Ravana Falls

Ravana Falls is monumental cascade amidst the lush greenery and rugged landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central highlands for its breathtaking beauty and deep rooted historical and mythological significant. In this article they seek to unveil the natural charm of Ravana Falls, as well as the legend following it, and an array of experiences to offer the visitors.

Ravana Falls – Natural splendor in Sri Lanka

Ravana Falls is one of the widest (88 meters or 289 feet) and the most famous waterfalls of Sri Lanka found close to the village of Ella. Known as Ravana’s lake after the legendary king Ravana in the Ramayana, the waters of the Ravana Ella cascade some 25 metres down a rocky precipice in a series of cascades. Around the waterfall itself, the surrounding rainforest is drenched in greenery, and the falls themselves create a dramatic backdrop to the vistas of the surrounding area.

Rains and a nearby river feed the waterfall but in the monsoon season the rains bring the water volume to this waterfall to a roaring boom populating this waterfall with a dramatic rush of water. This creates a truly mesmerising spectacle (the sight of the waterfall during this time, plus the mist and the roar of the water).

The Legend of Ravana Falls

The myth of the Ramayana is alive and well at Ravana Falls. Legend has it that King Ravana, a Hindu god Shiva devotee, hidden the abducted princess Sita near where the falls are located. The caves behind the waterfall are the Ravana Ella Cave, so it is said that he kept her hidden here. Today, these caves fit the foundation of a cliff, and today they both draws devotees and curious tourists who want to connect with the epic tale.

The legend provides additional cultural dimension to the visit, and when you go to Ravana Falls, you are more than visiting a beauty of nature, it is a site steeped in history and spiritualism. Travelers visiting the falls tend to pause a moment to absorb the landscape as well as the mythological value of the waterfall.

Things To Do Near Ravana Falls

There is much more to visit Ravana Falls than just seeing its beauty. It is a region that offers a paradise for adventure and nature lovers too. Here are some of the activities and attractions that visitors can enjoy:

Hiking and Exploration

In addition to a few small breathe spa steps that can be hiked by people with little to no hiking skills, the area around Ravana Falls has a lot to offer in terms of hiking, up to advanced levels. Probably the most popular trek is to the top of the waterfall where hikers are treated to panoramic views of the countryside. Trails meander through thick forests, past lush tea plantation and alongside streams, providing for a full exposure to nature’s beauty in the area.

Ravana Ella Cave

If you are one of those who like history as well as mythological part then pay a visit to Ravana Ella Cave. According to the belief, this little cave, further up the hill from the waterfall, is one of the places where King Ravana used to hide Sita. Visitors going inside the cave can actually see the dark damp spaces inside claimed to have been a refuge for Sita while in captivity.

Ella Rock

Ella Rock is a rigorous trek with a reward. To hike the peak takes several hours, and an acceptable level of fitness but climbers are rewarded with spectacular views of the entire region, including a bird’s eye view of Ravana Falls.

The Nine Arches Bridge

And the bridge only a short distance away from Ravana Falls is another iconic landmark. Considered one of the more picturesque (and beautiful) colonial era railway bridges in Victoria. People do time their visit around when a train passes through (memorable photo).

Best Time to Visit

As Ravana Falls replete during monsoon season (October to January), this would be the best time to visit Ravana Falls. But those seeking a quieter experience with easier hiking conditions will come at the right time when visiting the great range in the dry season (May to September) which offers favourable weather and fewer crowds.

Sustainable Tourism

Like many natural attractions, Ravana falls also has tourist and environment impact challenges. In keeping with sustainable tourism principles, visitors are encouraged to throw away waste properly and not get close to wildlife or the waterfall itself at high water flow, for instance.

Best places to visit near Ravana Falls

1. Ella

A short distance from Ravana Falls, and just a little off the classical tourist route, lies the village of Ella, with its cool climate, friendly folk, and wide vistas. Ella is well known for its laid back atmosphere and if you are still exploring the falls it is the perfect place to chill out. Among the key attractions are the Ella Gap, Little Adam’s Peak and the Ella Spice Garden and tasting some Sri Lankan food and learning about local spices not left out.

2. Demodara Nine Arches Bridge

The Nine Arches Bridge in Demodara is a marvel of colonial era railway construction and worth a visit to anyone in the area. A masterpiece of architecture, sitting within green surroundings, it is a fabulous place to take photos, especially when the blue trains that run across the bridge pass over. The paths to the bridge go along tea plantations, as well as local villages, as scenic as the bridge itself.

3. Little Adam’s Peak

If you want a shorter hike at the end with great views, Little Adam’s Peak is ideal. Suitable for travelers of all fitness levels, this less demanding than its namesake, Adam’s Peak features panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valley. Although beautiful at any time, the peak is especially nice to see as the sun rises or sets, and is not uncommon to find a crowd of people out there at sunrise or sunset.

4. Diyaluma Falls

While not as tall as Ravana Falls, being the second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Diyaluma Falls is an impressive spectacle a bit further away but it is worth the trip. But you can also hike to the top of the falls for one of the most beautiful sights unto which water tumbles down into the valley below. There’s also good swimming in natural pools outside of Diyaluma Falls when the heat is on.

5. Lipton’s Seat

The most spectacular viewpoint in Sri Lanka is Lipton’s Seat, named in honor of the distinguished tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton. While the visitors can enjoy a scenic drive or a rewarding hike up to this point, the view deserves every bit of climb—360 degrees spread with Uva, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Eastern Provinces. The most clear views are early in the morning just before the clouds roll in.

6. Yala National Park

However, it’s a bit of a trek from Ravana Falls to Yala National Park for the wildlife enthusiast. The park is a popular leopard stronghold, with one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, and also supports elephants, sloth bears and a host of bird species. Exploring the biodiversity of Sri Lanka in its natural habitat, a safari in Yala is an opportunity.

7. Buduruwagala

This is an ancient Buddhist temple near Wellawaya, the site of seven figures carved into a rock face in the 10th century. Standing at 51 feet, the Buddha is the central of the statutes and is one of Sri Lanka’s tallest Buddha statues. Visiting Buduruwagala offers a place of quiet respite and a little taste of Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious past.

Conclusion

Ravana Falls is more than a location, it’s the mix of nature, an adventure and a bit of mythology. If you are a history enthusiast, a nature enthusiast or just love to see the stunning landscapes, Ravana Falls is the place to be in for the thrilling time away from your monotonous busy life towards Sri Lanka’s outstanding highlands. The cascades embody tales of ancient legends, and equally beckon the modern visitor to journey and savour it’s timeless beauty.