Ella and the Hill Country

The hill country is the cool, green heart of Sri Lanka, a misty highland of rolling tea plantations, cloud forests, waterfalls and dramatic viewpoints. Its laid-back hub is the little town of Ella, famous for the Nine Arch Bridge, sweeping viewpoints like Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock, and its air of relaxed mountain calm. Reaching it on the slow, spectacular hill-country train, winding through emerald tea estates, is a highlight in itself.

What you actually see

• The scenic train - the famous ride through the tea-covered hills.
• The Nine Arch Bridge - the picturesque colonial railway viaduct.
• The viewpoints - Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock walks.
• The tea plantations - the emerald estates and a factory tour.

When to go

December to March for the driest, clearest weather in the hills, though the highlands can be misty and cool any time, so bring a layer. The famous train, especially the Kandy or Nuwara Eliya to Ella stretch, is best in daylight, and books up, so reserve ahead.

Honest expectations

The famous scenic train is very popular, so book seats ahead, and be aware that the trendy shots of people hanging out of the doors are genuinely dangerous. The highlands are cooler and often misty, hiding the views, so a clear day matters. Ella has become touristy, but the tea country and train remain magical.

Nearby

Nuwara Eliya, Adam's Peak and the Horton Plains are elsewhere in the hill country.