What Are The Places To Visit In Matara? A Southern Sri Lankan Commercial Hub With Dutch Colonial Heritage

BY  Sibashree Jun 16, 2026

I shared my experience of visiting the Kumana National Park recently. Now, it’s time to talk about the Yala National Park, with which the Kumana National Park shares a contiguous border.  The park is home to lush lagoons, open plains, forests, and dunes.  As a result, it attracts diverse wildlife and birds. Including elephants, Yala National Park has around 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds.  In addition, the Yala National Park safari allows you to spot leopards as it has one of the largest populations of leopards. In just Block 1, you will see around 25 leopards.  However, this diversity has further posed a problem for the wildlife and ecology of the national park. Mongabay reports that Yala National Park had 380000 visitors in the first half of 2025.  Backed by the social media boom, this increasing number of visitors has further triggered jeep jams and the problems of speeding jeeps in the national park.  Conservationists plan to restrict these, and rightly so, to maintain the experience of the Yala National Park safari.  Nevertheless, in this article, I will talk about the Yala National Park safari price, my experience, location, transportation options, and more.  Let’s begin with a quick overview of the Yala National Park and the safari price details.  An Overview Of The Yala National Park  LocationSouth-Western Sri LankaSize- 979 Square Kilometers- Total Five Blocks with Block 1 as the Main Tourist Spot Best for- Birdwatching- Spotting Leopards- Watching Sloth Bears, Elephants, and Crocodiles Hours Open- 6 AM to 6 PMSafari Prices (Based on the Safari Blocks Covered)- LKR 16900 to LKR 29,700/Main Entrance - Palatupana Gate, Close to Tissamaharama Furthermore, if you are looking for the perfect accommodation, you can check my guide on where to stay in Yala National Park. Yala National Park Safari Price: A Detailed Breakdown  Yala National Park Various ZonesDurationSafari Price in 2026 (LKR)Block 1 (Palatupana)Half Day16,900/=Block 1 (Palatupana)Full Day28,100/=Block 1 (Katagamuwa)Half Day16,900/=Block 1 (Katagamuwa)Full Day28,100/=Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge)Half Day19,800/=Blocks 4 and 5 (Galge)Full Day29,700/= (Source: Yala National Park Official Website).  Where Is Yala National Park? How Can You Reach There? Between the mighty Indian Ocean and a dense jungle, the Yala National Park is an expansive wildlife zone in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka.  Furthermore, it is well-connected to all parts of Sri Lanka. From the southern surf towns such as Ahangama, Weligama, Mirissa, and Hiriketiya to the dramatic Ella and Nuwara Eliya in the highlands, it is easily accessible.  So, here are the details of how to reach the Yala National Park from various parts of Sri Lanka.  1. From The Southern Coast To Tissamaharama The surfing towns on the southern coast are well connected to the Yala National Park.  The best way to travel is to take a train from Mirissa to Colombo Fort Station and then walk to the Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to catch a bus to Kataragama.  From Kataragama, you can hire a 4x4 jeep to reach the Yala National Park.  Check the table below to know how you can reach the Yala National Park from Mirissa. Stage 1: Train from Mirissa to Colombo Fort Station - Time: Around 3 Hours- Ticket Price: LKR 250 OnwardStage 2: Taking a Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kataragama- Time: 5 Hours Onward- Ticket Price: LKR 750Stage 3: 4x4 Jeep Ride from Kataragama to the Yala National Park Travel Time- 30 Minutes to Katagamuwa Entrance- Around 1 Hour to the Main Entrance or the Palatupana Entrance- Around 45 Minutes to Galge EntrancePrice (Per Vehicle)- LKR 9000 to 18000  3. From Ella To Tissamaharama From Ella, you can either take a bus or a private transport to reach Tissamaharama.  Bus Ride The bus passes through Wellawaya and takes 4.5 hours to complete the journey. Furthermore, the ticket price will be around LKR 200.  Also, a local told me of a bus route from Bandarawela to Kataragama, having Tissamaharama and Ella as stopovers. However, I could not fact-check the availability of such services.  Private Transfer  For a premium and flexible travel experience, you can book a private transfer to cover the distance in a shorter time.  The journey is for 2.5 hours. However, the cost will be around LKR 10000.  Also, if you are planning to take a private transfer, choose Uber for a safe journey at a reasonable price.  By Train  There is no direct railway connectivity to Yala. However, if you are traveling from the southern coast, you can get off at Matara.  From Matara, you can take a tuk-tuk, bus, or taxi to reach the Yala National Park.  What Is The History Of The Yala National Park?  