From Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

Setting out on a day trip from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa to the Ella Highlands promises an unforgettable adventure. For just $95.07 per person, visitors can enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural beauty, explore historic sites, and indulge in local tea tastings. From the ancient Buduruwagala Temple to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, this excursion offers a diverse array of experiences that capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s stunning highlands.

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Key Points

Enjoy a full-day excursion from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa to the breathtaking Ella Highlands, including visits to Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, and Ella town.
Admire the ancient rock carvings and panoramic views at the 7th-century Buduruwagala Temple, a tranquil Buddhist site.
Explore the lush surroundings and learn about the cultural significance of the majestic Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls.
Discover the charming town of Ella, with its iconic Nine Arch Bridge, local shops, and the opportunity to hike to the summit of Little Adams Peak.
Enjoy the world of Sri Lankan tea at the Halpewatte Tea Factory, learning about the production process and sampling various tea varieties.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This day trip from Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama, or Mirissa takes visitors to the breathtaking Ella Highlands.

The 12-hour tour costs $95.07 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include the Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, Little Adams Peak, and the Halpewatte Tea Factory.

A live English-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the journey.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

This scenic adventure offers a chance to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning highlands and immerse in its rich cultural heritage.

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Buduruwagala Temple Visit

The first stop on the day trip is the Buduruwagala rock temple, an ancient Buddhist site dating back to the 7th century.

Visitors will see seven towering statues carved directly into the rock face, a stunning display of ancient Sri Lankan artistry.

The temple offers:

Unparalleled views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
A sense of tranquility and spiritual connection.
Insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Photo opportunities to capture the impressive rock carvings.

After exploring the temple, the tour continues to the next destination – the majestic Ravana Falls.

Ravana Falls Exploration

After exploring the ancient Buduruwagala Temple, the tour continues to the majestic Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka.

Cascading from a height of 82 meters, the falls are a breathtaking sight. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and refreshing mist surrounding the falls.

Cascading from a height of 82 meters, the falls are a breathtaking sight. Visitors can enjoy the lush greenery and refreshing mist surrounding the falls.

Guides provide insight into the cultural and historical significance of Ravana Falls, named after the legendary King Ravana from the Hindu epic Ramayana.

With ample time to take photos and soak in the natural beauty, this stop offers a serene and rejuvenating experience amidst the Ella Highlands.

Ella City Discovery

Next, the tour arrives at the charming town of Ella, situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters.

Visitors explore Ella City, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The highlights include:

Wandering through the quaint streets lined with local shops and cafes.
Marveling at the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive colonial-era railway construction.
Ascending to the top of Little Adams Peak, which offers panoramic vistas of the Ella Gap.
Indulging in a delectable lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, surrounded by the serene highland landscape.

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Nine Arch Bridge Tour

One of the highlights of the Ella city exploration is the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. This colonial-era railway construction, standing 24 meters high, is an impressive feat of engineering.

Visitors can marvel at the bridge’s graceful arches and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. The bridge offers a picturesque backdrop for photos, making it a popular stop on the Ella Highlands tour.

Guests will have ample time to explore the bridge, learn about its history, and capture the beauty of this remarkable landmark before continuing on to the next destination.

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Little Adams Peak Climb and Lunch

From the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, the tour now heads to the famous Little Adams Peak. At 1,141 meters, this hike offers breathtaking views of the Ella Gap. The ascent takes about an hour through tea plantations and forests.

The tour heads to the famous Little Adams Peak, a hike offering breathtaking views of the Ella Gap through tea plantations and forests.

Upon reaching the summit, guests are rewarded with:

Panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys.
A serene lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, known for its stunning location.
Opportunities to explore the quaint town of Ella, filled with local cafes and shops.
An adrenaline-fueled experience on the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, South Asia’s longest dual zip-line.

Flying Ravana Zip Line Experience

The zip line experience at Flying Ravana provides an exhilarating opportunity for guests to soar over the lush Ella landscape.

Spanning over 3,550 meters, it’s South Asia’s longest dual zip line, allowing visitors to race alongside a companion.

Thrill-seekers will glide at speeds up to 80 km/h, taking in stunning views of the rolling hills and tea plantations below.

The zip line’s safety standards are top-notch, with professional guides ensuring a secure and unforgettable adventure.

After the ride, guests can enjoy the Ella Tea Factory tour and sample the region’s renowned Ceylon tea.

Halpewatte Tea Factory Tour

After exploring the exhilarating Flying Ravana Zip Line, visitors to the Ella Highlands can look forward to a captivating tour of the Halpewatte Tea Factory.

Visitors to the Ella Highlands can look forward to a captivating tour of the Halpewatte Tea Factory after the exhilarating Flying Ravana Zip Line.

The tour offers a unique insight into the region’s renowned tea industry. Guests can expect to:

Observe the intricate tea-making process, from withering and rolling to drying and sorting.
Learn about the history and significance of the Halpewatte estate, which has been producing high-quality tea for generations.
Sample a variety of freshly brewed teas and discover the nuances of their flavors.
Browse the on-site tea shop and purchase premium tea leaves to take home.

Common Questions

Can I Change the Itinerary During the Tour?

The tour’s itinerary can be adjusted during the day trip, but it’s best to discuss any changes with the guide in advance. They’ll work to accommodate reasonable requests while ensuring the key highlights are covered within the scheduled timeframe.

Is There Any Additional Charge for Extra Activities?

There may be additional charges for extra activities not included in the tour package, such as the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line. Customers should check with the tour provider for any supplementary costs prior to booking.

Do I Need Any Special Permission to Visit the Sites?

No special permission is required to visit the sites on this tour. The tour includes all necessary entry tickets, such as for the Buduruwagala Temple and the Halpewatte Tea Factory. Visitors simply need to follow the dress code when entering temples.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Can’t Attend?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This allows flexibility in case plans change, without any penalties. The provider understands unforeseen circumstances may arise and wants to accommodate customers’ needs.

Can I Get a Vegetarian or Halal Meal on the Tour?

The tour does not include meals, but the guide can assist in arranging vegetarian or halal meals at local restaurants during the lunch stop. Travelers should inform the guide of any dietary requirements in advance.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa provides a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Ella Highlands. For just $95.07 per person, visitors can experience ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, charming towns, and iconic landmarks, as well as indulge in the region’s renowned tea culture. With its diverse activities and breathtaking scenery, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

You can check availability for your dates here: