Explore Ella: Rock Hike, Loop, Falls, Nine arch & Train View
ID: GYG980805-1522780
Category:
Country: Sri Lanka
Duration:
09:00 hours
Description
Hike to Ella Rock, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, and explore the Demodara Railway Loop on a guided tour from Ella. Enjoy a relaxing lunch and visit Ravana Falls and Little Adam’s Peak.
Begin your day with a comfortable pickup from your hotel in Ella (or nearby areas such as Bandarawela or Haputale). Meet your friendly, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the day. After a short briefing on the tour plan, set off in a private vehicle—usually a tuk-tuk or van—geared up for a scenic and adventure-filled day.
The first stop is the breathtaking Ella Rock. This moderately challenging hike takes around 3 to 3.5 hours in total. Start by walking along the railway track, pass through tea plantations, and ascend through a forest trail. At the summit, be rewarded with one of the most panoramic views in Sri Lanka—spanning lush green valleys, rolling hills, and the iconic Ella Gap. Your guide will ensure you take the safest and most scenic route, and will point out native flora and interesting landmarks along the way.
After descending from Ella Rock, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era masterpiece nestled amidst the jungle and tea fields. Constructed with bricks and stone—without the use of steel—the bridge is an architectural wonder. If you're lucky, you might catch a train slowly making its way across the arches, creating a picture-perfect scene. This spot is a photographer’s paradise, and your guide will help you find the best viewing angles.
Next, head to nearby Demodara Railway Loop, a unique engineering marvel where the train track loops around and passes beneath itself via a tunnel. Your guide will explain the clever colonial-era design, and you’ll have time to watch trains navigate the loop if the schedule aligns. It’s a great place to see how Sri Lanka’s mountain railways were built to conquer the steep terrain with elegance.
After a busy morning, it's time for a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, often with views of the surrounding hills or paddy fields. Meals are typically Sri Lankan rice and curry, though Western options are usually available. The tour is usually all-inclusive, so lunch is covered in the package.
Post-lunch, head down to Ravana Falls, a 25-meter cascade that tumbles down a rocky cliff into a natural pool. The falls are named after the legendary King Ravana from the Indian epic Ramayana, and the site has a mystical aura. Enjoy the cool mist, take photos, or even dip your feet in the shallow stream. It’s a refreshing break and a chance to connect with nature.
To cap off your day, enjoy a much easier and shorter hike to Little Adam’s Peak. The trail takes around 20–30 minutes to reach the summit, but the views are simply spectacular—rolling tea plantations, distant waterfalls, and a clear view of Ella Rock in the distance. The gentle hike makes it accessible for all ages and fitness levels. Sunset from the peak is especially magical if your timing allows.
Highlights
- Feel the cool mist of Ravana Falls and dip your feet in the shallow stream
- Hike to the summit of Ella Rock for panoramic views of lush green valleys
- Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era architectural wonder
- Explore the Demodara Railway Loop, a unique engineering marvel
- Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant with views of the hills
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The hike to Ella Rock is moderately challenging and requires a good fitness level.
Weather can change quickly; bring appropriate clothing.
The tour involves walking on uneven terrain.
INCLUDED
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- English-speaking guide
- Private vehicle transport
- Guided hike to Ella Rock
- Visit to Nine Arches Bridge
- Visit to Demodara Loop
- Visit to Ravana Falls
- Hike to Little Adam’s Peak
NOT INCLUDED
- Personal expenses
- Gratuities
- Shopping expenses
- Meal & Snacks
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.