The history of Yala National Park as a protected wilderness is at least a century old. As an ecotourism zone, it is a bucket-list destination for anyone on a trip to Sri Lanka.  However, earlier, it was a hunting ground for the British colonial elites. However, at the beginning of the 20th century, the colonial administration took effective steps for the preservation of the park.  The Designation As A Wildlife Sanctuary The British government designated the area as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900. It was an attempt to restrict and regulate game hunting. The Designation As A National Park  Under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, Yala became a national park in 1938.  Thus, the core activity here became absolute wildlife protection from managed hunting.  Mid-Century Turmoil And Restoration  The park faced several challenges during the mid-to-late 20th century. Furthermore, during the 1970s and 1980s, Yala suffered from ivory hunting, illegal poaching, and agricultural encroachment along its borders.  DWC, or the Department of Wildlife Conservation, along with dedicated non-governmental organizations, launched sustained anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration initiatives.  These endeavors established the delicate ecological equilibrium of the national park. Also, the population of the elephants and leopards made a recovery during this time span.  The 2004 Tsunami And Ecological Resilience  The coastal fringe of Yala was massively impacted due to the Indian Ocean tsunami on 26th December 2004.  However, fortunately, deer, leopards, and elephants had fled to higher ground hours before the tsunami hit.  Furthermore, the land has made a tremendous recovery over the last two decades. There has been a proper regeneration of the coastal scrub, showcasing the profound resilience of this coastal wilderness.  The Five Blocks Of The Yala National Park  The expansive area of the Yala National Park has five different geographical blocks for better management of the expansive area.  Have a look at the table below to understand the uniqueness of each block.  Blocks in the Yala National Park UniquenessBlock I (Palatupana)- The Crown Jewel of Yala- The Most-Visited, Wildlife-Dense, and Most Accessible Block of the National Park. - It features an Excellent Mix of open grasslands, monsoon forests, and Brackish Lagoons. Block II (Katagamuwa)- A Quiter, Transitional Zone- It Offers Exceptional Opportunities for Elephant Viewings and Excellent Birdwatching. Blocks III, IV, and V- The Deeper and Wilder Interior of Yala- These Northern Blocks Have Thick Vegetation, Minimal Tourist Infrastructure, and a Rugged Geology- Authentic Wilderness Experience Devoid of Jeep Convoys.  The Wildlife Experience I Had On The Yala National Park Safari  The Yala ecosystem is not just about the elephants and leopards. Furthermore, the ecosystem of Yala relies on a rich web of biodiversity, including hundreds of species.  1. The Sri Lankan Leopard  The Yala National Park does not have tigers or lions. Thus, Sri Lankan leopards rule as the undisputed predators of the zone.  Furthermore, Yala National Park is home to one of the biggest populations of Sri Lankan leopards. As a result, leopards are more visible here compared to different parts of India and Africa.  2. The Asian Elephants  Solitary bull elephants and large herds roam freely in the Yala National Park. These majestic creatures rely on inland lagoons and seasonal watering holes for bathing and feeding.  3. The Sri Lankan Sloth Bear  These animals are territorial and highly elusive. Furthermore, these shaggy, insect-eating animals are most frequently spotted during the fruiting season of the Palu tree. 4. Other Wildlife  The dry zone of the Yala National Park teems with wildlife. Along with these massive mammals, I could even spot a spotted  Deer (Chital) Sambar Deer Wild Boar Tufted Gray Langurs Toque Macaques Water Buffalo Water Monitor Lizards Mugger Crocodiles These animals were mostly visible near the water.  5. A Paradise For Birdwatchers  Yala National Park is a premier global destination for birdwatching. There are more than 215 bird species in the national park.  Furthermore, November to January is the ideal time for spotting the migratory waterfowl that fly to Sri Lanka to escape the strong winter of the Northern hemisphere.  Bird Categories in Yala National ParkKey Species to Spot in Yala National Park Endemic Species - Sri Lanka Junglefowl- Sri Lanka Grey HornbillWaterfowl and Waders- Painted Storks- Lesser Whistling Ducks- Black-Necked StorksPredators and Raptors- Crested Serpent Eagles- White-Bellied Sea EaglesVibrant Showstoppers- Green Bee-Eaters- Indian Peacocks- Malabar Pied Hornbills The Fascinating Yala National Park Safari Experience  The Yala National Park safari offers a sensory and intense experience. Furthermore, the safari experience begins before sunrise.  