Train rail hike in the traveler enclave of Ella

Early in the morning we hopped on the train to Ella. This time the weather was on our side and we were able to enjoy the beautiful mountain and tea plantation landscape to the fullest.

When we arrived in Ella, we were first taken to alternative accommodation as our actual hotel (Shining Green View) was still undergoing renovation work for a day.

We had planned a hike to Ella Rock in the afternoon, but it ended early. As we discovered, the weather is particularly good in the mornings and it often rains in the afternoons. Thanks to a nice and helpful man, we found a small path to a waterfall, which was also very beautiful. For the Ellas skirt we have to get up earlier and dress better, because Ella is quite rich in insects. After our short walk, a leech docked directly on Magnus's toe.

In the evening we took part in a cooking class. Together with a couple from the Netherlands we were introduced to the traditional cuisine of Sri Lanka and cooked 6 different curries and coconut rotti (we'll show you when we get the chance in Germany ;))

The next day we climbed Ella Rock early and enjoyed the view! By the way, the train tracks are used here as a normal footpath. With 5 to 6 trains per day and a speed of 30 km/h, you have enough time to get out of the way.

At lunchtime we moved to our "real" hotel and then straight to the city center - because Leonie had booked a yoga class at 3 p.m. With a few more insect bites but well relaxed and stretched we had our well-deserved dinner. Vegetable kottu (chopped flatbreads) and paratha with pumpkin curry - a delight!

On our last day in Ella we left early again. But getting up isn't difficult when the sunrise tickles you straight out of bed. After a hearty breakfast we walked along the railway tracks to the 9 Arch Bridge and on to Little Adam's Peak. Here you had a great view, but since it was the weekend and you don't have to go as high up, there was a lot more going on than at its big brother (Adams Peak).

Since we enjoyed dinner so much the day before, we went back there for a late lunch. Just at the right moment before the storm started. We ended the afternoon relaxing with a walk and are looking forward to our onward journey to the coast tomorrow - we're going to Pottuvil for 5 nights to surf and relax!