How to Plan Your Day Trip to Ella Highlands From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa

If you’re looking for a relaxing day trip filled with scenic views, a visit to the Ella Highlands should be at the top of your list. This small town in the Badulla District of Uva Province is situated at an elevation of 1041 meters above sea level and is known for its stunning waterfalls, greenery, and hills. In this blog post, we will go over everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Ella from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa.

Highlights

Experience a relaxing journey filled with views Sweet escape to the scenic Ella highlands Make your trip extra memorable with convenient pick up and drop off services

What to Expect

The day trip to Ella Highlands from Galle, Weligama or Mirissa will start at 7:00 a.m. After a 3-hour drive through Sri Lanka’s scenic countryside, we will reach the Buduruwagala rock temple, an ancient Buddhist temple located in Sri Lanka. The complex consists of seven statues and belongs to the Mahayana school of thought. Next, we will visit the Ravana waterfall, one of the widest falls in the country, and a popular sightseeing attraction. The waterfall is situated in a scenic backdrop of mountains and valleys, making it a perfect place to take photos and enjoy the view. After that, we will finally reach Ella city, where you will be able to soak in the natural beauty of the scenic highlands. You can enjoy the lush greenery, natural rock formations, and stunning views from the top of the hills. To make your trip more convenient, pick-up and drop-off services are included and all transport facilities will be air-conditioned.

What to Bring

Before setting off on your day trip to Ella Highlands from Galle, Weligama or Mirissa, make sure you bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat. A light jacket or sweater may come in handy in case of chilly weather during the drive to the highlands. Ensure you have your essentials such as your camera and a phone for all your memories and connectivity.

How to Book the Tour

To book your day trip to Ella Highlands from Galle, Weligama or Mirissa, just click on this link and book online. Alternatively, you can visit the designated office to book the trip in person.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re visiting Sri Lanka and want to escape to the scenic beauty of Ella happening in the Badulla District of Uva Province, take a day trip there from Galle, Weligama or Mirissa. With breathtaking views and various scenic spots to enjoy, it is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Book your trip early to avoid disappointment!

FAQ about Galle: Everything you need to know

1. What is Galle and where is it located?

Galle is a historic city located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. It is the administrative capital of the southern province of Sri Lanka, and it is about 116 km south of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka.

2. How do I get to Galle?

You can reach Galle via various modes of transportation. The most convenient and quickest way is by car, either via a taxi or a hired vehicle. Alternatively, you can take a train from Colombo to Galle, which is recommended for the scenic views. Buses also run frequently between Colombo and Galle.

3. What are the top attractions in Galle?

Galle is famous for its historic fort, which was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the most prominent attraction in Galle. Other must-see sites in the city include the Galle lighthouse, the Galle National Museum, and the Dutch Reformed Church.

4. What are the best beaches in Galle?

Unawatuna beach is one of the most popular and widely visited beaches in Galle. The palm-fringed beach offers clear turquoise waters, white sands, and excellent conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. Other notable beaches in the area include the Talalla Beach, Jungle Beach, and Mirissa Beach.

5. What is the best time to visit Galle?

Galle can be visited all year round. However, the best time to visit is between December and April, during the dry season. The weather is sunny and warm, and the water conditions are ideal for beach activities during this time.

6. What is the cuisine of Galle like?

Galle’s cuisine is a blend of Sri Lankan, Dutch, and Portuguese influences. The city is famous for its seafood dishes, including prawn curry, fish cutlets, and grilled lobster. Additionally, many restaurants and cafes serve traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, as well as fusion dishes that combine local and international flavors.

7. What is the culture and lifestyle like in Galle?

Galle’s culture and lifestyle are deeply influenced by its colonial past. The city has a predominantly Buddhist population, with significant Christian and Muslim minorities. The traditional arts and crafts of Galle include mask-making, lace-making, and traditional weaving. The city also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Galle Literary Festival and the Galle Fort Food Festival.

8. What are some popular activities to do in Galle?

Apart from visiting the Fort and the beaches, there are many other activities to do in Galle. Visitors can explore the city’s Dutch colonial architecture, visit the local markets and museums, take a boat tour along the coast, and indulge in water sports such as scuba diving and surfing.

9. What are some helpful tips I should know before traveling to Galle?

It is advisable to carry a good quality sunscreen lotion as the sun can be quite strong in Sri Lanka. It is also important to dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites. Galle is a relatively safe destination for tourists. However, it is recommended to be alert and cautious while traveling at night and to avoid any remote areas or deserted beaches.

10. What are the best accommodations in Galle?

Galle has a diverse range of accommodations, including luxury hotels, resorts, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Some of the highly recommended hotels include the Amangalla, Jetwing Lighthouse, and the Fort Bazaar. For budget travelers, there are many guesthouses and hostels available in the city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Galle

Galle is a beautiful city located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This historic city, which was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, has an interesting mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. There are several attractions in Galle that are worth your time, from historic sites to beautiful beaches. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the things you can do to make the most of your time in Galle.

1. Visit the Galle Fort

The Galle Fort is one of the most popular attractions in Galle. This historic fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and was later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort is still well-preserved and you can explore the narrow streets, old buildings, and ramparts while taking in breathtaking views of the ocean. There are several museums, galleries, restaurants, and cafes within the fort that are worth checking out.

2. Explore the National Museum of Galle

The National Museum of Galle is located within the Galle Fort and is home to a large collection of artifacts and exhibits related to the history of Galle. You can see ancient weapons, pottery, coins, paintings, and many other interesting items that tell the story of this historic city.

3. Take a Stroll Along the Beach

Galle is home to several beautiful beaches that are perfect for a relaxing day out. Unawatuna Beach, about 6 km from the city center, is one of the most popular beaches in the area. This crescent-shaped beach offers calm waters, soft sand, and plenty of beachside restaurants and bars. Other notable beaches in the area include Jungle Beach and Mirissa Beach.

4. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is located on top of a hill overlooking the ocean, about 5 km from the Galle Fort. This pagoda was built by a Japanese Buddhist monk and is dedicated to peace and harmony. The scenery around the pagoda is breathtaking and it’s a great spot to watch the sunset.

5. Take a Day Trip to See the Stilt Fishermen

The stilt fishermen are an iconic sight in Sri Lanka. They can be seen perched on wooden stilts in shallow waters along the southern coast, with fishing rods in hand. A day trip to see the stilt fishermen is a great way to experience the local culture and way of life.

6. Visit the Kanneliya Forest Reserve

The Kanneliya Forest Reserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Located about 35 km from Galle, this forest reserve is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, including endemic species of plants, mammals, birds, butterflies, and reptiles. There are several trekking trails within the forest reserve that offer stunning views of the surroundings.

7. Try Local Food

Galle is home to several restaurants and cafes that serve delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include rice and curry, hoppers, string hoppers, and kottu. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try some street food like samosas, vada, and rotti.

Book Your Tour Now

These are just a few of the many things you can do in Galle. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Galle has something to offer for everyone. Plan your trip carefully and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.