Sri Lanka Route Guide · South coast
Mirissa to Ella by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
The best way to go from the beach to the hills is by road via Wellawaya, which also gives you the chance to stop at waterfalls on the way.
Route at a glance
- From
- Mirissa
- To
- Ella
- Distance
- About 130 km
- Drive time
- 3.5 to 4 hours
- Best for
- Moving from the coast to the hills.
The drive
You drive inland through Matara, Deniyaya or Wellawaya on the A2 and A23. The last part climbs through the hills with sharp bends.
Best stops on the way
Rawana Falls
Waterfall just before Ella.
Wellawaya
Buduruwagala rock carvings.
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 in the morning so you arrive before the afternoon cloud.
- Some travellers add a Yala safari stop on this route.
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
- Travel times between places in Sri Lanka
- How to hire a private driver in Sri Lanka
- Galle to Mirissa
- Ella to Yala National Park
- Kandy to Ella
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long is the drive from Mirissa to Ella?
Around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Is there a train from Mirissa to Ella?
There is no direct line, so a car is the easiest option.