Tea Plantations & Scenic Train Journeys

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Tea Country Begins

Depart Kandy and wind through increasingly dramatic landscapes (2.5-3 hours) as you climb from 500m to 1,868m elevation. The scenic route passes through lush valleys and tea-carpeted hillsides. Stop at Ramboda Falls, one of Sri Lanka's tallest waterfalls at 109 meters, for photos.

Visit a working tea factory (Labookellie or Bluefield) for a comprehensive guided tour through the 10-step production process—from withering and rolling to fermentation and drying. Learn why Ceylon tea remains globally prized for its bright, brisk flavor. Enjoy tasting sessions sampling different grades from low-grown to high-grown teas.

Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, nicknamed "Little England" for its cool climate (15-20°C year-round) and colonial architecture. Explore the charming town center: the iconic red-brick Tudor-style Post Office (1894), stroll around Gregory Lake, and admire the historic Hill Club and 18-hole golf course established in the 1880s. Evening high tea at the Grand Hotel or Jetwing St. Andrew's—a quintessential colonial experience.

Horton Plains & Epic Train Journey to Ella

Early departure (5:30-6:00 AM essential) for Horton Plains National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site at 2,100-2,300 meters elevation. This pristine cloud forest plateau is Sri Lanka's only national park where visitors walk independently. Complete the 9.5 km circular trail (3-4 hours) to World's End—an 870-meter sheer cliff offering views extending to the coast on clear days.

The trail also passes Baker's Falls, a picturesque 20-meter cascade through pristine forest. Wildlife includes sambar deer, endemic birds, and rarely spotted leopards. Important: Clouds typically roll in after 9-10 AM, so early arrival is crucial for views. Temperature can drop to 5°C, so bring warm layers.

Return to Nanu Oya station for the legendary train journey to Ella (3-4 hours)—consistently ranked among the world's most scenic rail journeys. The iconic blue train winds through misty tea estates, crosses dramatic mountain ridges, and passes through tunnels as landscapes unfold cinematically. Pro tip: Sit on the right side for best views and hang from open doorways (safely) for Instagram-worthy shots. Train times typically depart around 11:00 AM or 2:00 PM.

Arrive in laid-back Ella, a backpacker haven nestled among hills with a cool, relaxed atmosphere and café culture.

Ella Exploration - Peaks, Bridges & Waterfalls

Sunrise hike to Little Adam's Peak (1 hour round-trip, easy difficulty)—an accessible climb through tea plantations rewarding with panoramic 360-degree views over Ella Gap. The trail begins right from Ella town and takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the summit. Watch the sunrise paint the valleys in golden light.

Continue to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel built in 1921 entirely of brick, stone, and cement (no steel due to WWI shortages). The bridge spans 91 meters at 24 meters height, set amid lush jungle. Time your visit to watch a train cross—typical times: 9:00 AM, 11:20 AM, 12:45 PM, or 3:00 PM. Walk along the tracks from Demodara station or approach from below for the classic photograph.

Afternoon adventure options:

• Flying Ravana Mega Zipline - 550 meters at speeds up to 80 km/h ($17-25)
• Ravana Falls - 25-meter waterfall with swimming pools (named after King Ravana from the Ramayana epic)
• Diyaluma Falls - Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall (220m) with natural infinity pools at the top (1.5-hour drive)
• Lipton's Seat viewpoint - Where tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton surveyed his empire, with 360° panoramas

Evening at leisure to explore Ella's vibrant café scene, craft beer bars, and rooftop restaurants with mountain views.

Ella to Galle/Colombo - Farewell to the Hills

Morning at leisure for optional activities: explore Ella Rock (2-hour challenging hike with spectacular views), visit a local tea plantation, or simply relax at your hotel enjoying the mountain scenery.

Depart Ella for onward journey to the southern beaches of Mirissa/Galle (4-5 hours) or return to Colombo (6-7 hours). The scenic drive descends from cool highlands through cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and finally into tropical lowlands. Optional stops can include Buduruwagala ancient rock carvings or Udawalawe National Park for elephant viewing (additional cost).