Ella
Nestled in a valley at an elevation of 1,041 metres above sea-level, Ella is a quiet, quaint town in the Hill Country, famous for its spectacular views, Sri Lanka’s wildest looking waterfall, ancient caves and wonderful walking opportunities. From the famed Ella Gap, you can see between the green steep mountain-sides and down nearly 1,000 metres to the coastal plain below, and out towards the Indian Ocean. Ella Rock emerges majestically on one side, and the ridges of rock and jungle on the other drop down deep into the valley below leaving an image of retreating mountains and flat coastal plains far into the distance.
Among other attractions, Ravana Falls (also called Bambaragama Falls), 6km down the Wellawaya road from Ella, is perfect for a cool-down swim. The gushing waterfall gives an invigorating ice-cold shower and a good massage and as you dry off in the sun you can appreciate the beautiful views all around.
To take in some history, visit the mysterious Ravana Caves and the ancient Ravana rock temple. The Ravana temple is beautifully adorned with elephants, dragons and people carved into the rock in colours, and a statue of the Buddha in recumbent position. The Cave of Ravana is remarkable because it is associated with the romantic legend of Rama and Sita, from the Indian epic poem, the Ramayana. The cave is also noted archaeologically for where Sri Lankan palaeontologist, Dr. Paul Deraniyagala, discovered 10 skeletons of the cannibalistic Balangoda Man, homo sapiens balangodenis.
Among the many walks you can do in and around Ella a sunset stroll up Little Adam’s Peak is recommended. The walk to Ella Rock is also quite tough but rewarding as it takes about two to three hours each way past Little Ravana Falls but offers terrific views. So, after all this adventure and activity, you will be thinking about food and rest! There are few restaurants in Ella, which offer good food at decent prices. As a break from the beach or from busy city life Ella is perfect.
(Content Source : Travel Sri Lanka Magazine)
(Image Source : mysrilankaholidays.com)








