If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, there's one place that should definitely be on your list: Ella. Tucked away in the island nation's stunning hill country, Ella is a small town that packs a big punch when it comes to natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. In this article, we'll take a closer look at why Ella is such a special destination, and what you can expect to find when you visit.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Where is Ella, Sri Lanka?
- How to Get to Ella
- Best Time to Visit Ella
- Things to Do in Ella
- Hike to Little Adam's Peak
- Visit Nine Arch Bridge
- Explore Ella Rock
- Visit Ravana Falls
- Take a Train Ride through the Hill Country
- Visit a Tea Plantation
- Attend a Cooking Class
- Check out Ella Spice Garden
Where is Ella, Sri Lanka?
Ella
is a small town in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka's Uva Province. It's
located about 200 kilometers east of Colombo, the capital city, and about 8
kilometers south of Bandarawela. The town itself is situated at an elevation of
around 1,000 meters above sea level, which means that it enjoys a cooler climate
than many other parts of Sri Lanka.
How to Get to Ella
Best Time to Visit Ella
The
best time to visit Ella is from December to March, which is Sri Lanka's dry season.
During this time, the weather is cool and comfortable, and you'll have plenty
of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. If
you visit during the rainy season (which lasts from April to November), you may
find that some of the trails and attractions are closed due to mudslides or
flooding.
Things to Do in Ella
There's
no shortage of things to do in Ella, whether you're an outdoor adventurer, a
history buff, or a foodie. Here are some of the top attractions that you won't want
to miss:
Hike to Little Adam's Peak
One
of the most popular hikes in Ella is the trek up to Little Adam's Peak, which
offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is
well-marked and relatively easy, making it accessible to hikers of all levels.
Visit Nine Arch Bridge
The
Nine Arch Bridge is an engineering marvel that's over 100 years old. The bridge
is made entirely of brick, stone, and cement, and was built without the use of
any steel. It's a popular spot for train spotters and photographers, as trains
pass over it several times a day.
Explore Ella Rock
For
a more challenging hike, head up to Ella Rock, which offers even more
breathtaking views than Little Adam's Peak. The trail is steep and rocky, so be
sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Visit Ravana Falls
Ravana
Falls is a beautiful waterfall located just a few kilometers outside of Ella.
The falls are named after the mythical King Ravana, who is said to have hidden
his wife Sita in a nearby cave. You can swim in the pool below the falls, or
simply admire the view from the viewing platform.
Take a Train Ride through the Hill Country
One
of the best ways to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country is by
taking a train ride. The train journey from Ella to Kandy is particularly
stunning, as the train winds its way through tea plantations, forests, and over
bridges.
Visit a Tea Plantation
Sri
Lanka is famous for its tea, and there are several tea plantations in the area
around Ella that you can visit. You can learn about the process of tea
production, sample different varieties of tea, and enjoy the beautiful views
from the plantation.
Attend a Cooking Class
Sri
Lankan cuisine is delicious and unique, and taking a cooking class is a great
way to learn more about it. You'll get hands-on experience preparing
traditional dishes like curry, roti, and sambal, and you'll get to taste the
results of your efforts.
Check out Ella Spice Garden
Sri
Lanka is known for its spices, and Ella Spice Garden is a great place to learn
about them. You can take a guided tour of the garden, which includes over 30
different spices and herbs, and learn about their medicinal and culinary uses.
Where to Stay in Ella
Despite
its small size, Ella has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all
budgets and preferences. From budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious boutique
hotels, there's something for everyone in Ella. Some of the top options include
the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, the Ella Jungle Resort, and the Ella Mount
Heaven.
What to Eat in Ella
Sri
Lankan cuisine is a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and European influences, and is
known for its use of spices and fresh ingredients. Some of the top dishes to
try in Ella include:
- Kottu Roti: a popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood
- Hoppers: a type of pancake made with fermented rice flour, coconut milk, and spices
- Sri Lankan Curry: a spicy and flavorful dish made with meat or vegetables and a blend of spices
Conclusion
Ella
is a truly special destination in Sri Lanka, offering natural beauty, cultural
experiences, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a hiker, a foodie, or
simply looking for a relaxing getaway, you'll find plenty to love in Ella. So
why not add it to your travel itinerary and discover this hidden gem for
yourself?
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