Ella Sri Lanka’s 12 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours: Which To Choose?

Ella, Sri Lanka, is a paradise for hikers and trekkers. The area’s lush tea plantations, dramatic mountains, and waterfalls create a perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re after an early morning sunrise at Ella Rock or a scenic walk over the Nine Arches Bridge, Ella offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests and fitness levels. Among our favorites is the Ella: Private Ella Rock Sunrise Hike, which stands out for its peaceful early start and stunning panoramic views. We also like the Explore Ella: Rock Hike, Loop, Falls, Nine arch & Train View for its well-rounded mix of natural sights and engineering marvels, perfect for those wanting more than just a hike.

Ella’s landscape is so photogenic and diverse that even a short walk can turn into a memorable adventure. Whether you prefer a sunrise start, a sunset stroll, or a day-long trek through the hills, there’s an option to match your pace and curiosity. With so many options, you’ll want to plan ahead — some tours fill quickly, especially during peak season.

1. Ella: Private Ella Rock Sunrise Hike – All Inclusive

Take an early morning hike up Ella Rock to witness the sunrise with breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and valleys. This all-inclusive tour includes a tuk-tuk ride to the trailhead, making the start effortless. The guide ensures you get ample time at the summit to absorb the sunrise and snap memorable photos. The hike itself is peaceful, with a manageable ascent that’s suitable for most fitness levels. Guests rave about guide Jackson, who is friendly, informative, and makes the experience special with timely assistance and photo-taking.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a private, guided experience that balances adventure with comfort. It also offers a chance to see Ella’s landscape from different viewpoints while enjoying the serenity of dawn. At $35 per person and with highly positive reviews, it’s good value for an experience that combines natural beauty with personal attention.

Bottom Line: Great for early risers who want a personalized, peaceful sunrise hike with scenic views and excellent guides.

2. Explore Ella: Rock Hike, Loop, Falls, Nine arch & Train View

For those who want a more comprehensive day out, this guided tour covers Ella Rock, the Nine Arches Bridge, the Demodara Railway Loop, Ravana Falls, and Little Adam’s Peak. Starting from Ella, it offers a full immersion into both natural and engineering sights that make Ella special. The tour includes a visit to Ravana Falls where you can dip your feet in the cool water and enjoy the mist, along with a scenic stop to marvel at the Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic colonial-era marvel.

This tour is unique because it combines hiking with visiting key attractions, making it ideal for travelers wanting a mix of activity and sightseeing. The included lunch with views of the hills adds a relaxing touch. With a perfect 5-star rating from three reviews, it’s appreciated for its well-organized schedule and diverse experiences.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those eager to combine physical activity with exploring notable landmarks on a full-day guided tour.

3. Ella: Sunset Tuk Tuk Tour with Little Adam’s Peak Hike

This quick 3-hour sunset tour offers a lively ride on a Tuk Tuk through Ella’s scenic spots. It includes a light hike to Little Adam’s Peak, where you can enjoy sweeping views of Ella Rock and Ravana Falls. The highlight is catching the sunset from the peak, a favorite for travelers seeking a relaxed yet scenic experience. The tour also covers Cave and Temple visits, adding cultural interest.

Guests appreciate the fun ride and the chance to see multiple sights in a short time. The tour’s casual nature makes it ideal for those with limited time or seeking a laid-back way to enjoy Ella’s beauty at dusk. At just $8 per person, it’s excellent value, especially with glowing reviews praising the guide’s friendliness and the stunning sunset views.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, affordable sunset outing that combines scenic views with cultural stops.

4. From Ella: Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge Hiking

This 5-hour guided hike takes you through tea plantations and across the Nine Arches Bridge, with the summit of Little Adam’s Peak offering stunning panoramic views. Starting from Ella, the tour includes a walk over the historic bridge, built during British colonial rule, and a climb to the peak for sweeping vistas.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of natural scenery and architectural interest, appealing to travelers who want both nature and history. With excellent reviews and a price of $86, it offers good value for a half-day adventure. The hike is moderate, making it suitable for most visitors, and the views reward your effort generously.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a well-balanced trek with scenic and historical highlights.

5. From Ella: Sunrise Hike to Ella Rock

This 4-hour sunrise hike is a must for early risers wanting to see Ella’s landscape come alive. It starts with a tuk-tuk ride through tea plantations, followed by a guided ascent to Ella Rock. The view from the summit at dawn offers stunning vistas of the Ella valley. The guide emphasizes the personal experience, with options to pass by various viewpoints and scenic spots along the way.

Guests who’ve done this mention how peaceful and rewarding it is to start the day with such natural beauty. The tour costs $20 and includes hotel pickup. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quieter, less crowded experience with a focus on panoramic sunrise views.

Bottom Line: A top choice for early risers eager to combine adventure with unforgettable sunrise scenery.

6. From Ella: Sunrise Hike to Little Adams Peak

This 3-hour sunrise trek offers a personal touch, with a guide helping you find the best spots for sunrise over Ella Valley. The hike through tea plantations is short and manageable, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Visitors rave about the guide Nuwa, who is knowledgeable about the area and perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos.

The tour is priced at $17, making it one of the most affordable ways to enjoy a sunrise hike in Ella. It’s suited for travelers valuing a small-group, intimate experience that combines scenic views and cultural insights.

Bottom Line: Excellent for budget-conscious travelers seeking a guided sunrise hike with personalized service.

7. Colombo: 5-Day Hill Country Trekking Itinerary to Ella

For those with more time, this extensive 5-day trek from Colombo takes in tea plantations, rural villages, and highlights like World’s End in Horton Plains and Baker’s Falls. The itinerary includes exploring colonial architecture and tea factories in Bandarawela and finishes in Ella with visits to Ella Rock and the Nine Arches Bridge.

This option is best suited for dedicated hikers wanting a deep dive into Sri Lanka’s hill country. The journey offers a mix of physical challenge and cultural exposure. At $590, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious trekkers. The detailed itinerary guarantees a comprehensive experience, making it ideal for those wanting a multi-day adventure.

Bottom Line: Perfect for committed hikers wanting an in-depth exploration of Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country.

8. Ella 2 Day Tour: Hikes, Waterfalls, Adventure Activities

This two-day tour balances active hikes with fun activities. It includes Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak, and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, plus visits to Lipton Seat and Diyaluma Falls. The tour also features adventure activities at Flying Ravana and a visit to Adisham Bungalow.

Guests love the flexibility and variety, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just hiking. The $80 price reflects a good value for a two-day adventure. The tour’s highlights are the diverse landscapes and the chance to experience both nature and local culture.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers wanting a multi-day mix of hiking, waterfalls, and adventure.

9. Ella Day Trip: with Little Adam’s Peak Hike From Colombo

This all-in-one day trip takes you from Colombo directly to Ella, with stops at the Nine Arches Bridge and a climb to Little Adam’s Peak. It’s designed for travelers short on time but eager to see Ella’s highlights. The trip includes a seamless transfer, making it perfect for those who want to combine city and hill country without extra planning.

While the price is higher at $251, it offers a comprehensive experience with minimal hassle. This tour is suited for travelers who prefer to maximize their time and see the major sights in one day.

Bottom Line: Best for busy travelers who don’t want to miss Ella’s top sights on a tight schedule.

10. From Ella: Sunset Hike to Little Adams Peak

This 3-hour sunset hike is perfect for those who want to enjoy Ella’s landscape as the day winds down. The trek through tea plantations leads to Little Adam’s Peak, where you can watch the sunset over Ella Valley. The tour includes hotel pickup and a friendly guide, making for a relaxed evening outing.

Travelers praise the breathtaking sunset views and the personalized service. At $17, it’s an affordable way to combine a scenic walk with the magic of dusk in Ella.

Bottom Line: Ideal for sunset lovers seeking a short, scenic outing with memorable views.

11. From Ella: Unforgettable Sunrise Hike to Ella Rock

This 5-hour sunrise hike emphasizes a personal experience, with a guide helping you reach Ella Rock for stunning dawn views. The tour starts with a hotel pickup, includes a walk through tea plantations and forests, and offers plenty of photo stops along the way.

Ideal for travelers who prioritize breathtaking vistas and a quieter, less crowded hike. It’s priced at $23 and offers the chance to enjoy nature at its best, early in the morning.

Bottom Line: Perfect for early risers wanting an intimate, scenic sunrise experience.

12. Kalupahana 6 Points: Ella Waterfalls, Hiking, Nature Pools

This 4.5-hour tour takes you to Bambarakanda Falls, Lanka Ella, and other waterfalls, with opportunities for swimming in natural pools. The tour guides you through dense forests and rugged terrain, providing scenic views of the hills and valleys.

It’s especially good for those who love waterfall hikes and nature swims. The price of $49 offers good value for a day filled with diverse sights and activities, including waterfalls, wildlife, and panoramic viewpoints.

Bottom Line: Excellent for nature lovers and those seeking a mix of waterfalls, hiking, and swimming.

How to Choose the Best Hiking and Trekking Tour in Ella

When selecting the right tour, consider your fitness level, the type of scenery you prefer—whether waterfalls, mountain peaks, or engineering marvels—and how much time you want to spend. For a classic start, the Sunrise Hike to Ella Rock offers breathtaking vistas with a moderate challenge, while the Explore Ella: Rock Hike, Loop, Falls, Nine arch & Train View provides a more comprehensive experience. Budget travelers might favor the Sunrise Hike to Little Adam’s Peak, while those wanting a multi-day adventure should look at the 5-Day Hill Country Trekking.

Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, as popular options tend to fill. Think about whether you prefer a guided tour, a private experience, or a group adventure. Always check the included amenities—like transport, meals, and gear—to ensure your chosen tour matches your needs.

Ella offers a diverse range of hiking and trekking options that suit any style of traveler, from casual walkers to seasoned trekkers. Whether you’re seeking an early morning sunrise, a scenic train-bridge walk, or a multi-day trek through tea country, these tours promise an engaging and beautiful experience. Pick what suits your pace, interests, and budget — and don’t forget to book ahead for the best chance at securing your spot on these memorable adventures.