Ella

Ella is a beautiful small sleepy town on the southern edge of Sri Lanka's Hill Country.

It's situated in the middle of beautiful countryside, with small vegetable plots in the valleys, tea plantations on the hill slopes and forests on the tops.

The climate throughout most of the year is typical of the high Hill Country, with a hot sun by midday, but a moderate air temperature. It will often rain in the afternoon, but only for an hour or so.

There's not much to do in Ella itself, with a handful of small shops and only a few cafes/restaurants. It's basically a nicely relaxing base for adventuring the surrounding country.

Ella has a small post office and one bank (Bank of Ceylon) with an ATM. Track bashers (rail enthusiasts) should particularly enjoy the line to Badulla, where at the village of Demodara it does a 360 degree loop before crossing over itself.

Travel to Ella

Travel by train to Ella

Ella is a few stops from Badulla at the end of the railway line that snakes through the Hill Country. Trains go to Colombo and Kandy from here. The fares are ludicrously affordable in 2nd and 3rd class, (2nd class fare, December 2007, Colombo to Ella was R200/- or about USD 2.00) and the views spectacular. It's usually no problem getting a seat in 2nd/3rd class going to Colombo or Kandy, as the trains from Badulla are quite empty until reaching Nanu Oya. However the reverse is true going up to Ella and it can be quite crowded until the last 2 or 3 hours of the journey. Ella's train station itself is prettily quaint.

• Ella Railway Station GPS 6.8735468, 81.0473428

Travel on a Bus in Ella

Buses go south through Ella Gap to Wellawaya where you can change for a number of destinations in the south of the island. There is also a recently introduced direct bus service to Galle which stops at various locations along the south coast including Mirissa and Unawatuna. The bus station is located at the southern end of Ella's primary street. Buses to Ampara leave in front of the curd shop/Lavazza Barista shop.

Useful buses:

• 8.45am: Ella-Matara
• 9.15am: Ella-Ampara, via Monaragala (2hrs/184Rs) and Siyambalanduwa. Onward buses to Pottuvil (for Arugam Bay) leaves from both destinations so no extra change in Wellawaya is required. An direct bus from Monaragala has a direct bus to Arugambay via Pottuvil (3,5h/247Rs).

How to get around in Ella

Walk!

What to see in Ella

• Little Adam's Peak GPS 6.8635341,81.0637794. A much easier hike than it's big brother, It is situated to the east of the town center. Walk along the primary street for 20 minutes to reach the path, cutting accross tea plantations before the final climb up. Great views on Ella Rock and Rawana Falls. You can see the Newburgh Tea Estate on the other side (north).
• Newburgh Green Tea Factory GPS 6.8729415,81.0663896. A bit further down Passara Road (after Little Adam's Peak path), and 30 minutes from the town center. Quick visit of the tea factory, including green tea tasting at the end. 500 LKR/person
• Nine Arch Bridge GPS 6.875219,81.0608861. Beautiful rock bridge east of the town center. 45 minutes walk from the town center (Passara road, same as Little Adam's Peak and Newburgh Estate) and then take a left to walk down to the bridge. If unsure ask the local residents. Can be a bit crowded with tourists, come early to enjoy the fresh air. Check the time tables to be able to see a train pass while you are there. Possible to walk on the tracks back to Ella Station, just be careful. Supposedly there is another more quieter bridge further down the track..}}

Ella Rock GPS 6.8544051,81.0527751. A more strenuous exercise than Little Adam's Peak. About 2 hours (each way) along the railway track (south of Ella) and through the tea plantations, for stunning views across the nationside. The first 1.5km is along the railway track itself so keep an ear out for oncoming trains although they travel so slowly you'll have plenty of time to get out of the way. If you stay at Rawana Holiday Resort they'll give you a quaint hand drawn map to get you there! For a longer walk, rather than head straight back to the line from the hill top, follow the track through the forest. (You can't really get lost. Just head downhill when you've had enough, and before long you will meet a road or the railway line.) The local residents who live near the bottom of Ella Rock have recently come up with a wonderful piece of inventive free enterprise. They obliterate existing tracks up the hill and create new ones every now and then. Tourists following guidebooks get completely lost, and suddenly, Hey Presto! A local appears offering to guide them. Rawana Ella Falls GPS 6.8409997,81.0545064. About 5km away on the road south through Ella Gap. They're quite spectacular. Take your swimming costume for a refreshing dip, but beware of the agents selling tourist souvenirs. You can catch frequent buses for about R10/-, or better still walk (but catch a bus back up the hill). About half-way down the road you can stop off for a look at the small temple and a cave above it where, according to local legend, Sita was kept as a prisoner before being rescued by Rama. You are also quite likely to meet families of langur monkeys by the roadside.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Ella

• Have an authentic Ayurveda Massage at one of the local massage places in town. Expect to pay around R1000 for one hour of massage.

Halal Restaurants in Ella

The home cooking in the guest houses/hotels is probably the best food in town.

• Down Town Rotti Hut, right in the center of town you can't miss it. Nice cold soft drinks and good quality Kotthu Roti's. Recommend the beef!
• Rawana Hotel Perched on a hill top with views down the valley, book a dinner with the owners before 3 PM. If you come late the owner might not be able to serve you. For nearly 400 - 500 LKR/person you will be served an explosion of flavors -- about 8 small dishes with each order. If you are not staying here, you must eat here. Do you want to reproduce the meals? -- ask the cook for lessons! This might be your best meal in Sri Lanka.
• Ella View Restaurant and Bar serves hot meals, but the quality is very poor. It's quite a dingy place that tends to be frequented by local arrack addicts. Stop in for a chat with the local residents. Strong (8.8%) for 200 LKR or take a bottle home for 230 LKR. Not ideal for unaccompanied women.
• Ella Holiday Inn opened in 2005 at the Wellawaya Road junction in the centre of town is a good place for meals, Snacks and none-alcoholic drinks, sitting on the verandah looking out at life on the main street.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Ella

Ella - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Ella, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Ella. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Ella and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Ella. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Ella. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Ella: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Ella.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Ella: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Ella, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Ella.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Ella, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Ella, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Ella and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Ella, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Ella, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Ella without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Ella is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Ella.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Ella is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Ella, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Ella Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Ella

eHalal Group Ella is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Ella. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Ella.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Ella ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Ella. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Ella, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Ella are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Ella

There are a number of affordable hotels scattered around town.

• Green Hill, is situated on top of the Ella Gap overlooking green mountains with a picturesqueness view through Ella Gap. The owners, Podi and Prasanna are very welcoming and provide authentic Sri Lankan meals including egg hoppers for breakfast. The rooms (as of Dec 2012) have only recently been constructed and are of very good quality. It is 200m walk back to the center of town and roughly 1.5km walk to Little Adam's Peak. The water is hot and the rooms are very modern and clean. Rooms are about R2500/3000.

• Sunnyside Holiday Bungalow ☎ +94575615011 LKR 3000/3500 (US$30)(2023). is a peaceful bungalow surrounded by a tea plantation and offers comfortable lodging with home cooked meals. There are three clean rooms with attached toilets and hot water showers.

• Zion View Guest House Wemulla Hena in the middle of Ella Gap ☎ +94727855713 $ 50.00 Expansive views overlooking the entire valley and through to the south coast. It has seven rooms with balconies, super comfy slat beds and spotless wood-trimmed bathrooms, spring water.

• Hill Top Guest House Walk down the main street past Rotti Hut until you see a steep little street on your right. ☎ +94572228780 LKR 5,500 with breakfast Has a balcony with a wonderful view through Ella Gap, and serves delicious home-cooked meals. The rooms are rather and all have showers and hot water. Internet access is also available.

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Ella

• Take the train to Haputale, Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya train station) or Kandy

Medical Issues in Ella

There are lots of leeches that hang on to the vegetation by the side of tracks waiting for a nice juicy mammal to walk by.

It is advisable to take some Dettol with you, and spray it on the offending leech. It will cause the leech to stop biting and let go. It is not advised to scrape or pull a leech off as you may leave the leech's teeth inside the bite which will be very itchy until you have the teeth removed with a needle/tweezers (without being removed and they stay inside the bite for weeks).

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