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Ella

Ella sits right within the verdant Hill Country that Sri Lanka is famed for, making it an ideal destination for both scenic walks and getting a taste of a local tea planter’s life.

From the spectacular Nine Arch Bridge in Demodara, to Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak and the underrated Buduruwagala temple, you can visit several beautiful sites here. The lush green scenery is a huge draw in itself: if you appreciate unspoiled nature, you will love this region for its rolling hills, cloud forests, cascading waterfalls and mountainous valleys.

Home to arguably ‘the most beautiful train ride’ in the world, Ella has become a magnet in recent years for backpackers and somewhat of a ‘hippy hangout’. While the town may not be as quiet as Haputale, it offers the real bonus of a lively atmosphere and buzzing food scene. To add to its strengths, the iconic viaduct built by the British to transport Ceylon tea to the capital is well worth a visit. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the handsome 1800's steam train that chugs its way along from Colombo to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya before crossing the bridge to arrive at Ella’s charming pink-washed hilltop station.

Thanks to its position between the jungle lowlands and the high tea country mountains, the weather sits at a very comfortable medium here: not a sweltering temperature but also not too cool.

A few fabulous properties can be found in this town, where you can retreat to the peace and quiet of Sri Lanka’s countryside and easily while away the days enjoying a Ceylon cuppa or two while looking out onto commanding scenic views. We highly recommend visiting the UNESCO Horton Plains National Park and the enchanting World’s End viewpoint from here, if you are after full immersion in this magical misty rural landscape.

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The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling

Client Testimonials

So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India

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