Sri Lanka Route Guide · Hill country
Nuwara Eliya to Ella by Private Car and Driver
Updated 10 October 2026 · by the GoTourRide team
This short but scenic run drops from the tea plateau to Ella through Haputale. A driver lets you stop at Horton Plains and tea estates.
Route at a glance
- From
- Nuwara Eliya
- To
- Ella
- Distance
- About 60 km
- Drive time
- 2.5 to 3 hours
- Best for
- Scenic drives and Horton Plains.
The drive
The A5 and B-roads descend through Welimada and Bandarawela. The road is winding and slow, with views over the valleys.
Best stops on the way
Horton Plains
World's End walk, best done early in the morning.
Haputale
Lipton's Seat and tea estates.
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
- Horton Plains is best before 9am, before the cloud covers the view.
- Combine the drive with the famous train ride from Nanu Oya if you want both.
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
- Ella to Yala National Park
- Colombo Airport (CMB) to Ella
- All Sri Lanka driver routes
FAQs
How long does it take from Nuwara Eliya to Ella?
About 2.5 to 3 hours, longer with stops.
Can we visit Horton Plains on the way?
Yes. It adds a half day but is one of the best walks in the country.