Travel from Ella to Polonnaruwa with a private chauffeur from SL RIDE. A laid-back mountain village beloved for dramatic hikes, the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, and sweeping valley views. A well-preserved ancient royal capital with impressive ruins, sculpted rock faces, and sacred dagobas. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive across Sri Lanka.
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Distance
167 km
Estimated Travel Time
~4h 11m
Vehicle Options
Car, Van, Bus

The sacred site where Sita proved her purity through the "Agni Pariksha" (fire ordeal) as described in the Ramayana. A deeply revered temple among Hindu pilgrims on the Ramayana trail.

Explore the sprawling ancient ruins at your own pace by bicycle — the best way to cover the site.

A more challenging full-day hike through tea estates and jungle to a dramatic viewpoint above the clouds.

A gentle 3 km hike to a grassy summit with sweeping panoramic views over Ella Gap and the valleys below.

Watch colonial-era steam trains cross the iconic nine-arch viaduct buried in lush jungle — Ella's most photographed sight.

A large cave on the hillside believed to be where King Ravana hid Sita after abducting her. An atmospheric site steeped in legend with sweeping views of the surrounding jungle.

One of Sri Lanka's widest waterfalls, steeped in Ramayana mythology — a refreshing stop on the hillside road.

Marvel at four magnificent Buddha figures carved directly into a single granite face — a masterpiece of ancient art.

Witness the famous "Gathering" — hundreds of wild Asian elephants congregating around Minneriya Tank.

A guided tour of the UNESCO-listed medieval capital — palaces, stupas, and sacred ponds spanning 1,000 years of history.