Bambarakanda Falls Hike & Tea Plantation Visit

The Nine Arches Bridge is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Sri Lanka and amongst the top places to visit in Ella. There is an interesting story behind this bridge. When the British stopped the construction of this bridge mid-way due to lack of steel during World War 1, the locals constructed it using stone and bricks. The bridge has stood strong without a single piece of steel since then. The setting of the bridge is extremely charming and is amongst the most popular tourist places in Ella. It is located inside a dense forest near a quaint little village with tea plantations surrounding it. Watching the old world trains pass through this bridge is a sight most loved by the tourists. Location: Between Ella and Damodara StationTimings: The bridge is approachable all day around. However, early morning sunrise is the best time to visit. Price: There is no entry fee.

Sri Lanka is abundant with the legends of Ramayana. So much so that even the natural landscapes have compelling stories associated with them. The Ravana Falls and the nearby caves are said to be some of the places where the demon god Ravana hid. These legends and the striking landscape of this Ella attraction pulls many travellers to them. The waterfall is around 82 ft. in height and is layered in three tiers. The third tier is approachable after a sharp rock climb and rewards with some amazing views of the dense greens and the rocky landscape. Location: A 23, Ravana Wildlife Sanctuary, EllaTimings: March- June, December- FebruaryPrice: There is no entry fee

Ravana’s Cave is a place of the legends and amongst the top places to visit in Ella. As per Hindu mythology, it is said that Ravana had hidden Sita in this cave after kidnapping her. Legends apart, the natural scenic beauty of this cave, located at a height of around 4,500 ft.) attracts hikers and adventure seekers from all over the world. This caving activity is exciting, as one has to climb around 1,000 steps to reach the huge cave. Travellers love to spend time in the cool dark interiors of the cave and amidst the dense greenery. Location: Bandarawela- Wellawaya Road, EllaTimings: Best time to visit is early morning or evening to escape the heat. The caves are open all year round. Price: LKR 150, INR 58

Ella Rock is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Ella amongst the most interesting places to visit in Ella. A three-hour easy trek will take you further into the luxuriantly dense forested countryside of Ella attractions. During the trek up till the rock, you will see beautiful tea plantations and get a chance to interact with the tea planters. Once atop the rock, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the morning sun rising from behind the lush hills. You will get a bird’s eye view of the scenic valleys rolling for miles. Travellers love to spend some quiet time in peace atop the rock in this popular tourist place in Ella.Location: Wellawaya-Ella-Kumbalwela highway, EllaTimings: The best time for this hike is early morning around 5:30 amPrice: LKR 3,800, INR 1,500

Ceylon Tea Factory is actually a restaurant, which has been named this way so as to intrigue and educates travellers about the tea making heritage of Sri Lanka. It is one of the most popular restaurants in the whole of the country, and not only Ella. Here, you can taste traditional Sri Lankan curries & hot rice, along with international cuisines and drinks. The restaurant also has a tea bar that makes hundreds of varieties of teas. Gluten-free meals are also available here. Location: no. 4, Passara Road, EllaTimings: Every day 11:00 am- 10:00 pmPrice: A meal for two costs around LKR 2,290, INR 900.

Due to its natural landscape, Ella has many quaint and rustic hiking trails. Little Adam’s Peak is one such popular trail that should not be missed. It is a short 50-60 minutes trek that takes you through the world famous tea plantations of the region. The greenery is a respite to the eyes and the intoxicating fragrance of the tea leaves further adds to the experience. Once you reach the top of the Little Adam’s Peak, you will see a Buddha statue backdropped against the mountains. Location: Ella- Passara Road, Ella 90090Timings: The best time for the hike is at sunrise or the sunset. The peak is approachable all year around.Price: There is no entry fee. 

Sri Lanks is known around the world for its tranquil and peaceful spiritual destinations, and the Dhowa Rock Temple is one of the best Ella attractions. Said to be around 2,000 years old, this temple is famous for its huge 39 ft. unfinished statue of Buddha. The rock art and murals in this temple are amazing sights. You might run into some monks here who will be more than happy to tell you stories about the Temple. Surrounded by lush greenery, the temple transports the visitors into a peaceful trance. Location: Bandarawela- Ella RoadTimings: 8:00- 5:00 pmPrice: There is no entry fee, but you can leave a donation at the temple

The Mahamevnawa Monastery is one of the most important and revered Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka founded by Ven. Kiribathgoda Gnanananda Thero and is amongst the top places to visit in Ella. This monastery serves as an educational institution for young people and adults who want to be ordained as monks. Sri Lankan artists have adorned the Monastery with striking carvings, murals, and painting. Here, you can not only talk freely to the monks but also take personalised meditation lectures from them. Listening to the reverberating Buddhist hymns amidst the peaceful environs is a tranquil experience. Location: Bandarawela, EllaTimings: 8:00 am- 9:00 pm every day of the weekPrice: There is no entry fee