Ella: Cinnamon, Spice Garden & Waterfall tour

If you’re exploring Sri Lanka and find yourself in Ella, this Cinnamon, Spice Garden & Waterfall tour offers a mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. While it’s not a day of nonstop adventure, it’s a well-rounded outing that highlights some of Ella’s most photogenic spots and traditional crafts.

What we love about this tour is how it combines learning about cinnamon production, tasting fresh spices, and taking a refreshing swim in a mountain river—all while staying reasonably priced at just $26 per person. The experience is generally praised for its breathtaking views and genuine local interactions, although some reviews point out that certain parts may feel a bit touristy or rushed.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and authentic Sri Lankan flavors without the need for strenuous activity. If you’re after a relaxed, yet diverse day out, this could be a perfect choice. However, keep in mind that it’s not designed for children under 10 or those with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Authentic cinnamon making with local artisans
• Stunning waterfalls including Ravana and secret waterfalls
• Mountain river swim with no crowds around
• Visit to spice garden with a tasting and massage
• Includes traditional Sri Lankan lunch
• Affordable price with all transfers included

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a thoughtful mix of cultural exploration and natural beauty, providing a great introduction to the rural surroundings of Ella. Starting at 9 AM, you’ll be picked up from the Ella bus station in a comfortable Jeep, ready for a day that promises both sightseeing and authentic local experiences.

Visiting a Cinnamon Garden

The day begins with a visit to a cinnamon garden in a nearby village. Here, you’ll witness traditional cinnamon making, which involves processing the bark into the familiar spice. The guide explains the process, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase cinnamon directly from the growers—meaning fresher and often cheaper than in town.

One reviewer noted that the cinnamon education lasts about two minutes, but it’s still a worthwhile stop for those interested in spice production. Plus, chatting with local farmers adds a personal touch that many travelers find memorable.

Exploring a Spice Garden

Next, you’ll visit a spice garden—a lush, fragrant patch full of various spices like cardamom, pepper, and turmeric. Here, you’ll learn about different spices, their uses, and their significance in Sri Lankan cuisine. Many visitors enjoy the head massage and spicy tea offered during this stop, making it both relaxing and educational.

However, reviews suggest that some spice garden visits can feel a bit touristy, aimed at selling spices at inflated prices. Still, the opportunity to sample fresh spices and enjoy a locally brewed spicy tea keeps the experience engaging.

Marveling at Ella Waterfalls

One of the highlights is the visit to Ella Waterfalls. The tour includes a stop at Ravana waterfall, the largest in the area—it’s truly impressive. Expect to see a powerful cascade of water, perfect for photos or just taking in the natural spectacle.

From there, you’ll hike to Palawella waterfall, which offers a bit of adventure and a chance to swim in the mountain river. A reviewer mentioned that the waterfalls are beautiful but that extra charges may be required to access certain parts, so be prepared for small additional costs.

The tour also visits the Secret Waterfall, a quieter, less-visited spot where you’ll find the chance to relax and cool off in the crystal-clear waters.

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Lunch and Relaxation

Midday, you’ll enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. While the menu isn’t specified, you can expect local flavors, perhaps rice and curry, served in a setting that complements the scenic surroundings. It’s a great way to refuel before heading to the final segment of the tour.

Mountain River Swimming

The day concludes with a swim in a mountain river, far away from tourist crowds. This last stop is frequently praised for its tranquility and authentic feel—many reviewers emphasize that they found no other travelers here, making it a peaceful end to a busy day.

Transportation and Practical Details

All transportation between stops is included in the price, via a sturdy Jeep that handles the varied terrain well. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for more personal interactions with your guide, Ranjani, who is appreciated for her local knowledge and friendly demeanor.

The tour runs from 9 AM to approximately late afternoon, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, swimwear, and extra clothes for changing. A camera is essential for capturing waterfalls and mountain vistas, while insect repellent can help ward off bugs during outdoor walks.

What’s the Value of This Tour?

At $26, this experience offers a solid value considering the variety of locations visited, the inclusion of transport, and the chance to learn directly from locals. While there are optional extra costs at some waterfalls, the overall price remains competitive for what’s included.

The tour balances nature and culture, making it suitable for travelers who like seeing authentic local crafts, exploring waterfalls, and taking a dip in mountain rivers. It’s not overly strenuous but provides enough walking and hiking to make it memorable.

Authentic Encounters and Reviews

One traveler, Olivier, shared that “without our guides we wouldn’t have discovered all these places,” highlighting the importance of local guides in making the experience richer. He also enjoyed the breathtaking views and described the day as “a superb experience.”

However, a different reviewer mentioned feeling that the spice garden visit was aimed more at tourist shopping, with limited educational content for some. The cinnamon experience, while short, still offered real insight, especially if you’re interested in spices or want to buy some fresh cinnamon.

Another highlight noted was the waterfalls—one traveler called the remote waterfall “the highlight”, emphasizing its untouched beauty. The peaceful mountain river swimming is also a standout, with many appreciating the chance to unwind away from crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a balanced day of culture and nature without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves. It’s ideal for those interested in local crafts, scenic waterfalls, and relaxing river swims.

People who prefer more active or rigorous excursions may find this tour on the gentle side, but if you’re after authentic local experiences and breathtaking views, it’s a good fit.

Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 10, those with mobility issues, or travelers over 95 years old. Also, be aware that some expenses during the visit—like additional costs for waterfalls—are not included in the upfront price.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not really. It’s recommended for travelers over 10 years old due to walking and some hiking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, towel, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, cash, and a daypack.

How long is the tour?
It starts at 9 AM and typically concludes in the late afternoon, giving plenty of time at each stop.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but a traditional Sri Lankan meal is served during the day.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, children under 10 and people over 95 are not recommended to join.

What language is the tour conducted in?
English, making it easy for most travelers to follow along.

Final Thoughts

The Ella Cinnamon, Spice Garden & Waterfall tour offers a delightful snapshot of Sri Lanka’s rural charm. You’ll get to see breathtaking waterfalls, learn about spice and cinnamon production, and relax with a mountain river swim—all wrapped into a reasonably priced package.

While some parts can feel tourist-oriented, the genuine interaction with locals and stunning views make this an appealing choice for travelers who appreciate a laid-back yet enriching day out. It’s especially good for those wanting a snapshot of Ella’s natural beauty paired with cultural insights, all in a manageable timeframe.

If you’re after a relatively relaxed tour that balances nature, local crafts, and authentic experiences, this could be just what you need for a memorable day in Sri Lanka’s scenic highlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: