ELLA Lipton Seat Tea Test & Pluck 9Arch, Waterfalls, & Lunch

Ella Lipton Seat Tea Test & Pluck 9Arch, Waterfalls, & Lunch offers an engaging day exploring some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights—ranging from panoramic tea estate views to historic railway bridges and impressive waterfalls. For around $41 per person, you’ll spend the day uncovering the natural beauty and colonial charm of the Eastern Province, all while enjoying included meals and hands-on activities.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes some of Sri Lanka’s most photogenic spots—like Liptons Seat and the Nine Arches Bridge—and combines them with fun local experiences, such as organic garden picking. It’s also great to see how guides like Suresh enhance the experience with friendly, informative commentary.

A potential consideration is that some parts of the tour involve long tuk-tuk rides—over 90 minutes in some cases—which can be tiring, especially if roads are bumpy or if you’re not used to riding in small vehicles. Nonetheless, this experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the Ella region’s highlights, with enough flexibility and personal touches to feel special.

If you’re someone who loves stunning views, enjoys learning about tea culture, and appreciates the chance to venture off the beaten path with friendly guides, this tour offers a well-rounded day out. It’s particularly ideal for those who value authentic experiences—like tea tasting and organic gardening—and want a guided, hassle-free way to see Sri Lanka’s scenic treasures.

Key Points

• Panoramic views from Liptons Seat provide a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s tea country.
• The Nine Arches Bridge offers perfect photo opportunities amidst jungle and tea plantations.
• The guided organic garden activity includes a delicious, complimentary meal, adding local flavor.
• Guides like Suresh receive praise for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the day more engaging.
• The tour includes comfortable transportation, but expect some long tuk-tuk rides.
• Multiple packages allow you to customize your experience, from classic sites to more adventurous hikes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ella’s Highlights: A Deep Dive

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour is priced at $41 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, a herbal tea tasting, and lunch or dinner during the organic garden visit. While entrance fees and tickets aren’t included, the overall value is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the personalized attention from guides like Suresh, who are praised for their helpfulness and storytelling.

The included meals give you a taste of local flavors—something we always appreciate—turning a sightseeing day into a full sensory experience. The organic garden activity isn’t just a walk; it’s an interactive way to connect with Sri Lanka’s farming culture, plus you get a free meal as a reward.

The Day’s Itinerary: From Panoramas to Waterfalls

Liptons Seat

This is the crown jewel of the tour. Perched high above the tea plantations, Liptons Seat offers sweeping views of rolling green hills and neatly manicured tea bushes. It’s a spot famously linked to Sir Thomas Lipton, who once admired his tea empire from here. We loved the way the guide explains the history and significance of the site, making it more than just a pretty overlook.

Travelers often comment on how breathtaking the scenery is—“you’ll love the views,” as one review states. It’s a quiet spot where you can take time to soak in the landscape, take photos, or just breathe in the fresh air.

Ella Rock & Little Adam’s Peak

Depending on your package, you might hike up Ella Rock or visit Little Adam’s Peak. Both hikes are relatively accessible, with stunning views of the surrounding greenery. One reviewer mentioned that Suresh made sure everyone was comfortable and gave helpful explanations along the way, turning a simple walk into a memorable experience.

These hikes are perfect for those who like a bit of activity but don’t want to spend the entire day climbing. The scenery is lush and vibrant, making every step a visual treat.

Nine Arches Bridge

A true colonial relic, this famous railway bridge is a favorite for photographers. Surrounded by jungle and tea plantations, the bridge looks like something out of a vintage postcard. We loved how the train passing over creates a nostalgic scene, especially with the jungle backdrop. It’s a quick stop, but one that’s well worth it for the iconic photo opportunity.

Some travelers note that it’s a popular site, so visiting early or late in the day might help avoid crowds. As one reviewer said, “Suresh took great photos of us here,” highlighting how guides make the experience more personal and memorable.

