Sri Lanka Route Guide · Hill country
Haputale to Ella by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
A short, scenic link between two of the best tea country towns.
Route at a glance
- From
- Haputale
- To
- Ella
- Distance
- About 40 km
- Drive time
- 1.5 hours
- Best for
- Tea country scenery.
The drive
You drive along the ridge on the A16 via Bandarawela. The road is narrow with bends.
Best stops on the way
Lipton's Seat
Start with sunrise at the viewpoint.
Dambatenne tea factory
Small tour and tasting.
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 after breakfast for clear views.
- Pack a jacket.
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
- 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary
- Best places to travel in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Kandy to Ella
- Colombo to Kandy
- Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How far is Ella from Haputale?
About 40 km, or 1.5 hours.
Can I do the train ride too?
Yes, the train between Haputale and Ella is scenic.