Bentota/Kalutara/Hikkaduwa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

Nestled amidst the lush, verdant landscapes of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, the charming towns of Bentota, Kalutara, and Hikkaduwa beckon adventurous travelers to embark on a captivating day trip to the breathtaking Ella Highlands. This journey promises to immerse visitors in a tapestry of ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic vistas that will leave them enchanted and eager to uncover more of this island nation’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the historic Buduruwagala carvings to the breathtaking climb up Little Adam’s Peak, each step of this day-long expedition offers a new opportunity to connect with the soul-stirring beauty of Sri Lanka.

Good To Know

• This day trip from Kalutara, Bentota, or Hikkaduwa to Ella Highlands offers a scenic journey through tea plantations and iconic sites like Ravana Falls and Nine Arch Bridge.
• The tour includes a visit to the Buduruwagala temple, which features seven ancient statues carved from a single rock, providing insight into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.
• Highlights of the trip include climbing Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views, experiencing the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, and enjoying lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa within a tea estate.
• The tour is priced between LKR 2,813 to LKR 2,532 per person and lasts for approximately 14 hours, with flexible planning options for guests.
• Transportation is provided in air-conditioned vehicles, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and English-speaking drivers familiar with the area, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Kalutara, Bentota, or Hikkaduwa offers a chance to explore the captivating Ella Highlands. Priced from LKR 2,813 to LKR 2,532 per person, the 14-hour adventure promises a delightful excursion.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, planning is flexible.

Traversing through scenic landscapes, the tour covers iconic sites like the Buduruwagala temple, Ravana Falls, and Little Adam’s Peak.

Lunch at the stunning 98 Acres Resort & Spa, nestled within a tea estate, completes the immersive experience.

Whether seeking natural wonder or culture, this day trip to Ella’s highlands won’t disappoint.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning with the Buduruwagala temple, an ancient Buddhist site housing seven statues, the day trip through Ella’s highlands immerses visitors in the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Next, the tour explores the captivating Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

The climb up Little Adam’s Peak offers breathtaking panoramic views, while the historic Nine Arch Bridge showcases the area’s colonial-era engineering prowess.

Lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, nestled amidst a scenic tea estate, allows for a truly immersive experience.

Thrill-seekers can opt for the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, South Asia’s longest dual zip-line, before concluding the tour at the Halpewaththa Tea Factory.

Transportation and Services

To ensure a seamless and convenient day trip, the tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations along the southern coast, including Galle, Mirissa, Weligama, Tangalle, Hikkaduwa, Bentota, and Kalutara.

Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, driven by an English-speaking driver who’s familiar with the area. The convenience extends to the highway toll charges, which are covered as part of the package.

With these thoughtful inclusions, guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning natural wonders of the Ella Highlands without the hassle of navigating the roads themselves.

Scenic Journey Through Ella

The journey to the Ella Highlands offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the region’s natural splendor. As the vehicle winds its way through the winding roads, passengers are treated to a mesmerizing display of cascading waterfalls, lush green tea plantations, and towering mountain peaks. The ever-changing scenery is a feast for the senses, with each turn revealing a new vista that inspires awe and wonder. Whether it’s the thundering Ravana Falls or the serene beauty of the Nine Arch Bridge, the journey to Ella is a true celebration of Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes.

Destination	Highlight
Ravana Falls	One of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka
Nine Arch Bridge	Colonial-era railway construction
Little Adam’s Peak	Breathtaking views at an elevation of 1,041 meters
Tea Plantations	Picturesque landscapes dotted with tea bushes
Buduruwagala Temple	Ancient Buddhist site with seven statues

More Great Tours Nearby

Buduruwagala Temple and Statues

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of the Ella Highlands, the Buduruwagala temple stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

This ancient site features seven impressive statues, each carved from a single rock, depicting the Buddha in various poses. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and the sheer scale of these ancient relics, which date back centuries.

The temple’s serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it a must-visit destination on any Ella Highlands tour.

Explore the site’s history, admire the stunning architecture, and learn about the tranquility of this sacred place.

1. Seven ancient Buddhist statues carved from a single rock
2. Impressive scale and intricate details of the sculptures
3. Serene atmosphere and picturesque natural surroundings
4. Insight into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage

Ravana Falls and Viewpoints

Cascading over the lush, verdant slopes of the Ella Highlands, Ravana Falls commands attention with its sheer grandeur. As one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, it’s a sight to behold, with its thunderous waters plunging 82 meters down a dramatic rocky outcrop. Visitors can marvel at the falls from various vantage points, each offering a unique perspective on its natural beauty.

Viewpoint	Elevation	Difficulty
Ravana Falls Base	615 m	Moderate
Ella Rock Viewpoint	1,041 m	Challenging
Ella Gap Viewpoint	1,072 m	Moderate

The sights and sounds of Ravana Falls create a truly captivating experience, making it a must-visit destination on any journey through the Ella Highlands.

Climbing Little Adam’s Peak

Perched atop the verdant slopes of the Ella Highlands, Little Adam’s Peak beckons adventurous travelers with its challenging yet rewarding ascent.

The climb to the peak’s 1,041-meter summit offers a series of captivating highlights:

1. Panoramic vistas: The trail winds through lush tea plantations, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

2. Picturesque landscapes: Hikers are treated to a visual feast, with verdant forests, cascading waterfalls, and the iconic Ella Gap in the distance.

3. Cultural immersion: Along the way, explorers may encounter friendly local communities and encounter insights into the region’s rich heritage.

4. Sense of achievement: Reaching the summit rewards trekkers with a profound sense of accomplishment and the opportunity to savor the serene mountain atmosphere.

Nine Arch Bridge Exploration

The Nine Arch Bridge stands as a testament to engineering prowess, its elegant arches spanning the lush ravine with graceful precision. Constructed during the colonial era, this architectural masterpiece is a sight to behold. Visitors can explore the bridge, marveling at its intricate brickwork and the breathtaking views it offers.

Feature	Description
Height	91 feet (27.8 meters)
Length	298 feet (90.8 meters)
Construction	Built with solid granite and bricks
History	Completed in 1921 as part of the Uva Province Railway

Traversing the Nine Arch Bridge is a captivating experience, allowing travelers to connect with Sri Lanka’s rich railway heritage while surrounded by the lush, verdant landscapes of the Ella Highlands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ella?

The best time to visit Ella is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is mild, the landscape is lush, and the air is crisp – perfect for exploring the region’s natural wonders.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Take During the Hike?

When hiking in Ella, it’s crucial to wear proper footwear, carry enough water, and be cautious on steep inclines. Hikers should also watch their step to avoid tripping hazards and be mindful of weather conditions that could pose safety risks.

Can I Purchase Local Handicrafts or Souvenirs During the Tour?

Absolutely! You’ll have ample opportunities to browse and purchase local handicrafts and souvenirs throughout the tour. From vibrant textiles to intricate woodcarvings, the Ella Highlands offer a wealth of artistic treasures to discover and take home as mementos of your adventure.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Historical Sites?

Visitors are generally free to capture stunning photographs at the historical sites along the tour, though they should be mindful of respectful behavior and any site-specific rules. Most locations welcome photo-taking, allowing travelers to immortalize the region’s breathtaking natural wonders and cultural treasures.

Is There an Opportunity to Interact With the Local Community?

Throughout the tour, visitors have ample chances to engage with the local community. They can interact with tea plantation workers, sample authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage from knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable day trip to the Ella Highlands from Bentota, Kalutara, or Hikkaduwa unveils a captivating tapestry of ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas. From the majestic Ravana Falls to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, travelers are immersed in Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and natural splendor, leaving with memories that will linger long after the journey’s end.

You can check availability for your dates here: