Length-9.3 km/Elevation gain-240 m/Route type-Point to point Explore this 9.3-km point-to-point trail near Kithal Ella, Badulla. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 50 min to complete. This trail is great for backpacking, hiking, and walking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are February through April. Stage 15 begins in Makulella, at the temple of Allimale Bodhiya, a lovely Buddhist Temple overlooking the Ambagaswatte valley below. The river flowing through the valley gives way to the Ravana Falls, a popular stop on the Ella to Wellawaya road below. This spectacular waterfall was named after legendary King Ravana, described in the Ramayana. According to legend, King Ravana hid princess Sita inside a cave behind this waterfall.   The first part of the stage is a delightful walk through a forested area. The trail splits into two, the right being a gateway to Ambagaswatte valley, and then a forest track straight ahead. Straight through the eucalyptus forest is where this track leads.   Further ahead, the track splits into two again. The right track through the trees is the correct way. It travels right through the tea bushes of the adjacent plantation. The views on the right-hand side are stunning. The trail penetrates a patch of jungle and shortly after emerges onto a much wider trail. At this point, the path turns left in the direction of the eucalyptus forest again. From here it’s a fairly straight walk to the top of Ella Rock.   The second half of this stage, marked by Ella Rock, is more quiet and serene. The view from the rock highlights the valley below, little Adam’s Peak on the other side of the valley, and the mountains and valleys beyond. From here on, The Pekoe Trail mirrors the popular trail many of the travelers staying in Ella use to climb up to the rock as a day trip. There is a steep descent, first through the eucalyptus forest and then past local homes all the way to Kithal Ella Station.   From Kithal Ella Station there is no option but to walk along the railway track for a bit. While walking on the railway track, it is likely to meet merchants eager to sell snacks and fresh fruit.   This stage finishes at the Ella Train Station, the 75th station on the Main Line. Ella is a very popular hill-country town where travelers come to enjoy walks through tea plantations and nature. The Pekoe Trail is designed to support development and livelihoods in rural areas of Sri Lanka. Buying goods and services from local businesses helps communities along the trail to thrive. The Pekoe Trail is funded by the European Union (EU) with additional support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented by IESC on behalf of Sri Lanka Tourism. For more information, please visit thepekoetrailsrilanka.com.