Sightseeing tour Ella & Diyaluma waterfall by car

Exploring the Best of Ella & Diyaluma Waterfalls: A Detailed Review

If you’re dreaming of a day packed with breathtaking scenery, authentic local sights, and a chance to escape the crowds, a private tour of Ella and Diyaluma waterfalls might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on multiple glowing reviews and detailed tour descriptions, it promises a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty with engaging local highlights.

What we love about this tour is its flexibility, allowing you to customize your itinerary — whether it’s catching a sunrise at Little Adams Peak or savoring the stunning cascades of Diyaluma Falls. The private vehicle ensures comfort and access to spots inaccessible by public transport, making it ideal for those who want a seamless, personalized adventure. Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience, sharing insights and ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

One thing to consider is the long duration — up to 12 hours — which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to full-day outings. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic hikes, and a flexible schedule that can be tailored to your interests. If you’re after a stress-free way to explore some of Ella’s most iconic sights with expert guidance, this tour could be perfect.

Good To Know

• Private, customizable full-day experience focusing on Ella’s top natural attractions
• Comfortable travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with hotel pickup included
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Access to remote locations not reachable by public transport, such as Diyaluma Falls
• Flexible start time at 6:30 am, ideal to catch sunrise or sunset at Little Adams Peak
• Great value at $90 for a group of up to three, with all entry fees included

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour is designed for those who want an intimate, personalized exploration of Ella’s key sights. The fact that it’s a private experience means you won’t be stuck with strangers, and the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences — whether you want to spend more time hiking or relaxing at a scenic viewpoint.

The cost of $90 for up to 3 people is quite reasonable considering the inclusiveness of the experience — all the major attractions, private transportation, and a guide who’s been highly praised for his knowledge and patience. The average booking time of 21 days in advance also suggests that it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a reliable, well-organized day trip.

Itinerary Breakdown and Highlights

Stop 1: Little Adam’s Peak View Point

Starting early at 6:30 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel — or nearby location — to begin your day. Little Adam’s Peak, often called Punchi Sri Pada, is 1141 meters tall and offers some of the most spectacular views in Ella. According to reviews, the hike is relatively easy and suitable for most fitness levels, although some travelers with asthma might need to take breaks — as one reviewer noted, their guide was very patient supporting them through the climb.

Expect stunning panoramic vistas as you ascend. Travelers frequently mention the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to catch a serene sunrise, which makes this a memorable start. The admission fee is included, so the main cost is your time and energy.

Stop 2: Nine Arches Bridge

Next, you’ll visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a marvel of engineering built at 3100 meters above sea level, connecting Ella and Demodara Railway stations. Constructed entirely from brick, rock, and cement, the bridge is a favorite among photographers and nature lovers alike. The beauty of this spot is not only the structure itself but the lush scenery surrounding it.

Expect about an hour here, with plenty of time for photos and soaking in the spectacular views. A reviewer described it as a “photographer’s paradise,” emphasizing the dramatic backdrop of craggy peaks and the sense of stepping back in time.

Stop 3: Ravana Ella Falls

A brief 20-minute stop takes you to Ravana Ella Falls, approximately 25 meters tall. It’s a picturesque spot, with water cascading from an unusual oval-shaped rock outcrop. During the wet season, the waterfall gets more dramatic, resembling a flowing ribbon. Reviewers have appreciated this stop for its natural beauty and the chance to cool off.

While it’s a quick visit, many found it memorable, especially for those interested in photography or simply wanting a refreshing break from the hike.

Stop 4: Diyaluma Falls

Perhaps the highlight of the day, Diyaluma Falls is 220 meters high, making it Sri Lanka’s second tallest waterfall. Located about 6 km from Koslanda, this spot is a true natural spectacle. The tour allows about three hours here — ample time to explore the cascades, take photos, or even dip your toes in the cool water.

