Hikkaduwa/Galle/Weligama/Mirissa: Day Trip to Ella Highlands

The Ella Highlands offer a breathtaking escape from the coastal towns of Hikkaduwa, Galle, Weligama, and Mirissa. This day trip promises to immerse visitors in the region’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From the ancient Buduruwagala Temple to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, the journey showcases Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and invites travelers to uncover the hidden gems that make this highland destination so captivating.

Key Points

• A day trip to Ella Highlands from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa takes approximately 12 hours and costs between $90.00 to $85.50 per person.
• The trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and an English-speaking driver, with options to visit Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, and Nine Arch Bridge.
• Highlights include hiking Little Adam’s Peak, touring the Halpewaththa Tea Factory, and experiencing the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, offering scenic views over tea estates.
• The trip provides a scenic dining experience at 98 Acres Resort & Spa and positive customer feedback on transportation, tour guide, and value for money.
• Additional charges apply for tickets to Buduruwagala Temple, Flying Ravana Zip Line, and Ella Tea Factory tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

This day trip to the Ella Highlands offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s stunning natural and cultural attractions.

The tour departs from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama, or Mirissa, and lasts approximately 12 hours. Priced between $90.00 and $85.50 per person, the trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking driver.

Customers can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The itinerary highlights iconic landmarks like the Buduruwagala Temple, Ravana Falls, the Nine Arch Bridge, and Little Adam’s Peak.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip to the Ella Highlands features several captivating highlights, beginning with the ancient Buduruwagala Temple. This Buddhist site, part of the Mahayana school, boasts seven impressive statues.

Next, you’ll visit the breathtaking Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning colonial-era railway construction, is another must-see.

Hiking up the picturesque Little Adams Peak offers sweeping vistas. The tour also includes a visit to the Halpewaththa Tea Factory, where you can learn about and taste the renowned local tea.

Activities

Lunch is served at the 98 Acres Resort & Spa, located on a scenic tea estate, providing a delightful dining experience amidst the serene surroundings.

For an added thrill, travelers can experience the Flying Ravana Mega Zip Line, South Asia’s longest zip line, offering breathtaking views over the lush tea estates.

This exhilarating activity is sure to leave a lasting impression, as participants soar through the air, taking in the stunning natural beauty that the Ella Highlands have to offer.

Transportation and Services

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking driver. Highway tolls are also covered in the price.

Additional charges apply for:

1. Buduruwagala Temple ticket (around $5)

2. Flying Ravana Zip Line (around $30)

3. Ella Tea Factory tour (around $10)

Customers have praised the transportation, noting its cleanliness and comfort.

The transportation was clean and comfortable, according to customers.

The driver’s responsiveness and politeness have also received positive reviews. Travelers felt the transportation and services provided good value for money, contributing to the tour’s high rating.

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Customer Reviews

According to customer reviews, the Day Trip to Ella Highlands has received an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 57 reviews. Travelers have praised the responsiveness and politeness of the tour guide, rating them 4.5 out of 5. The transportation was also well-received, with a 4.7 rating for cleanliness and comfort. Customers felt the experience provided good value for money, with a 4.6 rating in this category.

| Metric | Rating |

| — | — |

| Overall | 4.7/5 |

| Guide | 4.5/5 |

| Transportation | 4.7/5 |

| Value for Money | 4.6/5 |

Polina from Germany highlighted the beauty of Ella and the memorable zip line experience, while Lorraine from Ireland appreciated the tour guide’s attentiveness and the scenic stops. Yafit Gur from Israel commended the personalized experience and thorough explanations from the driver.

Traveler Experiences

What do travelers say about their experiences on the Day Trip to Ella Highlands? Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide and the breathtaking sights along the journey.

Travelers praise the convenience of door-to-door transportation, noting the comfortable and clean vehicles.

Some key takeaways from traveler experiences:

1. Polina from Germany raved about the beautiful town of Ella and the thrilling zip line adventure.

2. Lorraine from Ireland appreciated the tour guide’s attentiveness and the scenic stops throughout the day.

3. Yafit Gur from Israel commended the personalized experience and thorough explanations from the driver.

4. Participants felt the overall value for money was excellent, with the experience exceeding their expectations.

Buduruwagala Temple

Nestled within the lush greenery of the Ella Highlands stands the ancient Buduruwagala Temple, a captivating Buddhist site that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

This Mahayana Buddhist site dates back several centuries and features a collection of seven striking statues carved into the rock face.

Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship and the serene atmosphere that pervades the area.

Visitors can explore the site, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship and the serene atmosphere that pervades the area.

With its historical significance and scenic setting, the Buduruwagala Temple is a must-see attraction for those embarking on the day trip to the Ella Highlands.

Ravana Falls

Cascading over a sheer drop, the Ravana Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and a popular sightseeing destination for visitors to the Ella Highlands.

The falls stand at an impressive 82 meters (268 feet) tall and offer a stunning visual spectacle.

Travelers can:

1. Admire the waterfall’s power and beauty from the viewing platforms.

2. Hike to the base of the falls for a closer look.

3. Explore the surrounding lush greenery and wildlife.

4. Cool off in the natural pools at the base of the waterfall.

Ravana Falls is a must-see attraction on any Ella Highlands day trip.

Common Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ella Highlands?

The best time to visit the Ella Highlands is during the dry season from December to April, when the weather is sunny and mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Focus on Certain Activities?

Yes, the tour can often be customized to focus on specific activities or sites. Travelers can work with the tour provider to prioritize their interests, whether that’s hiking, zip-lining, or exploring tea factories and cultural landmarks.

Are There Any Special Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

The tour operator offers a 5% discount when booking early. There are no packages or bundled discounts, but travelers can customize the itinerary to focus on their preferred activities by paying any additional fees.

Are Vegetarian/Dietary Options Available for the Included Lunch?

The tour provider offers vegetarian and other dietary options for the included lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. Travelers can specify any dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure accommodation.

Can We Purchase Additional Insurance or Coverage for the Zip Line Activity?

Yes, travelers can purchase additional insurance or coverage for the Flying Ravana zip line activity. This optional add-on provides extra protection and is available for purchase at the time of booking the excursion.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Hikkaduwa, Galle, Weligama, or Mirissa to the Ella Highlands offers a chance to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. Visitors can explore ancient sites, marvel at stunning waterfalls, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and ziplining, while traveling in comfort. With its diverse highlights and convenient transportation, this tour provides a well-rounded adventure in the Sri Lankan highlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: