Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

Sri Lanka’s Ella highlands are often called the jewel of the island’s interior. Known for their lush tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountain views, Ella offers a refreshing escape from the busy beaches. This day trip, offered by Ceylon Nature Tours, takes travelers on a carefully curated journey through some of Ella’s most iconic sights—all in a single, action-packed day. It’s suited for those who crave authentic scenery, want a taste of Sri Lanka’s hill country, and prefer the convenience of a guided tour.

What we love about this experience? First, the impressive scenery is hard to beat; you’ll see waterfalls, rolling hills, and dramatic bridges. Second, the comfortable transportation and well-organized itinerary mean you spend more time enjoying the sights than worrying about logistics. The only potential drawback? It’s a long day—about 12 hours—so it’s best suited for those with good energy and a flexible schedule. If you’re eager to see a lot in a short time and enjoy scenic train rides, this tour could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience covering cultural sites, waterfalls, scenic train rides, and adventure activities.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off, making the day hassle-free.
• Value for money with many notable stops included in the price.
• Authentic Sri Lankan sights like the Buduruwagala temple and Ravana Falls.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable English-speaking drivers and guides.
• Optional extras like ziplining and visiting tea factories available for an extra cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day Packed with Highlights and Highlights

This tour is designed to make the most of a single day, giving travelers a comprehensive glimpse into Sri Lanka’s hill country. Starting early, the tour begins with a pickup from your hotel—whether you’re in Hikkaduwa, Galle, or nearby. From there, the journey quickly shifts into high gear. First stop is Buduruwagala, a fascinating ancient Buddhist site featuring seven statues that date back centuries. It’s a tranquil start, and a nice way to connect with Sri Lanka’s spiritual past.

Next, you’ll visit Ravana Falls, one of the country’s widest waterfalls, which often leaves visitors with a sense of wonder at nature’s sheer power. It’s a popular photo spot that offers a refreshing break amid lush greenery. From here, the tour continues towards Ella, but not without a scenic highlight: the train ride from Demodara to Ella. This journey is the real star for many travelers. Wind through tea plantations, glide past waterfalls, and cross the nine-arch bridge—a favorite photo opportunity and engineering marvel. As one reviewer put it, “the train passing through the nine arches was amazing,” and you’ll love the views along the way.

Visiting Little Adam’s Peak and Lunch at 98 Acres Resort

After the train, it’s time to stretch your legs at Little Adam’s Peak. It’s a manageable climb, with rewarding panoramic views of the Ella valley. It’s a perfect spot to take photos, breathe in the mountain air, and enjoy a peaceful moment. Following that, a delicious lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa awaits. Located on a sprawling tea estate, the restaurant offers scenic views and a chance to savor Sri Lanka’s famous tea and local dishes. Reviewers have called the hotel “elegant,” and many appreciated the chance to relax amidst stunning scenery.

Adventure and Cultural Stops

The tour then ramps up with Flying Ravana Mega Zipline, South Asia’s longest and Sri Lanka’s first mega dual zipline. For adrenaline junkies, this is a highlight, offering a mix of thrill and beautiful views. It’s a fun, memorable way to experience Ella’s lush landscape from a different perspective.

Finally, the tour rounds out with a visit to the Halpewatte Tea Factory. Here, you’ll learn about tea production, sample fresh brews, and enjoy the scenery of tea fields. The factory is a fantastic way to connect with Sri Lanka’s most famous export and finish the day on a relaxed note.

Transportation and Logistics: Making It Smooth

Transportation throughout the day is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is critical for comfort given the long hours. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the trouble of navigating public transport or arranging taxis. The group size tends to be small, and the driver is also the guide, providing insights along the way—something travelers consistently praise, with comments like, “Our guide was very responsive, polite, and made the trip comfortable.”

The train tickets are included, but note that they’re for normal class, which is perfectly adequate for the scenic experience. Extra costs are associated with some optional activities like the zipline (~$33) and visiting the tea factory (~$10), so budget accordingly if you want to indulge.

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What This Tour Means for You

This trip is a great value considering the number of sites covered, the included transportation, and the guided experience. It’s ideal for travelers short on time who want a rich taste of Ella’s highlights without the hassle of organizing individual tickets or multiple days of travel. The long duration means it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days, but many reviewers say it’s worth every hour, with comments like “long day but worth it,” and “hectically packed but unforgettable.”

From a practical standpoint, prepare for a full schedule—wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and be ready to take in a lot of different sights, from waterfalls to mountain peaks. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the stops at the train crossings and viewpoints will satisfy your lens. For those looking to connect with Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, this trip offers a balanced mix of cultural insight and scenic wonder.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This journey works particularly well for adventurous travelers eager to see multiple highlights in one day. It’s perfect if you’re staying in the southern coast and want a taste of the hill country without multiple nights away. The knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics make it appealing for first-timers wanting a structured, stress-free experience. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy scenic train rides and nature-based attractions, as well as anyone craving a day of diverse experiences from waterfalls and temples to tea and ziplines.

If you’re traveling with a group, family, or even solo, many reviews mention how friendly and attentive the guides are, making everyone feel included. Keep in mind, though, it’s a long day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or less travel time, you might want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early does the tour start?
Check availability, as the tour begins early in the morning. Exact start times vary based on your pick-up location and season.

Is the train ride included?
Yes, the train tickets are part of the tour. They’re for normal class and offer a scenic, laid-back way to experience the highlands.

What optional activities are available?
You can choose to participate in the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory Tour (about $10) and Flying Ravana Mega Zipline (about $33). These are extra and paid separately.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the base price. However, lunch at 98 Acres Resort is a highlight for many, and you can purchase food there or bring your own snacks.

How long is the total duration?
The full tour lasts approximately 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure with a lot packed in.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the activities like the train ride, viewing waterfalls, and visiting temples are generally family-friendly, but consider your child’s stamina for a long day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Final Thoughts

This day trip to the Ella highlands offers a balanced blend of culture, scenery, and adventure. With well-chosen stops like the Buduruwagala temple, Ravana Falls, and the iconic nine-arch bridge, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of Sri Lanka’s mountain heartland. The scenic train ride and optional zipline bring a sense of excitement and discovery that many travelers find memorable.

The experience’s true strength lies in its good organization and knowledgeable guides, which elevate what could be a hectic schedule into a smooth, enjoyable day. If you’re looking to maximize your time and see the best of Ella in one go, this tour provides excellent value and diverse sights.

It’s perfect for active travelers, culture lovers, and those eager to take in the spectacular landscapes without multiple overnight stays or complicated planning. Just prepare yourself for a full, exhilarating day that leaves you feeling like you’ve truly experienced Sri Lanka’s hill country.

You can check availability for your dates here: