Ravana’s Lanka: Discover the Legendary Sites of King Ravana in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a land of myth and mystery — and few legends capture the imagination like that of King Ravana, the mighty ruler from the ancient epic Ramayana. Beyond the beaches and tea fields, the island hides places tied to Ravana’s story — secret caves, sacred peaks, and ancient fortresses that whisper tales of a forgotten era.
Let’s explore the most fascinating Ravana-related places in Sri Lanka — where mythology meets history.
🕍 1. Ravana Cave and Ravana Falls – Ella
Located near the scenic town of Ella, the Ravana Cave is believed to have been one of King Ravana’s hideouts where he kept Princess Sita after abducting her from India. The nearby Ravana Falls, cascading dramatically down a rock face, is said to be where Ravana’s queen bathed.
🗺️ Location: Ella, Badulla District
💡 Don’t miss: The trek to the cave offers stunning views of Ella Gap.
🌋 2. Ussangoda National Park – The Burnt Land of Ravana
Ussangoda’s red-soil plateau near Tangalle is said to be where Ravana’s Pushpaka Vimana (his flying chariot) landed and took off. The burnt, barren landscape supports this myth — with little vegetation and mysterious magnetized rocks.
🗺️ Location: Hambantota District
💡 Myth link: Believed to have been scorched after Hanuman set fire to Lanka.
🪨 3. Sigiriya – Ravana’s Sky Fortress
Before becoming the palace of King Kashyapa, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is believed to have been Ravana’s Alakamanda Palace. Some locals claim that the tunnels beneath Sigiriya once connected to his network of secret passages.
🗺️ Location: Dambulla
💡 Myth link: Ravana’s aerial fortress and watchtower.
🌺 4. Seetha Amman Temple – Nuwara Eliya
Located in Seetha Eliya, this colorful temple marks the spot where Sita was kept captive. The nearby Seetha Amman stream still bears small depressions believed to be Hanuman’s footprints.
🗺️ Location: 5 km from Nuwara Eliya town
💡 Myth link: A sacred site in the Ramayana trail.
🌿 5. Hakgala Botanical Garden – The Ashoka Vatika
Just a few minutes from Seetha Eliya lies Hakgala, believed to be the Ashoka Vatika, the royal garden where Ravana kept Sita. The lush greenery and cool climate make it one of the most enchanting places in the highlands.
🗺️ Location: Nuwara Eliya
💡 Myth link: Hanuman first met Sita here during his search.
🪔 6. Divurumpola Temple – The Place of Truth
According to the Ramayana, Sita proved her purity by passing through fire at this very place. The Divurumpola Temple continues to hold rituals symbolizing truth and purity.
🗺️ Location: Welimada
💡 Cultural insight: Locals still take oaths here to prove honesty.
🕳️ 7. Isthripura Caves – Ravana’s Tunnel Network
The Isthripura caves, located near Welimada, are believed to have been part of Ravana’s underground passageways that connected his kingdom. These caves show evidence of ancient habitation and tunnels extending deep into the hills.
🗺️ Location: Welimada
💡 Myth link: Used to move Sita secretly between strongholds.
🏔️ 8. Rumassala Hill – The Himalayan Connection
Legend says Hanuman dropped a piece of the Himalayas here while carrying healing herbs for Lakshmana. The Rumassala forest near Galle is rich in rare medicinal plants, strengthening the myth.
🗺️ Location: Galle
💡 Myth link: Known as “The Sanjeewani Drop.”
🌄 9. Koneswaram Temple – The Eastern Ravana Temple
The Koneswaram Temple in Trincomalee, perched atop Swami Rock, is believed to have been built by Ravana himself to honor Lord Shiva. The site was once called “Dakshina Kailash” (Southern Kailash).
🗺️ Location: Trincomalee
💡 Myth link: Ravana’s devotion to Lord Shiva.
🌍 Follow the Ravana Trail
Today, these places form part of the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka, attracting pilgrims and curious travelers from around the world. Whether you believe in the myths or not, the journey through these sites reveals the island’s ancient soul — mysterious, spiritual, and breathtakingly beautiful.
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