Why Ravana Falls will steal your heart
Just a few kilometres from Ella, on the winding road down to the lowlands, a wide, frothy waterfall tumbles over a series of rocky ledges right beside the road. This is Ravana Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in Sri Lanka, and one steeped in legend.
According to the Ramayana, the great Indian epic, the demon king Ravana ruled Lanka and kidnapped Princess Sita, the wife of Prince Rama. Local legend says Ravana hid Sita in caves behind this waterfall, and that she bathed in the pool at its foot. Whether you believe the story or not, it adds a wonderful sense of mystery to the place, and many Indian pilgrims visit Ravana-related sites across the hill country.
The falls are at their most powerful after rain, when the water thunders over the rocks in a broad white curtain. In drier months, they're gentler but still beautiful. You can admire them from the viewing area beside the road, or carefully climb onto the lower rocks for a closer look.
Nearby, you can climb up to the Ravana Cave, set high on a cliff with views over the valley. Local legend links it to the story of Sita, too. Around the falls, stalls sell fresh fruit, grilled corn and colourful souvenirs.
Because the falls are so easy to reach, they make a perfect short stop on the drive between Ella and the south coast or the safari parks. Combine them with the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam's Peak for a perfect Ella day.