1. The Dawn Patrol  The safari began at 4 AM from Tissamaharama. It was still pitch black, and we took a sip of the local coffee.  Then, the cold morning breeze touched us, and we advanced with the jeep headlights piercing through the predawn mist.  Furthermore, by 5:15 AM, we reached the main Palatupana Gate. The drivers waited for the park rangers to issue permits.  Then, the gates opened at 6 AM, and the vehicles started roaring through the dirt tracks of Block I.  2. The Landscape And The Sighting  When the first rays of the Sun touch the Yala National Park, the landscape looks very African.  It has scattered grasslands, spindly thorn scrub, and flat plains. Furthermore, the air was thick with humidity.  Then, the driver spotted a leopard suddenly, and the driver made a coordinated dash across the park.  The leopard was standing tall across a massive granite boulder in the soft morning light.  3. Midday Solace At Patanangala As the day progressed, the wild creatures made a retreat deep into the thick shade with surging heat.  So, our jeep, along with many others, united at the Patanangala Beach picnic area.  In this part of the park, its rugged self became visible. The crashing waves of the Indian Ocean met the vast rocky outcrops.  Also, it was the place to stretch our legs and relax.  4. Exploring The Sacred Ruins In The Scrub  Along with rich wildlife, Yala National Park also stands out due to its deep historical and cultural footprint.  Especially in Block I of the national park, you will find some well-preserved ruins that depict the picture of an ancient civilization.  Sithulpahuwa Rock Temple This rock temple is around 2200 years old and is a prominent architectural feature of the Kingdom of Ruhuna.  Once, thousands of Buddhist monks used to live in this temple. Today, you can see its white stupas rise dramatically above the forest canopy from a massive granite peak. Furthermore, monks still live in this rock temple, and you can see leopards and tigers roaming in the courtyard.  Magul Maha Vihara Magul Maha Vihara is on the southern fringes of the Yala National Park. It is believed to be the ancient site where King Kavantissa married Princess Viharamahadevi.  You can admire the intricate moonstones and stone pillars of the Vihara.  What Is The Best Time For The Yala National Park Safari?  February to July, or the dry season in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, is the ideal time to plan a Yala National Park safari.  In these months, the grass in the park thins out, and the secondary waterholes dry up completely. So, the animals have to gather around the water in search of water.  Furthermore, November to April is the best time for birdwatching in the Yala National Park.  Also, remember that the Department of Wildlife Conservation typically closes Yala National Park for the entire month of September (sometimes extending into early October). Yala National Park Safari And The Overtourism Issues  The rising popularity of the Yala National Park, especially on social media, now impacts the intimate wilderness experience.  It feels like a rushed safari tour, and by sunrise, hundreds of high-clearance safari jeeps queue at the Palatupana Gate.  Moreover, drivers are under immense pressure from their clients to find the "Big Three." So, whenever there is a radio transmission about a leopard getting spotted, the jeeps get into a frantic race.  Furthermore, the rush of these jeeps is disrupting the ecology and the natural wildlife behaviors of the national park.  In an interview with Mongabay, warden Ravindra Kumara, while narrating the controversial case of the male leopard Lucas’ encounter with a jeep, mentioned, “Usually, when a safari jeep is close to an animal, jeep drivers have been advised to switch off the engine.  But this driver had turned on the engine, and it had scared away the animal. However, Lucas was spotted the following night near Yala junction, the animal’s usual territory, and is in good health.” However, the driver training programs conducted by the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society are proactive measures to avoid such unwanted disturbances.  In addition, the opening of remote blocks in the park can reduce the concentrated traffic in Block I.  So, Is The Yala National Park Safari Worth It?  Yes, the Yala National Park safari is absolutely worth the hype. I could see leopards softly walking through the scrub, elephant herds roaming, and peacocks dancing on open plains.  Furthermore, the shift in the landscape is dramatic.  However, the safari of this expansive area is quite demanding, and that is why you need to keep several things in mind. What Are The Things To Keep In Mind For A Yala National Park Safari?  The rest stops and toilets are limited, and you will find the facilities near the main gate and the Patanangala Beach.  Furthermore, you must carry cash, preferably LKR, to pay for the permits and other expenses at the park.

