Ravana Odyssey Hop on Tour Ella to Ravana Falls

If you’re exploring Sri Lanka’s scenic highlands, the Ella to Ravana Falls hop-on tour promises a relaxed, visually captivating journey that highlights some of the country’s most striking natural sights. While it’s not a lengthy or overly elaborate tour, it’s packed with impressive vistas and insightful commentary—perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the open deck double-decker bus gives you a panoramic view of the lush landscapes, tea plantations, and waterfalls. Second, the knowledgeable guides keep the trip engaging and informative, often adding personal touches that aren’t in the brochure. And third, the value for money is excellent, with a very affordable price tag and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos.

One thing to consider: the short duration (around 1 hour 40 minutes) means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. If you’re after an exhaustive tour, this might feel a bit light. However, for those looking to tick off Ravana Falls with a scenic twist, it hits the mark well.

This experience suits families, solo travelers, and small groups who want a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s ideal if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Ella’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from the open-deck double-decker bus create an immersive sightseeing experience.
• Expert guides enhance the journey with explanations, local insights, and friendly service.
• Affordable price point offers excellent value for a scenic, short tour in Ella.
• Flexible hop-on, hop-off style allows you to enjoy each stop at your own pace.
• Comfortable transportation with a small group size (max 34 travelers) ensures a personalized experience.
• Ideal for families and travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outing with memorable photo opportunities.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start at Ella – Passara Road

The tour begins at 8:30 am right on Ella’s Passara Road, conveniently located near public transportation. From here, the bus, a charming open-top double-decker, awaits. As you settle in, you’ll immediately notice how the open design maximizes the views, allowing everyone to enjoy the fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas without the confines of a typical bus cabin.

First Stop: Ravana Ella Falls

The highlight of the journey, Ravana Falls, is not just a pretty sight but a natural spectacle. The waterfalls cascade approximately 25 meters down, creating a roaring spectacle that’s best appreciated from the viewing platform. Based on multiple reviews, visitors often find the waterfall’s beauty even more striking in person—some describe standing at the foot of the waterfall, taking a quick swim in the natural pool, as a highlight of their trip.

While the tour is brief—around 20 minutes for the stop—you’ll have time to take photos, enjoy the cool mist, and soak in the lush surroundings. One review mentioned, “Very good experience, impeccable value for money, very nice guide, and we even had time to swim at the foot of the waterfall.” This suggests the stop is well-paced and flexible enough to add personal touches.

Scenic Viewpoints: Ella Gap and Little Adams Peak

Before reaching Ravana Falls, the bus makes stops at Ella Gap and Mini Adams Peak (also called Little Adams Peak). Here, you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views in the region—a sweeping vista of the highlands and lowlands, lushly terraced with tea plantations and rolling hills.

Reviewers highlight how these viewpoints offer perfect photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the landscape’s vastness. One traveler shared, “We did the tour at 4 pm and had a wonderful guide who explained everything and wasn’t in a rush,” reflecting the leisurely pace that makes the trip enjoyable. The views from Ella Gap are especially notable for their panoramic quality, allowing you to see the southern plains of Sri Lanka stretching out endlessly.

Transportation and Group Size

The double-decker bus is a highlight in itself—offering an open-air experience that’s rare in standard tours. Being a small group (max 34 travelers), the ride feels intimate and flexible. Many reviews mention how the driver and guide are friendly, accommodating, and eager to enhance the trip with explanations and personal touches.

The ride lasts approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, making it an ideal short outing. The tour’s design allows for spontaneous photo stops, and the relaxed pace ensures you’re not rushed through each viewpoint.

Pricing and Value

At just $9 per person, this tour is incredibly budget-friendly. Considering the cost of a typical sightseeing outing in popular travel spots, it offers exceptional value—especially given the panoramic views, the expert guidance, and the flexibility of the hop-on-hop-off format.

Reviewers often emphasize the quality of the experience relative to the price, with one noting, “Impeccable value for money, very nice guide, and we even had time to swim at the foot of the waterfall.” This suggests the tour provides a good balance of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and personal time.

Authentic Experiences and Insider Tips

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides often go beyond just pointing out sights—they share local stories and insights. One review mentioned a guide named Sandeepa, who was “funny and informative,” making the trip memorable beyond just the scenery.

Travelers have also appreciated the flexibility, with some adjusting their schedule to avoid the midday heat. One person shared their experience of rescheduling to a cooler part of the day, which highlights the importance of timing in Sri Lanka’s climate.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—the tour is popular and tends to be booked about 21 days ahead on average.
• Bring a camera and water—the viewpoints are perfect for photos, and staying hydrated is key, especially if you visit during peak sun hours.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes—the stops involve some walking around viewpoints.
• Plan for weather variations—if rain is forecasted, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, so check the weather beforehand.
• Consider timing—a morning or late afternoon tour can help avoid intense heat, as some reviews suggest.

The Sum Up

The Ravana Odyssey Hop-on Tour from Ella to Ravana Falls offers an affordable, scenic, and relaxed way to experience some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights. With its open-top double-decker bus, engaging guides, and carefully curated viewpoints, it provides a memorable snapshot of Ella’s natural beauty.

This tour is especially ideal for travelers who value comfort, enjoyed panoramic views, and want a flexible, small-group experience that emphasizes authentic, photo-worthy moments. It’s a fantastic choice for families, solo adventurers, or anyone looking for a simple yet captivating excursion into Sri Lanka’s lush highlands.

If you’re short on time but craving a taste of Sri Lanka’s waterfalls and highland vistas, this tour delivers without breaking the bank.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour 40 minutes, including stops at key viewpoints and Ravana Falls.

What is included in the price?
For just $9 per person, you get the scenic bus ride, entry to viewpoints (free), and guided commentary. Extra activities like swimming are at your discretion during the stop.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace and small group size make it family-friendly. The open deck is safe, especially with seat belts provided, and the scenery is engaging for all ages.

Can I book this tour last minute?
While you can, it’s recommended to book about 3 weeks in advance given its popularity, especially during peak travel seasons.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring a camera, water, sun protection, and comfortable clothing. If you plan to swim at Ravana Falls, carrying a towel and change of clothes is a good idea.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled if poor weather affects visibility or safety. You can cancel for a full refund if notified at least 24 hours in advance.

This well-priced, scenic tour is a fantastic way to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty without the fuss. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned traveler, the views, guides, and relaxed vibe make it a worthwhile addition to any Ella itinerary.