Ravana Cave

රාවණ ගුහාව

An ancient cave sanctuary set within a mountainous landscape, featuring a waterfall and carved stone chambers steeped in Hindu mythology. The site combines natural beauty with cultural significance, offering insight into the region's legendary past.

Things to do

• Explore the Main Cave Chamber — Walk through the carved stone sanctuary traditionally believed to be where Ravana held Sita, examining ancient inscriptions and the atmospheric interior chambers.
• Visit Ravana Falls — Trek to the nearby waterfall that cascades dramatically during the monsoon season, offering both scenic beauty and a refreshing natural pool.
• Hike the Surrounding Ridge Trails — Navigate the mountainous terrain around the cave complex to experience panoramic views of the Uva highlands and nearby valleys.
• Study the Stone Carvings — Examine the ancient rock-cut architectural details and relief carvings that reflect Hindu and local Buddhist influences throughout the site.
• Visit the Nearby Temple Structures — Explore the modest shrines and devotional spaces built near the cave entrance where pilgrims leave offerings.
• Photography at Sunrise — Capture the cave entrance and waterfall landscape illuminated by early morning light when mist clings to the mountain peaks.

Food to try

• Lamprais — A Uva regional specialty of spiced meat and rice baked inside a banana leaf parcel, reflecting the area's Portuguese-influenced cuisine.
• String Hoppers with Curry — Thin rice noodle nests served alongside locally-prepared vegetable or chicken curry, a staple comfort food in the hill country.
• Banana Leaf Wrapped Rice — Rice cooked with local spices and wrapped in banana leaves, traditionally prepared by families visiting the sacred site.
• Fresh Mountain Greens Curry — Local leafy vegetables grown in the cool Uva highlands prepared with coconut milk and Sri Lankan spices.
• Jaggery and Treacle Sweets — Local palm sugar confections sold by vendors at the cave entrance, a traditional sweet treat for pilgrims and visitors.

Local customs & good to know

• Remove Footwear Respectfully — It is customary to remove shoes before entering the main cave chamber as a sign of respect to the sacred Hindu mythological site.
• Dress Modestly — Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious significance of the sanctuary.
• Best Visit During Dry Season — Plan your visit between June and September or December to February when weather is stable; the monsoon months make access difficult and trails treacherous.
• Engage with Local Guides — Hiring a local guide enriches understanding of the Ramayana legends and regional history while supporting the community economically.

Nearby

• Ella (Central Highlands) — 5 km
• Dunhinda Falls — 7 km
• Haputale — 15 km
• Diyaluma Falls — 15 km