Ella is a small town in the Badulla district of Sri Lanka. Affiliated with the Uva district, Ella is known for its diverse flora and fauna and picturesque views of nearby hills. The area has a rich bio-diversity, dense with numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Ella is surrounded by hills covered with cloud forests and tea plantations. Due to its elevation, the town has a cooler climate than the surrounding lowlands. The Ella Spice Garden Sri Lanka is amongst the most popular spots in town and is visited by tourists worldwide.
About The Ella Spice Garden Sri Lanka
A garden scented with the pleasant and soothing fragrances of spices may be found in Ella’s small and friendly neighbourhood. Many Sri Lankan herbs and spices, known as the “Ella Spice Garden,” may be found there. These are employed extensively in the nation’s distinctive yet flavorful cuisine. It has a colourful assortment of spices, such as cumin, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These are typically roasted, dried, and used to make various Sri Lankan dishes. Some spices are used just for their aroma, while others are combined with other ingredients to create a unique flavour.
Most of these are cultivated in homes, and many have a special mixture of spices that are crushed into a powder. There are also many other fresh herbs in the garden, such as cilantro, basil, and oregano, which are only utilised in Western cuisine. A staff member will also inform you about the spices and their applications while you are touring the gardens. You can choose to enrol in a cooking lesson at the property in addition to the garden tour if you’d want to delve further and taste Sri Lankan food as it truly is authentic. During this session, you will learn more about these wonderful spices’ uses and actual functions.
Also Read: Places To Visit In Ella
Things To Do At The Ella Spice Garden
There are several activities and things to do at the Ella Spice Garden that are sure to keep you occupied. Some of the most popular things to do at Ella Spice Garden Sri Lanka are mentioned below:
1. Guided Spice Garden Tour
Image Source: Shutterstock
Want to explore this amazing garden the most? Then the guided spice garden tour may be perfect for you. During this educational tour, you can learn various facts about different spices and truly immerse yourself in the lush greenery of Ella Spice Garden. Expert guides will explain how certain kinds of spices unique only to Sri Lanka are grown and how they are used in Sri Lankan cuisines. You will also have a unique opportunity to smell and taste different spices and understand their flavours and health benefits. This sensory experience provides insights into the traditional use of spices in local medicine and cooking.
2. Cooking Class Experience
Image Source: Pexels
Cooking enthusiasts can take a cooking class in the heart of the Ella Spice. This cookery lesson starts with an interesting dive into the history of Sri Lankan food and a taste-bud-awakening process. Each participant receives a recipe book in which they can record culinary ideas and component amounts. At the end of the class, participants can also enjoy a delicious lunch cooked by them. Moreover, The Ella Spice Garden offers guided tours around the premises that discuss the park’s history and other significant details. Visitors can also explore the park themselves and soak in the flora and fauna.
Related Posts: Batticaloa Lagoon
3. Spice Garden Visit And Tea Tasting
Image Source: Pexels
To make the most of your visit, you can indulge in a delightful Spice Garden tea tasting. There are different samples of freshly brewed Ceylon tea that have differing flavours, aromas, and strengths. The session also includes an explanation of the tea production process from leaf to cup. This activity offers a perfect blend of education and relaxation, allowing guests to unwind as they gain an appreciation for two of Sri Lanka’s most famous exports: spices and tea.
4. Sri Lankan Dessert Cooking Demonstration
Image Source:Ji-Elle for Wikimedia Commons
If you have a sweet tooth, the desert cooking demonstration at Ella Spice Garden is a must. This activity allows visitors to uncover the art of making traditional Sri Lankan sweet treats such as Watalappan and Kavum. The demonstration is conducted by a skilled chef who also shares tips and techniques for creating these delectable desserts. At the end of the demonstration, everyone gets a chance to taste the freshly made desserts, offering a delightful conclusion to the experience.
Related Posts: Matara Parawi Duwa Temple
5. Nature Walk And Bird Watching
Image Source:Pexels
For nature lovers, the nature walk and bird watching activity at Ella Spice Garden offers a serene escape into the beauty of Sri Lanka’s natural landscapes. It is encouraged to take a stroll through the lush greenery or the garden and observe endemic and migratory bird species. The walk is also guided by an expert who can identify bird calls and provide you with some fun information and facts about them. Some of the most common birds you can spot at Ella Spice Garden are the Sri Lanka Hanging Parrot, the Ceylon Grey Hornbill, and various kinds of flycatchers. This relaxing activity allows participants to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the great outdoors while learning about the local biodiversity.
