Where To Stay In Ella: Ultimate Guide To The Best Areas + Hotels

If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, chances are you'll be making a stop in the charming little town of Ella. With its hippie vibe and breathtaking natural beauty, it's no wonder that Ella is a top tourist spot in Sri Lanka.

During my visit, I fell in love with Ella. I wish I could have stayed longer to explore the surrounding jungle, hills, and waterfalls, and to soak in more of those stunning views. The train journey to Ella from Kandy is absolutely amazing, so the experience basically starts even before you reach Ella.

Although Ella may be small, it sure packs a punch. There are plenty of things to do and many great places to stay. To make your planning a bit easier, I've put together my personal recommendations on where to stay in Ella and what to do in this beautiful town.

Best places to stay in Ella

Ella is a charming little village nestled within the mountains, offering just a handful of delightful areas to stay in.

If it's your first visit, I highly recommend Ella Town. It's the heart of the city, where you'll find most hotels, hostels, restaurants, and shops.

For families, the area around the Ella Railway Station is perfect. It's convenient to get in and out of Ella without any unnecessary hassle and long walks.

If you're a couple or simply seeking relaxation, Kithal Ella outside the city center offers stunning views and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.

Lastly, if you want to be near attractions like Nine Arches Bridge or Little Adams Peak, while treating yourself to luxury in the midst of nature, the areas outside of Ella are ideal.

1. Where to stay in Ella for the first time: Ella Town

If you're visiting Ella for the first time, I highly recommend staying in Ella Town. Believe me, it will make your life so much easier, especially if you're only here for some quick sightseeing and then planning to leave again.

Staying in Ella Town gives you easy access to shops, and restaurants, as well as the most popular hotels and hostels. Furthermore, you'll have convenient access to popular landmarks like Little Adam's Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge.

I can honestly say that if you're looking for convenience, this is the place to stay, especially if you enjoy being in the middle of the busier area of town.

Things to do in Ella Town

In the city center, you'll get to experience the best of everything. The views are absolutely stunning, and you're just a stone's throw away from all the incredible sights. Furthermore, here you'll also find the best cafes and restaurants in town.

At my go-to spot, Cafe Umbrella, you can try some delicious traditional Sri Lankan food such as roti or different curries, and it's all very affordable. And if you're in the mood for something a bit fancier, Ak Ristoro is the perfect spot for international cuisine.

If you're up for learning how to create authentic traditional dishes yourself, you absolutely have to join a cooking class at Ella Spice Garden. The teachers there are super friendly, and trust me, the whole experience is just a lot of fun.

One last little tip: Ella might be too small to have its own proper market, but if you happen to be in town on a Wednesday, the locals set up a charming little market on the main road. You'll find vendors selling fresh fruit, vegetables, clothes, and of course, delicious food.

Best hotels to stay in Ella Town

($$$) BBQ Hub Ella

One of the best hotels in Ella Town, BBQ Hub Ella offers modern and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom and air conditioning. The boutique hotel is also centrally located, close to restaurants and shops.

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($$) Country Homes

Just off the main road, you'll find the charming guesthouse called Country Homes, a favorite in Ella as it's got such an earthy feel. It's a great mid-range option because the views are simply unbeatable, and the fair price makes it even better.

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($) Dhanudi Homestay

The perfect budget option is Dhanudi Homestay, located in the center of Ella Town. The rooms are simple but clean, and the owners are extremely friendly and helpful.

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2. Where to stay in Ella for families & easy access: Ella Railway Station

Right next to the busy city center and main road, you'll find Ella Railway Station, connecting you easily to the surrounding areas. It's a fantastic spot to stay if you're traveling with your family or simply looking for convenient access in and out of Ella.

This area is also home to some of the more upscale accommodation options, so it's perfect for those who are looking for a little luxury while still being close to everything.

While staying near the train station or in the city center may not make the biggest difference, I figured that when you're traveling with kids or perhaps elderly folks, you'd want to minimize your travel time. So, staying next to the train station just makes sense.

Things to do near Ella Railways Station

The first thing that comes to mind when staying near the train station is, of course, taking a ride on the famous blue train. This scenic journey through the hills and tea plantations is an absolute must-do when visiting Ella.

But don't worry, there are plenty of other activities for both kids and adults nearby. For example, you can take a horseback ride through the beautiful countryside or make your way to the famous Diyaluma Falls for a refreshing swim. You can also book a tour to get to Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall, which includes pickup from your accommodation in town.

Another highlight definitely is the Ravana Zip Line, which sits at around 80m and reaches speeds of up to 80km/h!

Lastly, you will have to check out some local tea factories, such as Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, where you can learn more about the tea-making process and sample different types of tea. Book online for only US$5.

Best hotels to stay near Ella Train Station

($$$) Arawe Retreat

Arawe Retreat is a restored 150-year-old cottage and one of the best luxury hotels and most beautiful accommodations I've visited in Ella. The stay here feels super unique as it is located on a 5-acre land surrounded by lush forest and wildlife.

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($$) Third Eye Ella

Third Eye Ella is a wonderful mid-range homestay located close to the city center. The boutique hotel is surrounded by greenery and offers modern rooms with spectacular views. It's a perfect option for families or couples looking to unwind in nature.

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($) Ravana Range Ella

A little more affordable is Ravana Range Ella, a cozy guesthouse with comfortable and clean rooms. It's located just a short walk from the train station and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

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3. Where to stay in Ella for couples & relaxation: Kithal Ella

For those looking for a peaceful and romantic getaway, Kithal Ella is the perfect destination. This beautiful area, just outside of Ella Town, offers a serene escape from the bustling city center.

Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by nature, with no shops or restaurants in the immediate vicinity. However, don't worry! You're just a few minutes away from the main road where you can find plenty of dining options and shops.

This area is ideal for couples and anyone who wants to enjoy a quiet getaway without breaking the bank. The hotels and homestays here are reasonably priced, yet still offer breathtaking views and exceptional service.

Things to do in Kithal Ella

There might not be a ton of bars and restaurants in this area, but let me tell you, Kithal Ella, more than makes up for it with its stunning nature and awesome activities. 

Just around the corner, you'll find Ravana Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in Sri Lanka. You can take a dip in the lower falls to cool off or hike up to the upper falls for an even better view. 

If you're up for some adventure, don't miss the chance to hike up Ella Rock. The views from up there are absolutely incredible. You'll be overlooking Ella and all the surrounding hills.

I know if you've done Little Adam's Peak already, you'll feel like you won't have to do this, but I highly recommend doing both hikes. 

And hey, ever wondered where Lipton Tea gets its name from? Well, you can find out by visiting Lipton's Seat, the viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton himself would sit and admire his tea empire. There's a small entrance fee and the trek up there is a bit steep, but trust me, the views at the top are absolutely breathtaking.

Best hotels to stay in Kithal Ella

($$) Guest Inn Avendra

Located in the heart of the Kithal Ella area, Guest Inn Avendra is one of my favorite Ella hotels. The hotel has a great on-site restaurant with delicious Sri Lankan dishes, making it an ideal stay for couples looking for a romantic getaway. For me, the best part was the delicious breakfast they served every morning on our balcony, complete with mountain views at the backdrop.

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($$) Rainbow Sky Cottage

The perfect mid-range option, Rainbow Sky Cottage offers beautiful views and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. The hosts here are very friendly and helpful and even offer bicycle, scooter, and car rentals.

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($) Royal Mount Ella

For budget-friendly accommodation in Kithal Ella, look no further than Royal Mount Ella. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, and the staff is incredibly welcoming and helpful. Plus, you can't beat the incredible views of the surrounding hills from here.

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4. Where to stay in Ella for adventure & luxury: Outside of Ella

If you love a bit of adventure and luxury like myself, then staying just outside of Ella Town might be the perfect option for you too!

You'll be a little further away from the city center, but it's going to be well worth it. The hotels and spas in the surrounding jungles and hills have amazing facilities and great restaurants so you won't feel like missing out on staying in town.

Pair that with breathtaking views of hills, jungle, and delicious food, and you won't even want to leave. However, if you ever feel like exploring town, you can always catch a tuk-tuk or a taxi. 

And here's the best part: you're much closer to many of the popular hiking trails, like Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak.

Things to do outside of Ella

One of the top things to do just outside Ella is visiting the Nine Arch Bridge, also known as Demodara Loop. This stunning railway bridge is a must-visit when in Sri Lanka. You can even walk on the tracks and take some amazing photos while waiting for trains to pass by.

Another popular activity is hiking up Little Adam's Peak. It's a relatively easy hike, which takes about 45-60 minutes one way, but the views at the top are simply breathtaking. You'll feel like you're on top of the world with panoramic views of the Ella Gap and its surrounding hills.

Don't forget to also check out the nearby tea plantations and take a tour to learn about the process of making the famous Ceylon Tea.

And for some relaxation, you can book a spa treatment at one of the luxurious retreats in the area, even if you're not staying there.

Best hotels to stay outside of Ella

($$$) 98 Acres Resort & Spa

As the name suggests, this stunning resort and spa is situated on 98 acres of lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. With luxurious rooms, a fantastic restaurant, an infinity pool, and exceptional service, this is the ultimate stay for anyone looking for adventure and luxury combined.

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($$) Tea Cabins

If you want to experience the true essence of living on a tea plantation, then Tea Cabins are the perfect choice for you. Located amidst lush greenery, these charming cabins offer comfortable rooms. Some even come with a pool and serve delicious food, all with a beautiful view of the surrounding tea fields.

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($) New Cabin Ella

One of the best hotels for budget travelers, New Cabin Ella offers clean and comfortable rooms with stunning views. The staff here is incredibly friendly and helpful, making it a great option for those looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay outside of Ella.

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($) Ella Flower Garden Resort

For a budget-friendly option with all the facilities of a luxurious resort, Ella Flower Garden Resort is the perfect choice. Set amidst beautiful gardens and offering stunning views, this hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving delicious food and an incredible pool right on the hillside.

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Where to stay in Ella – Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is there to do in Ella?

Ella offers plenty of activities for all types of travelers. Some popular things to do in Ella include hiking to Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak, visiting the Nine Arch Bridge, exploring nearby tea plantations, and indulging in delicious Sri Lankan cuisine. However, if hiking is not quite your thing, Ella is also popular for its relaxing spas and amazing yoga retreats.

🚆 How do I get to Ella?

The most popular and famous way, of course, is the train journey from Kandy to Ella. The train ride is about 7 hours long, but the views along the way are absolutely stunning. You can also take a bus or hire a taxi from Colombo or any other major city in Sri Lanka. Alternatively, you can come by bus if you're coming from the south (Yala National Park, Mirissa, etc.).

📅 How many days should I spend in Ella?

It depends on your travel style and the amount of time you have. If you're looking to cover all the popular activities in Ella, then 2-3 days should be enough. However, if you want to take it slow and truly enjoy the beauty of this town, then 4-5 days would be ideal. Additionally, if you plan on taking day trips or exploring nearby areas like Nuwara Eliya or Haputale, adding a couple of extra days makes sense.

⭐ Is Ella worth visiting?

Absolutely! Ella is a charming town with breathtaking views, delicious food, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Ella has something for everyone. It's definitely worth adding to your Sri Lankan itinerary!

Where to stay in Ella – Final Words

Ella, Sri Lanka, is such a fantastic little spot nestled in the mountains! While Kandy may have beautiful surroundings, it can get a bit hectic. But in Ella, you'll find a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere.

The whole town has this amazing hippie vibe, with yoga classes everywhere, delicious food, incredible hikes, and breathtaking views.

I absolutely adore staying in Ella because it offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you're on a budget or looking for a luxurious resort, you'll find the perfect place to stay. Trust me, this charming mountain town has it all. I hope my guide can shed some light on where to stay in Ella and make it easier for you to plan your next trip.