Planning your trip to Sri Lanka in 2026? Little Adam’s Peak (Punchi Sri Pada) is the high-reward, low-effort hike that every traveler in Ella needs to do. Unlike the strenuous climb up Ella Rock, this trail is family-friendly, takes less than an hour, and offers some of the best sunrise views in the country. Whether you are a solo backpacker or a family with kids, this hike is the perfect way to start your morning in the hill country.
The best part? Unlike many other tourist sites in Sri Lanka, climbing Little Adam’s Peak is completely FREE.
| Time Required | 45 Min – 1 Hour (Round Trip) |
| Entrance Fee | FREE (0 LKR) |
| Best Time | 5:30 AM (Sunrise) or 4:30 PM (Sunset) |
| Difficulty | Easy (Family Friendly) |
Here is everything you need to know before you go including the secret 3rd peak most tourists miss, the best photo spots, and where to find the famous Ravana Pool Club afterwards.
1. Why Little Adam’s Peak Is a Must-Do in Ella
Little Adam’s Peak (also known as Punchi Sri Pada) gets its name from its resemblance to the sacred Adam’s Peak but without the intense overnight climb.
Why it’s special:
- Easy and accessible for all fitness levels
- Incredible sunrise views over the Ella Gap
- Scenic walk through tea estates
- Perfect for photography and drone shots
- A “must-visit” highlight in any Ella itinerary
2. How to Get to Little Adam’s Peak
The trail entrance is located just 10–15 minutes from Ella Town.
Option 1: Walk from Ella Town
Distance: ~1.5 km around 20–25 minutes. Follow the road toward Ella Flower Garden Resort. Ideal if you want a peaceful walk through the village.
Option 2: Tuk-Tuk to the Trail Entrance
Cost: LKR 500–1,000. Best for sunrise hikers or if you want to skip the road walk.
Starting Point
The main entrance is near Ella Flower Garden Resort and the large signboard for 98 Acres Resort. The path is clearly marked.
3. Hiking Route & Difficulty Level
Difficulty: ★☆☆☆☆ Very Easy
Duration: 30–45 minutes (one way)
Distance: ~2 km
- Walk through the tea estate
- Climb a gentle set of steps
- Walk along the open ridge
- Reach the first viewpoint
- Optional: continue to two more peaks
The entire trail is suitable for beginners, kids, and older travelers.
4. The Best Time to Visit Little Adam’s Peak
Sunrise (Highly Recommended)
- Soft golden light
- Cool temperatures
- Less crowding
- Misty mountain views
Morning Hours (7 AM – 10 AM)
Still great lighting for photos and pleasant weather.
Late Afternoon (Golden Hour)
Beautiful warm light, but slightly more crowded.
5. The Viewpoints: Don’t Stop at the Buddha!
Upon reaching the summit, you will see a golden Buddha statue and a designated viewing platform. This is the “First Peak.”
The Main View (First Peak):
- The Ella Gap: A dramatic break in the mountains that allows you to see all the way to the southern plains of Sri Lanka.
- Ella Rock: The massive rock face directly opposite you. This is the perfect spot to scout the route for your next hike!
- Morning Mist: If you arrive at sunrise, the valley is often blanketed in a mystical layer of white cloud while the peaks float above it.
Insider Tip: The “Secret” Ridge Walk Most tourists take a selfie at the Buddha statue and head back down. Do not do this.
If you look past the main platform, you will see a narrow dirt path continuing along the mountain ridge.
- Walk further: It takes just 10–15 minutes to hike across to the 2nd and 3rd peaks.
- The Reward: The path gets narrower (exciting for photos!), the crowds disappear completely, and you get an unobstructed 360-degree view of the tea plantations below. This is where the best Instagram shots are taken.
6. Safety Tips for the Hike
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Bring water, especially after 9 AM
- Use a small torch if you’re hiking before sunrise
- Stay on the marked path
- Avoid cliff edges on windy days
- Watch your step when taking photos
7. Photography Tips for Little Adam’s Peak
- Sunrise offers the best light and colors
- Include people in photos for scale
- Capture the ridgeline between peaks
- Drone shots work best in calm wind
- Golden hour gives warm, soft tones
98 Acres Resort also provides an iconic view of the peak if you’re visiting afterward.
8. Post-Hike Chill: Where to Cool Down
One of the best things about the Little Adam’s Peak hike is where it ends. You don’t finish in a random parking lot you finish right at the entrance of Ella’s most famous resort area.
You have two great options to cool down after your morning climb:
Option 1: Ravana Pool Club (The “Vibe” Choice)
Located right at the base of the trail, this Balinese-inspired beach club (in the mountains!) is the perfect reward for a sweaty hike.
- The Experience: An infinity pool looking directly at Ella Rock, live DJ beats, and daybeds.
- Cost: There is an entrance fee for a day pass (usually fully redeemable for food and drinks).
- Best for: Travelers who want to swim, grab a cocktail, and spend the next 3–4 hours relaxing.
Option 2: 98 Acres Resort (The “Quiet” Choice)
If the pool club feels too loud, walk just up the driveway to the 98 Acres Resort main restaurant.
- The Experience: You can sit on the open deck with a pot of Sri Lankan tea or an iced coffee. The view is arguably the best in Ella.
- Best for: Couples or families who want a peaceful breakfast or brunch with a million-dollar view.
Bonus: The Flying Ravana Zipline Feeling an adrenaline rush? The Flying Ravana Zipline station is also located right here. You can zip across the tea estates at 80km/h a much faster way to get down than walking!
9. What to Do Next: The Nine Arch Bridge Shortcut
Since you are already in the area, the smartest plan is to head straight to the famous Nine Arch Bridge. You do not need to go back to Ella Town to get there!
The “Secret” Shortcut:
- From the bottom of Little Adam’s Peak (near the Flying Ravana entrance), walk down the road toward the 98 Acres Resort gate.
- Look for the marked trail that cuts through the jungle toward the bridge.
- Time: It takes about 20–30 minutes to walk from the Little Adam’s Peak trailhead to the Nine Arch Bridge.
- Why do this? You save money on tuk-tuks and can knock off Ella’s two biggest sights before breakfast!
Heading Back to Town: Once you finish at the bridge, you can take a tuk-tuk back to Ella Town (approx. 500-800 LKR) for a well-deserved breakfast at cafes like Cafe Chill or Ella Flower Garden.
9. What to Bring
- Water bottle
- Light jacket for sunrise
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunscreen & hat
- Camera or phone
- Small backpack
10. Final Thoughts
Little Adam’s Peak is one of the easiest and most beautiful hikes in Ella. Whether you’re chasing a sunrise, photographing the hill country, or simply looking for a peaceful viewpoint, this short trail offers stunning scenery without the effort of a long climb.
For the perfect Ella experience, pair this hike with spots like Nine Arch Bridge, Lipton’s Seat, and the Kandy–Ella train ride.
