Ella is one of those locations in Sri Lanka that almost every tourist visits. Thanks to one of the world’s most scenic train lines running directly through the town makes, for a great stop-off destination for anyone looking to do some hiking in the Sri Lankan high country.

We took on Ella Rock a 10km hike that is one of the less touristy hikes in the area, but once you reach the top, it’s hard to understand why. Ella Rock has the most spectacular views in the area, the walk up is also super photogenic as you spend time walking on the train tracks and tea plantations making for some great photo opps.  From Ella town the Ella Rock hike ends up taking around 4 hours to complete. The path isn’t very well sign-posted, so it really depends on how many time you get lost, as to how long this trek will take. If this is a concern, then there are plenty of locals in town who’d be quite happy to be your guide in exchange for some rupees.

In terms of accommodation, in Ella town its all about trying to find the best of a bad bunch. All the accom options are quite primitive. We stayed at Ella’s Edge Resort, which was fairly average. But it did have an incredible unobstructed view of Ella Gap, and the staff were super-friendly.

If you are looking for epic accom in Ella, definitely try and stay at 98 Acres, which is absolutely stunning. The  restaurant there was one of the best that we experienced during our entire time in Sri Lanka.

98 Acres is also close to another great hiking option called Little Adams Peak. This one is only 4.5km’s which can be knocked over in about an hour, and it offers cracking vistas for very little effort.

Here’s a few shots of our time in Ella.

Enjoy