Ella Tour Packages

Ella is a small town in the picturesque hill country of Sri Lanka. With its stunning natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere, Ella is a popular tourist destination that offers something for everyone.

Nature lovers can explore the lush tea plantations, hike to the top of Ella Rock for breathtaking views, or dip in the refreshing waters of the Ravana Falls. History buffs can visit the Nine Arch Bridge, which was constructed during the British colonial period or learn about the local culture and traditions at the Ella Cultural Center. Food enthusiasts can indulge in delicious Sri Lankan cuisine at one of the many local restaurants, while adventure seekers can try rock climbing or zip-lining.

With its friendly locals and welcoming vibe, Ella is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

Best Experiences in Ella

Visit the Demodara Loop: The Demodara Loop is a fascinating engineering feat that is a must-see for train enthusiasts. The railway track loops around, creating a spiral that allows the train to ascend or descend the steep hillside. You can watch trains pass through the loop and take in stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Go on a waterfall trek: Ella is home to several beautiful waterfalls, and a waterfall trek is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside. Visitors can go on a guided trek that takes in several waterfalls, including the Diyaluma Falls, one of Sri Lanka's tallest waterfalls. You'll be able to swim in the cool waters and enjoy the stunning natural beauty.

Visit a tea factory: Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, and tea plantations surround Ella. Visitors can tour a local tea factory to learn about the production process and sample different tea varieties. You'll be able to see how tea is harvested, dried, and packaged and learn about the history and culture of tea in Sri Lanka.

Visit the Ella Spice Bazaar: The Ella Spice Bazaar is a great place to buy local spices, herbs, and teas. You can sample various blends and spices and buy them to take home as souvenirs. The bazaar also offers handmade crafts, jewelry, and clothing.

Enjoy the nightlife: Ella has a lively nightlife scene, with several bars and restaurants offering live music and entertainment. You can enjoy a night out and experience the local culture and music scene. Some popular spots include the Rainbow Cafe, Cafe Chill, and Cafe One Love.

Take a cooking class: Cooking classes are a fun and engaging way to learn about Sri Lankan cuisine. Several hotels and restaurants in Ella offer cooking classes, where you can learn to make traditional dishes such as curry, roti, and hoppers. You can sample the dishes you make and home recipes to try at home.

Places to Visit in Ella

Little Adam's Peak: Little Adam's Peak is a popular hiking destination in Ella that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. The hike to the top is relatively easy and takes around 30-45 minutes, making it a great option for all fitness levels. Once you reach the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking, beautiful views at sunrise or sunset.

Nine Arch Bridge: The Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ella. Built during the British colonial period, this impressive bridge spans a deep gorge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations and hills. You can watch trains pass over the bridge, stroll along the tracks, or admire the views.

Ravana Falls: The Ravana Falls is a beautiful waterfall located at a short distance from Ella town. The falls are awe-inspiring during the rainy season when the water flow is strongest. Visitors can take a rejuvenating dip in the cool waters or relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Ella Rock: Ella Rock is a challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hike takes around 2-3 hours, and the trail can be steep and rocky. However, the views from the top are well worth the effort.

Tea plantations: The lush tea plantations surrounding Ella are a must-see attraction for any visitor. Visitors can tour a local tea factory to learn about the production process and sample some of Sri Lanka's famous Ceylon tea. Alternatively, you can stroll through the plantations and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Ella Spice Garden: The Ella Spice Garden is a great place to learn about the exotic spices and herbs in Sri Lanka. Visitors can book a guided tour of the gardens to learn about the plants and their medicinal properties. You can also sample some spices and herbs in traditional Sri Lankan dishes.

Ella Gap: The Ella Gap is a natural gap in the hills that offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a short walk to the viewpoint to witness the stunning views of the valley and the surrounding hills. The views are breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.

How Long Will It Take to Get the Best out of Your Trip to Ella?

The time you need to get the best out of your trip to Ella will depend on your travel style and preferences. However, spending at least one or two full days in Ella to explore the area fully is recommended. This will give you sufficient time to see the main sights, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the local culture.

If you're interested in trekking, consider spending an additional day or two in Ella to explore the surrounding countryside fully. Similarly, if you're interested in tea plantations and the tea culture of Sri Lanka, consider spending some extra time in Ella to visit a tea factory or take a tea plantation tour.

Best Time to Visit Ella

The best time to visit Ella is during the dry season, which runs from December to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the clear skies make it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and sightseeing. The temperature during the day averages around 25-28 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable to explore the town and its surroundings.

However, to see the lush green landscapes and waterfalls in their full glory, you should visit Ella during the monsoon season, which runs from April to November. The rain can be heavy, but it also creates a beautiful, verdant landscape ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

It's worth noting that Ella can get crowded during peak season, especially around Christmas and New Year, so if you prefer a quieter experience, you might want to consider visiting during the shoulder season, which runs from April to June and September to November. During this period, you can still enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making exploring the town and its surroundings at your own pace easier.

Why Should You Buy Packages for Ella?

Terrain Challenges: Ella is characterized by hilly and often rugged terrain. Navigating through the winding roads and steep pathways can be challenging, especially for travelers unfamiliar with the area. Package tours typically include transportation with experienced drivers who are accustomed to the local topography, ensuring a safer and more comfortable journey.

Weather Variability: Ella's climate can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in weather. Rainfall, mist, and varying temperatures are common challenges. Tour packages often come with experienced guides who can adjust the itinerary based on weather conditions, maximizing the chances of enjoying clear views and avoiding discomfort during adverse weather.

Limited Infrastructure: While Ella is a popular tourist destination, some areas may have limited infrastructure. This includes basic facilities and services. Package tours are designed to address these challenges by providing well-planned itineraries, accommodations with necessary amenities, and access to reliable transportation, reducing potential inconveniences.

Cultural and Language Differences: The local culture in Ella may be different from what travelers are accustomed to, and language barriers can be a challenge. Opting for a package with local guides helps bridge this gap. Guides can facilitate interactions with the local community, ensuring a more enriching cultural experience and minimizing potential miscommunications.

Accessibility Issues: Some of Ella's attractions, such as remote waterfalls and viewpoints, may be challenging to access independently. Package tours often include these off-the-beaten-path locations with guides who know the area well, ensuring that travelers can explore hidden gems without concerns about getting lost or facing accessibility issues.

Safety Concerns during Outdoor Activities: Ella offers various outdoor activities like hiking and trekking, which may pose safety challenges, especially for solo travelers. Package tours prioritize safety by providing experienced guides who are trained in first aid and are familiar with the trails, minimizing the risk of accidents or getting lost.

Accommodation Availability: Due to Ella's popularity, finding suitable accommodations can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist seasons. Package tours usually include pre-booked accommodations, ensuring that travelers have a comfortable place to stay without the stress of last-minute arrangements.

Local Regulations and Customs: Navigating local regulations and customs can be challenging, impacting the overall travel experience. Tour packages often include guides who are well-versed in local customs, ensuring that travelers are respectful and aware of cultural nuances, minimizing the risk of unintentional cultural faux pas.