Tips While Travelling To Ella Spice Garden
The Ella Spice Garden can seem a little daunting for a first-time visitor. Therefore, a few things must be kept in mind while visiting the garden. Locals suggest taking the train from any other town in Sri Lanka to reach Ella. From the railway station, a tuk-tuk or private taxi can take the individual to the garden.
The average individual takes about two to three hours to explore the garden in its entirety, so it’s important to plan accordingly. The average temperature in the garden is between 19 and 27℃, so visitors should dress comfortably. Furthermore, comfortable clothing must be worn in case they’re planning to take the cooking class.
Related Posts: Things To Do In Sri Lanka
Places To Visit Near Ella Spice Garden Sri Lanka
Other than the Spice Garden, Ella offers many other options to tourists to make the most of their trip. These options are ideal for people from different walks of life.
1. Ella Rock
One of the best hiking and trekking sites in Sri Lanka, the Ella Rocks provide the most picturesque views from the top. The trek starts from Ella railway station to Kithal Ella railway station or Heel Oya railway track. Kithal Ella is the closest to the rock. It takes around 4 hours to trek up and down.
2. Ravana Falls
The Ravana cave and Ravana Falls are just 2 km from Ella city, perched at an altitude of 82 feet. The history of Sri Lanka dates back to over 2000 years, and it finds itself in the iconic Ramayana. It is believed that Ravana was a fervent Sri Lankan by origin and stood as a villain in the lives of Ram–Sita. He captured Sita and kept her hostage in his custody in the famous Ravana caves and the Ravana Falls. Landscapes around the Ravana Falls comprise slopes, valleys, hills, and streams that ornament the rocks.
Related Posts: Independence Square In Sri Lanka
3. Nine Arches Bridge
Nine Arches Bridge, or The Bridge in the Sky, is an iconic architectural structure in Ella’s mountainous region. It is a magnificent stone bridge built amidst lush green tea plantations, with stunning mountains in the backdrop. It can be accessed from the Ella station, a short trek along the railway tracks to the bridge.
4. Lipton’s Seat
Lipton’s Seat is a viewpoint situated in the Haputale mountain range, atop the Dambatenne Tea Estate. Located at a height of 1970 metres above sea level, it offers spectacular 360-degree views of the verdant hills and tea plantations. It is best to arrive here before 7:00 AM before the fog starts rolling in.
Related Posts: Ravana Falls In Sri Lanka
5. Diyalum Falls
An hour away from Ella, the Diyaluma Falls are Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfalls. There are several natural pools along its 220-meter fall, and trekkers can take refreshing baths in their cool water and have a cliff-jumping experience. The upper part of Diyaluma Falls has deep pools at different levels, while the lower part features dramatic drop-offs that are a sight to behold.
You May Also Like To Read: Things To Do In Ella For Party In Sri Lanka
A visit to this unique garden is not just a culinary experience but a journey through Sri Lanka’s culture and heritage. So, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of spices, their uses, benefits, origins, and costs. Now that you know more about Ella and the Ella Spice Garden, take the leap of faith and book your trip to Sri Lanka. Take some time off and spend quality time with yourself and your loved ones.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here.
Cover Image Source: Shutterstock
Frequently Asked Questions About Ella Spice Garden Sri Lanka
What is the Ella Spice Garden?
The Ella Spice Garden is a popular attraction in Ella, Sri Lanka, offering guided tours through a diverse array of spice plants and herbs.
Where is the Ella Spice Garden located?
The garden is situated in the town of Ella, a scenic area in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. Plan your trip to Sri Lanka and take a tour to this enchanting place.
What can visitors expect during a tour?
Visitors can expect a guided tour showcasing various spices, cooking demonstrations, and tasting sessions.
Is there an entry fee for the spice garden?
Yes, there is a nominal fee for the guided tour. But it is affordable and a guided tour will surely give you the complete information about this garden.
Can visitors purchase spices on-site?
Yes, the garden has a shop where visitors can buy fresh spices and other related products. On-site spices are cheap than the normal markets.
People Also Read:
Dubai Miracle Garden Kadoorie Farm And Botanic Garden Singapore Gardens
Unveil the hidden treasures of the globe and turn every travel dream into reality. As a Content Writer, I am passionate enough to craft stories from ancient wonders to modern marvels. My words paint the picture-perfect itinerary for unforgettable experiences. Let my words be your trusted guide to immerse in the diverse culture and discover the beauty of the unknown.
