2-Day Ella Tour: Diyaluma Falls Horton Plains & Scenic Train

Getting a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s hill country through a well-organized tour offers a perfect balance of adventure, nature, and cultural charm. This 2-day Ella experience, promoted by Apple Vacations Sri Lanka, is designed for travelers ready to explore some of the most breathtaking sights in this lush region. From waterfalls and mountain vistas to historic viewpoints and a scenic train journey, it packs a lot into a manageable itinerary.

What I like about this tour is how it balances active exploration with moments of awe at the views. The stops at Diyaluma Falls and Lipton’s Seat provide some of the best photo opportunities and authentic encounters with local natural beauty. Plus, the inclusion of the Horton Plains trek makes it a well-rounded adventure for those who enjoy a good walk amidst pristine landscapes. The only downside? The early start on Day 2, which might be a stretch for late risers or those with less stamina.

This trip seems ideal for travelers who want a taste of Sri Lanka’s natural highlights without the hassle of planning every step. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking, who appreciate scenic views and cultural insights in a small-group setting.

Key Points

• Stunning waterfalls: Diyaluma Falls is the second tallest in Sri Lanka, with natural pools perfect for a swim.
• Iconic viewpoints: Lipton’s Seat offers panoramic views of the tea country once frequented by Sir Thomas Lipton.
• Horton Plains Adventure: A guided trek to World’s End provides dramatic cliff views and photo-worthy moments.
• Scenic train ride: The highlight for many is Sri Lanka’s hill country railway journey, famous for lush landscapes.
• Balanced itinerary: The tour combines active outdoor experiences with relaxed scenic stops.
• Group size and transportation: Shared transfers in air-conditioned vehicles make for comfortable travel, with guide support.
• Value for money: At $120, the mix of activities, guides, and transport offers a solid introduction to Ella’s natural beauty.
• Suitable for: Travelers who enjoy moderate walks, breathtaking vistas, and an authentic Sri Lankan experience.
• Not suitable for: Very young children, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to walking and early mornings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Diyaluma Falls & Lipton’s Seat

Your adventure begins in the morning with hotel pickup in Ella, a small town that acts as the gateway to Sri Lanka’s hill country. The first stop is Diyaluma Falls, one of the country’s tallest waterfalls. As you approach, the roar of rushing water hints at the sheer power of nature. You’ll have the chance to walk around the upper falls and dip into the natural pools at the base—a refreshing break after the drive. Many travelers note the “mesmerizing views” and the thrill of wading into the cool waters.

The next highlight is Lipton’s Seat, a viewpoint that historically served as Sir Thomas Lipton’s favorite spot to survey his tea plantations. From here, the views stretch for miles over rolling green hills and patchwork tea fields—an ideal spot for photos and quiet reflection. The cool mountain air and the panoramic vistas make this stop a highlight, especially for tea lovers and those interested in Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry.

After returning to Ella, you’ll overnight in the town, which offers a chance to enjoy local eateries or relax in the cozy ambiance of this mountain retreat. The value here is in the combination of natural beauty and cultural history, all accessible in one day.

Day 2: Horton Plains & Scenic Train Ride

The second day starts early, around 6:00 AM, to beat the crowds at Horton Plains National Park. A quick breakfast along the way gets you ready for a day of moderate physical activity. The highlight here is a hike to World’s End, where the drop-off offers sweeping views of the valleys below—a moment many travelers describe as “breathtaking.” Many reviews mention the “moderate walking” involved, which is accessible for most fit travelers, but might be tiring for those with walking difficulties.

Within the park, Baker’s Falls provides another scenic waterfall, quiet and lush, perfect for a peaceful photo stop. The entire trek takes about 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to appreciate the landscape without feeling rushed. Remember, the terrain can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are a must.

