Ella Rock Hike

With lots of green and a cool countryside atmosphere, Ella is easily one of the favorite tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. And among all the exciting things to try while there, the Ella Rock Hike is simply the best. While the climb up the Ella Rock can be quite strenuous and time consuming, the panoramic views of the Ella Gap and Little Adam’s Peak at the top of the rock and the journey itself makes the hike totally worth it.

The best recommended time to hike the rock is in the early mornings when the mist and the clouds clear up giving way to one of the most stunning views in Sri Lanka. In addition, as the whole trip up and down Ella Rock takes close to four hours, avoiding the afternoon sun makes the trek much more pleasurable. The hike usually starts with the Ella railway station. From here start the steady walk along the railway lines past Kitha-Ella train station and find the small left turn that brings you to the trail of the hike. Along the way, make sure to bask in the little streams, tea estates, the long grass and the forest of Eucalyptus trees that you hike through.

With plenty of alternate routes to reach the top, it’s always safer to travel with a guide. Especially if you plan to reach the summit by sunrise. But if you opt to climb the Ella Rock guide free, there are always plenty of locals happy to give directions. As with any hike, travelers are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes and take plenty of food and water with them.

If you’re planning to take on this adventure, why not add the Kandy to Ella train ride (the most scenic in Sri Lanka!) to your itinerary as well?





Witten By: Kavisha Perera