Exploring Rain Forest Ecosystems in Sri Lanka
What was once a sleepy chilly town in the hill country of Badulla has know emerged into a beautiful tourist destination in Sri Lanka and a backpacker’s paradise The wonder of Ella, which is pronounced “ælla,” is that it is meant to be appreciated leisurely. We recommend you travel to Ella via a picturesque train ride, leaving Colombo then making a spot at Kandy and heading to the forestry-hill country in relaxation. Once you get there, lay back, and put your feet up to take in the picturesque view and the chilly temperament of both the surroundings and the folk of Ella! When you are completely relaxed, Do not forget to take in the fascinating natural attractions of Ella. There isn’t much to see in the city centre of Ella, but a little exploring will bring you many wonders, such as the ones mentioned below!
Little Adam’s Peak
Take a trek to catch some amazing vistas by making your way to “Little Adam’s Peak” in Ella. Whilst you need to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes, you will need to trek through a tea estate and make your way up the side of a green topped hilly area to get to where you need to go. Once you get there, get some panorama photographs of the beautiful hills of Ella, then just lie back, watch the clouds go by.
Ella Rock
The idyllic hills of Ella have long been compared to those of the English country side, and if you do leave the hustle and bustle of the city centre, then you will see what people were talking about. However, getting there requires some effort and comfortable walking shoes as there is a hike involve. One of the best natural attractions of Ella involves a walk alongside the railway tracks from the Ella train station, past the Kithul Ella train station and a turn off to the left of the 166 ½ waymarker, but before that of the 166 ¼. Keep going down the trodden path and keep climbing. The following map has been used by many backpackers of Sri Lanka to find their way to Ella, but we at Transco Travels, will be able to guide you on how to get there!
Ravana Ella Falls and Ravana’s Cave
Ravana Ella Falls, also known simply as Ravana Falls, is one of the sought after natural attractions of Ella, for it’s beautiful cascading waters over the weathered rocks and the folklore behind it. One of the widest waterfalls of Sri Lanka, it stands tall at approximately 82 feet tall (approx. 25m), and is part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary. The folklore associated is connected to the Indian Ramayana, where Ravana (the reigning King of Sri Lanka based on the Ramayana tale) had kidnapped the beautiful Princess Sita and hidden her in the caves behind the Ravana Falls. Those caves which are now known as the Ravana Caves can be explored along with the thick forestry surrounding it.
Nature Trails
One of the best natural attractions of Ella would definitely be the nature trails that are abundant here in the hilly countryside. There is much to be trekked and explored, but we implore you to be well-prepared. Wear proper footwear, that is comfortable and offer friction for climbing rocks. Wearing socks or long pants is also recommended to avoid leeches latching on, and of course, to avoid other bites, we recommend wearing long sleeves as well.
Images: MatthewSavage.Photography, Clarka Travels
Related posts
