Ella

Ella is a small village tucked into the misty hills of Sri Lanka's Uva Province, and it has become one of the most beloved destinations on the island. Sitting at an altitude of around 1,000 metres, the area is characterised by rolling tea plantations, dramatic valleys, cool breezes, and a relaxed atmosphere that draws travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity.

The star attraction is the Nine Arch Bridge — an iconic colonial-era railway bridge built entirely of stone, brick, and cement without a single steel beam. Spanning 91 metres across a lush green valley, the bridge is framed by tea estates and forest, and watching a train cross it is an unforgettable sight. The short hike from Ella town to the bridge passes through working tea plantations where you can observe the pickers at work.

For more active travellers, the climb up Little Adam's Peak offers panoramic views of the valley, while the more challenging Ella Rock trek takes you to the summit for sweeping vistas across the hill country. The Nine Arches Bridge, the Ravana Ella Cave, and the nearby Diyaluma Falls — Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall — all make Ella a base for exploring the very best of the highlands. The famous Kandy-to-Ella train journey is widely regarded as one of the most scenic rail rides in the world.