Tucked away in the lush central highlands of Sri Lanka, the picturesque town of Ella beckons travelers in search of undiscovered wonders. Beyond its postcard-perfect landscapes, this haven offers a rich tapestry of cultural treasures and outdoor adventures that have long captivated those in the know. From scaling the iconic Nine Arch Bridge to uncovering hidden waterfalls, visitors to Ella can enjoy a world that seamlessly blends natural beauty and local traditions. Yet, the true allure of this destination lies in its ability to surprise and delight, promising an unforgettable journey for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
Key Points

- Immerse in Ella’s natural wonders, including scenic train rides, hikes to Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, and visits to captivating waterfalls like Diyaluma and Bambarakanda.
- Set out on a cultural journey by exploring the Rawana Cave and Crystal Blue Water Cave, learning about local legends and traditions.
- Experience the vibrant tea culture of the region with a family gathering, offering a unique glimpse into the local way of life.
- Challenge yourself with thrilling activities like rock climbing at Surathali Ella, allowing you to connect with the rugged landscapes of the area.
- Enjoy a comprehensive tour package that includes airport/hotel transfers, accommodation, and an English-speaking guide, ensuring a seamless and memorable exploration of Ella’s undiscovered treasures.
👉 Check out our guide to the 20 Best 2 Day Tours In Colombo
Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Details
- Daily Itinerary
- Colombo to Ella
- Ella Exploration
- Cultural and Natural Sites
- Ella to Belihuloya
- Belihuloya to Colombo
- Included Services and Exclusions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
- Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated?
- Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Individual Preferences?
- What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Trekking Activities?
- Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Photography Allowed?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Colombo
- More Tour Reviews in Colombo
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Colombo we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Details

This 5-day tour offers an immersive exploration of the undiscovered treasures surrounding the picturesque town of Ella in Sri Lanka.
Priced from K25,000 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive itinerary that includes free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Guests can expect a live English-speaking guide and convenient pickups from hotels and the airport.
Highlights include a scenic train ride to Ella, trekking to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, and visiting natural wonders like Diyaluma and Bambarakanda Waterfalls.
With a perfect balance of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Ella’s hidden gems.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Colombo.
Daily Itinerary

The tour kicks off with a pickup from the Bandaranaike International Airport or selected cities, followed by a scenic train transfer to the charming town of Ella, where guests will enjoy the views of cascading waterfalls and lush, tea-covered mountains along the journey.
The next day, guests will explore the area’s highlights, including the Demodara Railway and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, before embarking on a hike to the picturesque Little Adam’s Peak.
The following day, the group will visit the Rawana Cave and Waterfall, as well as the Crystal Blue Water Cave, spending time near the serene pond.
The tour continues with visits to the Diyaluma and Bambarakanda Waterfalls, a tea arrangement with a local family, and an opportunity for rock climbing at Surathali Ella.
Colombo to Ella
The tour begins with a pickup from the Bandaranaike International Airport or selected hotels in Negombo, Wattala, Colombo, and Mount Lavinia, providing a seamless start to the adventure.
From there, travelers embark on a scenic train journey to Ella, seeing the breathtaking views of cascading waterfalls and lush, tea-covered mountains. The train ride sets the tone for the upcoming exploration of this enchanting region.
Upon arrival in Ella, guests check in at their hotel, enjoy a delightful dinner, and settle in for the night, ready to embark on the next day’s adventures exploring the hidden gems of this remarkable destination.
Ella Exploration

