Ravana Falls

Steeped in ancient mythological lore and geological beauty, Ravana Falls is one of the widest and most impressive waterfalls in Sri Lanka's hill country. Located just a short drive down the winding Ella-Wellawaya mountain pass, this spectacular multi-tiered waterfall cascades down a rugged, dark granite cliff face, measuring roughly 25 meters (82 feet) in height.

The waterfall is inextricably linked to the ancient Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to local legend, the demon king Ravana of Lanka kidnapped the beautiful princess Sita of India and hid her deep within the dark, labyrinthine network of caves located directly behind the cascading waters of this fall to protect her from rescue. The caves, known as the Ravana Ella Caves, sit high up on the cliff face and have revealed evidence of human habitation dating back over 25,000 years during archaeological excavations.

During the monsoon season, Ravana Falls transforms into a powerful torrent of frothing, mud- brown water that roars down the mountain, creating a dramatic mist that coats the surrounding highway. In the dry season, the flow softens into elegant, crystal-clear streams that pool gently in a series of natural rock basins at the base. The falls are highly accessible, located directly beside the main road, making it a popular rest stop for travelers. Visitors can walk onto the large boulders at the base to feel the cool spray of the water, observe the troops of wild macaque monkeys that inhabit the surrounding trees, and enjoy fresh, roasted corn-on-the-cob from local street vendors.