2025 Ella Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

The streets of Sri Lanka themselves are a unique attraction, allowing visitors to experience the daily lives of locals up close. Walking down the street, one can see bustling small shops, colorful advertisements, and busy motorcycles and small trucks weaving through traffic. At the same time, leisurely strolling cows become part of the urban landscape, creating a stark contrast with the passing vehicles and showcasing the unique rhythm of local life. People chat, repair vehicles, or wait for business at the shop entrances, with every detail reflecting the daily pace of the locals. For travelers who enjoy exploring cultural landscapes, the streets of Sri Lanka offer the most authentic travel experience. No tickets are needed, and there are no specific routes to follow; just wander around and you will feel the charm of this land.

When I saw the fascinating photo of the Nine Arch Bridge, I was determined to visit this dreamlike place in person. After arriving, we walked along a forest trail In order to capture its most beautiful side, we spent a lot of time exploring the surroundings and constantly adjusting the angles. The moment the shutter button is pressed, all the efforts are worth it and the journey becomes more memorable. #2024TravelReview #Jiugong Bridge #Sri Lanka Travel #Natural Scenery

Ella, located in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is a charming town full of natural beauty. Its stunning landscapes and relaxed atmosphere make it a favorite among backpackers. The most famous attractions here include the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. Climbing Little Adam's Peak in the early morning, surrounded by tea plantations and mountains, offers breathtaking views of the sea of clouds and sunrise from the summit, making it a paradise for photographers. The Nine Arches Bridge is another must-see spot. You can either walk through the tea plantations to reach it or wait to capture the iconic moment when a train crosses the bridge. After your adventure, relax with a cup of freshly brewed Sri Lankan tea at one of the town's cafes. For food lovers, Ella has many local restaurants offering traditional curry rice and roti at affordable prices. In the evening, head to a local bar to enjoy live music and share travel stories with other travelers. For transportation, it is recommended to take the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy to Ella, known as one of the most beautiful train routes in the world. Ella is not only a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city but also an excellent choice for exploring Sri Lankan culture and nature. Whether you enjoy hiking, photography, or simply want to relax, Ella offers an unforgettable experience!

Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka was a magical experience. 🌉 The bridge, with its grand design and nine arches, stands out amidst breathtaking scenery and dense greenery 🌿. I enjoyed walking around the bridge and taking photos because the beautiful landscape blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature 🏞️. The occasional passing train adds to the charm and fame of the bridge 🚂. The Nine Arch Bridge is an ideal place to enjoy the scenery and capture beautiful moments.

📍Nine Arches Bridge, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 In the city of Ella in Sri Lanka, there is a tourist spot called Nine Arches Bridge! Ella and Nuwara Eliya are also the leading tea producing areas in Sri Lanka, and the trains that pass through here are also called tea trains 🌿 You can enter the tracks and take photos, but you need to be careful. I was at Asanka Cafe near the bridge, drinking fruit juice and slowly looking at the bridge. Recommended for those who want to relax and unwind. #SriLanka #TravelingWithMe #TravelingSolo #OverseasTravel

During my trip to the Nine Arch Bridge in Sri Lanka, I was deeply impressed by the beauty of the country and especially this magnificent archaeological landmark. Upon arriving at the bridge, I was excited to see what a testament to the region's ancient history it was. Look at the massive arches and structures that reflect ancient traditions, I truly admired the splendor of the landscape around me, adorned with rich greenery and beautiful natural spaces. I was amazed and respected the beauty and geometric strength of the bridge, and enjoyed moments of tranquility and serenity, reflecting the beauty and history of nature surrounding the bridge. Visiting the Nine Arch Bridge was a magical and unique experience because it left a connection with Sri Lanka's cultural and natural heritage.

#wheretogo Ella is one of the popular stops along the scenic train route between Kandy and Badulla in Sri Lanka. Located just a stone's throw away from Ella train station, Mandala Cafe and Bar is the perfect place to chill if you have some time to kill before catching your train. The cafe is open 24/7. It is quiet during the day and gets livelier as night falls. We chilled for some time at the cafe while waiting for the rain to stop. The cafe serves a wide selection of drinks as well as local and western food. Decorated with posters of musician Bob Marley, the cafe has a cozy atmosphere with lots of comfortable sofas, bean bags, beds and even swing seats. Location: Mandala Cafe and Bar 18 Ella Station Rd, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka #srilanka #ella #cafe #restaurant #bar #tripblazers

🇱🇰 Our two-night stay in Ella Mount View Guest Inn was nothing but awesome! We stayed in the only room on the top floor with a huge extended balcony which offered the best view of the surrounding mountains and unobstructed starry night sky. We were also pleasantly surprised to have fireflies hanging around the balcony and some even stayed overnight on the mosquito net of the bed. The guest house is located on a steep slope about 700 m from the main road of Ella town. The rooms are not air-conditioned since the weather in Ella is generally cool. We had hearty and delicious breakfast served in the restaurant. The owner and the staff were hospitable and helpful. Location: V2CW+99 Ella, Sri Lanka #srilanka #ella #mountainview #guesthouse #restaurant #balcony #fireflies #tripblazers

I had an incredible 1 week trip in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 I took the most scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella. The very first thing I did the next morning is to make sure to climb up the Little Adam’s Peak. Woke up at 5:15am and left our homestay at 5:30am, started to walk and was very amazed that I have finally touched some real live tea leaves 🍃 It may be still dark during this time however, the sounds of the birds while walking and the nature sounds is just so soothing. I am really stunned when I saw the Ella Rock, what a beauty! 👀 It’s an easy walk going up, and of course, I had to try the popular Orange King Coconut from Sri Lanka. The sunrise view is just breathtaking! Make sure to check the sunrise time, during that time, it was around 5:50am, as you can tell, I had to climb up TWICE, and the second time is just as sweet as the first one. I was sooooo incredibly happy to be able to come to this place. #mytripvlog #bucketlistreboot #campingglamping #srilanka #ellarock #awesomepic #2023travelwish #summervacation #passionpassport

#mountainview The Kandy to Ella train ride is arguably the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka, if not in the world! Highlight - On the train from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya to Ella, you will experience breathtaking views of lush green tea plantations, mountains, viaducts, valleys, and dense jungle. What’s more, it’s the perfect way to experience Sri Lankan life. You will meet smiling locals on the train, you can wave to the running children along the tracks, and eat the spicy snacks sold by vendors who board at each stop. After spending several days in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, I boarded the train in Eliya. I was on a slow train and it took almost four hours to reach Ella. But honestly, I didn’t even want the train to arrive that fast at all. I remember after about one hour on the train, it moves higher and higher up into the rolling green highlands where the big tea farms are and many beautiful hilltop villages and waterfalls. The views were so stunning that I constantly felt like I stepped into a postcard. I can’t wait to go back to this beautiful little country and experience everything all over again. #naturalwonders #awesomepic #tigeryear2022

if you are in Sri Lanka, please consider to hike this place, Ella Rock. It is one of the beautiful viewpoints in Sri Lanka. However Ella Rock isn’t a very easy hike to do compared to Adam's Peak. reason being is mainly because of the lack of clear directions indicating the trail. We were lucky to have met a local uncle that voluntarily offered himself as a guide. We tipped him quite a lot knowing that we'd be able to save lots of times and most importantly, an official photgrapher for us. yeay The hike is approximately a 10km round trip, which took us around 4 hours. The terrain itself isn’t particularly hard but i can assure you will enjoy the luscious tea plantation, a stream & the abundance of faunas on the way up which promises you a grand vista of the earth #ellarock #hiking #srilanka

Ella is great landscape#foodie#

With around 15 minute walk through the forest located just a 5-10 minute from the Main Street of Ella, Nine Arch Bridge is a must visit! Simply beautiful architecture, Nine Arch Bridge was built by the British with its nine stunning arches. It is located between Ella & Demodara station. Trains pass the bridge about 6 times a day. The exact times change all the time in Sri Lanka but there should be one every hour. unfortunately when we arrived here, it was quite late in the evening and it was starting to rain heavily that we didnt get to wait for the train. we took the tuk tuk on the way back because we will get all soaked with the heavy rain. #scenictrain #ninearches

nine arches bridge Ella#welcome to visit Sri Lanka#most senic train 🚆 ride#travelinspiration #travelsnacks #travelcompanion#travelblockbuster#travelstories#holidayhotel#holidayvacation#trip#naturalwonders#photo #photographyguide#photooftheday #

Nine Arch bridge in Ella #tripinspired

we trek this Adam peak to see the sunrise you can't believe the sunrise to be this kind of beautiful and we are so much fortunate that during our visit we saw a rainbow #happynewyear

The 9 Arch bridge deep in the tropical jungles of Sri Lanka. I waited for aboiut an hour for this blue train to come over the bridge! Definitely worth the wait.

This trip was truly unforgettable! We spent two packed days exploring the beauty around Badulla and immersing ourselves in the natural wonders of Sri Lanka. Itinerary & Attractions: We started with a safari in Yala National Park – an incredible experience, especially spotting peacocks, deer, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Then we visited Yala Sanctuary Beach, a quiet and scenic spot perfect for relaxing. Photo Opportunities & Atmosphere: Every stop offered great photo spots – from lush jungles and serene lakes to golden beaches. The landscape was simply breathtaking. Transport & Cuisine: We traveled by rental car, which gave us the flexibility to explore at our own pace. Along the way, we enjoyed delicious local cuisine – especially fresh seafood and coconut-based dishes. Accommodation: We stayed at Walaa Kulu – A Villa by 98 Acres. A cozy, peaceful place with stunning views, ideal for unwinding after a full day of adventures. Tips for Travelers: – Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom. – Go on safari early in the morning to see more animals. – Don’t forget insect repellent and sunscreen.

Fmous nine arches bridge ! Ella, Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 #srilanka #ella

#cityplaybook #familytrip #localguides #postandearn Sri Lanka is not just a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after you leave. From golden beaches and ancient ruins to misty mountains and warm smiles, this small island offers a world of wonders packed into one unforgettable journey. I started in Colombo, where the sea breeze blends with the scent of spices. The capital is vibrant—chaotic, yes—but layered with colonial charm, bustling markets, and a growing arts scene. A short train ride later, I was gliding along the coast to Galle, and that journey alone—waves crashing beside the tracks—was enough to take my breath away. Galle Fort, with its Dutch-colonial walls and quiet cobbled lanes, felt like stepping into a storybook. At sunset, locals and travelers alike gathered on the ramparts to watch the sky blush over the Indian Ocean. It was calm, human, beautiful. Then came Ella—green, peaceful, and otherworldly. I hiked Little Adam’s Peak, watched clouds roll over tea plantations, and sipped fresh Ceylon tea in wooden cabins perched over valleys. The train to Ella is one of the most scenic rides on Earth—lush, rolling hills, waterfalls, waving children… pure magic. In the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, history whispered from every stone. I climbed the Lion Rock Fortress at dawn and felt a kind of stillness I hadn’t known I needed. Sri Lankan food was a love affair—spicy curries, coconut sambol, string hoppers, and tropical fruits I couldn’t name but devoured. And everywhere I went, the people welcomed me with generosity and grace. Best Time to Visit South and West coasts: December to March North and East coasts: May to September Helpful Tips Dress modestly at temples and carry a scarf. Don’t miss a local home-cooked rice & curry meal. Tuk-tuks are the best way to explore small towns. Location: Sri Lanka – South Asia #SereneSriLanka #IslandOfWonder #CeylonChronicles #LionRockMagic #TrainToElla #GalleFortVibes #TeaCountryTrails #SacredLandscapes #SpiceAndSoul #ExploreSriLanka

Visiting the Nine Arches Bridge in Ella was one of the highlights of my trip to Sri Lanka. Tucked away amidst lush greenery and rolling hills, this iconic bridge is a masterpiece of colonial-era architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting the hill country. I reached the bridge by taking a short, scenic walk through a quiet jungle path and tea plantations. The trail itself was peaceful and beautiful, giving me a real sense of Ella’s charm. Once I arrived, I was struck by how majestic the bridge looked with its nine perfectly curved arches rising over the dense jungle below. The best part of the visit was timing it right to see the train pass over the bridge. It felt like something out of a movie. There’s a magical stillness in the air just before the train arrives, and then the rumble of the engine adds a sense of drama to the breathtaking landscape. It’s a moment I’ll never forget. There are several small cafes nearby where you can relax and take in the view. I sat with a cup of Ceylon tea, just soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating the serene beauty of the place. If you’re planning to visit Ella, make sure to check the train schedule in advance and go early to beat the crowds. This spot is absolutely worth the effort. #SriLanka #NineArchesBridge #EllaAdventures #TrainView #Wanderlust #TravelSriLanka #NatureLovers #ScenicViews #CeylonVibes #HiddenGems

