From Ella: Ella Unfogettable Day tour & Train Ride Tour

Taking a day tour around Ella offers a fantastic way to see this small but incredibly scenic town in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. This particular tour, offered by Ella tuk tuk tours, combines cultural highlights, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences—all for $34 per person. From iconic railway loops and the famous Nine Arch Bridge to waterfall swims and panoramic hikes, this adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Ella’s charms.

What stands out most about this tour are the spectacular views, the knowledgeable guides, and the value for money. The mix of transport—especially the train ride over the Nine Arch Bridge—adds a dash of adventure. However, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some hiking, and not everyone might find the physical activity suitable, especially those with back problems or limited mobility.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day in Ella without the hassle of organizing individual activities. It’s perfect for first-time visitors looking to tick off the major sights while enjoying authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and a bit of local culture.

Key Points

• Affordable & Full-Day Experience: At $34, this tour packs in a lot, making it excellent value.
• Diverse Highlights: From scenic viewpoints and waterfalls to train rides and hikes, you get a taste of Ella’s best.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Shifar earn high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility.
• Photogenic Stops: Many reviewers loved the opportunity for memorable photos—especially at Nine Arch Bridge and Ella Rock.
• Hiking & Water Activities: Expect some physical activity, including hikes and swimming, so good footwear and swimwear are essential.
• Family & Solo Friendly: Suitable for most ages, but not recommended for very young children, elderly over 70, or those with health issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

This tour is designed as a comprehensive exploration of Ella’s top sights, woven into a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with some physical activity. It typically starts with a visit to the Demodera Railway Loop Viewpoint, a marvel of engineering that offers fantastic vantage points over the train tracks winding through the lush landscape. You’ll get an up-close view of the unique railway loop, which is a favorite among train enthusiasts and photographers alike.

Next, the journey continues to the Nine Arch Bridge, arguably Ella’s most iconic landmark. The structure’s impressive brick and stone arches stretch across a valley, set against a backdrop of tea plantations and mountains. Many visitors find this spot photogenic, and it’s a good chance to appreciate colonial-era engineering. Several reviews mention that the guide or tuk tuk driver often shares interesting facts about the bridge’s history and construction, adding a layer of local storytelling to the visit.

The Scenic Train Ride

One of the tour’s big highlights is the train journey from Demodera to Ella, which passes over the Nine Arch Bridge. Passengers report that this ride offers “the thrill of traveling on this iconic railway loop,” and many find it a highlight of their trip. The train glides smoothly, offering exceptional views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. It’s a great way to experience Sri Lanka’s railway charm—something that travelers often say is much more authentic than some bus or car tours.

Waterfalls and Swimming

After the train, the tour takes you to Ravana Falls, a stunning cascade where some travelers enjoy taking a swim to cool off. The waterfall’s natural setting is perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature’s refreshment. Several reviews mention the pleasure of swimming here to alleviate fatigue after the morning’s activities, making it a refreshing break.

Local Cuisine and Cultural Experience

A popular part of the tour is stopping for lunch at a Sri Lankan restaurant. The experience is described as an opportunity to taste authentic flavors and immerse in local culinary traditions. Many reviewers enjoyed the chance to sample traditional dishes, which adds an authentic touch to the whole experience. It’s a chance to take a breather and recharge before heading into the afternoon activities.

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Hikes and Panoramic Views

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a hike to Little Adam’s Peak, a relatively gentle climb that rewards you with sweeping views of Ella’s lush valleys and tea plantations. Reviewers like Maria Clara praised the guide’s helpful advice and commented that the hike was “perfect for those with little time in Ella.” The trail is well-trodden, and the scenery is captivating from the summit.

Then, the most anticipated part is the hike to Ella Rock. This trek offers breathtaking vistas and a peaceful escape into nature. The climb is manageable for most, and the view from the top is often described as “stunning,” with some reviewers mentioning that this is “where you’ll want your camera ready.” The guide’s knowledge about the area enriches the experience, providing context and interesting tidbits about the landscape.

Who Guides the Tour?

From the reviews, guides like Shifar shine. Guests often mention how attentive and friendly he is, sharing interesting information and taking photos for travelers. His flexibility—such as allowing guests to skip certain stops or customize the day—adds to the positive experience. Reviewers repeatedly commend the personalized service, which makes the tour feel more like a friendly adventure rather than a rigid schedule.

Practical Considerations

The tour’s price of $34 per person is quite reasonable given the number of sights and activities included. It covers transportation, the train ride, entrance fees to viewpoints, and water bottles. However, lunch and personal expenses are not included, so budgeting extra is wise.

It’s important to bring hiking shoes, a camera, sun protection, and swimwear if you plan to swim at Ravana Falls. The tour involves some walking and hiking, meaning comfortable clothes and water shoes are recommended. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for very young children, those with back problems, or older travelers over 70—these factors could limit some visitors’ enjoyment.

Travelers seeking a full, authentic day in Ella will find this tour offers an excellent mix of sights, activities, and local flavor. It’s especially suitable for those wanting a guided experience that covers all the major highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. The inclusion of a scenic train ride, panoramic hikes, and waterfalls makes it a well-rounded choice.

The high praise for guides like Shifar highlights the importance of having someone knowledgeable and personable to enhance the experience. Plus, the opportunity for great photos at the Nine Arch Bridge and Ella Rock makes it memorable for social media fans or anyone who loves capturing beautiful landscapes.

The value for money is notable; for just $34, you get a comprehensive day with a variety of activities, transportation, and insider tips. It’s a good pick for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting to maximize their time in Ella.

This tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, relaxation, and cultural exposure. It’s perfect for those who want to see the highlights of Ella without the stress of organizing multiple activities or transportation. The guides’ attentiveness and local insights turn what could be a standard sightseeing trip into a personalized, engaging experience.

If you love scenic views, authentic local food, and some light hiking, this is likely to become a memorable part of your Sri Lankan journey. With all the positive reviews emphasizing the guides’ professionalism and the spectacular scenery, it’s clear this tour offers good value and an enjoyable way to explore Ella’s natural beauty.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed, less physically demanding day, you might want to consider how the included hikes and activities fit into your travel style.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour involves some hiking and water activities, so it may not be ideal for very young children or babies under 1 year.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a stop at a Sri Lankan restaurant where you can enjoy authentic local dishes.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear and towel for Ravana Falls, a camera, and water shoes if you plan to swim.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, reviews mention it’s a seven-hour excursion, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, travelers describe the train ride from Demodera to Ella as smooth and scenic, with fantastic views over the Nine Arch Bridge.

Can I skip any activities?
Yes, guides like Shifar are flexible and can tailor the itinerary, so if you want to skip a stop or take more photos, just let them know.

What’s the best time of day for this tour?
Most reviews highlight the morning to late afternoon, which allows plenty of daylight for hiking, sightseeing, and photography.

Is there a maximum group size?
The reviews suggest small groups or individual tuk-tuks, emphasizing personalized attention, but the exact size isn’t specified.

This guided tour offers a well-rounded taste of Ella’s natural beauty and cultural highlights all in one day. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who value value, scenic beauty, and engaging guides. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the combination of viewpoints, waterfalls, hikes, and a scenic train ride promises a memorable experience—one that captures the essence of Ella without draining your travel budget.

If you’re after a balanced, authentic, and fun-filled day, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to pack your camera, hiking shoes, and an adventurous spirit—Ella’s waiting to wow you.

You can check availability for your dates here: