Ella, a small town nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its breathtaking landscapes, lush tea plantations, and laid-back atmosphere, it's no wonder that Ella has become a favorite destination for travelers. If you're planning a trip to this enchanting town, here are the 10 best things to do in Ella to make your visit unforgettable.

1. Hike Little Adam's Peak

Named after the sacred Adam's Peak, this smaller version offers stunning panoramic views without the strenuous climb. The hike is relatively easy and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. The trail winds through tea plantations, and from the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Ella Gap and the surrounding valleys.

Pro-Tip: The best time for this hike is at sunrise, to watch the valleys light up, or at sunset for a golden glow. It’s less crowded during these times, and the temperature is cooler.

2. Visit the Nine Arch Bridge

An architectural marvel from the colonial era, the Nine Arch Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush greenery and tea fields, this picturesque bridge is a photographer's dream. You can walk along the tracks, and if you time your visit right, you can watch the famous blue train chugging across the bridge.

Pro-Tip: Ask a local or your driver for the train schedule to time your visit perfectly. For a unique photo angle, hike down to the base of the bridge through the tea fields.

3. Climb Ella Rock

For a more challenging adventure, a hike to the top of Ella Rock is a must. The trail is more demanding than Little Adam's Peak, taking about 3-4 hours for a round trip, but the panoramic views from the summit are absolutely worth the effort. You'll pass through quiet woodlands and steep sections on your way to the top.

Pro-Tip: The trail can be confusing. While it's part of the adventure for some, hiring a local guide is a good idea to avoid getting lost and to learn more about the area. Start early to avoid the midday sun.

4. Cool Off at Ravana Falls

Located just a short drive from Ella town, Ravana Falls is a stunning waterfall with a rich history linked to the Ramayana legend. It's a great place to cool off with a refreshing swim in the natural pools. The falls are most powerful during the wet season, creating a spectacular sight.

Pro-Tip: Be cautious when swimming, especially during the monsoon season, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents strong. It's a popular spot with locals, so it's busiest on weekends.

5. Tour a Tea Plantation and Factory

You can't visit Sri Lanka's hill country without immersing yourself in its world-famous tea culture. Ella is surrounded by lush green tea estates. Take a tour of a factory like the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory to learn about the entire process, from plucking the leaves to the final product. Of course, no tour is complete without a tasting session.

Pro-Tip: Many tours are free, but it's customary to purchase some tea at the end. This is the freshest tea you'll ever taste!

6. Take a Sri Lankan Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class. It's a fun and delicious way to spend a few hours. You'll visit a local market to pick out fresh ingredients and then learn to prepare a variety of traditional dishes, such as different types of curries, coconut sambol, and hoppers.

Pro-Tip: Look for classes with small group sizes for a more personal experience. Ella Spice Garden is a popular and highly-rated option.

7. Get an Adrenaline Rush at Flying Ravana

For thrill-seekers, a visit to Flying Ravana is a must. Home to South Asia's longest zip-line, it offers an exhilarating ride over the lush green valleys and tea estates of Ella. It's a fantastic way to get a unique perspective of the stunning landscape.

Pro-Tip: Besides the main zip-line, they also offer other adventure activities like abseiling and a giant swing. You can book a package to try multiple activities.

8. Take a Day Trip to Lipton's Seat

This is arguably one of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of Sri Lanka. It's named after Sir Thomas Lipton, the famous tea planter, who used to survey his sprawling tea empire from this spot. The panoramic 360-degree views are simply breathtaking. A comfortable and convenient day trip from Ella can be arranged with a private driver.

Pro-Tip: The best time to visit is early in the morning for sunrise, as the view often gets obscured by clouds later in the day.

9. Relax and Explore Ella Town

After a day of adventure, take some time to simply wander through Ella town. It has a relaxed, bohemian vibe with a main street lined with cool cafes, great restaurants, and souvenir shops. It's the perfect place to grab a delicious meal, enjoy a Lion beer, and just soak up the traveler-friendly atmosphere.

Pro-Tip: Many cafes have upper floors or terraces with great views of the surrounding hills – a perfect spot for an afternoon coffee.

10. Experience the World-Famous Train Ride

If you didn't arrive in Ella by train, you must experience at least a short section of this journey. The ride between Ella and Kandy is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. You'll pass through stunning landscapes of tea plantations, mountains, tunnels, and waterfalls. It’s an iconic Sri Lankan experience.

Pro-Tip: For a shorter journey with great views, take the train from Ella to Haputale or Nanu Oya. Read our guide on how to book the train tickets in advance!