Ravana Falls

Named after the legendary King Ravana, this 25-meter waterfall offers a refreshing break from the drive. It’s a comfortable, scenic spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the roar of cascading water. The waterfall is a natural highlight praised in reviews for its beauty and the possibility to dip your feet in the cool water.

Organic Garden Picking & Lunch

The organic garden is a unique feature of this tour. Here, you get hands-on experience picking fresh produce, which enhances your connection to Sri Lanka’s rural life. It’s a lively, interactive part of the day, culminating in a free meal—a mix of local dishes and garden-fresh ingredients.

Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated the guide’s explanations and the delicious food. “He took us to the waterfalls, tea factory tour, and Liptons seat, plus lunch,” recalled a happy traveler, emphasizing how this activity combines education with good eats.

Transportation & Timing

You’ll travel mostly in a tuk-tuk, which makes the experience feel personable and intimate. However, be prepared for long rides, particularly if your accommodation is farther from the starting point. One review warns that the journey can last more than 1.5 hours and roads can be rough, making it a consideration if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer quick transfers.

Groups tend to be small, fostering a friendly environment where guides can tailor explanations and stop at your interests. The entire day usually spans several hours, so wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water is advisable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guide: Suresh and Others

Many reviews highlight the role of Suresh, whose friendliness and knowledge elevate the tour. He’s praised for taking photos, explaining sites, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable. As one traveler put it, “He was very helpful and made sure I was comfortable,” which can make all the difference on a sightseeing day.

What’s Not Included & Extra Costs

While the tour offers great value, keep in mind that entrance fees and tickets are not included. That means potential additional costs at sites like the tea factory or certain waterfalls. Some reviews mention surprises regarding ticket supplements, so it’s prudent to budget extra if you want access to all sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, love stunning scenery, and want to combine sightseeing with local activities. If you’re keen on photography, the Nine Arches Bridge and Liptons Seat are unbeatable photo ops. It’s also ideal for those interested in local agriculture, thanks to the organic garden experience.

However, if you prefer private transportation or dislike long tuk-tuk rides, this might be less ideal. Also, if entrance fees or additional site tickets are a concern, budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For most travelers, this tour offers excellent value, blending iconic sights with authentic experiences. The inclusion of meals and a guided organic garden activity makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an immersion into Sri Lanka’s scenic and cultural landscape.

The friendly guides like Suresh bring local stories to life and help make the day more engaging. The stops are well-chosen, providing a good mix of panoramic views, historic bridges, waterfalls, and hikes—perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

While the long rides and some additional costs for tickets are considerations, most travelers find that the stunning scenery and personable guides make it worthwhile. It’s an excellent way to see the highlights of Ella and its surrounds without the hassle of organizing transportation and tickets yourself.

This tour is best suited for adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a taste of authentic Sri Lankan rural life. If this sounds like your idea of a memorable day, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

• What is the price of the tour? It costs around $41 per person, covering transportation, a guide, herbal tea, and a meal.
• Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees and tickets are not included, so you might need to pay extra at certain sites.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, and water are recommended.
• How long does the tour last? Expect several hours, with some long tuk-tuk rides involved.
• Can I choose which sites to visit? Yes, there are different packages, so you can select based on your interests.
• Is the tour suitable for children? While not specified, the hikes and outdoor activities are generally family-friendly.
• Is food provided? Yes, a free lunch or dinner is included, often featuring local dishes.
• How helpful are the guides? Very helpful, with many reviews praising guides like Suresh for their friendliness and knowledge.
• What if I want a private experience? This is a group tour, but small groups allow for personalized attention.
• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour from Ella offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and hands-on activities at a reasonable price. It’s perfect for travelers who want an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s highlights with the comfort of guided support. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer, a nature lover, or simply eager to see the best of Ella, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Just be prepared for some long tuk-tuk rides and extra ticket costs, and you’ll have a memorable day exploring the stunning landscapes and stories of this beautiful region.

You can check availability for your dates here: