Kandy

Historical records suggest that Kandy was first established by the King Wickramabahu (1357–1374 CE) near the Watapuluwa area, north of the present city, and named Senkadagalapura at the time, although some scholars suggest the name Katubulu Nuwara may also have been used. The origin of the more popular name for the city, Senkadagala, could have been from a number of sources. These include naming after a brahmin named Senkanda who lived in a cave near the city, after a queen of King Wickramabahu named Senkanda or after a colored stone named Senkadagala.

Kandy TempleKandy, is situated 488 meters above sea level. This capital of the Central Province is renowned for its culture and beauty and is a sacred city to all Buddhists since the “Dalada Maligawa” (the temple of the sacred tooth relic) is located in the heart of Kandy town.

The Esala Perahara, a cultural pageant venerating the tooth relic of Lord Buddha, is a spectacular parade which goes on for ten nights in the month of August.

Not far from Kandy, the Royal Botanic Gardens known as Peradeniya Botanical Garden is a beautiful place renowned for its rich collections of Orchids,and has more than 300 varieties of Orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palms trees attach it is the National Herbarium. The Royal Botanic Garden was founded in 1371 by King Wickramabahu III.

Ella

Ella in Sri Lanka is a small laid back town surrounded by the beautiful greens of tea. There are a lot of things to do in Ella. Take one of the most beautiful train rides from Nuwara Eliya to Ella and fall in love with the surroundings. You will probably end up staying longer than you actually planned to. Ella has a comfortable climate where the nights are cool and the daytime around 28 degrees.

Climb up Little Adam’s peak

Little Adam’s peak is the nephew of Adam’s Peak. From the top enjoy the view over the valley, relax and connect with other travelers. From Ella Town to the foot of mountain takes 45 minutes, and to get to the top around 15 minutes. The first 45 minutes are very pleasing as well when you pass a local village and tea plantations.

Hike up to the top of Ella Rock

If you are up to a bigger challenge, hike to the top of Ella Rock. Little Adam’s peak is a laugh compared to this one. It takes 2 hours to hike from bottom to top. It can be done with a guide or on your own but please make sure you asked the directions from someone you trust, like your guesthouse manager.

Walk along the rails on the Nine Arch Bridge

This now world-famous bridge is located just outside of Ella Town and on the same way as Little Adam’s Peak. With a small 30 minute walk through the woods, you will reach a piece of beautiful architecture hidden between lush green tea fields.

Demodara Loop

Demodara loop, the spiral railway is recognised as one of the most fascinating civil engineering marvels in Sri Lanka.

Endless Tea Field Views at Lipton’s Seat

Lipton’s Seat in Haputale is a great morning or afternoon trip from Ella. In the morning, take a short train ride to Haputale. Once you reach the station, get a tuk-tuk which takes you up to the top where, back in 1890, mister Lipton, planted the first seeds of what now is Sri Lanka’s biggest export product, Lipton Tea.

Swim at Diyaluma Falls

To visit the Diyaluma falls you will probably need the whole day, or at least if you are planning to visit it from the top. About an hour drive out of Ella is the foot of the 2nd highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Once you have explored the foot, drive 30 minutes more to the top. Hike about 45 minutes and reach a waterfall with many natural pools on different levels.

Get a shower at the Ravana Fall

Ready to escape a bit of the heat of the afternoon? A quick 10-minute drive from town is the Ravana Fall. It is located next to the main road so you can easily take a dip. Much easier than Diyaluma Falls.

Ravana Falls has become a very popular site with both locals and foreigners stopping by to enjoy this piece of nature and a cooldown in the water.

Adisham Bungalow

Religious house where tranquility lies like a blessing and the grandeur of sweeping mountain vistas takes your breath away, Adisham was originally the country seat of Sir Thomas Villiers.

Ravana Cave

History says that the cave is used by King Rawana to hide the Princess Sita. Located about 2 km from the Ella town. The cave lies on the foundation of a cliff.

Train Travels

Traveling on a train in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is rated as one of the best train tours in the world. Highly recommend to travel on a train in Sri Lanka.

Tea Lands

Ceylon tea is known all over the world for its taste and flavour. Ella, a place enriched with full of tea plantations, so why not see how your tea is made.