2 Day Tour of Udawalawe & Ella with Up Country Scenic Train Ride – All Inclusive

A 2-Day Adventure Through Sri Lanka’s Wild and Scenic Heartland

Travelers seeking a quick yet immersive glimpse of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and vibrant culture might find the 2 Day Tour of Udawalawe & Ella with Up Country Scenic Train Ride an excellent choice. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, I’ve thoroughly reviewed the details, and it seems crafted for those who want a comprehensive experience without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What we really love about this tour is its diverse itinerary, combining thrilling wildlife safaris with breathtaking train journeys and lush hill country landscapes. The all-inclusive nature — from transportation and entry fees to meals and accommodation — simplifies planning, making it a good value for the price. However, travelers should be aware that the long early start (4 am pick-up) and packed schedule might be tiring for some. Still, if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time, this tour hits many highlights.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy wildlife, scenic views, and cultural stops. It’s also suited to those who prefer the convenience of private transport and organized activities. If you’re looking for a leisurely, slow-paced tour, this might feel a bit rushed, but for energetic explorers, it’s a well-rounded snapshot of Sri Lanka’s hill country and national parks.

Key Points

• Wildlife & Safari: Experience one of the world’s best spots to see elephants at Udawalawe National Park.
• Cultural & Scenic Stops: Visit the Elephants Transit Home, Rawana Falls, and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge.
• Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy a 60-70 minute journey through Sri Lanka’s mountain-covered landscape, with pre-booked seats.
• All-Inclusive & Private: Includes transportation, meals, entry fees, and a comfortable hotel stay.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Transport: Led by knowledgeable guides with private, air-conditioned vehicles.
• Authentic Experiences: From elephant rehabilitation centers to tea plantations, get a genuine taste of Sri Lanka.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Udawalawe & Ella Tour

Day 1: Wildlife & Waterfalls

The early morning start at 4 am is designed to maximize your time, and with the pickup offered from various locations around Negombo and Colombo, logistics are simplified. The drive to Udawalawe is around 3 hours, giving you time to settle in with a scenic view that hints at the lush landscapes ahead.

Udawalawe National Park is the star of the show. It’s renowned for its elephants, and travelers consistently praise the quality of spotting these majestic creatures. One reviewer mentioned, “Unser Guide wusste wo sich die Elefanten befanden,” highlighting the value of knowledgeable guides in finding wildlife — especially in a vast grassland terrain. Expect a 3-hour safari jeep ride where you’ll have chances to see herds grazing, and perhaps even some crocodiles or water buffalo.

Next, you’ll visit the Elephant Transit Home (ETH), a sanctuary focused on rehabilitating orphaned elephants. This stop offers not only touching moments with young elephants but also insight into Sri Lanka’s conservation efforts. Visitors often find this visit both educational and heartwarming.

After the safari, the journey continues toward Ella, stopping at Rawana Falls. This waterfall is a striking cascade that offers a quick but memorable photo stop, giving that perfect shot of water rushing down surrounded by greenery. The next stop, the Nine Arch Bridge, is a must-see for anyone who loves architecture and stunning vistas. It’s renowned for its impressive construction and the lush backdrop, making it a favorite among travelers.

Day 2: Hill Country & Tea Gardens

Day 2 begins very early with a 5:30 am climb to Little Adam’s Peak to catch the sunrise. This hike is accessible for most and offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations — a truly invigorating start to the day. One reviewer described it as a “sunrise scene,” emphasizing how memorable this moment is for those who manage the early wake-up.

Following the sunrise, you’ll visit Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden. Sri Lanka’s hill country is famous for its tea, and this stop delivers both a sensory experience and a cultural one. You’ll have the chance to see how the tea is processed and taste fresh samples, often praised as a highlight by visitors.

Next, the tour takes you to Ramboda Waterfall, a scenic spot where the cascade pours down amidst the mountain backdrop. It’s a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature’s quiet power.

The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back, ensuring you arrive at your starting point with plenty of time to unwind.

Transportation & Comfort

One of the biggest perks is the private transportation provided, which means you won’t be stuck with strangers or in overcrowded buses. The driver-guide, who speaks English, is often described as friendly and attentive, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the long drives.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying at a 3-star hotel in Ella offers a good balance between comfort and affordability. The hotel provides breakfast on both days, and lunch and dinner on Day 1, with breakfast and lunch on Day 2. This all-inclusive setup reduces the hassle of finding good eateries on the go and ensures you’re well-fed after busy days.

Pricing & Value

At $340 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering all inclusions: private transport, entry fees, meals, scenic train ride, and a comfortable hotel. Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides and the well-organized itinerary, making it worth the investment for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer commented, “Sam was amazing in helping us personalise our 2-day trip,” demonstrating the flexibility and the attention to guest needs. Another appreciated the knowledge of guides in locating elephants, noting, “Unser Guide wusste wo sich die Elefanten befanden,” which significantly enhances wildlife spotting chances.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, scenic beauty, and hill country culture in just two days. It suits those who value organized convenience without sacrificing authenticity, as well as travelers eager to see elephants, waterfalls, and tea plantations in a single trip.

If your goal is to enjoy a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, and you’re okay with early mornings and a tight schedule, this experience will serve you well. It’s especially good for first-time visitors who want to cover key highlights efficiently.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour offers a thoughtfully designed way to explore some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights — from wildlife safaris and elephant sanctuaries to scenic train rides and hilltop views. The combination of expert guides, comfortable private transport, and inclusive meals and accommodation makes it an excellent choice for travelers eager to maximize their short stay.

While the early start and packed schedule might not suit everyone, those who enjoy active days filled with diverse experiences will find this trip rewarding. It’s particularly strong in wildlife sightings and scenic vistas, making it a memorable snapshot of the island’s natural beauty.

This tour provides great value and a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s highlights, especially for those keen on wildlife, scenic journeys, and cultural stops — all wrapped into a stress-free package.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
It includes private transportation, all entry fees and charges, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), accommodation at a 3-star hotel, safari jeep, and pre-booked train tickets.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour starts with pickup in Bentota and ends back at the same meeting point, with pick-up and drop-off available from many locations in Negombo, Colombo, and surrounding areas.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for active individuals comfortable with early mornings and a busy schedule. Families with children should consider their comfort with long drives and walking at stops.

Are accommodations guaranteed at a higher category?
Yes, hotel upgrades to higher categories (4/5 Star) are available at extra cost.

What is the best time to take this tour?
Most travelers book about 36 days in advance, and the schedule is flexible based on weather. Confirmations are received upon booking, and poor weather may result in cancellation or rescheduling.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, so guides can help tailor certain aspects or accommodate specific requests, especially since reviews mention personalized touches.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water bottles. The tour provides bottled water, but staying hydrated is important.

Is this tour all-inclusive?
Yes, there are no hidden costs, and most expenses are covered, including meals, entry fees, and transport.

How long is the scenic train ride?
The train ride lasts approximately 60-70 minutes, offering stunning views of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country landscape.

This detailed review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect, helping you decide if this adventure matches your travel style and expectations.