Ella isn’t just a destination anymore; it’s a feeling. Nestled among tea plantations and mist-covered peaks, this small town has evolved from a backpacker stopover into Sri Lanka’s premier mountain escape.

Whether you are chasing adrenaline on the new Pekoe Trail, hunting for the perfect Ceylon tea, or just looking to cool down after the southern beaches, Ella is the place to be.

However, in 2026, Ella is busier than ever. To truly enjoy its magic without the crowds, you need a bit of local insider knowledge. That’s where Hopscotch Travels comes in. We don’t just show you Ella; we help you experience it like a local.

Here is our curated list of the best things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka.

1. Catch the Iconic Blue Train (Kandy to Ella)

Let’s be honest: you’ve seen this train ride on Instagram. It is widely considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, winding through clouds, pine forests, and emerald tea estates.

• The 2026 Reality: Getting a reserved seat in the “Observation Class” or First Class has become incredibly difficult due to high demand. Tickets often sell out instantly.
• The Hopscotch Advantage: Don’t spend your holiday refreshing booking websites. At Hopscotch Travels, we handle advanced railway reservations for our guests, ensuring you get that window seat to snap the perfect video.

2. Walk the Nine Arch Bridge (Before the Crowds)

This colonial-era viaduct is an engineering marvel made entirely of brick, stone, and cement (no steel!). It is the postcard picture of Sri Lanka.

• Best Time to Go: Most blogs tell you to go at 9:00 AM. Don’t. By then, it’s packed.
• Our Tip: We take our guests for a sunrise walk at 6:15 AM. The lighting is golden, the mist is still rising from the tea bushes, and you’ll have the bridge almost to yourself. Check the train schedule with us beforehand so you can catch the “Blue Train” crossing the bridge from a safe vantage point.

3. Hike Little Adam’s Peak at Sunset

For those who want high-reward views with low effort, Little Adam’s Peak is perfect. The hike takes about 45 minutes and winds through lush tea plantations.

• The Experience: At the top, you are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Ella Gap. It is breathtaking.
• Make it Special: Want to elevate the experience? Hopscotch Travels can arrange a surprise “Sunset Picnic” at a secluded lookout spot near the summit, complete with fresh tropical fruit and Ceylon tea.

4. Conquer Ella Rock (The “Real” Hike)

If Little Adam’s Peak is a walk, Ella Rock is a trek. It’s more challenging, taking about 4 hours round trip, but the views of the valley are superior.

• The Challenge: The path is not marked well. Many travelers get lost in the tall grass or end up paying “fake guides” who mislead them.
• The Solution: We provide trusted local trekking guides who know the shortcuts. They’ll also take you to a hidden viewpoint that most tourists miss, known as the “Second Peak.”

5. Swim in the Diyaluma Falls Pools

Skip the roadside Ravana Falls (which is often crowded) and head for the majestic Diyaluma Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

• What to Do: The real adventure is hiking to the top of the falls. There are natural infinity pools right on the edge of the cliff where you can swim while looking down at the world below.
• Getting There: It’s an hour’s drive from Ella. We organize private transport (Tuk-Tuk or Car) to get you to the trailhead comfortably.

6. Experience The Pekoe Trail (Stage 16)

A new addition for adventure lovers in 2026 is the Pekoe Trail, a world-class walking trail connecting Sri Lanka’s tea country.

• The Route: Stage 16 passes right through Ella. It offers a quieter, more immersive way to see the tea country than the standard tourist spots.
• Hopscotch Tip: You don’t have to walk the whole 300km! We can organize a “Day Trek” on this specific stage, passing through the famous Demodara Loop.

7. Visit a Tea Factory

You can’t visit tea country without seeing how the “Green Gold” is made. The Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory is widely regarded as one of the best tours in the region.

• The Tour: You’ll see the entire process from drying to grading.
• The Souvenir: Buy your BOPF (Broken Orange Pekoe Fannings) here—it’s much fresher than what you buy in the supermarket.

8. Chill at the Cafes

Ella has a distinct “backpacker chic” vibe. After a day of hiking, head to the main strip.

• Cafe Chill: The most famous spot. Great vibes, good pizza, and strong cocktails.
• Exploring: The town is full of hidden gems serving “Rice and Curry” wrapped in banana leaves. Ask your Hopscotch guide for their personal favorite “Auntie’s shop” for the most authentic flavor.

How to Get Around Ella

Ella is hilly. While you can walk to many places, having reliable transport helps.

• Tuk-Tuks: They are everywhere, but negotiate the price first!
• Scooter Rental: Great for freedom, but be careful of buses on the narrow curves.
• Private Car: The most comfortable option, especially if heading to Diyaluma or trekking points.

Final Thoughts

Ella is beautiful, but it can be overwhelming to plan the logistics of train tickets, hiking routes, and transport.

At Hopscotch Travels, we specialize in crafting custom Sri Lankan itineraries. Whether you want a luxury honeymoon in the hills or an adventure-packed trekking tour, we handle the details so you can handle the views.

Ready to breathe in the mountain air? Contact Hopscotch Travels Today to Plan Your Ella Getaway