Ravana Odyssey Hop on Tour Ella to Ravana Falls

Experience the Natural Beauty of Sri Lanka on the Ravana Odyssey Hop-on Tour Ella to Ravana Falls

When you’re traveling through Sri Lanka’s hill country, every moment offers a chance to see something extraordinary. The Ravana Odyssey Hop-on Tour from Ella to Ravana Falls is a budget-friendly adventure that combines scenic vistas, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic experience. At just $9 per person, this roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes journey offers a refreshing way to explore the stunning landscape without the hassle of self-driving or crowded group tours.

Two things we love about this tour: First, the open deck of the double-decker bus provides unmatched views of the lush highlands, tea plantations, and sweeping plains—it’s as close as you can get to nature without leaving your seat. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Sandeepa, make a real difference, sharing stories and insights that enrich the experience. One potential drawback is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re craving in-depth exploration, you might want to supplement it with additional activities.

This tour suits travelers who value breathtaking scenery, local insights, and a fun, relaxed ride. It’s especially ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone eager for a taste of Sri Lanka’s natural wonders without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a straightforward but memorable outing, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $9, it offers excellent value compared to many private tours.
• Spectacular Views: Panoramic vistas from the open deck make for perfect photo opportunities.
• Cultural Insights: Knowledgeable guides provide context and stories about the sights.
• Flexible Experience: Hop-on, hop-off style allows you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: Double-decker bus with seat belts, providing safety and a fun ride.
• Limited Duration: Short trip—ideal for a quick scenic fix but not for deep exploration.

The Scenic Drive from Ella to Ravana Falls

Starting at 22 Ella Passara Road, this tour sets off at 8:30 am, promising a morning filled with jaw-dropping views. The journey’s highlight is the Ella Gap, where you can soak in a sweeping panorama of Sri Lanka’s highlands and plains. From the bus, you’ll see the patchwork of tea plantations, rugged mountains, and distant villages.

The real star attraction is Ravana Falls—a waterfall famously associated with local legends. It’s a sight that makes many travelers stop in their tracks. Expect to get off the bus here, where you can relax, take photos, and even dip in the natural pool if you want a quick cool-down. One reviewer noted it as the “impeccable value” spot that allows for swimming and taking memorable pictures.

What sets this tour apart is the phenomenal vantage point it offers. Unlike many tours that only stop briefly, the open deck on a double-decker bus lets you experience the landscape from a height, making the scenery even more dramatic.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Ravana Ella Falls

The journey begins with a scenic drive from Ella town, gradually climbing into the highlands. The first stop offers a view of Mini Adams Peak and Ella Rock—famous landmarks that are striking from afar. It’s a perfect chance to snap a few photos of the hills dotted with tea bushes.

Next, you’ll visit the Ella Gap viewpoint, where a sweeping vista unfolds. Here, the views stretch down to the plains, and the contrast between lush greenery and distant lowlands creates a perfect photo opportunity. It’s a moment where you’ll understand why Sri Lanka’s hill country is such a photographer’s paradise.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Ravana Falls. It’s not just a waterfall; it’s a natural spectacle. Many reviews mention how relaxing it is to simply stand by it, hear the roar of the water, and take in the surrounding jungle. For those interested, swimming is possible in the natural pool, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Additional Stops and Views

While the main stops are at Ravana Falls and Ella Gap, the open deck of the bus means you don’t miss out on the scenery during the drive itself. Many travelers praise the panoramic views from atop the bus, which offer a different perspective than standing on the ground.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 100 minutes, with most groups being small—typically no more than 34 travelers—which helps keep the experience intimate and enjoyable. The flexible hop-on, hop-off format allows you to linger or move on as you please, although the overall time limits how much exploring you can do.

Transportation and Comfort

The double-decker bus is a highlight in itself. It’s open on top, giving you unobstructed views, and equipped with seat belts for safety. Despite a few reviews mentioning a late start or minor breakdown, most travelers find the ride comfortable and entertaining, especially with the music and commentary provided by guides.

One reviewer commented that the bus ride was very musically entertaining, which added a fun local flavor. In terms of timing, many appreciated the early start at 8:30 am—a good time to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Authentic Encounters and Reviews

The general consensus among travelers is that this tour excels because of its friendly, knowledgeable guides. Sandeepa, for example, was praised for being patient, kind, and engaging, making the short journey memorable.

Many reviews highlight the stunning scenery as the main draw. One traveler mentioned, “Wow what an experience. A great driver, a lovely guide, who kept us entertained and the whole bus to ourselves.” Others enjoyed the flexibility—even when they had to reschedule or were running late, staff were understanding and accommodating.

The value for money is consistently praised, with travelers noting that for just $9, they received a high-quality experience with superb views and local insights. Some reviews even mention extra touches, like cold drinks and towels, which elevate the experience.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, a few travelers noted shortcomings. One mentioned that the trip was quite brief, and those craving in-depth exploration might find it limited. Plus, a small number of reports mentioned bus breakdowns or slight delays, which can happen with any outdoor transport but are worth keeping in mind.

Another point to consider is the timing—most tours start at 8:30 am, which is ideal for avoiding heat and crowds but may require an early morning wake-up. For travelers seeking a more leisurely or extended exploration of Sri Lanka’s highlands, this tour complements other activities rather than replacing them.

Final Thoughts

The Ravana Odyssey Hop-on Tour from Ella to Ravana Falls offers a fantastic value for travelers looking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery without fuss. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate panoramic views, informative guides, and a laid-back experience. Its bright open deck makes it a particularly fun way to see the landscape from a different angle, and the short duration is perfect for fitting into a busy itinerary.

While it’s not a deep-dive into the region’s history or culture, the scenic stops and friendly guides make it an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty. If you want a relaxed, fun, and scenic outing that won’t break the bank, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace, open bus, and scenic stops make it a good choice for families. The short duration also helps keep kids engaged.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $9 per person, making it an affordable option for most travelers.

What are the main sights visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Ravana Falls, Ella Gap, and viewpoints like Mini Adams Peak and Ella Rock in the distance.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 22 Ella Passara Road and returns to the same point.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the admission to Ravana Falls is free, and the tour price covers transportation and guide services.

What is the group size?
Most tours are limited to 34 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the bus ride comfortable?
Yes, the double-decker bus is equipped with seat belts and offers a fun, open-air experience. Some reviews mention it’s quite comfortable overall.

Is the tour suitable for hot days?
Starting early helps avoid the midday heat, and the open-top deck provides a breeze, making it more pleasant in warmer weather.

Embark on this scenic, budget-friendly trip if you’re eager to see Sri Lanka’s highlands from a new perspective, with friendly guides and breathtaking views. It’s a short, sweet taste of Ella’s natural beauty that won’t disappoint.