From Tangalle/Hiriketiya: Day Trip to Ella Highlands – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you looking for a slice of paradise to escape the busy beaches of Tangalle/Hiriketiya? Then, a day trip to Ella Highlands is a must-do experience. Located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, this tranquil hill station is a pure delight for nature lovers. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour from Tangalle/Hiriketiya to Ella Highlands, as well as give you a glimpse of what to expect on this day trip.

Experience

This tour promises a relaxing journey filled with breathtaking views, including waterfalls, tea plantations, and mountains. You will also get to see some of the famous attractions in Ella, such as the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, and Ravana Falls.

Highlights

– Visit Buduruwagala rock temple, an ancient Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka
– Witness the beauty of Ravana waterfall, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka
– Explore Ella city, a small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province, situated at an elevation of 1041m above sea level
– Experience the serenity of the Nine Arch Bridge, one of the iconic attractions in Ella
– Trek up to Little Adam’s Peak for an amazing view of the surrounding landscape

How to Plan Your Tour

The day trip to Ella Highlands from Tangalle/Hiriketiya is offered by a trusted third-party company. You can book your tour online through GetYourGuide, which provides an easy and secure way of securing your spot. Click here to book the tour.

Make sure to check the tour details, including the itinerary, pick-up and drop-off location, and the inclusions/exclusions before booking. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a professional guide, and all entrance fees. Lunch and personal expenses are not included in the tour.

The tour starts early in the morning, at around 6:30 am, and ends late afternoon, at around 5 pm. You will have plenty of time to explore Ella and its surroundings, take photos, and relax amidst nature.

Tour Description

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in Tangalle/Hiriketiya and heads towards Ella. On the way to Ella, you will visit the first stop, Buduruwagala rock temple. This ancient Buddhist temple is a beautiful example of ancient Sri Lankan art and architecture. You will see seven standing Buddha statues, which are believed to be created during the Mahayana period.

Next, you will head to Ravana waterfall, which is named after the legendary king Ravana in the epic Ramayana. The waterfall is awe-inspiring, and you can take a dip in the cold water if you wish to refresh yourself.

After that, you will reach Ella city, which is a small town located in the Badulla district of Uva Province. It is a picturesque town, surrounded by the greenery of tea plantations and hills. You will have the opportunity to explore the town, visit local shops, and taste Sri Lankan food.

The next stop will be the Nine Arch Bridge, one of the iconic attractions in Ella. The bridge is a testament to the engineering skills of Sri Lankan engineers during the British colonial era. You can walk on the bridge, take photos, and appreciate the stunning view.

Finally, you will be trekking up to Little Adam’s Peak, which is a relatively easy climb to experience a bird’s eye view of nature’s splendor. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

After the trek, you will return to the vehicle that will take you back to Tangalle/Hiriketiya, where the tour ends.

In Conclusion

A day trip to Ella Highlands from Tangalle/Hiriketiya promises an unforgettable experience amid nature’s serenity. You can spend your day witnessing some of the best attractions Sri Lanka has to offer, while enjoying the convenience of a guided tour. All you need to do is book your tour, and leave the rest to the third-party company that handles the trip. We hope this guide was useful in planning your trip to Ella Highlands, and we wish you a happy journey.

An Insider’s Guide to the Enchanting City of Ella

Welcome to Ella, a charming city nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka. With its lush green hills, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque tea estates, Ella is an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here’s an insider’s guide to exploring the city like a local.

Discover Hidden Gems Beyond the Touristy Spots

While Ella is famous for its iconic Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations worth visiting. For starters, head to Ravana Falls, a stunning cascade that’s believed to be the location of a famous Lanka legend. Next, make your way to the Living Heritage Koslanda organic farm, which offers a unique and sustainable tourism experience. The farm is run by a local family, and visitors can explore the grounds, enjoy homemade meals, and learn about traditional farming methods.

Savor the Local Cuisine and Delve into the Food Culture

Ella is renowned for its delicious food, and here’s why. Savor Dhal curry and coconut Sambol, the most common dishes of Sri Lanka, from the renowned Surangana restaurant. Kottu or rotti is Sri Lanka’s most beloved street food and a must-try snack. The taste and smell of Sri Lankan cuisine will leave visitors wanting more. Another culinary essential is the Ceylon tea, which is best enjoyed in one of the many tea estates that dot the city’s hillsides.

Experience the Rich Culture of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a vibrant culture that’s reflected in its festivals, music, and dance. One such festival is the Kandy Esala Perahera, a pageant that takes place in the nearby town of Kandy every August. Visitors can witness grand processions with drummers, dancers, and elephants all glimmered up in light bulb décor. To delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich history and diverse culture, there’s no better place than the Village tour of Ella. The tour includes a visit to a local home, a cooking demonstration, a village temple, and a Paddy farm giving a glimpse of ancient farming methodologies.

Explore Ella’s Fascinating Past and Legends

Ella has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. The town is steeped in legends and myths, such as the story of King Ravana and Hanuman’s footprints. You can immerse yourself in the city’s history and mythology by visiting the Ella Archaeological Center, a small museum that houses prehistoric artifacts, ornaments, and tools. While in Ella, don’t forget to visit Ella Gap, a panoramic site that’s said to have been a battleground in ancient times.

Adventurous Escapes Off-the-Beaten-Path

For those who love a bit of adventure and off-the-beaten-path trails, Ella is sure to please. Head to Ella Rock, a challenging hike that promises breathtaking views of the countryside from the top. Another exciting adventure awaits at the infamous Demodara Nine Arches Bridge. Visitors can walk along the railway track and watch the trains cross the bridge from above. The Secret Passage, which heads to the underground cave of Ravana, is another must-explore option for the brave ones.

Ella’s charm is its duality, combining spectacular natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. When visiting Ella, make sure to explore the hidden gems, savor the local delicacies, and experience the city’s rich cultural traditions. With a diverse mix of adventures and exploration opportunities, Ella is a city that visitors will never forget.