Travelers often mention that Diyaluma feels off the beaten path, giving a sense of adventure. It’s an impressive sight, with reviewers describing it as stunning and worth the trek. The falls are accessible via a moderate hike, so those with good mobility will enjoy the experience more fully.

Stop 5: Demodara Loop

The final stop is the Demodara Loop, where the railway track passes under itself through a tunnel, creating a remarkable engineering feat. The station, located directly above the loop, is a great spot for photos and to marvel at the ingenuity of Sri Lankan railway construction.

The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving just enough time to appreciate the unique circular railway and take some memorable shots. Reviewers noted that this stop offers a fun, quirky ending to the tour.

Transportation & Duration

The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 12 hours, beginning at 6:30 am with hotel pickup. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially after long walks or hikes in the sun. The private nature of the tour means you won’t be sharing with strangers, and the flexibility allows for some spontaneous stops or extended time at favorites.

The tour’s duration and flexible timing mean you can start early to catch sunrise or adjust your schedule for sunset views, making it suitable for different preferences.

Guides & Guest Experiences

Guides like Athu seem to make a significant difference. Reviews frequently praise guides for their knowledge, patience, and friendliness. One reviewer called Athu “an amazing guide and photographer,” highlighting the added value of insider tips and extra photo opportunities. Guests also appreciated guides who are attentive to individual needs, especially when hikes are involved.

Authenticity & Local Insights

Many travelers also noted that the guides shared interesting facts about the sights and the area’s history, which added depth to the experience. Their local knowledge means you’ll learn more than just what’s in the guidebook and get the best angles for photos.

Value for Money

At $90 for a private, full-day tour with all entry fees included, this experience offers good value, especially considering the personalized service, the convenience of hotel pickup, and the diversity of sights visited. The review comments point out that the tour is well-paced, with a good mix of popular and off-the-beaten-path locations, making it a balanced day that covers both iconic and lesser-known spots.

Final Thoughts

This Ella & Diyaluma waterfalls tour ticks many boxes: private, flexible, scenic, and guided by friendly experts. It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning natural sites without sacrificing comfort or flexibility.

Whether you’re a keen hiker, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a day immersed in nature, this tour offers a comprehensive package. The combination of iconic sights, remote waterfalls, and friendly guides makes it a memorable way to spend a day in Ella.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a personalized adventure that combines scenic hikes with cultural highlights. It suits travelers who appreciate comfortable transportation, flexibility in their itinerary, and guided expertise. If you prefer sticking to a packed schedule or dislike long days, you might want to consider the overall duration.

Nature lovers and photo enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the stops like Diyaluma and Little Adams Peak, thanks to the stunning views and photo ops. The tour is also a good fit for those with moderate physical fitness, as some hikes and walks are involved.

This tour offers excellent value, with the chance to explore Ella’s best natural attractions in a single, well-organized day — perfect for making lasting memories.

FAQ

• What is the starting time for the tour?

The tour begins at 6:30 am, with hotel pickup included for convenience.

• Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes, the tour is private and customizable, including options like sunrise or sunset stops at Little Adams Peak.

• Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, hotel pickup is included; there’s an option to upgrade to pickup from anywhere in Sri Lanka.

• How long does the tour last?

It lasts approximately 8 to 12 hours, depending on your pace and preferences.

• What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera are recommended. Some hikes are moderate, so suitable attire is advisable.

• Are all entry fees included?

Yes, the tour includes admission tickets to all major attractions.

• Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?

The tour requires moderate physical fitness, so it’s more suitable for those comfortable with walking and hiking.

• What makes this tour different from public transport options?

The private vehicle allows access to remote spots like Diyaluma Falls and offers comfort and flexibility that public transport can’t match.

• Can I book this tour last minute?

The average booking window is 21 days in advance, but last-minute availability may depend on demand.

• What if the weather is poor?

The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to rain, a different date or full refund will be offered.

In summary, this private Ella & Diyaluma waterfall tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and personalized flexibility. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to experience Ella’s natural treasures comfortably and authentically, making it a worthwhile addition to any Sri Lanka itinerary.