Nestled in the lush hillsides of Sri Lanka lies the mystifying Ravana Falls, a popular sightseeing attraction amongst both locals as well as wandering travelers. With a rich history tracing back over 25,000 years tied to the iconic legend of the Ramayana epic, this waterfall carries beauty that must be witnessed once in life.
History and Legend
As the famous tale describes, Ravana Falls is where the demon king Ravana held the princess Sita captive in the caves behind the cascading waters after kidnapping her from her husband Rama. Though the story seems fantastical, archaeological discoveries have stunned researchers by matching the main locations like the cave, nearby garden, and even a launch pad structure to what the Ramayana depicted over 5,000 years ago!
It seems Sri Lanka’s historic king Ravana did possess advanced technologies lost to time. But what other secrets lie buried in this waterfall’s past?
Ravana Falls Location
Physically, Ravana Falls measures 25 meters (82 feet) tall and streams from an oval-shaped rock overlooking the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary grounds. During Sri Lanka’s wet season, locals describe the falls taking on the appearance of a withering areca flower. However, the dry summer months leave only a fraction of the waterfall’s size and captivating beauty. The falls themselves sit roughly 6 km from Ella railway station, the easiest access point for tourists.
Best Time To Visit Ravana Falls
Being one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, Ravana Falls provides the picture-perfect scene for an afternoon of exploration and photography. The best chance to capture the falls in full flow would be soon after the wet season. Not only will you enjoy cooler weather, but the rocky landscape also dries considerably to prevent slipping on the natural formations that allow visitors to experience the falls up close. Don’t forget your camera!
Conclusion
In the end, Ravana Falls presents the perfect blend of natural beauty and historical mystery. So, the next time you plan a Sri Lankan adventure, be sure Ravana Falls sits atop your must-see list!
Editorial Staff at Ceylon Empire Travels are Specialist in Sri Lanka Travel.
