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Ella
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Explore Ella: Sri Lanka's serene hill station with stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant local culture. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's central highlands, Ella is a small town that offers breathtaking views, lush greenery, and a tranquil atmosphere. This hill station is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its cool climate and stunning landscapes, it's the perfect escape from the bustling city life.
Read more about Ella
Ella is renowned for its picturesque tea plantations, charming waterfalls, and iconic landmarks like the Nine Arches Bridge. The scenic train ride to Ella is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, offering panoramic views of rolling hills, dense forests, and quaint villages. The town itself has a laid-back vibe, with cozy cafes, local eateries, and friendly locals who welcome visitors with open arms.
For the adventurous, Ella offers numerous hiking trails, including the famous trek to Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. These trails provide spectacular views and a chance to connect with nature. Don't miss a visit to the Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, and the Ravana Cave, steeped in local legend. Whether you're looking to relax or explore, Ella has something for everyone.

When is the best time to visit Ella?

Best: January–March · 26–28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January (best)26200
February (best)27140
March (best)28140
April29230
May29450
June29400
July29400
August29400
September29400
October29380
November29300
December28260

Getting to and around Ella

How to get there

Ella is located in the Badulla District of Uva Province in Sri Lanka. The most common way to reach Ella is by train, which offers a scenic journey through lush tea plantations and picturesque landscapes. Trains to Ella depart from Colombo Fort and Kandy, with the journey taking approximately 6 to 7 hours from Colombo and 4 to 5 hours from Kandy. Alternatively, you can take a bus or a private taxi from Colombo or other major cities. The road journey offers flexibility and can be faster, but it lacks the scenic beauty of the train ride.

Transportation

Ella is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips within the area, tuk-tuks are readily available and are a popular mode of transportation. Local buses connect Ella to nearby towns and villages, but they can be crowded and less comfortable. Renting a scooter or a bicycle is another convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Taxis are also available for hire and can be arranged through your accommodation.

Best attractions in Ella

Ella, a charming town nestled in the lush green mountains of Sri Lanka, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. From the iconic Nine Arch Bridge where you can watch the mesmerizing sight of the train passing through the lush greenery, to the breathtaking views from Little Adam's Peak, Ella is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Don't miss the chance to visit the Ravana Falls, a stunning waterfall surrounded by tropical forests, or explore the historic sites like the ancient Buddhist temple of Dowa Rock Temple. With its cool climate, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine, Ella is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable and authentic Sri Lankan experience.

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Best landmarks in Ella

Ella, a charming town nestled in the hill country of Sri Lanka, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the iconic Nine Arch Bridge to the breathtaking views from Little Adam's Peak, Ella is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Don't miss a visit to the Ravana Falls, a majestic waterfall steeped in local mythology, or a stroll through the lush tea plantations that dot the landscape. For history buffs, a trip to the ancient rock temple of Dowa Rajamaha Viharaya is a must, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich past. With its stunning landscapes and rich history, Ella is a destination that will captivate and inspire visitors from around the world.

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Explore Ella on the map

Plan your Ella trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants, bars and hotels are, find what's near where you're staying, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Ella

The dining scene in Ella offers a diverse range of options for visitors to indulge in. From cozy cafes serving up freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries to bustling street food stalls offering authentic Sri Lankan dishes, there is something for everyone. For a more upscale dining experience, visitors can choose from a selection of restaurants serving international cuisine with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, Ella is known for its vibrant nightlife, with lively bars and restaurants offering a mix of cocktails and live music, creating the perfect atmosphere for socializing and unwinding after a day of exploring the city.

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Best bars in Ella

Ella may be a small town, but its nightlife scene packs a big punch. From cozy rooftop bars offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains to lively nightclubs where you can dance the night away, there is something for everyone here. Enjoy live music performances by talented local artists, sip on delicious cocktails made with fresh fruits, and mingle with fellow travelers from around the world. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere of Ella's nightlife will surely make your evenings unforgettable.

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Best nightclubs in Ella

Ella may be a small town, but its nightlife scene packs a big punch. From cozy rooftop bars offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains to lively nightclubs where you can dance the night away, there is something for everyone here. Enjoy live music performances by talented local artists, sip on delicious cocktails made with fresh fruits, and mingle with fellow travelers from around the world. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere of Ella's nightlife will surely make your evenings unforgettable.

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Best shops in Ella

Ella offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a variety of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and spices available in the bustling markets and quaint shops. From handwoven textiles to handmade jewelry, tourists can find one-of-a-kind items to take home as mementos of their trip. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the local products add to the charm of shopping in Ella, making it a must-do activity for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the culture and creativity of the city.

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Ella essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Ella, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to ensure you have enough funds on hand.
Safety
Ella is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Ella does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so keep your valuables secure.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 119 for police assistance and 110 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ella. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Some hotels and guesthouses also have first aid kits available for guest use.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering temples. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Ayubowan' (a traditional Sri Lankan greeting) and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Ella like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Sri Lankan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting attractions such as Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, and Ravana Falls. For a unique experience, take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Hiking is a popular activity in Ella, so make sure to explore the various trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
Helloහෙලෝ[helo]
Goodbyeආරාධනා[aradhana]
Yesඔව්[ov]
Noනෑ[nē]
Please/You're welcomeකරන්න[karanna]
Thank youඔබට ස්තූතියි[obata stuti]
Excuse me/Sorryසමාවක්[samāwak]
How are you?ඔයාට කොහොමද?[ōyāta kohōmada?]
Fine. And you?හොඳම. ඔයා?[hodama. ōyā?]
Do you speak English?ඔයාට ඉංග්‍රීසි කතා කරයිද?[ōyāta iṁgrīsi kathā karayida?]
I don't understandමම දත්ත නොදත්තේ[mama dattha nodatthē]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseකරුණාකර මෙනු බලන්න[karunākara menu balanna]
I don't eat meatමම මස් කෑමට නොවූවෙන්[mama mas kāmata novūwēn]
Cheers!සුභම පාට[subha pāṭa]
I would like to pay, pleaseකරුණාකර ගෙවන්න[karunākara gevanna]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!උකුල්ල![ukulla!]
Go away!ඉවත්කරන්න![iwathkaranna!]
Call the Police!පොලිස් කළමු![polis kalamu!]
Call a doctor!වෛරයකරු කළමු![vārayakaru kalamu!]
I'm lostමම නැවතුනෙද්[mama nāwatunē]
I'm illමම අස්වැනීනෙද්[mama asvānīnē]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...මම ... මිලට දෙන්නන්න[mama ... milata denannanna]
I'm just lookingමම පෙන්නවා[mama penna]
How much is it?එය කොහෙත් වැඩිය?[eya kohet vādiya?]
That's too expensiveඑය විශාලය[eya viśālaya]
Can you lower the price?මිල අවම කළ හැකිද?[mila avama kala hēkida?]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?දිනපියක් කුමක් වැඩිය?[dinapīyak kumak vādiya?]
It's one o'clockඑකට[ekata]
Half past (10)බත්[bath]
Morningපාන්දු[pandu]
Afternoonදවස[davasa]
Eveningසව්ව[savva]
Yesterdayඊයේ[īyē]
Todayඅද[ada]
Tomorrowහෙනක්[hēnak]
1එක[eka]
2දෙක[deka]
3තුන[thuna]
4හත්[hata]
5පහ[paha]
6හය[haya]
7හත[hatha]
8අට[ata]
9නත[nata]
10දහය[dahaya]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?... කොහෙත් තුල්ලෙන්?[... kohet tullēn?]
What's the address?ලිපිනය කුමක්?[lipinaya kumak?]
Can you show me (on the map)?මට ප්‍රස්ථාරයට පෙන්නන්න[mata prasthāraya penannanna]
When's the next (bus)?ඊළඟට කොහෙත්?[īlaṅgat kohet?]
A ticket (to ....)ටිකට් (එයට)[ṭikat (eyaṭa)]

History of Ella

Ancient Beginnings

Ella, a picturesque town in the Badulla District of Uva Province, Sri Lanka, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The region was part of the Ruhuna Kingdom, which flourished from the 3rd century BCE to the 13th century CE. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by early settlers who were engaged in agriculture and trade.

The Kandyan Kingdom Era

During the 16th to 19th centuries, Ella was under the influence of the Kandyan Kingdom, the last independent monarchy in Sri Lanka before British colonization. The region was known for its strategic importance and lush landscapes, which were used for agriculture and as a retreat by the Kandyan kings. The remnants of ancient temples and ruins in the area are a testament to this period.

Colonial Influence

Ella's modern history is deeply intertwined with the period of British colonization in Sri Lanka. With the arrival of the British in the 19th century, the region saw significant changes, particularly in agriculture. The British established tea plantations, transforming Ella into a major center for tea production. The construction of the railway line in the late 19th century, connecting Ella to other parts of Sri Lanka, facilitated the transport of tea and boosted the local economy.

Railway Engineering Marvel

One of Ella's most iconic landmarks is the Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the 'Bridge in the Sky.' Completed in 1921, this architectural marvel is a testament to the engineering prowess of the British colonial period. The bridge, made entirely of stone and cement without the use of steel, spans 91 meters and stands 24 meters high, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations and forests.

Ella in the Independence Era

Following Sri Lanka's independence in 1948, Ella continued to thrive as a center for tea production. The town gradually transformed into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its lush landscapes, cool climate, and historical significance. The shift towards tourism has led to the development of various amenities and attractions, making Ella a key highlight in Sri Lanka's travel circuit.

Cultural Heritage

Ella is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several ancient temples and historical sites, such as the Dhowa Rock Temple, which features a large unfinished Buddha statue carved into the rock face. These cultural landmarks offer a glimpse into the religious and artistic traditions of the region, adding depth to Ella's historical tapestry.

Contemporary Ella

Today, Ella is a vibrant town that seamlessly blends its historical roots with modern amenities. It is a hub for eco-tourism, attracting hikers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. The town's economy has diversified, with a focus on sustainable tourism and preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Ella continues to be a testament to Sri Lanka's rich history and dynamic future.

Ella in Photos

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Ella, Sri Lanka

Discover Ella with Evendo: A 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, hotels, tours, and more to make your trip unforgettable.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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More about the Evendo app

Explore Ella like never before with Evendo, your free app-based travel guide. Dive into detailed information on attractions, restaurants, hotels, and more, right at your fingertips.

  • History of Ella and travel essentials
  • Tons of local advice for a richer experience
  • Easy navigation through the app and the city
  • 'Near me' feature to locate nearby attractions and amenities
  • Curated local tips to experience Ella like a local
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs
  • Global coverage with information on over 7,000 destinations worldwide

Welcome to Ella, Sri Lanka, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With Evendo, your trip to Ella will be an unforgettable experience. Our app provides detailed information on the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants in Ella. Whether you're planning to visit the Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Falls, or the Ella Rock, Evendo has you covered with rich descriptions, images, local tips, maps, and contact details.

Food enthusiasts can explore the culinary delights at popular restaurants like Cafe Chill, Dream Cafe, and AK Ristoro. For those looking for a comfortable stay, our app offers easy booking options for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences, ensuring a hassle-free trip.

Evendo also features the history of Ella, travel essentials, and tons of local advice to help you get the most out of your visit. With our easy navigation and 'Near me' feature, you can effortlessly find attractions and amenities around you. Plus, curated local tips allow you to experience Ella like a local. And the best part? Evendo is 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs. Download Evendo today and start exploring Ella and over 7,000 other destinations worldwide!

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