 meters above sea level in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. Known for its cool climate, rolling tea plantations, and lush greenery, Ella has become one of the island’s most scenic travel destinations. Located about 200 km east of Colombo, it offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and serenity. The iconic railway line, misty hills, and laid-back atmosphere make Ella a must-visit hill retreat for travelers seeking tranquility and breathtaking views.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ella depends on your preferred experience:

Important Travel Notes

Nearby Attractions

Little Adam’s Peak

📍 2.5 km | ⏱️ 13 minutes

Easy 45-minute hike, amazing views over tea estates

Nine Arches Bridge

📍 4.9 km | ⏱️ 20 minutes

Iconic colonial railway viaduct set amidst greenery

Ella Rock

📍 6.2 km | ⏱️ 19 minutes

Challenging 2–3hr trek leading to stunning vistas

Ravana Falls

📍 6 km | ⏱️ 14 minutes

Beautiful 25 m cascade about 6 km from town

Halpe Pattini Devalaya

📍 4.1 km | ⏱️ 12 minutes

Ancient temple approximately 3 km from Ella.

Ravana Caves

📍 2.2 km | ⏱️ 7 minutes

Legendary caves associated with King Ravana, offering a touch of history and myth.

Distance from Airport and Nearby Cities

✈️

From Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Approximately 335 km (5-hour drive)

🚗

From Kandy

Approximately 135 km (3 hr 40 min drive)

🚗

From Nuwara Eliya

Approximately 55 km (2-hour drive)

🚗

To Yala

Approximately 111 km (3-hour drive)

🚗

To Mirissa

Approximately 176 km (3-hour drive via expressway)

🚗

To Arugambay

Approx. 135 km 3hr drive

Highly Rated Nearby Restaurants

Café One Love

Laid-back spot by the bridge.

Matey Hut

Popular local eatery.

Cafe UFO

Known for fish tacos, mango juice, and tea

Ella Chill

Ella 360

The White Rabbit

Nearby Accommodation

Homestays (Rating ≥ 9)

Idyll Homestay

⭐ 9.0+ | Cozy, nature-immersed option

Hangover Hostels

⭐ 9.0+ | Budget-friendly

Ella Nature Views

⭐ 9.0+ | Scenic and highly rated

Freedom Cottage Ella

⭐ 9.0+

3/4-Star Hotels (Rating ≥ 9)

Ella Ridge View

⭐ 9.0+

Tea Hills Ella

⭐ 9.0+

Ella Mount View Guest Inn

⭐ 9.0+

Ella Flower Garden Resort

⭐ 9.0+ | Comfortable and central

Zion View Ella

⭐ 9.0+ | Highly rated and stylish

5-Star/Boutique Hotels (Rating ≥ 9)

98 Acres Resort & Spa

⭐ 9.5+ | Luxury hillside retreat

EKHO Ella

⭐ 9.5+ | Elegant boutique hotel

Hideout Ella

⭐ 9.5+

Majentra Ella

⭐ 9.5+

Ready to Explore Ella?

Plan your perfect hill-country getaway today!

Book Your Trip Now