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Ella Day Tour from South Coast

DurationFull Day TourLocationMatara • Mirissa • Weligama • Buduruwagala • EllaPriceStarting from USD 79 per person
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

Scenic hill-country drive from the south coast
Flexible itinerary with guest-selected locations
Choose any 4 attractions from available options
Ancient Buduruwagala rock temple visit
Iconic Ella viewpoints and photography spots
Mix of nature, history, and local culture
Tea factory visit with tasting experience
Famous Nine Arch Bridge
Option to add adventure or culinary experiences
Misty mountain landscapes and waterfalls

Itinerary

Day 01

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.

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