Ella, Sri Lanka
Trein van Ella naar Kandy (of andersom:
https://www.visitsrilankatours.co.uk/train-tickets-1.html
Little Adam’s peak:
Little Adam’s Peak is a short and rewarding hike near Ella, Sri Lanka. This hike is a breeze, making it one of the best hiking trails in Sri Lanka.
Standing at a modest elevation of 1141 metres, you hike through a well-maintained path of gentle slopes and stairs, making it suitable for most fitness levels. It is just 1.5 kilometres one way, taking roughly 30 minutes to an hour.
The trailhead is marked on Google Maps as Little Adam’s Peak Trailhead, close to the Ravan Swim Club and Ella Swing. You can arrange for a tuk-tuk the previous night to take you there in the morning.
Little Adam’s Peak is often done as a sunrise hike. The breathtaking view of the sun rising behind rolling hills and valleys with seasonal waterfalls running down the slopes definitely makes it worth waking up at 4 am!
On a clear day, the majestic Ella Rock is also visible in the distance.
There is no entrance fee for this hike, and a guide is not needed as the route is fairly self-explanatory.
Ella Rock:
Ella Rock is one of the most popular hikes in Sri Lanka. The hike offers unrivalled views across the Baddula Valley and Sri Lankan highlands as a reward for scaling its peak.
Located high on the hills above Ella Town, a hike to Ella Rock is a perfect trek for those staying locally. With a round-trip of approximately 12 km, it typically takes 3-4 hours to complete. Finding the trail can be challenging without a guide, and it is worth plotting the route before setting off.
You’ll ascend about 600m, and while most of the trail is not overly challenging, the final section up to the viewpoint is quite steep. The hike is considered moderate.
Departing from Ella railway station, turn left and walk along the tracks, heading south towards the forest trailhead below the Ella Rock viewpoint. While there isn’t a single defined route, once you have left the railway tracks, you will pass through a tea plantation. From there, head uphill through the woodland trails, passing several vistas.
You will come to a toll hut, where a small fee is charged for entry to the summit area, where the viewpoint opens up.
The best time to hike Ella Rock is during the dry season, which typically runs from January to April. The weather is pleasant, and the views are usually clear. If you want to catch a spectacular sunrise or sunset, make sure you depart at least 2 hours beforehand and take a torch.
Also, remember to take water, wear comfortable footwear, and be mindful of approaching trains!
Entrance Fee: ~950 LKR (~ $3 USD)
Difficulty: Moderate
Guide: Optional
Duration: 3 – 4 hours return
Ella rock:
https://thisgirlabroad.com/ella-rock-hike-guide-how-to/
Nallathanniya, Sri Lanka
Adam’s peak
https://asocialnomad.com/sri-lanka/adams-peak-hike/#the-adams-peak-hike
Sri Pada, or Adam’s Peak, has been trekked on pilgrimages for more than 1,000 years as pilgrims come to see the Sri Pada – the sacred footprint left by the Buddha as he ascended to paradise.
This 3-hour (one-way) hike is traditionally started in the early hours of the morning, in the dark, to welcome sunrise at the top. And while the rising sun may be masked by clouds, this Sri Lankan hike is a truly incredible experience.
Hiking the well-marked route is easy, even in the dark, as the way is marked by torches – and of course, the vendors who will sell you food, souvenirs, drinks, and encouragement along the way.
This is a tough trail as it’s mainly steps of varying sizes and shapes – making it an extremely good workout. You’ll need to reserve enough energy for the return trip, which is the same way back down – the steps are particularly hard work going down, and take extra care if it rains, hiking poles are a boon in this situation!
In all, you should budget 6 hours for the Adam’s Peak hike, but as you’re probably starting at around 2.30 am to make it to the peak for sunrise, that will still leave you plenty of the day to explore the small village of Dalhousie where the hike starts from.
Guided sunrise hikes are available to book online, including transfers from Kandy to take the hassle out of experiencing an epic early morning adventure.
Take time at the peak to enjoy hot, sweet Ceylon Tea and a Sri Lankan breakfast. If you’re lucky enough to be there at sunrise, then you may also see the perfect shadow of Adam’s Peak cast onto the clouds.
Entrance Fee: None
Difficulty: Moderate
Guide: Optional
Duration: 6 hours return