Ella in Sri Lanka offers more than just breathtaking views; it’s a place where food and experience blend seamlessly. Whether you’re craving a tea plantation visit, a wildlife safari, or a cultural hike with lunch, Ella’s diverse options deliver authentic flavors and memorable sights. We’re particularly smitten with tours that combine local cuisine with immersive activities—like the From Ella: Tea Adventure in Haputale with Village Lunch. This tour stands out for its hands-on tea plucking, a factory tour, and a delicious village lunch that lets you connect with local life beyond the tourist traps.
Ella’s best lunch experiences often revolve around local food, spectacular scenery, and active pursuits. You’ll find options for scenic viewpoints, wildlife encounters, and culture, all with a meal included. Below, we’ve compiled a list of ten top tours, from tea tastings to safaris, helping you pick the perfect bite for your trip.
1. From Ella: Tea Adventure in Haputale with Village Lunch
At number one, this tour offers a true taste of Sri Lanka’s iconic Ceylon tea. Starting with pickup from Ella, you’ll ride to Haputale, where the day unfolds with a hike among endless tea bushes. This isn’t just a sightseeing trip—your guide will invite you to pluck fresh tea leaves alongside estate workers, giving you a real feel for the process.
The highlight is the tour of a working tea factory, where you’ll see how fresh leaves are transformed into the tea we all love. The guided tasting session allows you to compare different grades—an eye-opening experience for tea lovers. The tour finishes with a village lunch that’s more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into local cuisine, with hearty Sri Lankan staples served in a warm setting. Guests rave about the hospitality and the guide’s knowledge, with reviews consistently praising the personalized touch and the mouthwatering lunch. For around $60, this 5-hour experience offers a rich blend of culture, scenery, and flavor—ideal for curious travelers wanting authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
Bottom Line: This tour combines the best of tea, culture, and local food, making it a top choice for anyone wanting to understand Sri Lanka’s tea heritage firsthand.
2. ELLA Lipton Seat Tea Test & Pluck 9Arch, Waterfalls, & Lunch
At number two, this tour offers a panoramic view at Lipton’s Seat, where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of lush tea estates. The journey continues with a visit to the Nine Arches Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed colonial railway structures, perfect for capturing memorable images.
You’ll also hike up Ella Rock, taking in the beautiful greenery and fresh air, then cool off at Ravana Falls, a stunning 25-meter cascade named after the legendary King Ravana. The tour’s unique feature is an organic garden picking activity, where you can gather fresh herbs and greens, culminating in a free lunch or dinner at the garden. The mix of sightseeing, active exploration, and a delicious meal makes this trip both engaging and satisfying.
Guests appreciate the breathtaking views and the chance to sample local organic produce, with a price of $41 per person for a half-day adventure. It’s perfect for those who want a little of everything—views, activity, and regional flavors.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic viewpoints, photography, and a quick outdoor adventure with a fresh, organic lunch included.
3. Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe w/ Picnic Lunch
Number three on our list is a full-day wildlife safari covering Sri Lanka’s famous Yala and Udawalawe parks. For around $96, you get a guided jeep safari, hotel pickup, and a picnic lunch. This tour is an excellent choice for animal lovers eager to see leopards, elephants, water buffalo, and more in their natural habitats.
The day starts early with a sunrise drive in Udawalawe, where feeding baby elephants is a highlight—an experience that keeps visitors talking. Afterward, you’ll head to Yala, where the game drives often produce sightings of leopards and a variety of bird species. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the long day more comfortable, and the guides are skilled at spotting wildlife.
Reviewers note the trip’s excellent value for money and emphasize how well-organized it is, making it suitable for those with a keen interest in Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. The main downside is the long hours, but for wildlife enthusiasts, this is a small price to pay.
Bottom Line: A good pick for nature lovers who want to maximize wildlife sightings without sacrificing comfort.
4. From Ella : Udawalawe & YALA Safaris with Breakfast & Lunch
Number four combines two of Sri Lanka’s most popular national parks in a comprehensive full-day safari for around $144. Starting from Ella or Bandarawela, this tour takes you through Udawalawe with its iconic elephants and water buffalo, then to Yala, renowned for leopards and diverse wildlife.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of breakfast and lunch, offering a full-day experience with enough time to enjoy the parks. The itinerary includes game drives in both parks, with up-close wildlife viewing, and a visit to the Elephant Transit Home to see babies being cared for after rescue. Reviewers love the smooth organization, and the ecofriendly approach supports local communities.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive wildlife experience with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, and are okay with a longer day. It’s a good value given the inclusions and the chance to see Sri Lanka’s diverse animals.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a full-day, all-in-one adventure with meals included.
5. Mirissa: Udawalawe & YALA Safaris + lunch, Drop off: Ella
Number five offers a seamless safari experience starting from Mirissa, with a drop-off in Ella. For $167, this full-day eco-adventure includes game drives in Udawalawe and Yala, with lunch and hotel transfers included.
While slightly pricier, this tour emphasizes wildlife viewing with leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and sloth bears. It’s highlighted by the personalized experience, with reviewers praising the friendly guides and the excellent organization. The tour covers a lot of ground, making it perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive safari experience with the added convenience of logistical support.
The main benefit is the drop-off in Ella, saving you the hassle of arranging transportation afterward. It’s best suited for those with a busy schedule who want a hassle-free, wildlife-focused day.
Bottom Line: A good choice if you’re starting from the south and want a luxurious, all-inclusive safari ending in Ella.
6. Ella: Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe with Lunch
Number six offers a guided full-day safari from Ella, focusing on Yala and Udawalawe, for about $95. It’s similar to the previous tour but slightly more budget-friendly. The game drives provide ample opportunity to see elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.
Guests appreciate the easy pickup and the comfortable vehicle, making it a practical choice. The lunch included is a picnic-style meal, perfect for refueling between safaris. The reviews point out the reliable organization and friendly guides, making it suitable for families or wildlife enthusiasts.
This tour is best for travelers who want a full-day safari but are conscious of costs and prefer a more relaxed pace. The main drawback could be the longer hours, but the wildlife sightings tend to make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A practical, budget-friendly option for wildlife lovers seeking a full-day adventure.
7. Ella: explore beautiful ella with Lunch and Hotel Pickup
Number seven invites you to discover Ella’s highlights on a guided tour, including Ella Rock, the Nine Arches Bridge, and a visit to Rawana Waterfall. For $61, the tour also includes lunch and hotel pickup, making it a convenient way to see Ella’s scenic spots.
The tour’s charm is the balance of active hikes and relaxing sightseeing. The hike to Ella Rock offers panoramic views, and the train crossing at Nine Arches is a classic shot. The waterfall dip provides a refreshing break. Reviewers note that while the tour is well-organized and offers good value, some found the pace a bit rushed, especially if you want to linger.
This trip suits active travelers who enjoy short excursions combined with cultural sights. It’s an excellent way to get a comprehensive taste of Ella in a day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a guided overview of Ella’s natural and engineering marvels, with a tasty lunch included.
$61 per person
8. Ella: Monastery in the Clouds with Waterfall and Lunch
Number eight is a peaceful retreat to the Monastery in the Clouds, where you’ll learn about Buddhist teachings from a monk. The 4-hour tour costs just $59 and includes lunch at a local cafe and a waterfall dip.
Guests rave about the friendly guide and the authentic experience of learning about Buddhist culture. The visit to the monastery offers serenity and insight, while the waterfall provides a scenic refreshment. The tour’s shorter duration makes it ideal for those seeking a cultural and spiritual experience without a long day.
It’s suited for culture seekers and travelers curious about Sri Lanka’s spiritual side who also want a bit of nature. The moderate price makes it an accessible option.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in culture and spirituality, with a side of natural beauty.
$59 per person
9. Ella: Nine Arch Spice Garden Tour with Traditional Lunch
Number nine offers an exploration of the Ella Spice Garden, where you learn about local spices and their culinary uses. The tour costs $20 and includes a traditional Sri Lankan lunch.
You’ll walk through fragrant garcinia, vanilla, cocoa, and curry leaf groves, learning how Sri Lankan spices are cultivated and used. The shop allows you to purchase fresh spices and souvenirs, making it a great souvenir stop. The highlight is the lunch, which is prepared with fresh spices, giving you a taste of authentic Sri Lankan flavors.
This tour is ideal for foodies and those interested in local agricultural practices. The affordable price makes it accessible, though it’s shorter and less active than other options.
Bottom Line: Perfect for spice lovers and those wanting to incorporate local flavors into their own cooking.
$20 per person
10. Ella: Highlands to Coast Tour With Safari & Village Lunch
The final pick combines safari adventures in Yala, a village lunch, and a scenic journey to the coast. Starting from Ella or Haputale, this tour costs around $35 and lasts from 4.5 to 10 hours.
You’ll enjoy a dawn safari for wildlife, then savor a traditional village lunch. Afterward, the journey continues to the southern coast, with drop-offs in Hiriketiya or Galle. The tour offers a good balance of wildlife, culture, and coastal scenery.
It’s best suited for budget-minded travelers who want a full-day experience with multiple highlights, especially if you prefer sea and sand after your wildlife viewing.
Bottom Line: An economical choice for those wanting a multi-activity day that combines wildlife, culture, and beach time.
$35 per person
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience in Ella Sri Lanka
When selecting your perfect lunch experience, consider your main interests—nature, culture, or food. If you’re a tea enthusiast, the Tea Adventure in Haputale offers a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s most famous export. For wildlife lovers, the Safari trips provide incredible animal sightings and scenic drives.
Budget-conscious travelers might lean toward the Spice Garden Tour, which combines affordability with culture. For those who want a mix of active exploration and sightseeing, the Ella: explore beautiful Ella hits most highlights.
Remember, booking early is wise during peak seasons, as many tours fill quickly. Match your choice to your interests, fitness level, and whether you want a relaxing meal or an active adventure.
Final Thoughts
Ella offers a remarkable variety of lunch experiences—from tea plantation tours to wildlife safaris and cultural explorations. If you’re after a rich cultural connection with great food, the Village Lunch after a tea adventure or the spice garden tour are great picks. For wildlife enthusiasts, the full-day safaris provide unforgettable moments with elephants, leopards, and more.
Whether you prefer scenic views, active pursuits, or culinary surprises, Ella has an option for you. As always, plan ahead and book early to ensure you get your preferred experience. With so many choices, you’re sure to find a lunch adventure that enhances your trip and fills your belly with authentic Sri Lankan flavors.