Ella’s famous train ride in Sri Lanka is a must-see! Walking from town to the Nine Arches Bridge is peaceful and full of greenery. It will take around 20-30 minutes to reach there by walking. Trees, hills, and fresh air surround the path, I absolutely loved the experience! The bridge itself is stunning, and watching the train cross is magical. It’s the perfect mix of nature and adventure. It is definitely a beautiful experience for any traveler visiting Sri Lanka. Highly recommended! . . . #postandearn #srilanka #asia #ella #ellatrain #ninearchesbridge #srilankatrip #srilankatravel #landscape #greenery #train #ellastation

Ella is a place famous for its unique 9 arch bridge where many people coming mostly for taking pictures as a part of the tour. But actually this a perfect place for slow travel: a place where you can slow down and enjoy the moment. The unique feature of Ella is hotels facing the train and the bridge, booking such hotel you will not have any crowds and noise aid many people around you. You can just sit on your balcony and enjoy the passing trains drinking a cup of coffee. Watching the sunset, then stare at the passing trains with its lights in the darkness and greet the sunrise together with the nature. Such a perfect place to rush and just take your time. The hotels vary and maybe of different prices, here is the one captured on the pictures: 🏨: View Arch Wood Cabin 📍Address: Ella - Passara Road,4thmile, 90090 Ella, Sri Lanka #slowtravel #ella #srilankatrip #Srilanka

🇱🇰 one of the best moment in Sri lanka! Travelled from 9.45am to 6pm from Kandy to Ella by the local train 🚞 to view the highlight of the trip - 9 Arch Bridge. It needs 30 min walking from Ella Railway station, on its trail to reach the destination. Safe and sound, you can get the train schedule from the hotel to catch the best camera shot on the bridge! 📷 #srilanka #ella #ninearchesbridge #railway

Ella, a scenic hill town in Sri Lanka, is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers. Surrounded by rolling tea plantations and misty peaks, it offers unforgettable trails like the challenging hike to Ella Rock, known for its sweeping views. Explore Little Adam’s Peak, the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, and lush jungle paths—Ella is where adventure, serenity, and culture beautifully collide. #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo #ella #srilanka #spring

#springwander In spring, which corresponds to the months of March, April, and May in Sri Lanka, the weather is generally warm and dry, making it an excellent time to explore various destinations across the island. Here are some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka during spring: 1. **Kandy**: Known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Kandy is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. In spring, you can witness the famous Esala Perahera festival, which usually takes place in July or August, but preparations and rehearsals start in spring. 2. **Nuwara Eliya**: Often referred to as "Little England," Nuwara Eliya boasts cool temperatures and lush greenery, making it a popular retreat during spring. Visitors can explore tea plantations, enjoy scenic walks, and experience the colorful blooms of the Gregory Lake Park. 3. **Ella**: Nestled amidst picturesque mountains and tea estates, Ella offers breathtaking views and a laid-back atmosphere. Spring is an ideal time to hike to popular attractions like Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak, and the Nine Arch Bridge, surrounded by blooming flowers and lush landscapes.

Sri Lanka is one of those places that has a bit of everything—stunning beaches, lush jungles, ancient temples, and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re exploring the misty hills of Ella, wandering through the ruins of Anuradhapura, or relaxing on the beaches of Mirissa, every part of the country feels like a new adventure. One of the best ways to experience Sri Lanka is by train. The ride from Kandy to Ella, passing through tea plantations and rolling hills, is easily one of the most scenic in the world. Wildlife lovers can head to Yala or Udawalawe National Park to spot elephants, leopards, and countless bird species. The food is another highlight—spicy curries, fresh seafood, and delicious hoppers (crispy bowl-shaped pancakes) are everywhere. And despite being a small island, Sri Lanka’s landscapes change fast, making it easy to go from mountains to beaches in just a few hours. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take it all in, and always find something new to explore.