Things to do in Ella
Ella is a small hill town located in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. Known for its picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere, Ella is a popular destination for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful getaway. The town is situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green hills and tea plantations.
Ella has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century when it was a part of the ancient kingdom of Ruhuna. The town was later ruled by the British during the colonial era, and the remnants of this period can still be seen in the form of colonial-era buildings and railway stations.
The culture of Ella is deeply rooted in its history and is reflected in its traditional festivals and rituals. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending traditional dance performances, visiting temples and shrines, and participating in cultural festivals.
Ella is a nature lover's paradise and offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The town is known for its hiking trails, including the famous Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. Visitors can also go on a scenic train ride on the famous Ella-Badulla railway line, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Ella is also known for its delicious local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local agriculture and the region's history. Visitors can savor the traditional Sri Lankan dishes such as kiribath (milk rice), dhal curry, and fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry).
The best time to visit Ella is from December to March, when the weather is cool and comfortable. The town can be reached by train, bus or taxi from nearby cities such as Colombo, Kandy, and Badulla. When visiting Ella, it is best to pack light, comfortable clothing, and a good pair of walking shoes.
History Of Ella
Ella has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century when it was a part of the ancient kingdom of Ruhuna. The kingdom of Ruhuna, which was one of the three major kingdoms in Sri Lanka at the time, was known for its wealth and prosperity, and Ella played an important role in this.
During the colonial era, the town was ruled by the British, who established tea plantations in the surrounding hills. The remnants of this period can still be seen in the form of colonial-era buildings and railway stations. The famous Ella-Badulla railway line, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, was built by the British during this time.
In addition to its historical significance, Ella is also known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. The town's location in the hill country of Sri Lanka makes it an ideal spot for hiking and trekking, and the surrounding tea plantations offer a unique glimpse into the country's colonial history and its present-day economy.
Ella is also an important center for Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is home to several ancient temples and shrines. Visitors can visit the Dowa Temple, which is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the area, or the Samanala Temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful views.
Overall, Ella is a unique destination that offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty and outdoor activities, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Sri Lanka.
Culture and traditional festival of Ella
Ella is also home to several temples and shrines that are important to the local community. Visitors can visit the Dowa Temple, which is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the area, or the Samanala Temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful views. Many temples in Ella also have traditional offerings and rituals that visitors can observe.
Additionally, Visitors can also experience the local culture by visiting the local markets and trying traditional foods and drinks, or by visiting the local tea factories and learning about the history and process of tea production in Sri Lanka.
Overall, Ella offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich culture and customs of Sri Lanka and gain a deeper understanding of the country's history and traditions.
things to do in Ella
Ella is a nature lover's paradise and offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Here is a detailed guide on some of the popular things to do in Ella:
Hiking: Ella is known for its beautiful hiking trails and some of the most popular include Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. Both trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and are great for nature enthusiasts and photography.
Scenic Train Ride: Take a scenic train ride on the famous Ella-Badulla railway line, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
Waterfall: Visit the Ravana Ella waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The waterfall is located about 3km from Ella town and is a great spot for a refreshing swim.
Tea Plantations: Ella is surrounded by lush tea plantations, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history and process of tea production in Sri Lanka. Visitors can also take a stroll through the tea plantations and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Temple and Shrines: Ella is also home to several temples and shrines that are important to the local community. Visitors can visit the Dowa Temple, which is believed to be one of the oldest temples in the area, or the Samanala Temple, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful views.
Outdoor activities: Ella also offers a range of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, bird watching, and white water rafting.
Local markets: Visitors can also experience the local culture by visiting the local markets and trying traditional foods and drinks.
Adventure Sports: You can also try adventure sports like bungee jumping, zip lining, and paragliding to experience the natural beauty of Ella from a different perspective.
Overall, Ella offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and scenic train rides to visiting temples and shrines, and experiencing local culture, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and culture buffs.
Hotel and Accommodation in Ella
Ella offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays. Here is an overview of the different types of accommodation available in Ella, along with their pros and cons:
Hotels: Ella offers a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Hotels in Ella offer amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and on-site restaurants. Pros of staying in a hotel include 24-hour room service, on-site facilities, and access to amenities such as swimming pools and gyms. Cons include higher prices and less of a local experience.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses in Ella are typically smaller and more affordable than hotels. They offer basic amenities such as private rooms with attached bathrooms and a shared living area. Pros of staying in a guesthouse include lower prices, more of a local experience and personalized service. Cons include fewer amenities and less privacy.
Homestays: Homestays in Ella offer a unique opportunity to experience local culture and customs. Visitors can stay with a local family and learn about their way of life. Pros of staying in a homestay include a more authentic experience, the opportunity to learn about local culture and customs, and personalized service. Cons include less privacy and a lack of amenities.
Ultimately, the type of accommodation you choose will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Hotels and resorts tend to be more expensive, but offer more amenities and services. Guesthouses and homestays are more affordable and offer a more authentic local experience. It's recommended to check the reviews, ratings, and photos of the places before making the final decision.
Local foods & drinks
Ella offers a delicious and diverse local food scene that is heavily influenced by the local agriculture and the region's history. Visitors can savor traditional Sri Lankan dishes such as kiribath (milk rice), dhal curry, and fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry). Here is a guide to the local food and drink scene in Ella, including traditional dishes and where to find them:
Kiribath: Kiribath is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made of cooked rice mixed with coconut milk and served with a variety of curries and sambols. This dish is typically served for breakfast and can be found at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Dhal Curry: Dhal curry is a staple Sri Lankan dish made of lentils cooked in a spicy coconut-based sauce. It is typically served with rice and can be found at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Fish ambul thiyal: Fish ambul thiyal is a traditional sour fish curry from southern Sri Lanka, it's made with dried fish, tamarind, and a variety of spices. It is typically served with rice and can be found at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Hoppers: Hoppers are a popular Sri Lankan breakfast dish made of fermented rice flour, coconut milk, and spices. They are typically served with a variety of curries and sambols and can be found at local restaurants and street food vendors.
Kottu Roti: Kottu Roti is a traditional Sri Lankan street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood. It's a popular dish among locals and can be found at street food vendors and some local restaurants.
Tea: Ella is surrounded by tea plantations, so it's a perfect place to try some of the finest teas in Sri Lanka. Visitors can visit local tea factories to learn about the history and process of tea production and sample different types of teas.
Local Beer and Wine: Visitors can also enjoy local beer and wine, which can be found at local bars and restaurants.
Ella offers a wide variety of delicious traditional dishes and local specialties that visitors can enjoy, and it's worth trying as many different dishes as possible to fully experience the local food scene.
Travel To Ella transportation & Money saving tips
Ella, Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. To save money on transportation in Ella, consider the following tips:
Use public transportation: Local buses and trains are the most affordable way to get around Ella. They are also a great way to experience the local culture and meet other travelers.
Walk or bike: Ella is a small town, and many of the popular attractions can be reached on foot or by bike. This is a great way to save money and also allows you to take in the beautiful scenery at a slower pace.
Avoid peak travel times: If you can, try to avoid traveling during peak tourist season as prices for transportation and accommodation tend to be higher during this time.
Consider a package deal: Many tour operators in Ella offer package deals that include transportation and accommodation. This can be a cost-effective way to plan your trip.
Rent a scooter or bike: Renting a scooter or bike is another way to explore Ella on your own. It's more convenient than public transport and can be more fun too. Be sure to wear a helmet, and be aware of the traffic regulations
Overall, planning ahead and being flexible with your travel dates can help you save money on transportation in Ella.
Overall, Ella is a beautiful and popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka known for its scenic views and outdoor activities. To make the most of your trip to Ella, it is recommended to plan ahead and be flexible with your travel dates, as prices tend to be higher during peak tourist season. To save money on transportation, consider using public transportation, walking or biking, and looking for package deals that include transportation and accommodation. Renting a scooter or bike is also an option for exploring the area on your own. And always be aware of the traffic regulations and safety precautions. With these tips in mind, you can have a memorable and budget-friendly trip to Ella.