One of the most popular waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Ravana Falls is known for its striking beauty; making it more interesting to visit is the fact that it’s linked with tales of a kidnapped princess!
Planning a Visit
Ravana Falls can be found around 6 km from Ella Railway Station and is within easy reach for those finding accommodation in Bandarawela or hotels in Ella, Sri Lanka. From Ella, you can take a tuk-tuk or bus heading to Wellawaya, though look to get there early to avoid the crowds.
A Heavenly Sight
These falls are approximately 25 metres in height and are made up of three tiers. Only around a 35-minute drive from Bandarawela Hotel, this waterfall is best viewed in the wet season when the water is in full flow. You can plan a trek to the top and have a cooling dip at the pools formed by the falling water.
Linked With a Legend
The falls are also linked with tales from the Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to it, King Ravana used the falls to hide Princess Sita whom he had kidnapped. She was hidden in caves behind this site and is said to have also bathed in the pool that was created by the falls.
Ravana Ella Cave
This is the very cave where it’s believed that Princess Sita was hidden and it takes a challenging journey of climbing 650 steep steps to get there! The cave is where archaeological findings dating back 25,000 years ago were made and though there’s nothing much to see, it does add a sense of adventure to a visit.
