8 Best Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka: Waterfalls, Mountain Pools & Meditation

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Ella is, without a doubt, one of the most visited destinations in Sri Lanka. I partly put this down to the fact that the train ride between Colombo and Ella is at the top of worldwide bucket lists, never mind one of the coolest things to do in Sri Lanka. 

At this point in time, I feel like a stuck record, but honestly, I love Sri Lanka SO much, and every single town or village that I stepped into, I fell head over heels in love with. Each one exudes a different feeling. In Ella, it’s all about that inland mountain magic. The activities and attractions are very much centered around this, as well as showcasing the natural beauty of the highlands. 

I’ve put together this ultimate list of my top things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka, ranging from outdoor adventures to spiritual downtime. In short, I have every mood covered so you can both explore and relax.

1. Ravana Pool Club: Make a vibey splash! 

If you’ve ever found yourself at one of Ubud’s day pool clubs overlooking the rice fields, this is totally giving me the same vibes! In fact, Ravana Pool Club is Sri Lanka’s first international pool. And instead of paddies, it’s mountain views as a stunning backdrop. 

I love the fact that this is in Ella, because apart from its great waterfalls, there’s no beach in sight. So for those sweltering hot days, it’s the perfect place to be! If you do happen to find yourself here on a cooler day, apart from the infinity pool, there’s also a heated jacuzzi. Oh, and DJs playing some cool tunes. It’s a vibe. Who knew that this was one of the things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka?!

Various types of daybeds are available, as well as a separate open-concept dining space covered with bamboo structures. The menu is delicious, by the way, featuring the likes of Thai-style tiger beef salad and mushroom risotto. Or, enjoy a couple cocktail rounds at the bar. 

2. Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery: Heal yourself 

Whilst everyone typically heads to India for a spiritual awakening, let me just tell you, Sri Lanka, too, has its own allure. You feel it in the air; see it in the Buddhist stupas and colorful Hindu temples. You smell it as incense wafts through the air. 

Enter upon your own spiritual journey at Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery. Centered on Theravada Buddhist traditions, either visit for the day, listening to Dhamma talks given by the monks or nuns and exploring the monastery, or opt to stay overnight – you have the option to spend a few nights instead of one. 

Here, you will learn and practise the teachings of Buddha, as well as meditation and chanting. It also includes one-on-one sessions with a monk. It is free to stay overnight, but you must pre-arrange your stay with the monastery. If you have never done a deep dive into Buddhist culture, this would have to be at the top of my list of things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka. Constantly surrounded by a thicket of tropical trees and the sounds of silence, you will leave feeling at peace. 

3. Halpe Tea: Touring time 

Fun fact: Ella is part of the Sri Lankan highlands – the area most famous for its tea plantations. This part of Sri Lanka is known as “tea country.” 

Tea is synonymous with Sri Lanka, and so, naturally, a tea tour is kind of a must in my books! Located in the Uva region (just kilometers outside of Ella), Halpe Tea is the area’s largest Ceylon tea producer! Embarking on a tea tour is one of the most iconic and traditional things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka! 

You have a few options when visiting. Go on a tour of the factory, opt for the plantation tour (including a ‘step-by-step guide to tea plucking’), or join the Handmade Tea Masterclass, where you will craft your signature tea blend! How cool is that? There is also the on-site Sky Cafe (with amazing views). 

4. Murunga Yoga Café: Yogi vibes 

In the central parts, Ella is one of the most popular spots for all things yoga-related. It’s no surprise to discover the Murunga Yoga Café, where it is all about those yogi vibes–healthy and soul-rejuvenating plates of food included! 

Stepping inside, your being is instantly grounded as you’re wrapped up in all the greenery imaginable, never far from sights, thanks to the cafe’s open-concept vibe. During yoga classes, you’re blessed with the same views! Hang ten on bean bags, or chill out with a smoothie and a good book on the hammocks. 

Menu-wise, there’s a combination of Western/vegetarian/Sri Lankan, and it’s a great spot for a good coffee or a hot matcha! They often host themed nights, including live music jams. 

5. Little Adam’s Peak: Hiking time 

Another thing that this part of the country is well-known for is its hiking trails. The one up Little Adam’s Peak is one of the most, making this a must of the things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka, especially if you love your trail walks. 

The soaring vistas from the summit, as well as en route up, are pretty mesmerizing. It’s a beautiful sunset spot, too! 

Depending on your fitness level, it takes the average person about an hour or so to hike to the top. However, if you’re not much of a trailblazer but still desperate to see the views above the mountains, there are tuk-tuks there to help, driving about halfway. If you are not 100% sure about hiking by yourself, I would strongly recommend hiking Little Adam’s Peak as part of a good value guided tour. 

Some things to note: wear comfortable shoes, pack plenty of water, and don’t forget your sunblock! Most of the trail has no shade.

6. ​​Diyaluma Falls: The second-highest waterfall 

Before I travelled to Sri Lanka and was doing my research, the one thing I kept hearing and seeing over and over again when checking out Ella was ‘waterfalls.’ And for good reason, when it’s home to some of the most beautiful in all of the land! 

It makes sense, though, because Ella is inland. Diyaluma Falls is considered a top-rated option, and is probably the most popular, I would say, soaring 220 meters tall. Moreso, it’s the country’s second-highest. 

And YES, you can swim in this one, with various waterfall pools up and down the cascade. It’s not smack bang in the middle of Ella, but then again, magical falls never are! To reach it, either catch local transport from Ella (I recommend a tuk-tuk, which takes about an hour) to Poonagala village. From here, it’s approximately a 30-minute walk to the waterfall. You can trek there yourself, hire a local guide, or, better yet, take part in an organised waterfall trekking tour. 

Some other great waterfalls in the area include Ravana Waterfall and Ellewala Waterfall. 

7. Ella Swing: Feel like a bird  

These photo-op swings (as we call them now) really took flight in Thailand and Indonesia about a decade ago, just as Instagram and influencers were all the rage! Sri Lanka noted this, and now you can find one here too, i.e., the Ella Swing! 

As you fly into the air, a massive mountain greets you in front. Tied to each rope is a string of flowers, so the swing has taken on this fairy-like appeal. Another thing that they offer (although it’s a little cheesy for me, I’d prefer to just stick with what I am in) is dress-up options. The dresses here have these long ‘wings’ which do look super ethereal as they billow in the wind. I also love that couples can have a go at the same time, which makes for a romantic little pic.  

The Ella Swing is very easy to locate as it’s right by Ravana Pool Club (mentioned earlier). This place gets busy, so you may want to prebook tickets for extra convenience. If you’re not so keen or sold on the swing idea, other exciting activities here include ziplining, a skywalk, ATV rides, and more! 

8. The Pekoe Trail: See the train pass by

There’s no way I could only include one hiking trail for the things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka. It’s half the reason why travelers flock to this destination! This and the bucket list train ride from Colombo to Ella… 

With two different “stages,” the Pekoe Trail is one of the most interesting and picturesque, and is definitely a little more strenuous than Little Adam’s Peak. This option is more of a proper hike, and each stage (known as Stage 15 and Stage 16) takes roughly three to 3.5 hours to complete. 

Stage 15 is 9.6 kilometers in total, whereas Stage 16 is one kilometer shorter, clocking in at 9.5 kms. You’ll start in Ella and end in Demodara. From here, you can catch the train from Demodara Station back to Ella if you don’t have another three hours in you to head back on foot. 

Reasons why these two Stages are so famous are the views along the way. For example, along Stage 16, you actually see the train passing by (at the Nine Arches Bridge)! You also trek past tea plantations and local villages. DO NOT forget your phones/cameras for photographs of a lifetime. If you’re the touring type, let a local professional lead the way and join a Pekoe Trail Stage 16 hike with a guide.  

Planning on swapping inland scenery for some beach time? If you’re heading to Unawatuna, check out the best beaches here. If A-Bay is calling your ocean-loving name, I recommend these 8 restaurants in Arugam Bay. Opted for Hikkaduwa instead? No problemo. Here are the top places to eat in this sleepy beach town. 

For travelers who prefer their inland escapes, I highly recommend checking out special Sigiriya, at least for one night. If you do find yourself in this magical town, here are the best restaurants to eat at. 

And most importantly, for the foodies among us: do not miss my ultimate bucket list guide to the 11 Sri Lankan snacks every visitor must try.

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