Ella, Sri Lanka

About 200 kilometers from Colombo is the little town of Ella, which is situated in Sri Lanka's Hill Country. It is a well-liked vacation spot for travelers seeking some downtime. There are numerous waterfalls, lakes, and rivers close to the town, which is surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. Rock climbing, mountain riding, and hiking are all fantastic activities in Ella.
Ella is situated in the central highlands of Sri Lanka's Uva Province. At 1,041 meters (3,415 feet) above sea level, the settlement is located. Mountains such as Little Adam's Peak, Ella Rock, and Bambaragala Peak encircle Ella. A number of waterfalls, including Ravana Falls and Diyaluma Falls, can be found in the town.
Ella has a tropical environment, with warm temperatures and considerable humidity. The dry season, which lasts from November to April, is the greatest time to visit.
Things to do:
Hiking, bicycling, rock climbing, swimming, and exploring waterfalls are just a few of the activities available in Ella. Some of the most popular activities are as follows:
- Hike to Little Adam's Peak: This is a short, simple hike with beautiful views of the surrounding area. The round-trip climb takes nearly 2 hours.
- Visit the Nine Arch Bridge: This famous bridge is a significant tourist attraction. It was built in 1921 and is about 2 kilometers from the center of Ella.
- Visit the Ella Rock: This is a more difficult trek that provides panoramic views of the Ella Valley. The round-trip climb takes nearly 3 hours.
- Ravana Falls: These waterfalls are roughly 10 kilometers from the center of Ella. Hike to the top of the waterfall for spectacular views.
- Diyaluma Falls: The second-highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka are located here. From Ella's town center, they are around 15 kilometers away.
- Ella Gap: This picturesque vantage point provides breathtaking views of the nearby mountains. About 3 kilometers separate it from Ella's town center.
- The Blue Pool: This is a cave-based natural pool. It is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.
- Little Train Station: This little train station is popular among photographers. It is roughly a kilometer away from Ella's downtown.
- Go Rock Climbing: There are several places to go rock climbing nearby. A local store can assist you hire a guide.
Accommodations:
There are many types of accommodation available in Ella, Sri Lanka, to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Hotels: There are several mid-range and luxury hotels in Ella, offering a variety of amenities and services.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses are a popular option for budget travelers, offering basic but comfortable accommodations.
- Homestays: Homestays offer a unique opportunity to experience Sri Lankan culture and hospitality.
- Campgrounds: There are a few campgrounds in Ella, perfect for campers and backpackers.
No matter what your budget or preferences are, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation in Ella to suit your needs.
Here are some of the highly-rated accommodations in Ella:
- EKHO Ella: This luxurious hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- 98 Acres Resort & Spa: This award-winning resort features a spa, infinity pool, and lush gardens.
- The Mountain Heavens: This eco-friendly hotel offers stunning views of Ella Rock.
- Ella Flower Garden Resort: This family-friendly resort features a garden, playground, and barbecue facilities.
- Ella Planters Bungalow: This colonial-style bungalow is a popular choice for couples.
When choosing accommodation in Ella, it's important to consider your budget, preferences, and the activities you plan to do during your stay. If you're looking for a luxurious stay with stunning views, EKHO Ella or 98 Acres Resort & Spa are great options. If you're on a budget, Ella Flower Garden Resort or Ella Planters Bungalow are good choices. And if you're looking for a unique experience, a homestay or campground may be a better fit.
How to Reach:
There are many ways to reach Ella, Sri Lanka. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- By train: The train is a popular way to travel to Ella, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Trains depart from Colombo and Kandy, and the journey takes around 6 hours.
- By bus: The bus is a more affordable option, but the journey can be longer and more uncomfortable. Buses depart from Colombo, Kandy, and other major cities, and the journey can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours.
- By car: If you are traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage, renting a car is a good option. The roads in Sri Lanka can be quite chaotic, so it is important to be a confident driver. The journey from Colombo to Ella by car takes around 5 hours.
Once you arrive in Ella, you can explore the town on foot or by bicycle. There are also a number of tuk-tuks and taxis available.
Tags
ASIA AND MIDDLE EAST