Ella or Bandarawela: Adisham & Demodara Loop Rail Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a scenic rail journey from Ella or Bandarawela featuring visits to historic Adisham Monastery and the iconic Demodara Loop. Travel through misty hills, tea plantations, and lush valleys while experiencing one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful railway routes.
Available options
Pick up from Hotels
Bandarawela and Ella<br/>Pickup included
What's included
All government taxes
Hotel pick up and drop off by TukTuks
Lunch, Water bottles & refreshments
Standard Public Train Tickets
Service of a local guide during the tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your day at 8:30 AM with a hotel pickup by your local guide and travel by tuk-tuk to Ella Railway Station. Catch a scenic train between 9:00–9:30 AM and enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, tea plantations, and rural villages en route to Haputale.
2
From Haputale, start a leisurely walk through tea estates, jungle paths, and village stalls selling fresh strawberries to reach Adisham Bungalow. Visit this historic monastery, built by Sir Thomas Lister Villers and now maintained by Benedictine monks.
3
Later, enjoy lunch at a tea plantation before boarding the train to the famous Demodara Loop. Conclude your experience with a drop-off at your hotel around 5:00 PM.
What's not included
Gratuities
Any others expenses not mentioned in Inclusions section
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time.
Roundtrip transportation is available from most centrally located Bandarawela and Ella hotels. Please arrange pickup from your hotel or a nearby location when you call to confirm your reservation.
Gratuity is not included and is left to individual discretion.
You should wear comfortable clothing.
About Uva Province
Uva Province is known for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a blend of lush tea plantations, ancient temples, and national parks, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Top Attractions
Dunhinda Falls
One of the most stunning waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Dunhinda Falls is a must-visit for its breathtaking beauty and refreshing surroundings.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara
An ancient Buddhist temple with historical significance, Muthiyangana Raja Maha Vihara is a serene and spiritual place to visit.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Nine Arches Bridge
A historic railway bridge built during the British colonial era, the Nine Arches Bridge is an engineering marvel and a popular tourist attraction.
Architecture
2-3 hours
Free (train ride may require a ticket)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kukul Mas Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan chicken curry made with aromatic spices and coconut milk.
Main Course
Contains meat and dairy.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs or sambal.
Breakfast/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or with egg.
String Hoppers (Indi Appa)
Noodle-like pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk, served with curries and sambal.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Trekking
Waterfall visits
Tea plantation tours
Spa visits
Scenic drives
Temple visits
Local markets
Best Time to Visit
January to April
This is the best time to visit Uva Province as the weather is pleasant and dry, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Uva Province is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a smooth trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable transport services
- • Be cautious with street food
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 200 km from Badulla (major city in Uva)
By train
Badulla Railway Station
By bus
Badulla Bus Station, Bandarawela Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport, connecting major towns and villages within Uva Province.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Badulla
Ella
Bandarawela
Day trips
Ella Rock
2 km from Ella town • Half day
A challenging but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Little Adam's Peak
1 km from Ella town • Half day
A moderate hike with breathtaking views of the Ella Gap and surrounding landscapes.
Bogoda Wooden Bridge
20 km from Bandarawela • Half day
An ancient wooden bridge with historical significance, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Festivals
Uva Festival • August
Esala Perahera • July/August (full moon day)
Pro tips
- Visit Dunhinda Falls early in the morning for the best views and fewer crowds.
- Take a train ride from Ella to Kandy for an unforgettable scenic journey.
- Try local tea at a tea factory in Bandarawela for an authentic experience.
- Carry cash as ATMs and card facilities may be limited in rural areas.
- Dress modestly when visiting religious sites to show respect for local customs.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
