Ravana Falls
Ravana Falls
A 25-meter waterfall in three tiers near Ella, linked to the legend of King Ravana and the Ramayana, directly accessible from the Badulla–Wellawaya road.
About ten kilometers from Ella, in the mountainous region of southern Sri Lanka, Ravana Falls cascades down the rock in three successive tiers from a height of roughly twenty meters. The waterfall takes its name from the demon king Ravana, a central figure in the Ramayana, and today forms part of the Rawana Falls wildlife sanctuary.
Why Visit Ravana Falls
The site holds appeal on several practical grounds. Geographically, the waterfall is one of the most accessible in Sri Lanka: it sits directly beside the road with no trekking required, making it an easy stop on the Badulla–Wellawaya route. Culturally, it is linked to a major episode of the Ramayana, giving it powerful mythological significance for Hindu visitors and fans of ancient tales alike. Visually, the tiered cascade, framed by dense vegetation, offers an interesting photographic setting, especially when water flow is strong.
The Story and Legend of Ravana
Ravana Falls takes its name from the demon king Ravana, a figure in Sri Lankan folklore and the Hindu epic the Ramayana. According to legend, Ravana, then the island's sovereign, abducted the princess Sita, wife of Prince Rama, and hid her in a cave behind the waterfall. This site, now known as Ravana Ella Cave, is still visible high up on the cliff face.
Local tradition holds that Sita would bathe in a pool fed by the waterfall, sheltered from view in what was once a much denser forest. Ravana himself is said to have played nearby on the Ravanahatha, a traditional stringed instrument considered by some musicologists to be one of the ancestors of the violin. These stories today form part of the Ramayana circuit, which connects several sites on the island associated with the epic.
What to See on Site
The waterfall stands at approximately 25 meters and descends in three distinct levels carved into rock with oval and concave forms. The site sits at an altitude of around 3,445 feet (approximately 1,050 meters) above sea level. The water originates from the Bandarawala Hill Oya reservoir upstream, then flows downstream into the Kirindi Oya reservoir.
From the main road, the first set of falls is visible within less than a minute's walk. A few rocks allow you to approach the lower pool, but swimming is not advisable: currents are unpredictable and stones are slippery. Monkeys are regularly present around the site and readily seize food or small items left unattended.
The site is part of the Rawana Falls wildlife sanctuary, in a tropical wet forest environment typical of the Ella highlands, blending native species with tea plantations on the surrounding slopes.
When to Visit
The waterfall's flow varies significantly by season. During the rainy season, water spreads widely across the rock and takes on, in a local comparison, the appearance of "an areca flower with faded petals." Conversely, in the dry season, flow diminishes considerably and the spectacle loses much of its impact. The wettest months in the Ella region broadly correspond to the southwest monsoon (May to September) and the inter-monsoon rains of October–November. For light and fewer crowds, early morning is generally the quietest time.
How to Get There
The site is located about 10 km from the Kubalwela junction on the Badulla–Bandarawela road, heading toward Wellawaya. From Ella, the most practical access point, the waterfall is about ten minutes away by vehicle.
Several transport options are available from Ella:
- Tuk-tuk: the most flexible option for a short distance; negotiate the fare before departure.
- Local bus: buses heading toward Wellawaya pass the site; very affordable, frequency varies by day.
- Train then road: the Colombo–Kandy–Ella railway line serves Ella, from which you can reach the waterfall by tuk-tuk.
Practical Information
- Duration of visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour is sufficient to enjoy the site.
- Access: visible from the road, currently no entrance fee; a few steps and rocks to navigate for closer approach.
- Safety: slippery surfaces, caution needed on rocks; swimming not recommended.
- Monkeys: do not leave food or accessible items.
- What to bring: shoes with good grip, change of clothes if you plan to approach the pool.
Nearby Attractions
The Ella region concentrates several sites accessible within a single day:
- Little Adam's Peak, a short hike with views over the valleys.
- The Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic railway viaduct in the heart of the jungle.
- Ella Rock, a more demanding climb for experienced hikers.
- The tea plantations covering the slopes around the town.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
Swimming at the base of the waterfall is not advisable due to unpredictable currents, slippery rocks, and variable water flow. Pools downstream are sometimes used by visitors, but at their own risk.
At present, the site is freely accessible from the road. Check locally before your visit, as conditions may change.
Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour on site, depending on whether you stay at the main viewpoint or venture down to the lower pools.
No. At approximately 25 meters, it ranks among the country's notable waterfalls but is not the highest: that distinction belongs to Bambarakanda Falls, which reaches about 263 meters.
The waterfall is most impressive during and just after the rainy season, when flow is at its peak. In the dry season, the water flow can be greatly reduced.
Including Ravana Falls in Your Itinerary
Ravana Falls fits naturally into a trip combining Sri Lanka's cultural center and southern highlands. To build a custom itinerary including Ella and its surroundings, consult our Sri Lanka trips.
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