Top 5 Must-Visit Places in Ella, Sri Lanka: An Ultimate Guide

July 12, 2025   |   Ella Rides

Ella, a charming hill-country town in Sri Lanka, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Famous for its lush tea plantations, breathtaking views, and laid-back vibe, it’s a destination that captivates every traveler. If you're wondering what to prioritize, here is our ultimate guide to the top 5 must-visit places in Ella.

1. Little Adam's Peak

An iconic and relatively easy hike, Little Adam’s Peak offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the region. The trail winds through vibrant tea plantations where you can see local tea pluckers at work. The final ascent involves a series of steps leading to the summit, where you're rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Ella Gap and the surrounding valleys. It’s the perfect spot to catch a spectacular sunrise or sunset.

Pro-Tip: The best time to hike is early in the morning to avoid the crowds and midday heat. The entire round trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

2. The Nine Arch Bridge

A true architectural marvel from the colonial era, the Nine Arch Bridge is one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks. Surrounded by dense jungle and tea fields, this massive bridge creates a picture-perfect scene. You can walk along the railway tracks, explore the area, and, if you time it right, watch the famous blue train chugging across the bridge. It's a magical experience you won't want to miss.

Pro-Tip: Check the train schedule in advance to time your visit perfectly for that iconic photo. A great viewpoint is from the surrounding tea fields or from one of the nearby cafes.

3. Ella Rock (Ella Kanda)

For those seeking a more challenging trek, the hike to the summit of Ella Rock is a rewarding adventure. The trail takes you through quiet woodlands and steep ascents, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth the effort. From the peak, you'll get an unparalleled 360-degree view of the entire region, including Little Adam’s Peak and the Ella Gap. The round trip takes about 3-4 hours.

Pro-Tip: The trail can be a bit tricky to navigate, so consider hiring a local guide or using a reliable GPS map. Starting your hike early in the morning is highly recommended.

4. Ravana Falls & Ravana's Cave

A stunning waterfall with a rich history, Ravana Falls is a popular spot located just a short drive from Ella town. The falls cascade down a rocky face, creating a beautiful spectacle. You can take a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base, but be cautious during the rainy season as the currents can be strong. Nearby, you can also explore Ravana's Cave, a site steeped in Hindu mythology and linked to the legendary King Ravana.

Pro-Tip: The falls are most impressive during the wet season (April to June), but the pools are safer for swimming during the dry season.

5. Lipton's Seat

Take a day trip to the breathtaking Lipton's Seat viewpoint, where the famous tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton once surveyed his vast tea estates. The panoramic views from this spot are simply spectacular, stretching for miles over rolling hills of tea plantations. On a clear day, you can see as far as the southern coast. The drive to Lipton's Seat is an adventure in itself, taking you through some of Sri Lanka's most beautiful tea country.

Pro-Tip: For the best views, aim to arrive at sunrise before the mist rolls in. You can book a comfortable day trip with Ella Rides to make the journey easy and enjoyable.