Hotels and places to stay around Ella, Sri Lanka

Hotels in Ella

Ella is a small hill village with a big view: the gap in the mountains that gives it its name. Most visitors come for walks, the train and the cafes. Our hotels range from a backpacker-friendly resort in town to a tea-estate retreat, with the best views on the ridges above the village.

Hotels in Ella

Views of the Ella Gap

Hotel Heaven's Edge is on high ground with views over the gap and Ravana Falls. The Mountain Heavens is nearby, with spacious deluxe rooms. Both suit couples who want to watch the sunrise from the balcony.

Tea and jungle

98 Acres Resort and Spa sits on a tea estate of that size, with chalets made partly from recycled material and thatched roofs, and is the most upmarket option. Ella Jungle Resort is on the banks of the Kirindi Oya, surrounded by forest and streams, for people who want to sleep close to nature.

In town

Ella Soul Resort is a simple, affordable place popular with backpackers. Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel is a three-star hotel close to the centre.

At a glance

HotelAreaStyle
98 Acres Resort and SpaTea estate above EllaBoutique luxury
Hotel Heaven's EdgeRidge above EllaMid-range, views
The Mountain HeavensRidge above EllaMid-range, views
Ella Jungle ResortKirindi OyaMid-range, nature
Oak Ray Ella Gap HotelElla townMid-range
Ella Soul ResortElla townBudget

What to do

Walk up Little Adam's Peak or Ella Rock, see the trains cross the Nine Arches Bridge, or try zip-lining. Trains run again from Nanu Oya to Ella and Badulla; the line from Kandy to Nanu Oya is still closed after Cyclone Ditwah.

See our Ella guide.

Quick picks

  • Couples: 98 Acres or Hotel Heaven's Edge
  • Nature lovers: Ella Jungle Resort
  • Backpackers: Ella Soul Resort
  • In town: Oak Ray Ella Gap Hotel

Getting there

Arugam Bay is about three hours east by road, and Udawalawe and the south coast are within around three hours south. Most visitors stay two or three nights.