BY  Sibashree Aug 21, 2026

It was two in the morning, and I started climbing Adam’s Peak. I was in a line of pilgrims, and the line stretched as far as I could see with my torchlight. All the guides about climbing up this sacred mountain tell you about climbing the 5500 steps. However, nothing prepares you for the experience you will have in conquering them in pitch darkness.  Furthermore, the crowd itself was a reflection of how inclusive Sri Lanka is in its religious practice. It was a gathering of people from four different religious beliefs.  The reasons for everyone’s climb were not the same. However, that did not quite clash with each other.  That is the beauty of the Indian Subcontinent, and Sri Lanka sets an example each time I visit it.   Nevertheless, in this guide, I will talk about my experience of reaching the summit of Adam’s Peak and all the details you need to know.  Adam’s Peak: Some Quick Facts You Need To Know AttributeDetailsLocationInside Peak Wilderness Protected Area, Central Highlands, Sri LankaElevation2,243 Metres (7,359 Feet)Local NameSri Pada ("Sacred Footprint") or SivanolipaathamalaiReligious SignificanceSacred to BuddhistsHindusMuslims ChristiansTotal StepsRoughly 5,500 Stairs via the Popular Hatton RouteAverage Hike Time3 to 5 Hours for the Ascent1.5 to 2 Hours for the DescentPilgrimage SeasonDecember (Unduvap Poya) to May (Vesak Poya)Best Months to ClimbJanuary to March for Dry Weather and Clear Sunrise ViewsCostFree (No Entry Fee or Permit Requirements) What Makes Adam's Peak Sacred Mount Pedro is the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka. However, Adam’s Peak has the highest spiritual significance.  The local name for the peak, Sri Pada, or "Sacred Footprint,” itself sets your expectations high.  Rising 2243 meters in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Adam’s Peak has a rock formation at the summit resembling a large footprint, which is claimed by four separate religions. The Mystery Of The Footprint At The Adam’s Peak Summit The Buddhists believe that the sacred footprint at the summit is of Lord Buddha. On the other hand, Hindus believe that the footprint is of Lord Shiva.  Some Christians think the footprint is of Adam. He set his first footprint here after falling from the Garden of Eden. Muslims also believe Adam, the first prophet in their religion, has left this footprint.  Furthermore, there is a different Christian belief that the footprint belongs to St. Thomas.  Again, the locals call it the “Mountain of Saman,” as they think the mountain is associated with Saman, a significant figure of worship in local traditions.  Irrespective of the religious significance of Adam’s Peak, pilgrimage to the summit has continued for over a thousand years. A Brief History Of The Pilgrimage Some of the earliest recorded efforts to conquer Adam’s Peak go back to the reign of King Vijayabahu I in the eleventh century. He built wayside rest houses along the route. Later, various rulers expanded the mountaintop shrine, built roads, and installed the iron chains that still assist climbers on the steepest sections near the summit. Another fascinating local belief is that the chains in the steep sections of the route belonged to Alexander the Great. Also, you will find a mention of Adam’s Peak in the writings of the Chinese traveler Ma Huan. He described Adam’s Peak as a place rich with precious stones. Along with the religious significance, the richness of gems is another reason why this peak has drawn visitors from far beyond Sri Lanka. Where Is Adam's Peak Located? https://maps.app.goo.gl/CZeW7kGZ8rTZG2Xc8 The sacred mountain is in the southwestern part of the Central Range in Sri Lanka. It is at a distance of around 40 km from Ratnapura.  However, the more popular trekking route is through Hatton, which is just at a distance of 32 km.  The landscape surrounding the mountain is delightful and quintessential of the Sri Lankan Central Highlands. You will see tea plantations and rainforest.  Moreover, Dalhousie, or Nallathanniya, is the village at the base of this mountain. Most trekkers start their journey from this village itself.  It is an easy base to reach from Hatton, Maskeliya, or Ratnapura, depending on which direction you're coming from. Getting To The Trailhead Hatton is the main transport hub for this side of the mountain. It is well connected by train on Sri Lanka's scenic hill-country line as well as by bus from Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Colombo.  From Hatton, local buses and shared taxis run the remaining stretch to Nallathanniya. During peak pilgrimage season, you will get extra buses heading to the base.  If you are driving yourself, the roads narrow considerably in the final approach to Dalhousie, and parking fills up quickly on weekends and full moon nights. Choosing Your Route To Adam’s Peak Just as pilgrims of four different religions want to conquer Adam’s Peak, there are six trails that lead to Adam’s Peak.  However, as I have mentioned, the Hatton route via Nallathanniya is popular with travelers. It is also the easiest.  The route is around 5 km one-way, and the staircase on this route is well-maintained for a safe ascent.  The Kuruwita-Erathna, Ihala-Maliboda, and Ratnapura routes are longer, less developed, and used mainly by more experienced or locally guided hikers rather than casual visitors. The Night Climb Most pilgrims start the climb to the summit at around 2 to 3 AM. This reminded me of the walk and the queue for visiting the Tirupati Balaji Temple and Aruanchalam Temple in India, as both of these are located at hilltops.  Nevertheless, with the ascent starting at 2 AM to 3 AM, you can reach the summit before sunrise at around 6 to 6:15 AM.  Depending on your fitness level and the number of stops you are taking at the tea shops along the way, the total duration to complete the ascent will change.  Also, very few people talk about the descent, which is actually way harder, and my knees had a hard time.  The reward of all this hardwork is the sacred "Shadow of Sri Pada" on a clear morning.  Difficulty And Fitness Considerations The climb to Adam’s Peak is moderate to hard. There is no technical scrambling.  However, the stone stairs are relentless, and they test different muscles than a usual hiking trail. So, basic fitness is important, and only reasonably fit adults can complete the ascent in three to four hours. Having said that, mental endurance is most important here.  I passed pilgrims well into their seventies moving slower but steadily upward alongside groups of teenagers.  The descent deserves just as much respect as the climb. The repetitive downward impact on knees and quads catches many first-timers off guard, and rushing it is a common way to end up sore for days afterward. What Is The Best Time To Climb Adam’s Peak From the Unduwap Poya (full moon) in December to the Vesak Poya in May is the official pilgrimage season for climbing Adam’s Peak.  It is the dry season in Sri Lanka.  The entire route gets decked up during this season. The strings of lights, the tea stalls, and rest huts open all night make the ambience festive.  However, if you want to avoid the crowd, you can plan a climb between June and November.  Skip the monsoon months and slippery stone steps.  Crowds And Timing Within The Season If you want to join the pilgrims in the peak season, you must avoid the following days. Full Moon Days Weekends The Week Around the Sinhala New Year in Mid-April. Also, the months of January and February remain the busiest.  So, if you are planning a quieter climb in the festive season, aim for a weekday in early December or late April instead. What To Pack And Expect Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes matter more here than technical hiking gear, since the trail has no scrambling but plenty of relentless stairs.  Nights on the mountain get cold, particularly in December and January. So, a warm layer is worth the extra weight in your bag.  The entry is free, though donations are welcomed at the temple near the base. Moreover, you must carry cash for tea, snacks, and simple meals from the stalls lining the route during the season. Nearby Places To Combine With Your Visit Hatton and the surrounding tea country make a natural base before or after the climb. You can combine Adam's Peak with a trip through Nuwara Eliya or onward toward Ella via Sri Lanka's scenic hill-country rail line.  If you have a rest day built in, the tea estates around Maskeliya and Dalhousie are worth exploring at a slower pace once your legs have recovered from the descent. Guides And Group Climbs To Adam’s Peak Hiring a guide is not necessary on the main Hatton route, since the path is obvious and well-populated during the season. However, having a guide can add real value for first-time climbers who want context on the mountain's history and the shrines passed along the way.  Many guesthouses in Nallathanniya and Hatton can arrange a local guide on short notice.  Also, joining a small group climb is a good option for solo travelers who would rather not do the pre-dawn ascent entirely alone.

