Badulla is a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and authentic experiences. Unlike more heavily touristed areas, Badulla offers access to lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and traditional tea plantations that are still largely untouched. We especially love Ella Cook With Sadamali, where you can get hands-on with Sri Lankan cuisine and learn to cook using clay pots and firewood—an authentic taste of local life. This experience stands out because of its personalized attention and cozy setting, perfect for anyone who wants to connect with Sri Lankan culture through food.
If your idea of a great day involves exploring waterfalls, forests, and remote spots, you’ll find plenty of options. The tours listed range from cultural excursions and scenic train journeys to adrenaline-pumping waterfall hikes, giving visitors a rich variety of ways to see and experience the region. Whether you prefer a leisurely tea tour or an adventurous trek, Badulla has a lot to offer.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of tours, including cultural experiences like Sri Lankan cooking classes, nature adventures such as waterfall hikes and safaris, scenic train rides over iconic bridges, and full-day explorations of Ella and surrounding highlands. For a taste of local cuisine, check out the Ella Cook With Sadamali; for a full-day in Ella with waterfalls, tea, and mountain views, see the From Ella: All-Inclusive Day Trip to Experience Ella Heights; and if you’re craving an adventure, the Udu Diyaluma Waterfalls and Natural Pools offers an active day in stunning scenery.
1. Ella Cook With Sadamali
At number 1, this hands-on cooking class offers a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s cuisine. For around $17 per person, you spend 2.5 hours learning to prepare a traditional rice and curry meal using clay pots and firewood—a method that gives the food its authentic flavor. Sadamali, your host, guides you through spice blending and cooking techniques, making this a very personalized experience. The class is held in a cozy outdoor setting that blends beautifully with nature, creating a relaxed atmosphere perfect for food lovers and culture seekers alike.
What makes this tour special is how it combines culinary skills with cultural insights. You’ll cook a full meal—rice plus a variety of flavorful curries—and get to enjoy your creation afterward. Many reviews praise Sadamali’s warmth, along with the generous amount of delicious food. You’ll leave not only with new recipes but a deeper understanding of Sri Lankan culinary traditions. It’s ideal for those who love interactive experiences and want a memorable, authentic meal to take home.
Bottom Line: Great value for its personal touch and authentic flavor, perfect for foodies wanting a meaningful local experience.
2. Ella Waterfall hunting Hike to Bambarakanda and Lanka Falls
Number 2 on our list is a guided trek into Sri Lanka’s lush rainforest, combining train rides and waterfall visits. For $60, this tour offers a chance to see the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda Falls, along with several smaller cascades, all far from crowds. The journey begins with a scenic train ride, followed by a guided hike through Devil’s staircase, revealing pristine nature and hidden waterfalls.
This tour is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers who want to experience Sri Lanka’s wild side. You can take a refreshing swim in Lanka Ella Falls and enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the waterfalls. The guides are knowledgeable and aim to make the experience both fun and educational. The walk is suitable for most fitness levels but involves some moderate hiking over uneven terrain.
Reviews praise the pristine scenery and the chance to get away from touristy spots. If you’re after a mix of adventure and natural beauty, this hike offers an unforgettable day exploring Sri Lanka’s waterfalls and forests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers seeking waterfalls, rainforest, and peaceful nature views, with a touch of adventure.
3. Ella: 9 Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, & Tea Factory
Coming in at number 3, this comprehensive half-day tour blends iconic sights with a scenic hike. For $29, you visit the Nine Arches Bridge, where you can often catch a train crossing just meters above your head—an unforgettable photo moment. You’ll also hike up to Little Adam’s Peak, which offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local scenery and tea culture. The guided walk through lush plantations culminates at the Halpewatte Tea Factory, where you learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties. The route offers plenty of photo opportunities and is suitable for most fitness levels. Many travelers appreciate the combination of scenery, culture, and the chance to relax while sipping fresh tea.
Reviews note the fantastic views and enjoyable walking pace. This tour suits those who want a little bit of everything—nature, train photos, and tea.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting scenic vistas and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s tea industry, all in half a day.
4. From Ella: All-Inclusive Day Trip to Experience Ella Heights
Number 4 offers a full-day exploration of Ella and nearby highlands for $56. It includes hotel transfers, making logistics simple. The itinerary covers Ravana Falls, Halpewatte Tea Factory, Nine Arches Bridge, and Little Adam’s Peak, plus optional activities like ziplining and visiting Demodara Loop. Guided by an experienced driver/guide, this tour is perfect for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.
What makes this trip stand out is its extensive coverage and all-inclusive approach. You get to relax and focus on the scenery and attractions, with plenty of photo stops and walking. The reviews highlight the smooth organization and knowledgeable guide who shares stories along the way. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive day of sightseeing with minimal planning.
Bottom Line: Excellent value for those who want a full day of selected highlights with comfortable transportation and expert guidance.
5. Bentota/Kalutara/Hikkaduwa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands
Number 5 is a long day trip from the south coast, priced at $114, including hotel transfers. It takes you into the scenic Ella highlands, stopping at Buduruwagala temple, Ravana Falls, Little Adam’s Peak, and Halpewatte Tea Factory. The trip is convenient for travelers based in Bentota, Kalutara, or Hikkaduwa who want to experience Ella without staying overnight.
This tour is praised for its comfortable transport and the variety of stops, especially the beautiful waterfalls and temple ruins. The reviews mention a great guide and a well-paced day. The main consideration is the long drive—more than three hours each way—so it’s best for those who don’t mind a full day on the road.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers on the south coast who want a taste of Ella’s scenery without an overnight stay, especially if they enjoy temples and waterfalls.
