The bridge in the jungle
The stone viaduct was built in the early 20th century without steel. Walk down through the tea to watch a train cross – ask your guide for the timetable.
Walks around Ella
The hills around Ella are made for walking – none of them are long, all of them have a view.
Arriving by train
The ride from Kandy or Nanu Oya to Ella climbs through tea estates and cloud forest. We reserve seats; read our full guide to the Kandy to Ella train.
Things to do in Ella
Ella is a small, laid-back town with cafés, guesthouses and a view through the Ella Gap all the way to the southern plains. Most visitors spend their days walking: up Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise, through tea to the Nine Arches Bridge, or on the longer trail to Ella Rock. Afterwards, a cookery class with a local family or an Ayurvedic massage are good ways to spend the afternoon.
The Uva Halpewatte tea factory above town offers tours and tastings, and Ravana Falls is a short drive down the road towards Wellawaya.
When to visit Ella
Ella can be visited all year. January to April is usually driest; from May to September the area often stays drier than the western hills. October and November bring more rain. Mornings tend to be clearest, so plan walks early.
Nine Arches Bridge: how to visit
The bridge sits in a forested valley about 3 km from Ella town. The easiest route is the path from the main road near the Ella–Passara junction, a 15-minute walk downhill; a longer, prettier trail follows the railway line from Ella station (walk carefully and step well aside when a train approaches). Several trains cross each day – ask your guide for current times, as the timetable changes and trains are often late.
Early morning is the quietest time. By late morning the viewpoints fill with visitors waiting for the train. A small café on the hillside opposite serves tea with the best view of the arches.
Hiking Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock
Little Adam’s Peak is the easy classic: a gentle 45-minute climb through tea plantations to a ridge with views over the Ella Gap. Go at sunrise for mist in the valleys, or late afternoon for golden light. Suitable for children and anyone of average fitness.
Ella Rock is more demanding: allow three to four hours return, with a steep final section through forest. The trail is not always well marked, and local guides are helpful. Start early to avoid the midday heat and afternoon cloud.
How to get to Ella
Most visitors arrive by train from Kandy or Nanu Oya – one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world. By road, Ella is about 2 hours from Nuwara Eliya, 2.5 hours from Yala and 3.5 hours from the south coast. On our tours, your luggage travels in the vehicle while you ride the train.
Ella for families
Children tend to love Ella: the train ride, the bridge, easy walks and plenty of cafés. Many hotels have gardens and family rooms. Little Adam’s Peak is manageable for children from about five; Ella Rock is better left for teenagers.
Where to stay in Ella
Ella: questions
Two nights: one full day for the bridge and a hike.
Yes – it is one of the great train rides in Asia. Book reserved seats.
Pleasant by day, cool at night. Bring a light jumper.