A Journey Through Time: The Road to Ella

As I embarked on the journey from Mirissa to Ella, I was reminded of the many train journeys I’ve taken across Europe, each one a tapestry of landscapes and stories. The drive to Ella was long, but it was a journey that unfolded like a novel, each chapter revealing a new facet of Sri Lanka’s soul. The rolling hills and misty mountains were reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands, while the smiling villagers and vibrant roadside fruit stands added a touch of the exotic.

Ella, a quaint town nestled among tea-carpeted hills, welcomed me with its relaxed vibe and crisp air. The town seemed to whisper stories of the past, of colonial times when tea was king. The Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering from a bygone era, stood proudly amidst the lush greenery. As I watched a train rumble across it, I felt a sense of nostalgia, as if I were witnessing a scene from a classic film.

The Magic of Lipton’s Seat

The highlight of my journey was the tuk-tuk ride to Lipton’s Seat. The ride through the Lipton tea plantation was a sensory delight, with the scent of fresh tea leaves and the sight of emerald green fields stretching as far as the eye could see. The tea pickers, with their nimble fingers and warm smiles, seemed to be part of the landscape, their presence adding a human touch to the vastness of the plantation.

At the summit, where Sir Thomas Lipton once sat to admire his empire, I was treated to a 360-degree panorama that took my breath away. The view was a reminder of the beauty and serenity that can be found in the simplest of places. It was a moment of reflection, a chance to pause and appreciate the world from a different perspective.

The Timeless Train Ride

No journey to Ella would be complete without the iconic train ride. As the train glided through tunnels and past waterfalls, I felt a sense of timelessness, as if I were part of a grand adventure. The open doors offered a unique vantage point, allowing me to feel the wind in my hair and the sun on my face.

The train ride was more than just a mode of transport; it was an experience that connected me to the heart of Sri Lanka. It was a reminder of the joy of slow travel, of taking the time to savor each moment and each view. As the train wound its way through the countryside, I felt a deep appreciation for the island’s natural beauty and culture.

This journey was a reminder of why I fell in love with train travel all those years ago. It was a chance to step back in time, to experience the world at a slower pace, and to connect with the stories and landscapes that make travel so enriching. For those seeking a taste of Sri Lanka beyond its beaches, this is an adventure not to be missed.