Known for its verdant landscapes, ayurvedic massages and hikes in the heart of tea plantations, Ella promises an escape to otherworldly places. Are you ready for a bowl of fresh air ?
What to do and see in Ella ?
The tea plantations in Ella define the mountainous region of Sri Lanka, occupying nearly 1000 acres of land. Towering at nearly 6500 feet, Ella is the perfect destination to discover Sri Lanka’s “green gold”, as the country is the second largest manufacturer of tea in the world. I discover the process of producing tea, from harvest to bagging, at the Newburg Green Tea Factory. All around me are the Tamil women working hard in the tea fields. This particularly strenuous activity feeds 75% of the local population.
Newburgh Green Tea Factory, Newburgh Tea Estate Passara Rd, Ella
Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock
On the hour-long hike that leads to Little Adam’s Peak, I encounter typical houses, wandering cows and a lovely flower garden called Ella Flower Garden Resort, like little surprises sowed along the way. I was hypnotized by the blue-green hues of the mountains around you can see once you reach the top. Jumping monkeys and singing birds escorted me on my way down, and the view into the Rawana waterfall stopped time, as the surrounding village seems to be in its own timezone.
Where to sleep in Ella ?
Ella’s Edge Resort is the perfect place to take in the vistas and the luxuriant nature around. Therooms all have a view on the mountains, and offer a moment of peace that keeps on giving.
Ella's Edge Resort, 5000RP/nuit (env.30€), Peramas Ella Wellawaya Rd, 90100 Ella - Tel : +94 77
393 0455
Ella by night
The coffeeshop Little Folly is a great daytime tea spot, and offers a moment of respite away from the crowds. At night, Main street is the way to go, where many tourists wander to take in the atmosphere. Dream Café is the liveliest place to hang out and meet fellow travelers. For dinner, I recommend Remo’s, where you can experience the traditional Lamprai dish, made of rice and spicy vegetables cooked in a banana leaf. A must !
Remo's restaurant, 264 Wellawaya Road, 90090 Ella
Down Town Rotti Hut, Main Street, Ella 90090, Sri Lanka
How to come to Ella ?
Nuwara Eliya/Ella : 2h30 by train - 110RP/pers
Ella/Kandy : 7h by train - 900RP/pers
Arum Bay/Ella : 2h by car
Restaurants, hotels, highlights, bars, beaches… check out my best vacation spots to plan a perfect getaway in Tangalle, Sri Lanka.