For many travellers, especially from India, Sri Lanka is the Lanka of the Ramayana. Across the island, temples, waterfalls, caves and hills are linked by local tradition to Rama, Sita, Hanuman and Ravana. Here's a guide to the main sites and how to visit them in one journey.
West coast: Chilaw and Colombo
- Munneswaram Temple, Chilaw: an ancient Shiva temple where, according to tradition, Rama prayed after the war.
- Manavari Temple, near Chilaw: associated in tradition with a lingam installed by Rama.
- Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara, near Colombo: linked to the coronation of Vibhishana, Ravana's brother.
- Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple, Colombo: a temple dedicated to Hanuman.
Hill country: Ramboda and Nuwara Eliya
- Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, Ramboda: on the road from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, among tea estates and waterfalls.
- Seetha Amman Temple, Seetha Eliya: near Nuwara Eliya, believed to be close to Ashok Vatika, where Sita was held.
- Hakgala Botanical Garden: also linked by tradition to Ashok Vatika.
- Divurumpola Temple, near Welimada: associated with Sita's trial by fire.
Ella: Ravana's land
Around Ella, local tradition places Ravana's caves and the waterfall named after him. Visit Ravana Falls on the road below Ella, and the Ravana Cave above the town.
East and south
- Koneswaram Temple, Trincomalee: a clifftop Shiva temple associated with Ravana's devotion.
- Rumassala, near Unawatuna: said to be a piece of the Himalayas dropped by Hanuman.
- Ussangoda, on the south coast: linked in legend to Hanuman's fire.
A suggested 6-day Ramayana route
- Day 1: Arrive in Colombo; Munneswaram and Manavari temples near Chilaw.
- Day 2: Dambulla cave temple and Sigiriya; continue to Trincomalee or Kandy.
- Day 3: Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth; evening cultural show.
- Day 4: Ramboda Hanuman temple, Seetha Amman Temple and Hakgala.
- Day 5: Divurumpola and Ella, with Ravana Falls.
- Day 6: Return to Colombo via Kelaniya and the Panchamuga Anjaneyar temple.
Travel tips
Dress modestly at temples, remove shoes, and check festival days, when temples are busy. Vegetarian food is easy to find; tell us about any dietary needs and we'll plan meal stops accordingly. The hill country is cool, so bring a warm layer.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do I need for the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka?
Five to seven days covers the main sites on the west coast, in the hill country and around Ella at a comfortable pace.
Is Seetha Amman Temple near Nuwara Eliya?
Yes. It's at Seetha Eliya, a short drive from Nuwara Eliya on the road towards Hakgala.
Can you arrange vegetarian meals on a Ramayana tour?
Yes. Vegetarian food is easy to find, and we plan meal stops around dietary needs.
