Journey Insights

In Ella, it’s the sensation of cool mountain air on your skin after a humid coastal journey, the sight of rolling hills carpeted in a thousand shades of green, and the sound of a distant train chugging along an impossible track. When I arrived, dusty and tired but buzzing with anticipation, I thought I knew what to expect: epic hikes and breath-taking views. And while Ella delivered that in spades, it also gave me something I didn't even know I was looking for – the perfect Tuesday night.

Chasing Sunrises and Waterfalls: My Days Exploring Ella

Before you can truly appreciate the nightlife of Ella, you must first earn it on its trails. The days here are meant for adventure, for lacing up your hiking boots and surrendering to the beauty of the Sri Lankan highlands. My itinerary was packed with the classics, each one more stunning than the last.

The Iconic Nine Arch Bridge

No trip to Ella is complete without witnessing the marvel of the Nine Arch Bridge. The hike itself is a gentle journey through fragrant tea plantations and quiet forests. There’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air as you and fellow travellers gather, finding your vantage points, cameras at the ready. And then, it happens. The distant rumble grows into a cheerful chug, and the iconic blue train emerges from the tunnel, gliding gracefully across the nine stone arches. It’s a postcard moment, a slice of colonial-era engineering nestled in a tropical paradise. It’s pure magic, and the perfect introduction to the wonders of the region.

A Rewarding Climb to Little Adam's Peak

For those seeking panoramic views without a gruelling, day-long commitment, Little Adam’s Peak is the answer. Named for its resemblance to the sacred Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada), this hike is relatively easy but offers a massive payoff. The path winds its way up through tea estates where you can see pluckers expertly at work. As you ascend, the landscape opens up, revealing a breath-taking 360-degree vista of the surrounding valleys and mountains. I went for sunrise, and watching the first golden rays of light pierce through the morning mist and illuminate the Ella Gap was a spiritual experience.

The Challenge and Triumph of Ella Rock

After the gentle warm-up of Little Adam’s Peak, I was ready for the main event: Ella Rock. This is a more strenuous trek, a proper adventure that involves walking along the famous railway tracks before a steep, rewarding climb. Getting a little lost is part of the fun, but the friendly locals are always willing to point you in the right direction. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular. You feel like you’re on top of the world, with the entirety of Ella laid out beneath you. It’s a challenging hike, but the sense of accomplishment, combined with the awe-inspiring view, makes every single step worth it.

From Dusty Boots to Dance Floors: Finding My Tribe in Ella Town

After a day spent conquering mountains, my body was tired, but my spirit was soaring. The sun began to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, and the town of Ella transformed. The quiet, sleepy village vibe gave way to a gentle, humming energy. Lights from guesthouses and restaurants twinkled to life, and the main street became a river of fellow travellers sharing stories of their day's adventures.

I was craving connection, a place to unwind, share a meal, and maybe listen to some good music. I wandered through the town, past cosy cafes and bustling restaurants, but I was looking for something specific. I wasn't just looking for a bar; I was looking for a vibe.

Stumbling Upon a Gem: Cafe One Love

And then I heard it. A faint, rhythmic beat pulling me up a set of stairs. As I climbed, the music grew louder—a relaxed, reggae-infused tune that seemed to perfectly capture the soul of Ella. This was Cafe One Love.

From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I’d found my spot. It wasn't just a cafe; it was a multi-level haven for travellers. Beanbags were strewn across colourful mats, shisha pipes bubbled gently, and a cool mix of backpackers and locals chatted and laughed. The open-air design allowed the cool mountain breeze to drift through, and the view over the town lights was mesmerising. It was a Tuesday, a day that often gets lost in the travel shuffle, but here, it felt like the main event.

Taco Tuesday: An Unexpected Culinary Delight

As I found a comfortable beanbag, a vibrant sign caught my eye: "Taco Tuesday." Tacos? In the middle of the Sri Lankan highlands? The delightful absurdity of it was too tempting to resist. The aroma of sizzling fillings and spices wafted from the kitchen, and my decision was made.

The menu was simple and perfect. I saw options for Tacos Veggie and Tacos Chicken. After a long day of hiking, the Tacos Chicken were calling my name. The menu described them perfectly: “Two small tortillas filled with chicken and veggies, topped with melted cheese, served with yoghurt sauce.” When they arrived, they were a feast for the senses. The tortillas were warm and soft, packed with flavourful, spiced chicken and crisp vegetables. The melted cheese added a wonderful richness, and the cool yoghurt sauce was the perfect counterpoint. It was exactly the kind of satisfying, flavour-packed comfort food I was craving. It was an unexpected taste of Mexico in the heart of Sri Lanka, and it was absolutely delicious.

Turning Up the Tempo: The World of Shots

The tacos and a cold Lion beer had settled me in, and the music was starting to build. The chilled-out reggae had transitioned into a more upbeat, danceable rhythm. My little corner of the cafe had become a small hub of new friends, all of us bonding over our shared love for Ella and the amazing tacos. The night felt young, and we decided to kick things up a notch.

We glanced at the SHOTS menu, a bold, white-on-black list promising a good time. The selection was impressive and catered to every taste. There were local spirits like Arrack, international staples like Gin, Vodka, Whiskey V&A, and Tequila, and fun, potent concoctions like the Kamikaze and the notorious B52. For those wanting something smoother, Baileys was an option, and for the gin connoisseurs, there was Bombay Saphire. It was a testament to the cafe's understanding of its international clientele. We started with a round of classic Tequila, the ritual of salt and lime cementing our newfound friendships. The music pulsed, the conversation flowed, and the vibrant, joyful energy of Cafe One Love became the soundtrack to our Tuesday night.

The Quintessential Ella Experience

As the night wore on, I realised that Cafe One Love was more than just a place to eat and drink. It was the beating heart of Ella's social scene. It was a place where stories were exchanged, friendships were forged, and memories were made. The name, "One Love," isn't just a nod to Bob Marley; it's a philosophy that permeates the entire space. It’s a hub where people from all corners of the globe, fresh from the trails and full of life, can come together and connect.

My Word on Ella

My journey to Ella was about the trails, the trains, and the tea fields. But the memory that will stick with me the most is the unexpected discovery of its soul. It’s a place that understands that after a long day of exploring its incredible natural beauty, what a traveller truly needs is a space to connect, relax, and celebrate.

So, if you find yourself in Ella, by all means, hike the mountains and chase the waterfalls. But when Tuesday rolls around, and your muscles are aching in the best way possible, do yourself a favour. Follow the music up the stairs to Cafe One Love. Grab some tacos, meet some new people, and find your own unforgettable Ella vibe.