Ravana Waterfall - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Waterfall

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Ella Railway Station): 7 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Place Location: Inside Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary

Transportation Options: + Walk/Trek

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 7 km from Ella Railway Station, Ravana Falls is a stunning waterfall situated in the hill town of Ella, Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular waterfalls in Sri Lanka and among the must include places in Ella Tour Packages.

Ravana Falls is about 82 feet in height and cascades from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. A part of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary, the falls is bounded by a thick blanket of forests and is considered as one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The waterfall can get extremely powerful during the rainy season and said to resemble an areca flower with withering petals but its size is reduced dramatically during the dry season. The fall is quite impressive, and one can climb over some of the rocks to get a closer look. Visitors can get close and spend some time swimming, but be safe as the rocks are slippery.

The falls have been named after the legendary character Ravana, which is connected to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to legend, it is said that Ravana (who was the king of Sri Lanka at the time) had kidnapped princess Sita, and had hidden her in the caves behind this waterfall, now simply known as the Ravana Ella Cave. At the time, the cave was surrounded by thick forests in the midst of the wilderness. It is also believed that Sita bathed in a pool that accumulated the water falling from this waterfall.

It's located about half an hour away from Ella's main road and is a popular stop for tourists and local Sri Lankans alike. The path to the waterfall is rocky, which makes for a good trekking session. One can also find tent accommodation being set up along with snacks as well as souvenirs near the waterfall site. While the views are breathtaking indeed, it is a perfect spot to enjoy some quality time with friends and family.

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry: Free