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

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.

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.

"Welcome to your home away from home in the heart of Ella! ✨ Nestled amidst lush greenery, our cozy retreat offers breathtaking views, warm hospitality, and an escape into nature like no other. Whether it’s a peaceful morning on the veranda or a magical evening under the stars, this is where unforgettable memories begin. 🌿🏡 DM for Bookings 🔺Location - Ella, Sri Lanka 🔺Contact - +9470 360 1606 +9470 360 1613 🔺Gmail - 3archshimmervilla@gmail.com #EllaSriLanka #ScenicStay #NatureRetreat #CozyGetaway"

8:06 Day Tours Multiday Tours Things To Do Transfers Rent A Car Maldives Home Things To Do NINE ARCH BRIDGE NINE ARCH BRIDGE The Nine Arch Bridge, also called as the Bridge in the Sky, is a bridge in Sri LankaLocally it is known as ‘Ahas Namaye Palama’ meaning nine skies bridge in Sinhala. The name derives from the visual experience. . It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country.The construction of the bridge is generally attributed to a local Ceylonese builder, P. K. Appuhami, in consultation with British engineers. The chief designer and project manager of the 'upcountry railway line of Ceylon' project was D. J. Wimalasurendra, a distinguished Ceylonese engineer and inventor. The designer of the viaduct was Harold Cuthbert Marwood of Railway Construction Department of Ceylon Government Railway. The 1923 report titled "Construction of a Concrete Railway Viaduct in Ceylon" published by the Engineering Association of Ceylon has details of all the records including the plans and drawings. It is located in Demodara, between Ella and Demodara railway stations. Popular rumours suggest that when construction work commenced on the bridge, the Great War began between the empires of Europe and the steel assigned for this site was reallocated to Britain's War related projects at the battlefront. As a result, the work came to a standstill, leading the locals build the bridge with stone bricks and cement, but without steel.

📍Location: Ella, Sri Lanka🇱🇰 Ella is a small town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, and is a popular tourist spot due to its beautiful natural scenery and relaxed atmosphere📸 The area around Ella is hilly, and many hiking trails are unpaved, so we recommend trekking shoes or comfortable walking shoes. Ella is known for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, and is a place where you can deeply experience Sri Lankan culture and scenery through walks and hikes. When you visit, be sure to explore these spots and fully enjoy their charm🇱🇰 The fourth photo is Lamp Rice A traditional Sri Lankan dish, rice and multiple curries are served on a banana leaf. I recommend a restaurant called "Cafe Chill"! #0 yen trip February 2025

📍Location: Ella, Sri Lanka🇱🇰 Nine Arches Bridge 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Price per person: Free The side of the tracks is crowded with many tourists at the time when the train passes. The scene of walking on the tracks is just like the world of the movie Stand by Me. It's about a 20-30 minute walk from the bus stop, but there are tuk-tuks, so women can feel safe. Please go there in search of the scenery that can only be seen here. #0yentravelFebruary2025 #SriLankatrip #SriLankatourism

#celebrateit The "Nine Arch Bridge", a brick railway arch bridge about 92 metres long and 25 metres high between Ella Station and Demodala Station of the Sri Lankan Railway, as its name suggests, is a beautiful bridge with 9 arcs and tea fields spread over the ridge. The track is also used as a sidewalk, so it is possible to walk on the bridge, and if you look at the arch from directly below, you will be surprised by the level of technology. In addition to the superb view of the bridge, it is also the best thing to enjoy the train running in front of you. There are many delays, so if you want to photograph the train, we recommend that you visit with a relaxed itinerary.

Below the Indian subcontinent, there is an island country that looks like a crystal pendant. That is Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. In that remote place, in addition to the coastal train that many people have seen, there are also rich historical relics and natural scenery. In just 6 days, you can feel the unique charm of this island country DAY 1: Arrive in Colombo → Galle | First sight of sea breeze and ancient castle 🌟 Highlights: Galle Old Town, seaside city wall, pink post office Arrive at Colombo Airport (BIA), take a train or charter car (about 2 hours) to the southern European-style coastal city of Galle Check in Galle Fort and explore the alleys of Galle Old Town; go to Unawatuna Beach in the evening, drink coconut water, and watch a romantic sunset. 📌 Accommodation recommendation: A characteristic B&B or seaside hotel in the old town of Galle, within walking distance of the ancient city! DAY 2: Mirissa → Whale Watching & Coconut Swing 🌟 Highlights: Whale watching at sea, pink sand beach, the most beautiful coconut grove Depart in the morning and head to Mirissa, one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. You can take a boat out to sea and have the opportunity to see blue whales, sperm whales and dolphins! (It is recommended to book the boat ticket in advance) At noon, return to the beach and find a seaside restaurant to have a Sri Lankan curry + freshly squeezed mango juice, which is super satisfying! In the afternoon, we went to Secret Beach, which is a small private beach with few people and beautiful scenery! Check out Sri Lanka’s internet-famous swing: Go to the famous Coconut Tree Hill, stand on the small hillside in the coconut grove, and enjoy the unbeatable sea view. Every shot you take will be a blockbuster! 📌 Recommended accommodation: Mirissa Beach Hotel, enjoy the sound of waves as you fall asleep! DAY 3: Ella → Take the most beautiful high mountain tea garden train! 🌟 Highlights: Nine-hole Bridge, Tea Garden Train, Internet-famous Mountain View Hotel Depart from Mirissa in the morning and take the famous "Blue Mountain Train", passing through forests, tea gardens, waterfalls, and experience the most beautiful train route in the world! Arrive at the alpine town of Ella in the afternoon, where the climate is cool and the scenery is picturesque. Hiking on the Nine Arches Bridge: This is an iconic attraction in Sri Lanka. The moment when the train passes through the stone bridge is super shocking! Stay at a mountain view hotel, make a cup of Ceylon tea, sit on the balcony to watch the sunset, and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: Ella Cliff View Hotel, with a whole tea plantation right outside the room window! DAY 4: Horton Plains National Park → Nuwara Eliya 🌟 Highlights: Little England, World’s End, Tea Tasting in Tea Garden Hike in Horton Plains National Park in the morning, where the famous “World’s End” is located. Standing on the cliff overlooking the endless forest, it is amazing! In the afternoon, we will go to the plateau town of Nuwara Eliya, which is known as "Little England". It has British-style architecture and alpine tea plantations, full of exotic atmosphere! Visit the black tea estate, experience the most authentic Ceylon black tea production process, and take a few boxes home as gifts for your friends! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: English Manor Hotel, experience aristocratic afternoon tea! DAY 5: Kandy → Temple of the Tooth Relic & Stroll along the Lake 🌟 Highlights: Sri Lankan Cultural Heritage, Royal Botanical Gardens In the morning, head from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy, the cultural center of Sri Lanka. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, where the tooth relic of Sakyamuni is enshrined and is a holy place in the hearts of Buddhists! Take a walk along the Kandy Lake and watch the sunset reflected on the lake. It is so beautiful! Watch the Sri Lankan traditional dance performance in the evening and feel the charm of local culture! 📌 Accommodation recommendation: Kandy Lake View Hotel, the night is super beautiful! DAY 6: Back to Colombo → Return trip Return to Colombo and finally go to ODEL Shopping Center or Independence Square to buy some souvenirs. 🛂 Sri Lanka Visa & Entry Information ✅ Electronic Visa (ETA): Chinese tourists can apply for a Sri Lanka Electronic Visa (ETA) online, which costs about US$50 and is generally issued within 24-48 hours. ✅ Entry requirements: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months, and you may be asked to provide a return flight ticket and hotel reservation upon entry. 📌 Travel Tips 🔹 Best travel season: December - April (best beaches in the south), June - September (most beautiful high mountain tea plantations). 🔹 Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is recommended to bring a small amount of cash and pay the rest by credit card. 🔹 Transportation: The train experience is excellent, and you can use a tuk-tuk for short distances (be sure to bargain!). 🔹 Dress: Long sleeves and long pants are required for temple visits, while casual clothing is acceptable for beach and city visits.

#celebrateit Here is an idea to celebrate a birthday when you are travelling on Sri Lanka 🇱🇰: ⏩️ go to Ella and stay there for 1 night at least. 🏨 Find a cosy hotel overlooking the nine arch bridge 🥞 have a breakfast with the view and accompanying by birds singing ✔️ask the hotel staff about the train schedule passing the bridge so you can observe it from above and also from the bridge itself. Note that there is an old train that makes a stop on a bridge 🤯 📸 go down to the bridge and make some memorable photos ☕️ go inside a cafe near the bridge (take a drink and observe the trains from different angle) 🏔️ hike Little Adam’s peak mountain 🏊 Don’t forget to take your bathing suit with you because there is a pool beach party area with the Little Adam’s peak view, so you can chill there for a while 🎂 return to the hotel, blow a candle on a cake and make a wish 🌌 enjoy the sunset and evening trains passing by