Enchanting Ella a Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country
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7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
This Ella day tour is a distinctive blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local experiences. The visit to the Buduruwagala Buddhist Temple and Rawana Waterfall sets a serene and picturesque tone. A highlight of the tour is the scenic train ride from Ella to Haputale, renowned for its breathtaking views of lush tea plantations and misty mountains, providing a quintessential Sri Lankan experience. The tour also includes a stop at the Halpe Tea Factory, offering insight into the island’s famous tea production. Additionally, guests will marvel at the architectural wonder of the Nine Arch Bridge and enjoy a rewarding hike up Little Adam's Peak for sweeping vistas. This diverse itinerary, combined with varied modes of transport, makes the tour a truly unique and memorable adventure.
Available options
Enchanting Ella a Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
WiFi on board
Detailed itinerary
1
Discover the ancient Buduruwagala Buddhist Temple, home to Sri Lanka's tallest Buddha statue carved into a rock face, surrounded by serene jungle.
2
Marvel at the majestic Rawana Waterfall, a stunning cascade set against lush greenery, perfect for a refreshing and picturesque stop.
3
Optional Mini Train Ride: Ella to Haputale (Subject to availability) Enjoy one of the most scenic train rides in the world. The short journey from Haputale to Ella passes through lush tea estates, mountain tunnels, and misty ridges. Our vehicle drop you in Ella and meet you in Haputale.
4
Explore the Halpe Tea Factory, where you can learn about the intricate process of tea production and taste some of the world’s finest Ceylon tea.
(full factory tour is a paid option)
5
Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel set amidst dense jungle and rolling hills, offering a perfect spot for photography.
6
Hike up Little Adam's Peak for an exhilarating adventure and be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and tea estates.
What's not included
Gratuities
Train Tickets (Ella-Demodara)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Total duration for travelling from Hambantota to Ella and back is around 2-3 hours though a scenic journey..
About Hambantota
Hambantota is a coastal city in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and the famous Hambantota Cricket Stadium. The city is also home to the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden and the Bundala National Park, offering a mix of relaxation and adventure for travelers.
Top Attractions
Mirijjawila Botanical Garden
A beautiful botanical garden with a variety of local and exotic plants, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (around 500 LKR)
Bundala National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Nature
Half-day or full-day
Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)
Hambantota Cricket Stadium
A state-of-the-art cricket stadium that has hosted international matches and is a must-visit for cricket fans.
Sports
2-3 hours for a tour
Moderate (around 500-1000 LKR for a tour)
Ruhunu National Park
A national park known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
Nature
Half-day or full-day
Moderate (around 1000-1500 LKR for a safari)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries, including vegetable, meat, and fish curries.
Dinner
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg or coconut sambal.
Breakfast
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, stir-fried with spices.
Lunch
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Wildlife safaris
Snorkeling
Hiking
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Botanical garden visits
Temple visits
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the best time to visit Hambantota as the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits.
25-32°C
77-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hambantota is generally safe for travelers, but it is essential to take standard precautions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
Getting there
By air
- Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport • 25 km from Hambantota
By bus
Hambantota Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses are the most common form of public transport in Hambantota. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hambantota City Center
Mirijjawila
Bundala
Day trips
Tangalle
50 km • Half-day or full-day
A beautiful coastal town known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere.
Yala National Park
60 km • Full-day
One of the most famous national parks in Sri Lanka, known for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
Festivals
Esala Perahera • July-August
Pro tips
- Visit the Mirijjawila Botanical Garden early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- Book a guided safari at Bundala National Park for the best wildlife spotting experience.
- Try local street food for an authentic and budget-friendly dining experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala to enhance your interaction with locals.
- Carry small denominations of cash for local shopping and transportation.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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