Mountain town in Uva Province, Sri Lanka
Healthcare in Ella: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Ella
Care is basic; clinics treat minor problems. Serious cases go to Badulla, Kandy or Colombo, several hours away.
Hospitals for foreigners in Ella
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Bandarawela District General Hospital | Public hospital, about 20 km away |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Rs2,000–5,000 ($6.1–15.1) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Sri Lanka: Free public hospitals are busy; private hospitals in Colombo (Asiri, Lanka Hospitals, Nawaloka) are good and affordable. Rural care is basic; serious cases go to Colombo.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in every town, including state-run Osu Sala; many common medicines need no prescription.
- Health spending: US$134 per person a year (2023); 1.1 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 119 · Ambulance 1990 · Fire 110 · Tourist police 1912.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Sri Lanka, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Ella for foreigners?
Bandarawela District General Hospital: Public hospital, about 20 km away
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Ella?
About Rs2,000–5,000 ($6.1–15.1) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Sri Lanka?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Sri Lanka expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Ella
Going to Ella solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Ella meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Railways seat reservations
- Sri Lanka Tourism
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.