This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Ella.
Ella, Sri Lanka, is a cute, beautiful hilltop village situated in Sri Lanka's hill lands. The green, lush forests and rolling hills create the perfect hiking and photo opportunities. The most popular trails include Ella Rock, a strenuous hike up a steep mountain to a stunning lookout over the village and valley, and Little Adam's Peak. Little Adam's Peak is still a steep climb, however much shorter in distance. The hike also provides a breathtaking view of the village and valley. There are also less-strenuous hikes along the railway line. These hikes pass several tea factories, restaurants, cafes, and waterfalls.
Ella town has many good restaurants, gift stores, tea factories, and shops. The town can be reached by bus or train. The train ride to Ella is renowned as one of the world's most scenic rail rides, and it highly recommended.
Ella offers a range of different accommodation types -- from luxury resorts and hotels to quaint local guesthouses and bed and breakfasts. Ella, Sri Lanka hostels tend to be a guesthouse-style setup, with a dorm room available. All accommodation options provide meals. The best local and home-cooked meals can be experienced at the guesthouses. Breakfast generally includes local fruits and vegetables, roti, and homemade jams. Dinner is usually a traditional meal of different curries, rice, and rotis, with fresh fruit for desert. Food is always delicious and plentiful. Most guesthouses and hostels in Ella, Sri Lanka, are more than happy to cater for dietary requirements, as long as they are told in advance.
Ella, Sri Lanka hostels and guesthouses range from basic to luxurious, but as a minimum will include beds, private bathroom with shower, side table, and seating area where lunch and dinner is served. Wi-Fi is available in most Ella, Sri Lanka hostels and guesthouses. Accommodation is either available in the town or in the hillside. For the best views, choose a Ella, Sri Lanka hostel or guesthouse in the hillside. Tuk-tuks are plentiful and cheap, and can drive you to and from the town within a couple of minutes. Otherwise, it's possible to walk, though the climb is very steep.
Written by local enthusiast for Ella hostels
Kelly Sheldrick
