Located just a few minutes from the heart of Ella, Ravana Falls and the nearby Ravana Cave are two of
the most fascinating sites in Sri Lanka’s hill country — where nature, history, and legend blend
beautifully.
The majestic waterfall, cascading from a height of about 25 meters, is named after the legendary King
Ravana, a ruler from the epic Ramayana.
It is believed that Ravana once hid Princess Sita in the nearby cave after abducting her from India.
Today, both the falls and cave attract travelers for their breathtaking beauty and mythological charm.
- Ravana Falls Viewpoint 🏞️👀: Stop by the roadside viewpoint to watch the roaring water plunge into natural rock pools 🌊💡
- Swimming 🏊♀️⚠️: You can take a dip in the shallow lower pools, but always check water safety before entering 💧✅
- Ravana Cave Exploration 🧗♂️🤫: Climb a short but steep path (about 600 steps) to reach the ancient cave believed to be part of King Ravana’s network of tunnels 👣✨
- Photography 📸🌧️: The falls look most dramatic after light rainfall — perfect for landscape photos 🖼️✔️
- Local Culture ☕🥥: Try a cup of tea or king coconut from nearby stalls while enjoying the misty view 😋😌
- From Ella Town 📍🛺: 10–15 minutes by tuk-tuk or motorbike via the Ella–Wellawaya Road 🛵💨
- By Bus 🚌🛑: Regular buses run from Ella to Wellawaya; ask to stop at Ravana Falls 🗺️✅
- From Badulla 🗺️🚂: About 1 hour by car or train (Badulla–Ella route) ⏳✔️
- To Ravana Cave ⛰️👣: Take the small road opposite the Ravana Ella Temple; the cave entrance is a 10-minute climb uphill 🧗♂️💡
- Timing ☀️🕰️: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday crowds 😌✅
- Essentials 💧👟: Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a hat — the cave hike can be steep 🧗♀️💡
- Water Safety ⚠️🛑: Be cautious near slippery rocks around the waterfall 🌊❌
- Current Danger 🌧️🏊♂️: Avoid swimming during heavy rain; the current can be strong 🚫💧
- Cultural Respect 🙏✨: Respect the cultural significance of the site — it’s linked to Sri Lanka’s oldest legends 📜✔️
Morning Plan:
- 7:00 AM – Departure 🚗💨: Depart from Ella town 📍✅
- 7:15 AM – Ravana Falls 🏞️📸: Arrive at Ravana Falls and enjoy the morning mist and photos 🌫️😌
- 8:00 AM – Cave Climb 🧗♂️👣: Climb up to Ravana Cave (takes 20–30 minutes) ⛰️💡
- 9:00 AM – Cave Exploration 🤫☕: Explore the cave and relax with a drink at the viewpoint 🥤✨
- 10:00 AM – Next Destination 🔄➡️: Head back to Ella for breakfast or continue toward Diyaluma Falls 🍳🗺️