$114 per person
6. From Ella: All-Inclusive Day Trip to Experience Ella Peaks
This is a similar full-day tour, priced at $39, focusing on Ella’s peaks and waterfalls. It covers Ravana Falls, Halpewatte Tea Factory, and Little Adam’s Peak, with hotel transfers included. The emphasis is on scenic walks and spectacular viewpoints, with guides sharing local stories and history.
With a slightly shorter itinerary than the previous trip, it is more relaxed but still packed with highlights. Many reviews mention the helpfulness of guides and the convenience of pickup/drop-off. It’s suited for travelers who want to explore Ella’s high points at a slower pace.
Bottom Line: Good value for a laid-back, scenic day with a focus on views and local culture.
$39 per person
7. From Ella: Ravana Falls / Diyaluma Falls / Yala National Park
Number 7 combines waterfalls and wildlife for a full 14-hour day at $99. You’ll visit Ravana Falls, Diyaluma Falls, and partake in a Yala safari. The safari offers a chance to see leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural environment, in addition to stunning waterfalls.
This trip is ideal for wildlife lovers and those who want a mix of nature and adventure. The safari guides are experienced and aim to maximize wildlife sightings. The long day involves some travel but offers a rewarding combination of scenery and animal encounters.
Reviewers mention the luxury of the safari jeeps and the opportunity to photograph wildlife. Perfect if you want a multi-activity day with a focus on adventure and nature.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts who want waterfalls and safaris in one day.
$99 per person
8. From Galle/Mirissa/Weligama: Private Waterfall Hunt to Ella
Number 8 is a customized multi-day tour starting from the south coast. Priced at $121, it takes you on a private waterfall-hunting journey to some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning cascades, including the famous Diyaluma. The tour includes trips to upper Diyaluma and secluded swimming spots like Ellewala Ella.
This experience offers flexibility and privacy, making it ideal for travelers who want to craft their own itinerary and visit less crowded waterfalls. The guides are attentive, and you can choose to continue your journey to Ella or return to the beaches.
Reviews highlight the tranquil swimming spots and personalized service. It’s best for adventurous travelers comfortable with longer trips and flexible plans.
Bottom Line: Excellent for private, customizable waterfall adventures with a focus on tranquility and exclusivity.
$121 per person
9. From Yala / Tissa: Day Trip to Experience Ella Peaks
This 13-hour trip for $56 is perfect for Yala and Tissa travelers who want to see Ella’s highlights. It includes Ravana Falls, Halpewatte Tea Factory, and Little Adam’s Peak, with hotel pickup and drop-off. The guide shares stories along the way, making it both informative and relaxing.
It’s especially useful for those staying near Yala who want to maximize their time in Ella without extra planning. The reviews commend the driver’s professionalism and the flexible itinerary.
Bottom Line: Great for safari-goers who want a comprehensive day exploring Ella’s famous sights.
$56 per person
10. Adventure Tour: Udu Diyaluma – Waterfalls and Natural Pools
This 7-hour tour at $100 is geared toward adventure seekers. You’ll visit Udu Diyaluma, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, and swim in its incredible natural pools. It includes hiking through forests, rocky terrain, and photography opportunities.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on active exploration and scenic landscapes. The hike is moderate, and guides share insights into the ecology of the area. It’s perfect for those who want to combine physical activity with stunning scenery.
Reviews often mention the spectacular views and the fun of swimming in natural pools. Suitable for fit travelers craving adventure.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers eager to explore waterfalls and enjoy natural pools in a guided adventure.
$100 per person
11. Ella: 3-Day Private Tour with Hotel and Breakfast
Our final pick is a luxury, personalized experience: a 3-day private tour of Ella. For $170, you’ll stay comfortably, with breakfast included, and explore highlights like Little Adam’s Peak, Diyaluma Falls, and the Dambatenne Tea Factory.
This tour offers a tailored itinerary and personalized attention, ideal for travelers wanting a deeper dive into Ella’s highlights without rushing. The private guide can adapt the schedule to your interests, whether that’s more hiking, photography, or cultural sites.
Reviews point out the value of flexible planning and the quality of the accommodations. It’s perfect for luxury travelers or families wanting an immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a comfortable, in-depth, and customizable tour of Ella and its surroundings.
$170 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
When selecting a tour in Badulla or Ella, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For example, if you love cooking and culture, the Ella Cook With Sadamali is a standout. If you want a full-day adventure with waterfalls, the Ella: Waterfall hunting Hike offers a mix of hiking and sightseeing.
Travelers eager for scenery and relaxation might prefer the Ella Peaks tours, while wildlife enthusiasts will find the safari combined with waterfalls appealing (Yala/Wildlife Safari).
Planning ahead is wise—most tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season, so booking early ensures you get your preferred dates. Also, check whether the tour includes hotel transfers or if you’ll need to organize transportation separately.
Final Thoughts
Badulla and Ella are packed with options for every type of traveler—from culinary explorers and nature lovers to adventure seekers and luxury travelers. If you’re after an authentic Sri Lankan cooking experience, Sadamali’s class is a must. For outdoor adventure, the waterfall hikes and safaris stand out as unforgettable experiences. For those who want a relaxed, scenic overview, the comprehensive day trips offer a great balance.
Whatever your style, booking your tour early is the best way to secure your spot and make the most of your time in this beautiful region. Now is the time to plan your trip, so you can enjoy all that Badulla and Ella have to offer—nature, culture, and warm hospitality await.