Two standout dining experiences await in the mountain town of Ella, Sri Lanka. The scenic train dinner combines classic rail travel with local cuisine, winding through mist-covered tea plantations – a perfect blend of adventure and dining. The home cooking experience lets you work alongside local cooks, mastering authentic curry spice blends and traditional techniques while enjoying a family-style meal.
Both tours consistently earn top marks for authenticity and value. I especially love the train journey for its postcard-perfect views and the home cooking for its hands-on culture.
Check out our favorite food tours in Ella below.
Key Points
- A private cooking class and local home dining experience in Ella, Sri Lanka, that focuses on traditional methods and modern techniques of Sri Lankan cuisine.
- A first-class train journey from Kandy to Ella, offering breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s landscapes and an inclusive dinner with a free beer or soft drink.
- A 4-hour cooking class with English-speaking instructors who guide participants through the preparation of starters, main meals, snacks, and desserts.
- Emphasis on creating authentic curry paste from a variety of spices and balancing color, taste, and aroma in the dishes.
- Highly rated dining experience in Ella, with guests praising the wonderful hosts and the opportunity to learn authentic Sri Lankan cooking in a private setting.
First Class Ella From/To Kandy Train Ticket With Dinner
What could be more exhilarating than a first-class train journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque Ella region? For $135 per person, you can book a First Class Ella From/To Kandy Train Ticket with Dinner, a 10-hour scenic adventure.
This luxury travel experience includes pre-booked first-class seats and an inclusive dinner at either Cafe Nuwara or Chill Cafe, with a free beer or soft drink.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot now and pay later. However, you’ll need to book at least 72 hours ahead due to high demand.
Flexibility is key, as you’ll need to specify your departure station upon booking approval and be open to a +/- 1-day date change.
The train journey is described by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s most thrilling rail adventures, offering breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s landscapes.
With an English-speaking service, wheelchair accessibility, and a host or greeter available, this experience caters to diverse needs. Children over 5 require a full booking.
Read our full review: First Class Ella From/To Kandy Train Ticket With Dinner Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Cooking Class & Local Home Dining in Ella
Travelers seeking a hands-on culinary adventure can dive into a private cooking class and local home dining experience in Ella, Sri Lanka. Priced at $71.70 per person, this 4-hour experience offers a tailor-made gastronomy experience focused on both traditional Sri Lankan methods and modern techniques.
Participants will learn to prepare starters, main meals, snacks, and desserts, while discovering the island’s culinary culture, traditions, and uniqueness.
The cooking class emphasizes the preparation of curry paste from a wide selection of spices, as well as tips for cooking traditional dishes in a modern kitchen. Instructors, who speak English, will guide guests through creating dishes that balance color, taste, and aroma.
With a pre-discussion of food preferences, the learning experience is enhanced to suit individual tastes. Logistics are made easy with hotel pickup and drop-off, a private group setting, and wheelchair accessibility.
Based on one review, this dining experience in Ella has an overall rating of 5/5, with guests praising the wonderful hosts and the great opportunity to learn Sri Lankan cooking.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class & Local Home Dining in Ella Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Ella, Sri Lanka, offers exceptional dining experiences for visitors. The First Class Ella From/To Kandy Train Ticket with Dinner provides a delightful journey, while the Private Cooking Class & Local Home Dining in Ella immerses guests in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. These unique culinary adventures elevate the overall experience in this picturesque hill town, leaving travelers with unforgettable memories.