Understand

Nestled in the heart of the mesmerizing hill country, lies Ella, the go-to town for inquisitive tourists. Boasting breathtaking landscapes of vegetable plots in the valleys, tea plantations adorning the hill slopes, and lush forests crowning the hilltops, Ella is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Delight in the scenic beauty while enjoying a cup of fine espresso coffee or savoring traditional fish and chips at one of the charming lounge/backpacker-style bars designed exclusively for visitors. However, be prepared for the rise in popularity, as it has contributed to higher prices. The climate follows the typical pattern of the high Hill Country, with a sunny and warm day, occasional afternoon showers, and cool evenings that may require a light jacket. As you explore the locality, you'll find a handful of small shops and a selection of bars and restaurants. Ella is the perfect base for a relaxing stay as you embark on extraordinary adventures in the surrounding countryside. Don't miss the remarkable train journey to Badulla, where the railway line performs an awe-inspiring 360-degree loop at the village of Demodara before crossing over itself. Ella houses a small post office and the Bank of Ceylon, which provides banking services and an ATM.

Get in

If you're looking for an adventurous way to reach Ella, why not hop on a train? The railway line through the Hill Country offers stunning views and ridiculously cheap fares. You can catch a train to Colombo or Kandy from Ella, and the journey is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Don't worry about finding a seat in 2nd or 3rd class when heading to Colombo or Kandy, as the trains from Badulla are usually quite empty. However, going up to Ella can be crowded until the last few hours of the journey. You'll be charmed by the prettily quaint Ella railway station. If train rides aren't your thing, you can also travel to Ella by road. Buses pass through Ella Gap, taking you south to Wellawaya where you can change for various destinations in the south of the island. There's even a direct bus service to Matara and Galle, stopping at stunning locations along the south coast. Another option is the direct route 99 from Colombo to Haputale, Bandarawela, and finally Badulla. From Bandarawela, plenty of buses are available to take you to Ella.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Hoppers, also known as appam, are a staple breakfast item in Sri Lanka. These thin, pancake-like crepes are made from fermented rice flour batter and coconut milk, giving them a unique texture and flavor. They are typically eaten savory, often accompanied by spicy dahl curry, fish or chicken fillings, and a side of lunu miris - a tangy chili sauce.

Kottu roti is a popular street food found all over Sri Lanka. It consists of flattened wheat dough, cooked on a griddle until crispy, then cut into strips. The dish is typically prepared by stir-frying the cut roti with spices, vegetables, and your choice of meat (such as chicken, beef, or fish) or made vegetarian. This hearty and filling meal is known for its bold flavors and satisfying textures.

String Hoppers, also known as "hoppers string," are another popular dish in Sri Lankan cuisine. Made from fermented coconut milk and rice flour batter, these noodle-like strands of hoppers are thin and delicate. They are usually served as a snack or light meal, accompanied by various curries, lunu miris, and sometimes with a sprinkling of sugar and grated coconut for a sweet twist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing