EllaCity
Ella is a small village of quaint beauty, safely tucked-in amidst the towering peaks of Sri Lanka's central highlands of the Uva province. The sleepy village is nestled in a valley peering straight through Ella Gap to the plain nearly 1000m below and across to the coastline; where on a fine day, you could even catch a glimpse of the Great Basses lighthouse of Southern Sri Lanka. If the view alone wasn't good enough, Ella is also surrounded by hilly countryside perfect for walks; through tea plantations to ancient temples and waterfalls.
Ella's landscape is a soothing eye-pleaser, mostly defined by a seemingly endless frill of blue-green misty mountains peering towards the bright blue skies. Between you and these hilly giants lay a wide stretch of neatly kept tea gardens, with borders vaguely defined by narrow brown pathways snaking across. On a clear day, if you gaze hard enough at the mountain range you would catch glimpses of several glistening trails of waterfalls gently gliding down. The remaining of Ella's landscape is strewn with clumps of soaring woods that hold an alluring mystery within.
With a handful of shops, hotels and guesthouses, Ella still remains a remote hamlet and bequeaths a mysterious old-world charm to its visitors. This hidden sanctuary is probably one of the best kept secrets of the country and has an almost perfect climate. Ella holds in itself an enigmatic appeal that makes it an ideal holiday destination; mystifying enough to quench the curiosity of the adventurous and serene enough to appease romantics seeking retreat.
What to do at Ella
Ella is perhaps not your typical holiday destination, but it has plenty to offer that could keep you fascinated and occupied during a few nights' stay. Apart from simply unwinding in the cool climes with mesmerizing views of the wonders of nature that Ella is abundantly blessed with; one could also set out on a trekking adventure to discover and experience these delicate wonders up-close.
The 'Little Adam's Peak' located a few miles across the famed 98 Acres Resort of Ella, is one of the most popular trekking sites of the area. You could even grab a bike from a place nearby to trail along the woods and get to the foot of the mountain. The climb is not too intimidating even for a first-timer especially since the view from the top is well worth the effort.
A mid-day stroll amongst the lush tea plantations can be a therapeutic experience. Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, the largest tea producer in the province welcomes visitors to an insightful factory tour, where they could observe the meticulous manufacturing process of this healing beverage.
Ravana Falls is another must-visit while in Ella. This popular falls has its roots connected
