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

Exploring the captivating Ella Highlands from the coastal towns of Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa is a must-do day trip for visitors to Sri Lanka. This 12-hour excursion promises a comprehensive experience, taking travellers through ancient temples, cascading waterfalls, and iconic bridges, culminating in a scenic hike up Little Adams Peak. With transportation, a delectable lunch, and a price tag of £115.87 per person, this adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the country’s breathtaking natural beauty. What awaits beyond the highlands, however, remains a captivating mystery.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa to the Ella Highlands, priced at £115.87 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The 12-hour itinerary includes transportation, visits to Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, Nine Arch Bridge, and a hike to Little Adams Peak.
• Lunch is provided at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, featuring locally sourced Sri Lankan-inspired cuisine and scenic tea plantation views.
• The excursion allows visitors to explore ancient Buddhist carvings, one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, a colonial-era railway construction, and panoramic mountain vistas.
• Guests have the option to reserve the day trip now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This day trip to the Ella Highlands offers the opportunity to explore the picturesque landscapes and cultural attractions of this scenic region in Sri Lanka.

Priced at £115.87 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes transportation from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can opt to reserve now and pay later.

The comprehensive itinerary features stops at Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, the Nine Arch Bridge, and Little Adams Peak, along with lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip to the Ella Highlands begins with a 3.5-hour drive from Galle, taking travelers through the lush countryside to discover the region’s natural and cultural wonders. The first stop is the Buduruwagala Temple, an ancient Buddhist site with intricate carvings. Next, visitors marvel at the cascading waters of Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a colonial-era railway construction, and the popular hiking destination of Little Adams Peak round out the highlights before lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa.

| Destination | Duration | Highlights |

|————-|———-|————|

| Buduruwagala Temple | 30 mins | Ancient Buddhist carvings |

| Ravana Falls | 45 mins | One of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls |

| Nine Arch Bridge | 30 mins | Colonial-era railway construction |

| Little Adams Peak | 1.5 hours | Scenic hiking and views |

Buduruwagala Temple

Buduruwagala Temple stands as an ancient Buddhist sanctuary, its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere captivating visitors as they explore this historical site.

Dating back to the 8th century CE, the temple features a massive rock carving of the Buddha along with several smaller sculptures depicting other deities.

The temple’s remote location adds to its mystique, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling towns nearby.

Visitors can learn about the temple’s history and significance from the on-site caretakers, gaining a deeper appreciation for this remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Ravana Falls

Cascading over the lush, verdant slopes of the Ella region in Sri Lanka, Ravana Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in the country.

The powerful cascade drops over 260 feet, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

Visitors can:

• Admire the falls from various viewpoints along the riverbank.

• Hike to the base of the falls for a closer look.

• Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base.

• Explore the surrounding flora and fauna, including diverse bird species.

• Capture the waterfall’s beauty through stunning photographs.

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Nine Arch Bridge

Towering gracefully across the Demodara Valley, the Nine Arch Bridge is an iconic colonial-era railway structure that has become a beloved landmark in the Ella region.

Constructed in the early 20th century, this impressive bridge features nine massive stone arches that span over 91 meters (300 feet).

Constructed in the early 20th century, this impressive bridge features nine massive stone arches that span over 91 meters (300 feet).

It’s an architectural marvel, blending seamlessly into the lush, verdant hills that surround it.

Visitors can marvel at the bridge’s engineering feats and enjoy the picturesque scenery that surrounds this popular photo spot.

The Nine Arch Bridge is a testament to Sri Lanka’s rich railway heritage and a must-see attraction on any Ella day trip.

Little Adams Peak

After exploring the impressive Nine Arch Bridge, visitors can turn their attention to the popular hiking destination of Little Adams Peak.

This 1,141-meter-high mountain offers panoramic views of the surrounding Ella countryside. The hike typically takes 1-2 hours to reach the summit, and it’s considered a moderate difficulty level.

Highlights of the trek include:

• Lush green landscapes dotted with tea plantations

• Striking rock formations and natural formations

• Opportunities to spot wildlife like monkeys and birds

• Breathtaking vistas over the Ella Gap

• A sense of accomplishment from conquering the peak

Lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa

Midway through the day trip, visitors stop for a leisurely lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa. Nestled amidst lush tea plantations, the resort offers breathtaking views of the Ella Gap.

Guests enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan-inspired meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The menu features a variety of rice and curry dishes, alongside freshly baked breads and an assortment of flavorful sambols.

Guests savor a delectable Sri Lankan-inspired feast made with locally sourced ingredients, including rice and curry, freshly baked breads, and flavorful sambols.

After the meal, visitors can explore the resort’s tranquil gardens and admire the stunning architecture that seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements.

The lunch break provides a welcomed respite before continuing the journey through the Ella Highlands.

Additional Activities and Experiences

Along With the highlights of the day trip, visitors have the opportunity to partake in several exciting activities and experiences throughout the Ella Highlands.

These include:

• Climbing to the summit of Little Adams Peak for panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and tea plantations.

• Soaring high above the lush landscape on the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, South Asia’s longest and Sri Lanka’s first dual zip-line.

• Touring the historic Halpewaththa Tea Factory to learn about the tea production process and enjoy a traditional tea tasting.

• Exploring the ancient Buduruwagala Temple, a hidden gem of Buddhist architecture.

• Capturing the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a remarkable colonial-era railway construction.

Common Questions

Is the Tour Available on All Days of the Week?

The tour is available every day of the week. Customers can book the day trip to Ella Highlands at their convenience, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

Yes, the itinerary can be modified to visit specific sites. Customers can work with the tour provider to customize the day trip to include their desired destinations within the Ella Highlands region.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Day Trip?

The day trip to Ella Highlands allows for a maximum group size of up to 15 people. The tour operator provides an air-conditioned vehicle to accommodate the group comfortably during the 12-hour excursion.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?

The tour package doesn’t mention any specific dietary restrictions for the included lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any dietary needs or preferences in advance.

Can I Book This Tour in a Language Other Than English?

The tour can be booked in multiple languages, including English. Customers should check with the tour provider to see if their preferred language is available.

The Sum Up

This day trip to the Ella Highlands from Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa offers a chance to take in Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From ancient temples to stunning waterfalls and scenic viewpoints, the itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, complemented by a delightful lunch at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa. It’s an exceptional opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of this enchanting region.

You can check availability for your dates here: