From Ella- All inclusive Day Trip of 8 Iconic Sights & Train

Experience the Best of Ella in One Day: All-Inclusive Tour of 8 Iconic Sights & Scenic Train Ride

Standing on a hillside in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, you might feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. This all-inclusive day trip from Ella packs in eight of the area’s most cherished sights—Ravana Falls, Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, Demodara Loop, Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Zipline, and a scenic train ride—all for around $44 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides—like Nuwan, who guests describe as friendly, helpful, and a talented photographer. Second, the way it combines nature, adventure, and culture into a well-organized day that feels just right for active travelers seeking authentic experiences.

A possible consideration? The timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger at certain spots. Sri Lanka’s trains, although scenic, are notorious for delays, so a bit of flexibility might be wise.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate stunning views, engaging guides, and a full-day adventure. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see many highlights in one go without the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering waterfalls, viewpoints, railways, and peaks.
• Expert guide enhances experience with local knowledge and photography skills.
• All-inclusive price includes entrance fees, lunch, tea, coconuts, and transfers.
• Flexible train options with optional Calypso music to elevate the scenic ride.
• Active day with hikes, a zipline, and scenic vistas, suited for energetic travelers.
• Time management crucial—the itinerary packs a lot into one day, so be prepared for a busy schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ella Day Trip

If you’re wondering what exactly you’ll see and do, here’s a detailed breakdown of this carefully curated tour, based on honest reviews and the itinerary provided.

Starting the Day with Ravana Falls

The adventure kicks off with a visit to Ravana Falls, one of Ella’s most photographed waterfalls. You’ll feel the spray and hear the roar of cascading water—an awe-inspiring sight surrounded by lush greenery. Guests often mention how picturesque and “perfect for photos” this spot is, and the folklore associated with Ravana adds a dash of local flavor. Expect about 30 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and enjoy the fresh air.

Kithalella View Point: A Breath of Fresh Air

Next, a quick 20-minute stop at Kithalella View Point offers sweeping views of Ella’s landscape—rolling hills, tea plantations, and dense forest. This is a serene moment to take in the scenery, perfect for photos and just soaking up the peaceful ambiance. Reviewers appreciate this quiet stop as a “stunning perspective” on the region, giving a sense of how vast and lush Ella truly is.

Hiking Up Ella Rock

Then comes one of the tour’s highlights: Ella Rock. You’ll likely spend about 4 hours including the hike, which is not trivial but rewards the effort with breathtaking vistas. Guides help with navigation, and many travelers mention how the guide’s local knowledge makes the climb easier and more rewarding. The hike can be challenging, especially if the weather isn’t perfect, but the views from the top—over hills, valleys, and tea plantations—are well worth it. Several guests, like Kirsty, mention finishing both Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak in one day thanks to their guide’s encouragement.

More Great Tours Nearby

Kithalella Viewpoint & Demodara Loop

After descending, you’ll visit the Demodara Loop Viewpoint for about 20 minutes. Here, you’ll marvel at the engineering feat of the railway loop, which allows trains to navigate steep terrain in a tight circle. It’s a fascinating sight for train enthusiasts and offers a unique photo opportunity.

Scenic Train Journey from Demodara to Ella

One of the most memorable parts of the tour is the train ride from Demodara to Ella. You’ll witness lush tea plantations, mountain valleys, and rolling hills from a comfortable seat. The train is often described as a “must-do” experience—some guests opt for the Calypso train with live music for an extra touch of local flavor, at about $5. The famous Nine Arch Bridge is part of this journey, giving you a chance to marvel at the colonial-era architecture and possibly get some iconic photos.

Exploring the Nine Arch Bridge

You’ll stop at the Nine Arch Bridge for about 20 minutes—a fantastic spot for photos and a chance to appreciate one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks. Many visitors find this to be a highlight, often describing it as a “stunning architectural marvel” amid the landscape.

Ziplining Over Ella Valley

For the thrill-seekers, the Ravana Mega Zipline offers about an hour of adrenaline. Glide over the landscape, enjoying bird’s-eye views of Ella’s lush terrain. Guests rave about how it’s a “once-in-a-lifetime” experience and complements the day’s natural adventures perfectly. Note that the zipline costs about 33 Sri Lankan Rupees (roughly $0.17 USD), which seems like a typo or an outdated figure, but the zipline is definitely a paid activity.

Little Adam’s Peak: A Gentle Hike with Big Rewards

Finally, you’ll hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak. The walk is accessible, and many reviews mention it as “easier” than Ella Rock but still offering breathtaking panoramic views. The summit provides a peaceful spot to reflect on the day, with vistas of the Ella Gap and distant mountains. Expect about 1 hour for this part of the tour.

Wrapping Up & Returning

After a full day of exploration—hiking, viewpoints, train rides, and adrenaline—your guide will drop you off at your hotel or designated location. Many reviewers, like Erma, mention how they appreciated the “extra mile” their guide went to help with photos and local tips, making the experience feel special.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Unlike cookie-cutter day trips, this one combines authentic sights with local guides who know how to enhance your experience. The scenic train ride, especially with the option of Calypso music, offers a memorable travel moment that you’ll talk about long after. The day’s balance of hikes, viewpoints, and adrenaline makes it perfect for energetic travelers who want a full taste of Ella’s natural beauty.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide—like Nuwan—who is described as friendly, accommodating, and a great photographer. This personal touch truly elevates the experience, ensuring you get impressive photos and insider tips. The inclusion of lunch, water, tea, and coconuts adds to the value, making it a convenient all-in-one outing.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

Timing can be tight, especially if you want to linger at certain spots. Sri Lanka trains are famous for being somewhat unpredictable, so delays are possible. If you’re a slow hiker or prefer more relaxed pacing, be prepared for a busy schedule. Also, activities like ziplining are optional, and travelers might want to consider if they’re comfortable with adventure sports.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want to see multiple highlights in one day without the hassle of planning transportation and tickets. It’s ideal for those who enjoy hiking, scenic views, and cultural insights. Families, active couples, and solo adventurers—especially those interested in photography—will find this tour offers ample opportunities for memorable photos and authentic experiences.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized day in Ella that mixes nature, culture, and adventure, this tour is a solid choice. It offers excellent value for money with entrance fees, transportation, and lunch included, and the guided element makes it more enriching.

The tour’s strength lies in its diverse stops, scenic train ride, and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience more meaningful. Guests consistently mention how the guides’ local knowledge and friendliness make a difference, turning a busy day into a memorable adventure.

While the schedule can be tight, the variety of sights—waterfalls, viewpoints, hikes, and a zipline—ensures you’ll come away with a well-rounded impression of Ella’s natural beauty. It’s especially recommended for those eager to maximize their time and get a taste of Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers pickup and drop-off, entrance tickets for Ella Rock, lunch, water bottles, black tea, and king coconut.

Can I choose the train ride option?
Yes. You can opt for the standard train ride at no extra cost or upgrade to the Calypso music experience for about $5.

How long does the tour last?
The entire day runs around 1 day, with specific starting times depending on availability.

What activities are optional?
The Flying Ravana Mega Zipline and Calypso train with music are optional. You can choose whether to participate.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the active nature of hikes and adventure activities suggests it’s better suited for older children and active travelers.

Are the hikes difficult?
The hike to Ella Rock can be challenging, but guides assist with navigation. Little Adam’s Peak is described as easier and accessible.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and camera are recommended. The tour provides water bottles and some snacks, but personal extras may be helpful.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The itinerary involves hikes and some uneven terrain, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

What happens if the train gets delayed?
Sri Lanka trains are known for delays; the tour guide will do their best to keep things on schedule, but flexibility is advisable.

Would I enjoy this tour if I’m not an active person?
While the tour involves some walking and hiking, the views and cultural stops make it worth the effort for most active-minded travelers. For those looking for a very relaxed day, consider whether the busy schedule matches your pace.

This Ella day trip offers a balanced blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and exciting activities—all with the guidance of friendly locals eager to share their homeland. It’s a journey that promises memorable photos, fresh mountain air, and a true sense of Sri Lanka’s vibrant landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: