Ultimate Guide: How to Hike Little Adam’s Peak
The Little Adam’s Peak hike is a must-do in Ella, so you can’t miss it on your Sri Lanka Itinerary.
Wondering how to visit Little Adam’s Peak in Ella, Sri Lanka? Hike to the top at sunrise, then visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge or go ziplining.
Although the scenery on this hike is not as spectacular as on Pidurangala Rock, it is one of the best places in Ella and should not be missed.
This ultimate guide to Little Adam’s Peak includes the best time to visit, how to get there, what to expect on the hike, and tips for visiting.
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Where is Little Adam’s Peak?
It is a fantastic hiking trail located in Ella, Sri Lanka, and you can easily combine it with the iconic Nine Arch Bridge.
When to Hike to Little Adam’s Peak?
Sri Lanka is a popular destination all year round! But the best time to visit Ella is between January and May. The weather is sunny and dry during these months, perfect for hiking and exploring the nearby attractions.
During the rainy season or after heavy rainfall, hiking is not recommended, as the trail can be slippery and dangerous. We suggest you check the weather before your visit!
The rainy season in Ella runs from September to December. The hottest months are June, July, and August.
Ella has a tropical rainforest climate with high humidity, and the average temperature is 25°C all year round.
Read our → Sri Lanka Itinerary
How to Get to Little Adam’s Peak
The best way to reach Ella is by train. Most people come to Ella from Kandy or Colombo. The stunning journey from Kandy to Ella is one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, so don’t miss it.
The distance between Kandy and Ella is about 140 km, which can take 6-7 hours, depending on the type of train. Although the train journey from Kandy to Ella usually takes 9-10 hours due to long stops and frequent delays.
The trains run only 3 times a day between Kandy and Ella, so we recommend buying your train ticket in advance.
Check Kandy train ticket prices and availability HERE.
Read the full post → Kandy to Ella Train Guide
Ella to Little Adam’s Peak
The trail starts right next to the Ella Flower Garden Resort, located next to the main road. You can reach the parking lot by walking (15-20 minutes) or tuk tuk (5 minutes). Alternatively, you can join an organized tour that includes transportation.
The parking fee with tuk tuk is 150 LKR (0.5 USD).
There is another access from the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, and the beginning of the trail is marked by a Buddha statue.
We recommend walking around the town of Ella, then hiking up to Little Adam’s Peak and combining your visit with a walk to the Nine Arch Bridge.
Recommended post → Things to Do in Ella
Little Adam’s Peak Opening Hours & Entrance Fee
There are no official opening hours, but it is usually visited between 5 AM and 6:30 PM. There is no entrance fee.
Little Adam’s Peak Hike & Viewpoint
One of the best things to do in Ella is to hike up Little Adam’s Peak. It is an easy to moderate hike, a perfect alternative to the Ella Rock hike, which takes 3-5 hours.
The climb up Little Adam’s Peak takes about 20-30 minutes from the parking lot, depending on your fitness level and how many breaks you take. The summit is located at 1141 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
From the parking lot, the hiking trail is easy to follow and well-marked, following a dirt path with steps leading to the viewpoints. At the beginning of the hike, you will pass a beautiful Ravana Pool Club, where you can spend a few relaxing hours on the way back.
Then, you will walk through beautiful tea plantations until you reach the Ravana zipline building, and from there, a short hike will lead you to the top, where you can take epic photos. After visiting the peak, follow the trail back and head to the Nine Arch Bridge.
For the best experience, join a guided hike that includes a visit to Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, and Little Adam’s Peak with lunch and transfers.
Good to know
The entire hike takes 1.5-2 hours.
What to Pack for Hiking
- Small backpack
- Light raincoat
- Hiking shoes or boots & socks
- Hat and sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera gear
- Extra water
- Snacks
- Personal medication
- Local money
Tips for Hiking
- It is a popular place in Ella, so arrive early in the morning.
- A local guide is not mandatory. Because you can do the Little Adam’s Peak hike yourself.
- Allow enough time to hike, as muddy and slippery roads can make the hike time take longer.
- As unexpected rain can happen at any time, bring a light raincoat.
- Wear closed hiking shoes and lightweight, quick-dry clothes, as the weather is always warm and humid.
- Don’t take unnecessary things with you!
- The best view is at sunrise and sunset! Due to the very high humidity and temperatures, we do not recommend starting your hike in the middle of the day.
- After hiking, you can relax in the Ravana Pool Club, go ziplining, or take photos in the swing.
- If you’re walking through the jungle to the Nine Arch Bridge, keep your eyes open, as there may be snakes and leeches on the path.
Where to Stay in Ella
Although the town is a popular destination, accommodation options are available for all budgets. These are our recommendations.
Best hotels in Ella, Sri Lanka
- Luxury: EKHO Ella
- Mid-Range: Mountain Heavens or 98 Acres Resort & Spa
- Budget: Ella Mount View Guest Inn
We hope you found our guide to Little Adam’s Peak useful and will inspire you to visit Ella. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.
Travel Resources
Hotels – Booking.com
Car Rentals – Discover Cars
Flights – Skyscanner
eSIM – Airalo
Travel Insurance – SafetyWing
Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide
Bus/Transfer – Bookaway










