How to Plan the Perfect Weekend Getaway in Ella

Occupying pride of place in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, Ella is a breathtaking mountain hideaway lined with waterfalls and hiking trails. Although 48 hours is woefully insufficient to cover the length and breadth of this idyllic hill town, weekenders heading to Ella can make the most of their time by planning their trip with care. From timing the tour to signing up for the area’s best adventures, here’s everything you need to know to spend two unforgettable days in Ella.

Timing the Trip

While Ella is a captivating vacation hotspot during most months of the year, those who are visiting the region for a short stay can’t afford to visit the mountain city during the wrong time of year. Although Ella’s waterfalls are gloriously frothy and ferocious during the monsoon season, it’s prudent to schedule your first sojourn in Ella during the drier months of the year. This is why the period between January and March is often considered the perfect time to spend a weekend in Ella, as the sunny, clear conditions make outdoor expeditions around Ella’s lush hills a pleasant experience. The months from July to November, in contrast, are best avoided, especially if one hopes to engage in hiking activities and ziplining tours.

Secure a Strategic Base

Finding a conveniently located base should also be a top priority for short-stay visitors, as they can’t afford to spend the majority of their time travelling from their hotel to Ella’s key attractions. Whether you choose a suite at 98 Acres Resort & Spa or any other Ella resorts, centrally located rest are better suited for weekenders, especially if the properties offer easy access to Flying Ravana Adventure Park and other popular activity bases. This is why tourists should consider the location of their Ella hotel in addition to the creature comforts and amenities available on-site.

Chasing Waterfalls

With some of Sri Lanka’s finest cascades occupying its confines, Ella is the perfect destination for travellers with a love of natural wonders. Although the Ravana Falls is arguably the most coveted waterfall in Ella, the city’s proximity to the iconic Diyaluma Falls, the Secret Falls, and the Ella Gap Waterfall means weekenders can have their pick of picnic spots in Ella’s lush jungles.

Zooming Across the Forest Canopy

Don’t forget to spend a morning coursing through the ziplining routes at the Flying Ravana Adventure Park, as it is among the island’s first eco-friendly activity bases. While it may not be for the faint of heart, travelling at speeds of 80kmph can be an exciting experience for avid zipliners vacationing in the mountains.

Hike Up Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak

Hikers and seasoned trekkers can alternatively spend a morning or afternoon tackling some of the area’s best nature trails. The hike up to Ella Rock’s summit is best undertaken during the wee hours or the morning as its topmost point afford misty views of the city below at this particularly magical time of the day. Little Adam’s Peak is an equally impressive hiking path that’s less challenging and time consuming than the 4-hour trek up to Ella Rock, which is synonymous with the panoramic views accessible from its vaulted location.

Don’t Miss Ella Town

Weekenders should also spend time exploring the charming shops, markets, and bars occupying Ella Town. Although the restaurant and café scene in this mountain town may not be as diverse or as eclectic as some of Sri Lanka’s major tourist capitals, the rustic aesthetic of its coffee houses and pubs is something all visitors should experience.

Sign Up for a Tea Factory Tour

A weekend’s stay in Ella would not be complete without a stopover at the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory. Offering teetotallers an immersive look at how Ceylon Tea is cultivated and processed, these guided tours are accessible to travellers with an interest in Sri Lanka’s tea heritage.