BY  Sibashree Apr 22, 2026

Demodara Railway Loop, nestled in the mountains near Ella, Sri Lanka, is one of the most iconic rail routes in the world.  Furthermore, you will get the most amazing views of the Nine Arch Bridge and the train plying through it from the Demodara Railway Loop.  Also, since 2024, this beautiful railway loop has been protected under the New Heritage Management Program.  Moreover, opening on 21st March, 1921, this railway loop has been celebrating more than 100 years of heritage and history.  So, here is a brief account of my beautiful train ride in the Demodara railway loop.  Why Is The Demodara Loop Famous?  Between Ella and Uduwara stations, Demodara is a beautiful railway station in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka.  While extending the railway line to Badulla, the authorities faced a serious challenge due to the steep altitude.  Furthermore, it is famous as the only railway station in the world to be built in a tunnel (Tunnel 42) through which the train passes.  Moreover, this loop, with a length of 441 feet, passes through a 360-degree loop, offering the most amazing views of the surroundings.  Also, it is interesting to know that the design of the Demodara Railway Loop was originally inspired by a Kanyan turban. Then, British and Ceylonese engineers put up the structure. Devapura Jayasena Wimalasurendra was the engineer who conceptualized the idea.  In addition, if you miss the train from Ella to Demodara, you can also enjoy a 9 km hike. The hike continues through tea estates, and then you will meet the iconic Nine Arch Bridge on the way.   Then, you can take a train back from Demodara to Ella. However, I fortunately got to board the trains both times.  A Train Ride In The Demodara Railway Loop  Unlike the Kandy-Ella train ride, a train ride in the Demodara Railway Loop was peaceful.  Also, you could relax even after you saw the train coming out of the tunnel and ascending. It moves very slowly through the loop.  As the train was almost empty and as Sri Lanka demands everything the Travel LowDownUnder philosophy teaches you, I boarded a 3rd class compartment.  I was happy as there was nobody to stop me from peeping through the doors on both sides of the train, and soaking in the beauty of the surrounding lush tea estates.  Also, it was amazing to enjoy a train ride across the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Moreover, when the train was passing through the Nine Arch Bridge, I could see locals, especially children, standing and waving from the banks of the railway lines.  Overall, it was a comfortable and delightful experience! Insider Tip: When you are traveling from Ella to Demodara, stand near the window or gate on the left side in the direction the train is moving.  From there, you will get amazing views of the Nine Arch Bridge.  Train Time And Ticket Price On The Demodara Railway Loop  If you are traveling from Ella, you will get two trains to the Demodara Railway Loop. So, here are the details of the train timings and ticket prices (Source: Sri Lankan Railways).  Train NameDepartureArrivalTicket Price (LKR)11005 Special 1005 -Ambewela - Badulla 09:30 - 12:1611:25 AM11:40 AM- AC Saloon Car: 2500- Second Class Reserved Seats: 1700- Third Class Reserved Seats: 120011015 Special 1015 -Ambewela - Badulla 15:00 - 17:464:55 PM5:10 PM- AC Saloon Car: 2500- Second Class Reserved Seats: 1700- Third Class Reserved Seats: 1200 Why Is This Iconic Ride In The Demodara Railway Loop Worth It?  Beyond an engineering marvel, the Demodara Railway Loop is an example of historical railway innovation.  Furthermore, when riding in a quiet train carriage, you can enjoy the uninterrupted views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.  Also, this train ride allows you to pass over the Nine Arch Bridge, one of the iconic heritage sites of Sri Lanka.  Moreover, as I was traveling solo, I experienced the joy, spontaneity, and independence backed by the quiet experience. If You Want To Walk From Ella To Demodara  I got to know about the Demodara Railway Loop at the Kadugannawa Railway Museum. It was raining for a few days in Ella, and seriously, I needed to do something to get out of the lull.  So, I decided to take a train ride from Ella to Demodara through the Demodara Railway Loop.  I got the train. However, if you miss the train,” go for a 9 km walk through the countryside and tea-covered hills.  The tea shops, nearby hills, and occasional spotting of peacocks in the bush will keep you entertained.  Moreover, as you descend from Demodara to Ella, you will get sweeping views of paddy fields.