By Pallavi Verma 
The Morning in Kandy:
We started our day in the charming city of Kandy with anticipation. The plan was to board the famous Ella Odyssey train, a breathtaking journey known for showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity. After a delightful local Sri Lankan breakfast, we checked out of our hotel, excited to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes.
As we made our way to the train station, a taxi driver, who seemed a little too cheerful from the morning drinks, warned us that there was a strike, and the trains wouldn’t be running. We laughed it off, thinking he might be joking, but as we arrived at the station, reality hit. We approached the station employees and were told that indeed, the train masters were on strike. The duration was uncertain—it could last a day, or even stretch to a week.
Adjusting the Plan:
After receiving the disappointing news, we swiftly refunded our train tickets, a smooth process that could be done at any railway station across Sri Lanka. Though the thought of staying in Kandy crossed my mind, I decided I didn’t want to delay the journey to Ella.
The Scenic Bus Journey Begins:
With no trains in operation, we headed to the bus station. The buses to Ella were completely packed, people squeezed in like sardines. Instead of enduring that, we opted to break the journey into stages. This turned out to be a great decision because it transformed what could have been a stressful ride into an incredible road trip through the heart of Sri Lanka.
The bus journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya was captivating. We wound through hilly terrain, forests, tea plantations, and passed by cascading waterfalls. It was a sensory feast, with the fresh mountain air mingling with the earthy smell of the forests. The views were spectacular, with rolling hills covered in lush green vegetation that seemed to stretch on forever. Despite the circumstances, the road trip became an adventure in its own right.
A Stop in Nuwara Eliya:
In Nuwara Eliya, we took a short break. The weather was cool and refreshing. I bought some snacks before we caught another bus that took us to Badulla. This leg of the trip was a brief but pleasant 20-minute ride.
The Final Stretch to Ella:
From Badulla, we took yet another bus to Ella. The scenery along the way continued to impress, and though it was a tiring journey, the beauty around us kept our spirits high. We reached a crossing near Ella and decided to walk the last 2 km to our accommodation. This walk, while unexpected, was stunning. The path led us through serene landscapes, with the sun beginning to set over the hills, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange. The peacefulness of the walk allowed us to soak in the beauty of the moment.
Arriving at Watsallya Homestay:
Finally, we arrived at Watsallya Homestay, nestled in a valley surrounded by rice fields and hills. The homestay was a haven of peace. Our room opened onto a beautiful balcony that offered breathtaking views of the countryside and the quaint village of Ella in the distance. After settling in, our host, a wonderful woman who radiated warmth and kindness, served us tea. Sitting on the balcony, sipping tea, and gazing out at the landscape felt like the perfect reward after the long day.
Dinner Under the Stars:
Later, we ventured into the small market nearby to find dinner. The options were limited, but we managed to find a cozy spot to eat. Returning to the homestay, we enjoyed our dinner on the balcony, under the blanket of stars. The quiet of the night, combined with the soft sounds of nature, made the atmosphere magical. After the exhausting yet thrilling journey, we drifted off to sleep, ready to explore Ella the next day.
Looking Forward to Ella:
Though the journey hadn’t gone as planned, the detour ended up being a memorable adventure. The strikes, the bus rides, and the stunning landscapes made for a day that was far more enriching than we could have anticipated. With Ella waiting to be explored, the next day promised more discoveries and beautiful moments to come.
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