After the hike, you’ll experience a scenic train ride through Sri Lanka’s hill country. Known for its lush greenery and picture-perfect views, this train journey is frequently praised for its beauty. Many travelers quote the ride as “a highlight of the trip,” with some noting it’s “exactly what I imagined Sri Lanka’s landscape to look like.” The train is a classic way to soak in the scenery at a relaxed pace, making it ideal for photography and simply enjoying the views.

Included and Not Included in the Tour

For $120 per person, this tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, an English-speaking guide and chauffeur, air-conditioned transportation, and water bottles—all the essentials for a hassle-free experience. You’ll need to handle your own meals and entrance tickets, so packing some snacks and cash is advised.

The flexibility of paying later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind, especially if your plans might change. The tour is designed as a shared experience, which keeps costs down but also means coordinating with others.

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The Overall Experience

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic landscape—not just tourist spots, but genuine stops that reveal Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. The waterfalls offer cooling relief and memorable photos, while the views from Lipton’s Seat and Horton Plains provide perspective on the vastness and lushness of the hill country. The train ride is a bonus, giving a relaxed yet immersive way to appreciate the scenery.

Many reviews highlight how well-organized the tour is, with the guides providing helpful insights and ensuring everyone stays on schedule. The pace suits those who like a mix of activity and leisure, without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of a guide adds context, making the sights more meaningful.

Pricing at $120 covers a lot of ground, but it’s really about the quality of experience—seeing some of Sri Lanka’s best vistas, enjoying the fresh mountain air, and experiencing local culture through iconic viewpoints. The tour doesn’t include meals or entrance fees, but those are easy to manage with a bit of planning.

Who’s This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Ella’s highlights in just two days. If you’re reasonably active and enjoy nature, you’ll love the scenic hikes and spectacular views. It’s especially suitable for those new to Sri Lanka or short on time but eager to see iconic landscapes.

However, it’s not ideal for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues due to the walking involved. The early start on Day 2 demands some stamina, but the payoff is well worth it for the scenery.

This experience offers good value, especially if you’re looking for an authentic, hands-on adventure with a friendly guide, rather than a passive sightseeing bus tour. It’s a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation in Sri Lanka’s most beautiful hill country.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Ella. You’ll need to be ready in the lobby 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time.

How much walking is involved?
Expect around 1.5 hours of walking in Horton Plains, plus some walking at Diyaluma Falls and Lipton’s Seat. The terrain can be uneven, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), a change of clothes, towel, camera, snacks, water, rain gear, insect repellent, and a charged smartphone.

Is the train ride included?
Yes, the scenic train ride through Sri Lanka’s hill country is part of the tour, offering picturesque views and a relaxing way to end the trip.

Can I cancel or change the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8, due to early starts and walking involved.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are stops for breakfast and lunch along the way, which you’ll need to manage on your own.

What’s the price and is it good value?
At $120, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of major sights with guided support and transportation. Many find it good value given the quality of the scenery and convenience.

Are there any age or health restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility or heart issues, given the walking and early mornings.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Ella tour offers a rewarding combination of natural beauty, scenic views, and cultural highlights. Its strength lies in the chance to see Sri Lanka’s verdant landscapes without the stress of planning every detail. The stops at Diyaluma Falls, Lipton’s Seat, and Horton Plains provide some of the most memorable sights you can encounter in the hill country.

For travelers who appreciate moderate physical activity, love stunning vistas, and want an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s lush environment, this tour delivers solid value and genuine experiences. While it requires an early start and some walking, the payoff is the chance to stand at World’s End and dip into Diyaluma’s waters—moments that make the effort worthwhile.

If you’re seeking a balanced, scenic, and guided introduction to Ella’s natural treasures, this tour is a dependable choice. It’s especially fitting for those eager to explore beyond the typical tourist trail, in a comfortable, small-group setting.

In brief: a well-priced, scenic sampler of Sri Lanka’s hill country, fit for travelers who want memorable views, some adventure, and a taste of local life.

You can check availability for your dates here: