Travel Planning

Family Holiday in Ella: Waterfalls & Train Rides

Ella, with its lush landscapes and laid-back vibe, is an ideal destination for a family getaway in Sri Lanka. This guide covers top family-friendly activities like visiting waterfalls, taking scenic train rides, and exploring safe and engaging trails, making it a memorable adventure for kids and adults alike.

3 min

Nestled amidst emerald tea plantations and rolling hills, Ella is a small town in Sri Lanka that offers big adventures for families. Known for its iconic train rides, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, Ella provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, making it an ideal destination for families traveling with children.

Unlike busier tourist hubs, Ella’s pace is slow, its surroundings are safe, and its attractions are nature-based, ensuring kids have space to play, discover, and engage with the environment.

Top Family-Friendly Activities in Ella

1. Scenic Train Ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella

  • Often considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, the route from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Station) to Ella is a must-do for families.
  • The 3-hour journey winds through tea plantations, misty forests, and charming villages.
  • Open windows and slow speeds allow kids to enjoy the breeze and take in the scenery.
  • Families can opt for first or second-class reserved seats for comfort.

2. Visit to Ravana Falls

  • One of Ella’s most famous waterfalls, Ravana Falls is easily accessible and makes for a refreshing stop.
  • During dry seasons, shallow pools form at the base where children can safely dip their feet.
  • Vendors near the falls sell fresh fruit and king coconut water, perfect for a mid-morning break.

3. Exploring Ella Rock (Easy Trails)

  • While the full trek to Ella Rock might be too demanding for younger children, families with older kids can enjoy a partial, guided walk.
  • Trails pass through tea plantations and offer plenty of safe spots to stop, rest, and enjoy views.
  • Guides can adapt the route for a relaxed family-friendly version of the trek.

4. Little Adam’s Peak

  • A far easier climb compared to Ella Rock, Little Adam’s Peak is perfect for families.
  • The path is well-maintained with stairs, making it manageable even for younger children.
  • Reaching the summit rewards the family with breathtaking views over the Ella Gap and tea estates.

5. Nine Arches Bridge Walk

  • A short, scenic walk leads to this iconic colonial-era railway bridge surrounded by jungle and tea fields.
  • Kids will love spotting the vibrant blue trains crossing the bridge—a perfect photo opportunity.
  • Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler weather.

6. Ella Spice Garden Tour

  • A short interactive session where families can learn about Sri Lankan spices and traditional cooking methods.
  • Some tours offer family-friendly cooking classes, where kids can help make simple dishes.

Family Dining Options in Ella

  • Chill Café: Family-friendly atmosphere with a diverse menu of Sri Lankan and Western dishes.
  • Matey Hut: A small, cozy spot that serves homely rice and curry platters perfect for sharing.
  • Café One Love: Known for its relaxed vibe, it has a kid-friendly open-air seating area.

Tips for Visiting Ella with Kids

  1. Plan Outdoor Activities Early: Mornings are cooler, making it ideal for treks and outdoor explorations.
  2. Choose Family-Friendly Accommodation: Look for hotels and homestays with open gardens and child-friendly facilities.
  3. Pack Light Layers: Ella’s weather can shift from warm sunshine to cool, misty rain.
  4. Take Breaks Between Activities: Ella’s charm lies in its slow pace, so avoid rushing from spot to spot.
  5. Engage Kids with Stories: Legends of King Ravana and the Ramayana bring local sites like Ravana Falls to life for children.

Why Families Love Ella

  • Safe & Walkable: Ella’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly roads make it easy to explore on foot.
  • Natural Attractions: Waterfalls, hills, and tea plantations are accessible and child-friendly.
  • Educational & Fun: Kids get a first-hand look at tea plucking, spice cultivation, and Sri Lankan village life.
  • Memorable Train Journeys: The scenic train ride is a highlight that both kids and adults remember fondly.

At Hi DMC, we create seamless family itineraries that balance adventure with relaxation. From arranging comfortable train journeys and guided nature walks to recommending child-friendly accommodations and eateries, we ensure your family’s Ella experience is memorable and stress-free. Let us design a nature-filled escape where every family member—from toddlers to grandparents—can experience the best of Ella together.

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