Sri Lanka Route Guide · Safari, east coast and north
Ella to Udawalawe by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
The road from Ella drops quickly to the dry plains and Udawalawe National Park, a popular day trip or overnight.
Route at a glance
- From
- Ella
- To
- Udawalawe
- Distance
- About 95 km
- Drive time
- 2.5 to 3 hours
- Best for
- Safari stops between the hills and the coast.
The drive
You descend via Wellawaya and Thanamalwila. The first 20 km is steep, then flat and straight.
Best stops on the way
Ravana Falls
Waterfall at the start of the descent.
Udawalawe Reservoir
Large lake beside the park.
Choose your vehicle
Pick a vehicle by group size and luggage. These are average day rates across GoTourRide drivers; a one-way transfer is quoted by the driver, so request a quote for an exact price. You can also use our trip cost calculator.
| Vehicle | Passengers | Average day rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mini car | Up to 2 | About $61/day |
| Normal car | Up to 3 | About $66/day |
| SUV | Up to 3 | About $91/day |
| Large car | Up to 4 | About $75/day |
| Minivan | Up to 6 | About $103/day |
| Large van | Up to 10 | About $118/day |
| Minibus | Up to 15 | About $169/day |
Tips for this route
- Leave Ella before 11am for an afternoon safari.
- Book a jeep through your lodge for the next morning.
Book a driver
Compare verified drivers on the drivers page, or ask us on WhatsApp if you would like to talk to a real person first.
Keep reading
- Udawalawe National Park safari guide
- Yala National Park guide: how to get there and book
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Ella to Yala National Park
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Arugam Bay
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Trincomalee
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How far is Ella from Udawalawe?
About 95 km, or 2.5 to 3 hours.
Is it better to stay overnight?
An overnight lets you do an early morning safari.