Ella, Sri Lanka, is a favorite among travelers seeking a blend of lush scenery, cool mountain air, and authentic village life. What makes Ella perfect for 3-day tours is its compact size combined with a rich variety of experiences—think hiking in cloud forests, visiting tea plantations, or taking scenic train journeys. Out of the options available, tours that include visits to Horton Plains National Park, tea plantations, and Kandy stand out for their diversity and quality. For example, a train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella gives travelers a chance to see some of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes, while wildlife safaris at Udawalawe offer a glimpse of the country’s iconic elephants. Whether you’re keen on cultural stops or outdoor adventures, Ella’s 3-day tours provide a well-rounded taste of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison of the top 4 tours, each with its own flavor and focus. From private custom trips to group adventures, there’s something for every type of traveler.
1. From Colombo: 3-Day Hill Country Escape with Train Ride
At number 1, this tour offers a classic Sri Lankan experience starting from Colombo, with a strong focus on scenic landscapes and wildlife. Over three days, you’ll visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, walk to Ramboda Falls, and tour a traditional tea plantation—a highlight for anyone interested in how Ceylon tea is made. The journey also includes a scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, often cited as one of the most beautiful train trips in the world.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a wildlife safari at Udawalawe National Park, where you can see elephants up close, plus a trek through Horton Plains National Park‘s cloud forest. The reviews (4.3/5) reflect a solid balance of adventure and comfort, with many appreciating the well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides. Priced at $490 per person, it’s a bit on the higher side, but the combination of diverse experiences justifies the cost.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for travelers wanting a comprehensive Hill Country experience, with a mix of nature, wildlife, and scenic train rides. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded adventure starting from Colombo.
$490 per person
2. Sri Lanka: 3-Day Hill Country Experience with train trip
The second tour on our list, priced at $390 per person, takes a slightly more budget-friendly approach while still delivering classic Sri Lankan hill country sights. Starting from Colombo, it emphasizes visits to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Tooth Temple—key cultural highlights.
This trip also features the blue train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, which travelers love for its scenic views of waterfalls, tea plantations, and misty mountains. You’ll get to watch the sunrise from Little Adam’s Peak, a favorite among nature lovers looking for a manageable hike with rewarding vistas. The wildlife safari here, at Udawalawe, is included and highly regarded.
What makes this tour appealing is its focus on both natural beauty and cultural history. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of Sri Lanka’s spiritual and scenic attractions without splurging. Reviewers describe it as a “great balance of sightseeing and relaxing,” making it suitable for families or first-timers.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a value-packed tour that combines cultural visits, a scenic train ride, and wildlife, this tour hits the sweet spot.
$390 per person
3. Sri Lanka 3-day Private Tour: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella
At number 3, this private tour, costing $197 per person, offers a highly personalized experience. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer flexibility and intimate guided attention. The itinerary includes exploring Kandy with its famous Tooth Relic Temple, walking through the botanical gardens, and enjoying a cultural show.
This tour shines with its focus on scenic train rides through tea country, especially passing through Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Unlike the other tours, it offers free time to explore at your own pace, whether that means relaxing in a café or hiking to Little Adam’s Peak. The highlight, according to reviews, is the guide’s deep knowledge of Sri Lankan culture and nature.
It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a private tour with a tailored pace and who value culture. The top reviews mention the guide’s friendliness and the flexibility of the schedule. The only potential downside is that it’s slightly less structured for those who want a packed itinerary.
Bottom Line: This is the best choice for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, flexible experience with authentic cultural and scenic highlights.
$197 per person
4. Sri Lanka, Kandy: Hill Country 3-Day Private Tour
Finally, this tour offers a private, all-encompassing look at Sri Lanka’s hill country for $395 per person. It emphasizes mountain scenery, waterfalls, and scenic train rides. You’ll visit Ella, a laid-back town with good hiking trails, and explore Nuwara Eliya, with its colonial-era architecture and lush tea plantations.
The tour balances organized activities with free time for personal exploration, making it ideal for travelers who like a mix of planned sightseeing and relaxed pace. It also includes a trek through Horton Plains, giving you a chance to see unique ecosystems and enjoy panoramic views.
Reviewers highlight the beautiful landscapes and the professional guide who shares insightful commentary. The tour is suited for those who want an in-depth, customizable experience without the crowds. Its value lies in the flexibility and comprehensive coverage of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a private, flexible itinerary with a focus on natural beauty and outdoor activities, this tour offers a well-rounded package.
$395 per person
How to Choose Your Best 3-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interest in cultural vs. outdoor activities, and whether you prefer group tours or private experiences. For example, if you want the most scenic train journey and wildlife safaris, the first tour (From Colombo: 3-Day Hill Country Escape with Train Ride) offers a great combination. If budget is a concern but you still want a full experience, the second tour (Sri Lanka: 3-Day Hill Country Experience) balances cost with highlights.
For those who prefer a tailored, intimate journey, the private options (Sri Lanka 3-day Private Tour and Kandy Hill Country Private) provide flexibility and personal attention, ideal for couples or small groups.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak season (December to April), to secure your preferred dates and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Ella’s 3-day tours showcase the best of Sri Lanka’s hill country—ranging from lush tea plantations and mountain vistas to cultural temples and wildlife safaris. Whether you want a guided private experience or a well-organized group adventure, you’ll find an option that fits your travel style. For a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and outdoor fun, the first and second tours stand out. For personalized attention and flexibility, the private tours are hard to beat.
Whatever your choice, booking ahead will help you make the most of your time in Ella. These tours offer authentic experiences that turn a quick visit into a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country.