After settling in the previous day, the tour now launches into the exploration of Ella, starting with a hearty breakfast followed by a transfer to the Demodara Railway.
The group sets out on a 4 km trek to the renowned Nine Arch Bridge, marveling at its architectural prowess as they soak in the picturesque vistas.
Next, they enjoy a local lunch before embarking on a hike to the iconic Little Adam’s Peak, which offers breathtaking views of the tea-covered hills.
The adventure concludes with a tranquil evening at a private campsite, where the group can reflect on the day’s discoveries and anticipate the cultural and natural wonders that await on the following days.
Key experiences in Ella:
-
Demodara Railway trek to Nine Arch Bridge
-
Lunch at a local restaurant
-
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak
-
Overnight at private campsite
-
Immersion in Ella’s natural beauty
Cultural and Natural Sites
On the third day, the tour group visits the captivating Rawana Cave and the cascading Rawana Waterfall, seeing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Rawana Cave, steeped in local legend, offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past, while the Rawana Waterfall’s thunderous flow and lush surroundings captivate the senses.
They then explore the mesmerizing Crystal Blue Water Cave (Nil Diya Pokuna), spending approximately 3 hours near the serene pond before returning to their private campsite for dinner and an overnight stay.
The Crystal Blue Water Cave’s tranquil, azure waters provide a peaceful respite, allowing the group to fully appreciate the natural wonders of Ella.
Ella to Belihuloya
Leaving behind the serenity of the Crystal Blue Water Cave, the group ventures forth to Diyaluma Waterfall, the second-highest in Sri Lanka. Cascading from a staggering 220 meters, the waterfall’s thundering flow is a sight to behold.
After taking in the majesty of Diyaluma, the tour delves into the local tea culture, arranging an intimate gathering with a family to learn about their practices and traditions.
The journey then leads to the towering Bambarakanda Waterfall, the highest in Sri Lanka at 263 meters. As the day winds down, the group stops at Surathali Ella to try their hand at rock climbing.
Belihuloya to Colombo

The tour winds down as the group departs Belihuloya, making their way back to Colombo or other selected cities, marking the end of their immersive exploration of Ella’s undiscovered treasures.
The final day begins with a transfer to the airport or hotel, allowing participants to reflect on the incredible experiences they’ve had over the past four days.
From the awe-inspiring Diyaluma and Bambarakanda Waterfalls to the serene tea arrangements with a local family, the tour has provided a well-rounded glimpse into the natural and cultural wonders of this picturesque region.
As the journey comes to a close, travelers leave with memories that will last a lifetime, inspired to uncover more of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems.
Included Services and Exclusions
The tour package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants, such as airport or hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
Plus, the package covers:
-
All accommodation for the 4-night itinerary
-
Train tickets from Colombo to Ella
-
Entrance fees for all activities
-
Mineral water, refreshments, and first aid during trekking
-
All current taxes
However, the tour excludes personal expenses, gratuities, and any other costs not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
Participants should also note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and availability is subject to check.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?
The tour has no minimum group size requirement, as it offers a private experience. Travelers can book the tour for themselves or a small group and enjoy the flexibility of exploring Sri Lanka’s undiscovered gems on their own schedule.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements Accommodated?
The tour accommodates special dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals can be provided upon request. Guests should notify the tour operator of any dietary needs when making their reservation to ensure their preferences are met.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Individual Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit individual preferences. The tour operator offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary, activities, and accommodation based on the travelers’ interests and needs, within the overall tour duration and budget.
What Is the Level of Difficulty for the Trekking Activities?
The trekking activities have varying levels of difficulty. The Railway trek to Nine Arch Bridge is moderate, while the hikes to Little Adam’s Peak and Bambarakanda Waterfall are more challenging. Appropriate fitness levels are recommended for participants.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Types of Photography Allowed?
The tour allows photography with reasonable restrictions. Participants shouldn’t use flash or tripods in sensitive areas and should obtain permission before photographing individuals. Photography policies may vary depending on the specific cultural sites visited.
Explore Undiscovered Treasures of Ella
Recap
Ella in Sri Lanka offers a captivating blend of stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and endless adventure.
From the scenic train ride to the iconic landmarks, this destination promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the undiscovered treasures of the island nation.
With its diverse array of activities and sights, Ella is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the wonders of Sri Lanka.
You can check availability for your dates here:


























