Ella Day Tour from South Coast
Overview
Experience Sri Lanka's hill country in a single, well-planned day. The Ella Day Tour is designed for guests who want misty mountains, iconic viewpoints, waterfalls, and local culture, all without rushing. This flexible experience allows you to shape the day around what matters most to you. Travel through changing landscapes as the coast gives way to tea-covered hills. En route, visit the ancient Buduruwagala rock temple, a quiet and atmospheric site carved into stone and surrounded by forest. In Ella, enjoy a selection of the region's most celebrated attractions, from dramatic viewpoints to gentle village experiences. Guests may choose any four locations from the available options, depending on time, weather, and personal interest.
Highlights
Itinerary
Customizable Ella Hill Country Experience
Early morning pickup from your hotel in Matara, Mirissa, or Weligama (approximately 6:30-7:00am for optimal timing). Journey inland through changing landscapes as the coastal plains give way to rolling hills covered in tea plantations. En route, visit the ancient Buduruwagala rock temple, a serene archaeological site featuring large Buddha statues carved into rock faces, surrounded by peaceful forest. This 10th-century site offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere away from crowds. Continue ascending into the hill country, arriving in the Ella region. Based on your pre-selected preferences, visit any four of the following attractions: Ravana Waterfall, a magnificent cascade surrounded by lush greenery; Little Adam's Peak, an easy scenic hike offering panoramic views over tea estates and Ella Gap; Ella Rock, a more challenging hike rewarding you with breathtaking 360-degree mountain vistas; the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel set among tea plantations where you can watch colorful trains pass through; a working tea factory where you'll learn about Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup with guided tasting; Flying Ravana for an exhilarating zip-lining adventure over forests and valleys; or a spice garden visit to learn about Sri Lankan spices with optional hands-on cooking class. The day is paced carefully with your driver coordinating the route to ensure comfort, photography opportunities, and smooth timing. Lunch break at a local restaurant in Ella (own expense). Return journey to your south coast hotel, arriving by early evening with wonderful memories of misty mountains and cultural encounters.
Included
- Pickup and drop-off from Matara, Mirissa, or Weligama
- Air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver
- Ella day tour experience
- Four selected attractions as per guest choice
- Buduruwagala temple visit
- Fuel, parking, and toll charges
- Bottled water
Not Included
- Entrance fees and activity charges
- Flying Ravana ticket (approximately USD 50-60)
- Cooking class and spice garden charges
- Tea factory entrance (small fee)
- Meals and beverages
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
Important Note
Guests may customize the itinerary or add extra stops by speaking with our team prior to the tour. Early morning departure recommended to maximize time in Ella. Comfortable walking shoes and light jacket advised for hill country weather.
Why this trip?
Adventure seekers, photographers, nature lovers, couples, and guests staying on the south coast who want to experience Sri Lanka's famous hill country in one day. Suitable for most fitness levels with flexible activity choices.
Operated By
RedKnot Tours
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