Bentota/Kalutara/Hikkaduwa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

For travelers seeking a captivating adventure, a day trip from Bentota, Kalutara, or Hikkaduwa to the Ella Highlands offers an unforgettable experience. This 14-hour journey explores ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, and iconic landmarks, culminating in thrilling activities and a delightful tea factory tour. At just Kč 2,911 per person, it’s an opportunity to take in Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Key Points

• A day trip to the Ella Highlands from Bentota/Kalutara/Hikkaduwa is priced at Kč 2,911 per person and lasts 14 hours.
• The itinerary includes visits to Buduruwagala temple, Ravana Falls, Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, and the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line.
• The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking driver.
• Visitors can explore the serene grounds of Buduruwagala temple and enjoy the scenic views of Ravana Falls and Ella town.
• The trip concludes with a visit to the Halpewaththa Tea Factory, where travelers can learn about the tea-making process and savor regional flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

The day trip to the Ella Highlands from Kalutara, Bentota, or Hikkaduwa is priced at Kč 2,911 per person.

The day trip to the Ella Highlands from Kalutara, Bentota, or Hikkaduwa is priced at Kč 2,911 per person.

The tour lasts 14 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can also opt for the "Reserve now & pay later" option.

The day trip departs at 6 am and includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking driver is included.

Highway toll charges are covered in the package price, making it a convenient and hassle-free experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip starts at 6 am with a visit to the Buduruwagala temple, an ancient Buddhist site featuring seven statues.

Next, guests explore the magnificent Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls.

Upon reaching Ella, situated at 1,041 meters, they’ll admire the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a colonial-era railway landmark.

After lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, they’ll climb Little Adam’s Peak and soar through the air on the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line.

The tour concludes with a tea tasting at the Halpewaththa Tea Factory.

Buduruwagala Temple Visit

Buduruwagala Temple, an ancient Buddhist site, marks the first stop on the day trip to the Ella Highlands.

Seven colossal statues stand at the temple, carved into the rockface centuries ago. Guests explore the serene grounds, marveling at the historic significance and intricate craftsmanship.

The site offers a peaceful introduction to the day’s adventures, setting the tone for the breathtaking natural landscapes to come.

After the temple visit, the tour continues onward to the famous Ravana Falls, the next highlight on the itinerary.

Ravana Falls and Ella City

Departing Buduruwagala Temple, the tour heads to Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Cascading from a height of 82 meters, the waterfall is an impressive sight.

Continuing the journey, the group reaches Ella, a picturesque town situated at 1,041 meters above sea level in the Badulla District. Visitors can wander the charming streets, lined with colonial-era buildings and shops.

The famous Nine Arch Bridge, a notable railway construction from the colonial era, offers panoramic views of the surrounding highlands. After exploring Ella, the tour prepares to visit the next highlight – Little Adam’s Peak.

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Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak

After exploring the charming streets of Ella, the tour group makes its way to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. This colonial-era railway construction is an architectural marvel, featuring nine massive stone arches that blend seamlessly with the lush, verdant landscape. The group pauses to admire the bridge’s impressive engineering and capture stunning photographs before moving on to their next destination – Little Adam’s Peak.

| Activity | Duration | Difficulty |

| — | — | — |

| Explore Nine Arch Bridge | 30 mins | Easy |

| Climb Little Adam’s Peak | 1.5 hours | Moderate |

| Enjoy Lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa | 1 hour | Easy |

| Experience Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line | 1 hour | Challenging |

The challenging but rewarding hike up Little Adam’s Peak rewards the group with panoramic vistas of the Ella Gap and the surrounding tea plantations.

Lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa

With the challenging hike up Little Adam’s Peak now behind them, the group eagerly makes their way to the 98 Acres Resort & Spa.

Set amidst a lush tea estate, the chic resort provides a tranquil setting for lunch. Guests dine on authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region.

The resort’s panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys offer a picturesque backdrop to the meal.

After refueling, the group prepares to continue their adventure, eager to experience the next highlight of the Ella Highlands day trip.

Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line

As the group leaves the tranquil 98 Acres Resort & Spa, they make their way to the much-anticipated Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line.

This attraction, South Asia’s longest and Sri Lanka’s first dual zip-line, offers an exhilarating experience.

The group can:

1. Soar over lush tea plantations and scenic landscapes.

2. Reach speeds of up to 80 km/h as they glide through the air.

3. Enjoy the thrilling sensation of flying while taking in the breathtaking views of the Ella Highlands.

The Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line promises an unforgettable adventure as the tour continues its exploration of Ella’s natural wonders.

Halpewaththa Tea Factory Tour

Concluding the exhilarating zip-line experience, the group heads to the Halpewaththa Tea Factory.

They’ll learn about the tea-making process, from plucking the leaves to packaging the final product. Visitors can observe the machinery and skilled workers in action.

The tour culminates with a tea tasting, allowing guests to savor the distinct flavors of the region’s finest brews. This hands-on experience provides a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s vibrant tea culture and the dedication required to produce world-class tea.

The tea tasting allows guests to savor the distinct flavors of the region’s finest brews, deepening their appreciation for Sri Lanka’s vibrant tea culture.

The Halpewaththa visit offers a memorable conclusion to the day’s adventures in the Ella Highlands.

Common Questions

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Day Trip?

The group size limit is not specified in the provided information. The tour is described as a "private group experience," indicating it accommodates groups, but the maximum group size is not mentioned.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated on This Tour?

The tour accommodates various dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Guests can inform the tour provider of any dietary restrictions when making the booking to ensure their needs are catered for during the day trip.

Are Any External Fees or Activity Costs Included in the Price?

The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and highway tolls. However, any optional activity costs like the Flying Ravana Zip Line are not covered in the tour price.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The tour provides a pre-set itinerary, but clients can customize the experience by requesting additional activities or altering the schedule. The operator is open to tailoring the day’s events to suit the group’s preferences.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Day Trip?

The cancellation policy for this day trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows customers to modify their plans without penalty.

The Sum Up

This day trip to the Ella Highlands from Bentota, Kalutara, or Hikkaduwa offers a diverse and exhilarating experience. Visitors can explore ancient temples, witness stunning waterfalls, trek to iconic landmarks, and indulge in thrilling activities, all while enjoying the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The tour’s comprehensive itinerary and affordable price make it an excellent choice for a memorable day away from the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: