Ella Mountain Pass Grand Rally
Bandarawela to Ella Highland Pass Endurance Run
Event Overview
The Ceylon Classic Motorcycle Club annual Ella Pass Grand Rally is one of the island's most celebrated vintage motoring traditions. Held during the festive April New Year season, this expedition brings together authentic pre-1970 British singles, parallel-twins, and vintage sidecars to tackle the steep gradients, dramatic hairpin turns, and cool mountain air of the central highlands.
Riders assemble in Bandarawela before embarking on the rolling climb towards Ella, taking in panoramic viewpoints overlooking the southern plains. Mechanical reliability and proper hill-climbing carburetion are put to the test against Sri Lanka's most scenic backdrop.
Official club marshals, mechanic chase support, and first-aid support vehicles will escort the convoy throughout the route to ensure road safety and technical assistance.
Official Event Day Schedule
Paddock Assembly & Scrutineering
Bandarawela Public Ground paddock. Technical checks on brakes, lighting, and vintage credentials.
Riders Briefing & Route Guidance
Briefing by Club President Rohana and Chief Route Marshal on mountain descent safety.
Official Rally Flag-Off
Machines flagged off in staggered batches of 4 bikes to maintain scenic spacing.
Regroup & Photo Halt at Ella Gap
Panoramic assembly overlooking the southern escarpment with official club photo session.
Scenic Cruise towards Ravana Falls
Descent through the waterfall corridor with roadside crowd greetings.
Fellowship Lunch & Certificate Presentation
Traditional lunch, committee awards, and sharing of rally tales at Bandarawela Rest House.
Convoy Riding Guidelines & Safety
- ✦Strict staggered convoy riding formation with designated lead and sweep marshals
- ✦Zero reckless overtaking or unauthorized detours on mountain passes
- ✦Full adherence to Sri Lanka Motor Traffic regulations and environmental care
- ✦Carry basic personal tools, spare spark plugs, and throttle/clutch cables
Facebook Announcements
For real-time updates, route weather advisories, member discussions, and photo galleries from this event, visit our official Facebook group announcements thread.
Open Facebook AnnouncementsMachine Eligibility
- ◆Pre-1970 classic and vintage motorcycles (Excluding Japanese & Indian brands after 1970)
- ◆Valid Sri Lanka revenue license, third-party or comprehensive insurance, and valid riding permit
- ◆Period-correct riding attire with certified helmets and road safety equipment
- ◆Functioning mechanical drum or disc brakes, front headlamp, and horn
Participation & Fees
New classic owners can enroll for full club membership at the paddock registration tent.
Inquiries & Committee
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