Hill Country
Ella
Ella is a relaxed hill-country town set in a gap between mountains, surrounded by tea estates and forest. It is the classic end point of the scenic hill-country railway and a base for easy hikes with big views.
Uva Province
Ravana Falls, Ella
Ravana Falls is one of Sri Lanka's best-known waterfalls, beside the Ella–Wellawaya road about 6 km from Ella. It's linked to the Ramayana legend of King Ravana. It's an easy roadside stop, best in the morning before the crowds, and most impressive after rain.
Ravana Falls at a glance
- Region
- Hill country, near Ella
- Best for
- A quick waterfall stop, photos, the Ramayana story
- Best time
- Morning; strongest flow after rain
- Time needed
- 20–45 minutes
- Getting there
- About 15 minutes by car or tuk-tuk from Ella
The Ramayana story
In the Ramayana, King Ravana is said to have hidden Princess Sita in caves near these falls. The legend links Ravana Falls to other Ramayana sites across Sri Lanka. See our Ramayana Trail guide and Ramayana Trail tour.
What to expect
The falls tumble down a rocky cliff right beside the road. There's a small viewing area, plus stalls selling snacks and souvenirs. In the dry season the flow is lighter. After the rains it's powerful.
Safety
- Don't climb on the wet rocks. They're slippery and have caused accidents.
- Swim only where it's calm and others are swimming, and never after heavy rain.
- Watch for monkeys around food.
Combine it with
- Little Adam's Peak and the Nine Arch Bridge on the same morning
- Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall
- See all of Sri Lanka's waterfalls
Waterfalls and viewpoints in one day
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Ravana Falls: frequently asked questions
How far is Ravana Falls from Ella?
About 6 km, or about 15 minutes by car or tuk-tuk.
Can you swim at Ravana Falls?
Some people do in calm conditions, but the rocks are slippery. Never swim after heavy rain.
What is the Ravana Falls legend?
According to the Ramayana, King Ravana hid Princess Sita in caves near the falls.
When is Ravana Falls best?
After the rains, when the flow is strongest, and in the morning, before the crowds.
Is there a fee to see Ravana Falls?
It's a roadside waterfall. Check locally for any current charges.
Nearby destinations
Uva Province
Little Adam's Peak, Ella
Little Adam's Peak is the easiest and most popular hike in Ella. A well-trodden path leads through tea bushes to a ridge with sweeping views over the Ella Gap. It takes about 45–60 minutes each way from town, at an easy-to-moderate pace. Go at sunrise for soft light and cooler air.
Hill Country
Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls drops in a single long plunge down a cliff on the southern edge of the hill country. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, and a walk above the falls leads to natural rock pools.
Hill Country
Nine Arch Bridge
Nine Arch Bridge carries the hill-country railway across a forested ravine at Demodara, a short walk from Ella. Built in the early twentieth century, its curving stone arches set against jungle and tea are one of Sri Lanka's most recognisable sights.
Plan a trip that includes Ravana Falls
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