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A Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Ella, Sri Lanka: What to See & Do

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Ella is a dreamy blend of waterfalls, jaw-dropping views, buzzing nightlife, and the cozy vibe of a small town hidden in Sri Lanka’s hills.

Every time I think of this place, I can’t help but sing that catchy French tune, “Ella, Ella, ehh…” (Anyone else?)

Situated in southern Sri Lanka, Ella is a favorite among travelers, whether they’re coming from the beaches or riding the famous scenic train from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy. One local described it to us as “a beach town without the beach,” and honestly, that’s the perfect description—chill, yet full of life.

While there’s plenty to do, don’t feel like you have to check off every activity. Some things are similar to what you’ll find in other parts of Sri Lanka, so take your time, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and make the most of your stay!

Things to Do in Ella

1. Sunrise at Ella Rock

Your day in Ella starts early with a trek to Ella Rock. The hike kicks off around 4:30–5:00 AM, and yes, you’ll be trekking in the dark, so hiring a guide is a good idea. You’ll reach the top just in time to watch the sunrise, and trust me—it’s worth it. We met a couple of Dutch travelers who braved it solo with a map, but we also heard about people getting lost. If you’re up before dawn, play it safe with a guide.

A guide also means you can take an alternate route back, stopping at other incredible viewpoints along the way. Pro tip: On your way down, swing by the beautiful 98 Acres Resort. Treat yourself to their infinity pool and enjoy a tasty buffet breakfast (about 2,500 LKR), all with breathtaking views of the Nine Arch Bridge.

2. Nine Arch Bridge

Speaking of iconic spots, the Nine Arch Bridge is a must-see. This stunning bridge is where you can snap that picture-perfect shot of the famous red-and-blue trains rolling across. It’s a popular spot, so head there by 7:00 AM for a quieter experience.

To get there, just pop “Nine Arch Bridge” into Google Maps and walk along the train tracks from Ella’s center—it’s around a 30-minute stroll. Once you hit the tunnel, the bridge is right on the other side.

If you don’t mind waiting, grab a fresh coconut or coffee from the nearby stalls while you wait for the train to pass—six cross the bridge daily.

We stayed at a guesthouse with a view of the bridge, which meant we had the perfect vantage point throughout the day. Check out our full guide on where to stay in Ella for more details.

3. Mini Adam’s Peak

Looking for an easier hike than Ella Rock? Mini Adam’s Peak is a short and sweet trail, ideal if you want a quick, rewarding hike without too much effort. The views are just as beautiful, and it’s perfect for a more relaxed morning.

We skipped this one since we already tackled Ella Rock at sunrise, but it’s a great option if you’re up for more exploring.

4. Tea Plantations at Lipton’s Seat

If you didn’t get enough of Sri Lanka’s famous tea plantations on the train ride or in Nuwara Eliya, head over to Lipton’s Seat. Located in Haputale, this spot offers sweeping views of the rolling green tea fields. Take a scenic train ride from Ella to Haputale, then catch a tuk-tuk up to Lipton’s Seat, named after the very same Lipton who started his tea empire right here.

5. Waterfalls

There are several waterfalls around Ella, but we decided to skip them. However, if you’re up for a waterfall adventure, check out Ravana Falls, just a short ride from town. For something more off the beaten path, drive about an hour to Dunhinda Falls for a more peaceful, remote experience.

Where to Eat in Ella

1. Chill Bar

This spot is a gem! With its chilled-out vibe and great menu, Chill Bar was our go-to for nearly every meal. It’s got a wide range of dishes—from American to Sri Lankan, Italian, Indian, and Thai. Even if you’re vegan, their burger (just ask for no mayo) is a must-try.

Honestly, I could’ve eaten here every day!

2. Rainbow Cafe

On Ella’s main street, Rainbow Cafe serves up an excellent selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. We loved the vegan burrito and fresh fruit juice, which was definitely worth the wait (they literally went out to get the fruit we requested).

3. Spice Bar

Quieter in the evenings than Chill Bar, Spice Bar is a great spot to meet friends for a meal. The vegan options are limited, but their simple tomato pasta hit the spot. Prices are a bit lower than Chill Bar, making it a good choice if you’re on a budget.

Where to Stay in Ella

Ella has two main options: you can either stay in the lively town center, close to all the bars and restaurants, or opt for a more peaceful guesthouse with stunning views.

Nine Arch View Guesthouse

We stayed at Nine Arch View Guesthouse, a charming spot run by a friendly young couple. Pubudu, their neighbor, was our guide for the Ella Rock hike, and the entire crew was so welcoming and helpful.

After the sunrise hike, we were treated to a giant breakfast—think massive fruit platters, vegetable omelets, and sweet coconut pancakes. The guesthouse only has two rooms, so book in advance, and remember, they only take cash!

The best part? It’s just a 5-minute walk to Nine Arch Bridge, and the rates are super affordable. It’s about a 500 LKR tuk-tuk ride from the station and only 200-300 LKR to get into town.

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Hey there!

I’m Reut Sugar, a travel addict who doesn’t want to quit!

From my solo female travels to my life as a digital nomad, I’m on a mission to uncover the coolest spots in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Peru, Israel, and beyond.

Whether you’re after off-the-beaten-path adventures, mindful travel tips, or delicious vegan eats, I’ve got you covered.

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