Ella, a picturesque hill town in Sri Lanka, offers a remarkable day tour that combines the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and famous tea traditions. This comprehensive experience takes travelers on a journey through lush landscapes, immersive tea sessions, and a scenic train ride that showcases the country’s breathtaking vistas. Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating escape or a deeper appreciation for Sri Lanka’s tea legacy, this tour promises an unforgettable day that will leave you eager to discover more.
Key Points
- Immersive 11-hour tour showcasing Ella’s natural and cultural highlights, including a scenic train ride and tea factory visit.
- Discover the stunning Ramboda Falls, explore the Damro Tea Factory, and experience the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
- Enjoy a panoramic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella, recognized as one of the most beautiful rail routes in Sri Lanka.
- Participate in a guided tea-making tour, learn about the tea production process, and savor a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea.
- Comprehensive tour package with pickup and drop-off service, tuk-tuk ride, and ample opportunities to capture scenic landscapes.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Ella: Highlights Day Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the picturesque town of Ella, Sri Lanka.
The Ella: Highlights Day Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the picturesque town of Ella, Sri Lanka.
Priced from $180 per person, the 11-hour tour includes a scenic train ride, tea factory visit, and exploration of top attractions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book their spot with no upfront payment.
The tour starts with pickup in Kandy and includes stops at Ramboda Falls, Damro Tea Factory, and the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
Travelers will enjoy a panoramic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella, considered one of the world’s most beautiful rail routes.
Looking for more options in Ella Sri Lanka? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Details
The tour begins with pickup from Kandy, followed by a 45-minute drive to Ramboda Falls, where travelers can admire the natural beauty of the cascading waterfall.
On the way, they’ll enjoy 30 minutes of scenic views.
Next, they’ll visit the Damro Tea Factory for a guided tour, tea tasting, and shopping.
After, they’ll board the train at Nanu Oya for a 2.5-hour scenic ride to Ella.
In Ella, they’ll explore the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak before the 3-hour return journey to Kandy.
Key Highlights
As the tour progresses, travelers can discover Ramboda Falls‘ natural beauty, enjoying the cascading waterfall’s picturesque scenery.
Next, they’ll tour the Damro Tea Center, learning about tea-making and sampling freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
Travelers can tour the Damro Tea Center, learning about tea-making and sampling freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
The highlight of the day is the scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, widely renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys.
In Ella, guests will explore the famous Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, taking in the stunning vistas of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Inclusions
This tour package includes a comprehensive range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. Guests can look forward to:
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Convenient pickup and drop-off service to and from Kandy
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Guided tour of the Damro Tea Center, providing insights into the tea-making process
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A hands-on tea plucking experience for a deeper appreciation of the craft
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A complimentary cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea to savor the local flavors
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A scenic tuk-tuk ride in Ella, allowing exploration of the picturesque town
These inclusions ensure a well-rounded and immersive journey, offering both educational and sightseeing elements for a truly memorable day.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing due to the cooler climate in the region. A camera is recommended to capture the scenic views. Smoking is not allowed during the tour. The following table provides a quick summary of important information:
| What to Bring | What Not to Bring |
|—————|——————|
| Comfortable Shoes | Smoking |
| Warm Clothing | |
| Camera | |
| – | |
| – | |
The tour requires walking and hiking, so proper attire is essential for comfort and safety.
Ramboda Falls: Natural Beauty
Ramboda Falls’ natural beauty enchants visitors from the moment they arrive. The 109-meter waterfall cascades dramatically over granite boulders, creating a serene and captivating atmosphere.
Visitors can:
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Admire the cascading waters and lush greenery surrounding the falls
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Explore the trails leading to different viewpoints for the perfect photo opportunity
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Feel the refreshing mist on their skin as they get closer to the falls
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Bask in the tranquility of the natural setting, away from the hustle and bustle
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Appreciate the sheer power and majesty of this natural wonder in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Damro Tea Center: Guided Tour and Tea Tasting
After exploring the natural beauty of Ramboda Falls, the tour takes visitors to the Damro Tea Center, where they’ll embark on a guided tour to learn about the intricate process of tea-making. At the tea center, guests can participate in a tea plucking experience and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
| Service | Duration |
| ———————– | ——– |
| Guided Tour | 45 mins |
| Tea Plucking Experience | – |
| Tea Tasting | – |
| Shopping | – |
The tour also includes a tea ceremony, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich cultural traditions surrounding Ceylon tea.
Scenic Train Ride: Nanu Oya to Ella
After the tea center visit, the tour takes guests on a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, which is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful railway journeys.
The 2.5-hour ride offers breathtaking vistas:
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Lush green hills and valleys
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Cascading waterfalls
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Charming tea plantations
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Historic colonial-era bridges
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Picturesque rural villages
Passengers can marvel at the stunning scenery while comfortably seated in the train.
This unforgettable journey through the Hill Country is a highlight of the Ella day tour.
Common Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour’s policies allow guests to bring their own food and drinks. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or rules regarding outside items on the tour.
Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Train Ride?
The tour does not mention if WiFi is available on the train ride. It’s best to assume there may not be reliable internet access during the scenic 2.5-hour train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella. Travelers should plan accordingly.
Can I Purchase Additional Tea Products at the Factory?
Yes, the tea factory tour allows visitors to purchase additional tea products. Visitors can browse and buy a variety of Ceylon tea offerings, souvenirs, and tea-related items after the guided tour and tea tasting.
Is There a Restroom Available During the Train Ride?
Yes, there are restroom facilities available for passengers during the 2.5-hour train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella. This ensures comfort and convenience throughout the scenic journey through the hills.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?
Yes, the tour operator typically allows customers to customize the itinerary to meet their preferences. Travelers can discuss their interests and request changes to the standard tour, subject to availability and feasibility.
The Sum Up
The Ella: Highlights Day Tour with Train Ride & Tea Sessions offers a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s natural splendor. From the awe-inspiring Ramboda Falls to the immersive tea experience at Damro, it culminates in an unforgettable train journey through the scenic hill country. This comprehensive tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy Ella’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Ella Sri Lanka
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