• Little Adam’s Peak View Point - Don’t miss the stunning tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, Little Adam’s Peak, even if the name ‘Little’ might suggest otherwise. It is named in honor of the sacred Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada
• where the footprint of Lord Buddha is preserved) due to the resemblance between the two peaks. Hence, it is referred to as Little Adam’s Peak.

The peak is also known as “Punchi Sri Pada” and stands at 1141 meters tall. It beckons numerous visitors to Sri Lanka. An easy trek up Little Adam’s Peak rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view. The journey takes you through vibrant green tea plantations, waterfalls, and rice fields, offering splendid views along the way.

Visiting early in the morning when the clouds are just beginning to roll in is an experience beyond value. Little Adam’s Peak is a testament to the natural beauty and the richness of Sri Lankan tourism destinations. Looking around at the scenery is like a neck workout, as you’ll find yourself turning in every direction to take in the 360-degree views.

Ella town, nestled among the highland destinations, is replete with waterfalls, caves, and places of geographical interest. One such feature is Adam’s Peak, a pyramid-shaped mountain that faces Ella Rock. It’s important to respect the environment and not disturb the flora, fauna, and wildlife you encounter on your ascent.

You might observe locals engaged in tea leaf plucking and tending to their estates. The climb to the summit takes about 35-45 minutes on a winding path and is an ideal spot to witness the sunrise. The view extends from Ella Rock to the valley below and is truly magnificent.

Remember to start your climb early before the heat sets in to avoid exhaustion. Carrying water is essential, and enjoying a cup of tea on your way back can be refreshing. Keep in mind that if you wish to take a photo with a tea plucker, they may request a fee.

• Nine Arches Bridge - Perched at 3100 meters above sea level amidst the rugged peaks of the Central Highlands, the Nine Arches Bridge serves as a link between the Demodara and Ella Railway stations. Constructed solely from bricks, rocks, and cement, without any steel, the bridge has remained steadfast since its inception in 1921. Local builders resorted to these materials when steel became scarce due to World War I, halting construction. Beyond its history, the bridge is surrounded by folklore.

The most well-known tale involves P. K. Appuhami from the Kappatipola area in Melimada, who was born in 1870. Appuhami, a renowned traditional drummer and devil dancer, caught the attention of a British official after losing a competition. Initially startled by Appuhami’s costume, the official soon befriended him. Appuhami, learning of the official’s railway project, provided labor from nearby villages.

However, the railway project faced challenges when builders could not bridge a gap between two hills due to a marshy valley. Appuhami offered to take charge of the bridge construction and, after some initial reluctance, was given the opportunity. He began work in 1913, stabilizing the ground by filling the marsh with large rocks until a solid foundation was established. He then constructed the bridge’s brick columns on this foundation and completed the bridge.

Appuhami’s innovative and cost-effective construction methods allowed him to finish the project in just one year, at a fraction of the planned cost. The British officials, skeptical of the work done by the ‘savages,’ doubted the bridge’s stability. Appuhami confidently vouched for the bridge’s strength, even offering to lie underneath it during the inaugural train passage. He fulfilled this promise, impressing the officials with his accomplishment.

According to legend, Appuhami was rewarded with the savings from the construction budget. He is said to have returned to his village with carts full of silver coins, generously hosting a feast for his and the neighboring village for two days, and giving each villager a silver coin.

Whether or not the stories are true, the Nine Arches Bridge stands as a testament to Sri Lanka’s engineering prowess, with its elegant arches and robust structure.

• Local guide expertise
• Complimentary refreshments with cookies
• Authentic local lunch experience
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in Ella

• Expenses of personal nature
• Gratuities