Ravana Cave

Ravana Cave is a famous historical cave located near the popular tourist town of Ella in Sri Lanka. It sits high up on a cliff, about 1,370 meters (4,490 ft) above sea level. This cave is very special because it is linked to the ancient Indian epic story, the Ramayana. Many people believe that the powerful King Ravana used this cave to hide Princess Sita after he kidnapped her.

📌 Why Should Visit

You should visit Ravana Cave if you love history, legends, and a bit of adventure.

✅ Mythical Connection: It is one of the main sites in Sri Lanka connected to the Ramayana story. You can feel the mystery when you stand there.

✅ Adventure: Getting to the cave requires a steep climb, which is a fun challenge for hikers.

✅ Views: The view from the top of the stairs, looking out over the mountains and valley, is breathtaking.

📌 Other Important Details 

↔️ Legend: The cave is said to be part of a secret underground tunnel network created by King Ravana. These tunnels supposedly connected different parts of his kingdom, allowing him to travel quickly and secretly.

↔️ Archaeology: Excavations have found evidence that humans lived in this cave as far back as 20,000 years ago!

↔️ Size: The cave opening is about 50 feet wide, but you can only go inside for about 200 meters. The rest is blocked for safety.

📌 Things to Do 

🌟 Climb the Stairs: There are about 650 to 700 steps to reach the cave. It is a good workout!

🌟 Explore the Cave: Walk inside the dark cave (bring a torch or phone light) and see the rock formations.

🌟 Visit Ravana Ella Temple: Before you start the climb, visit the small ancient white temple (Viharaya) at the base. It has beautiful old paintings.

🌟 Enjoy Nature: Look for monkeys and birds in the trees as you climb up.

📌 How to Get There 

Ravana Cave is located about 2 km from Ella town.

🛺 By Tuk-Tuk: This is the easiest way. Take a tuk-tuk from Ella town to the start of the stairs (near Ravana Ella Temple). It takes about 10-15 minutes.

🚶 By Walking: You can walk from Ella town towards the Ravana Falls direction. Turn off at the sign for the cave. It is a scenic but tiring walk.

📍 The Climb: Once you reach the bottom, you have to climb the concrete steps. The last part is a bit steep and rocky.

📌 What Experience Visitors Can Get

Visitors get a feeling of mystery and accomplishment. The climb can be tiring, so reaching the top feels great. Inside the cave, it is cool and dark, making you wonder about the ancient kings and legends. It is a quiet place compared to the busy Ravana Waterfall nearby.

📌 Important Tips and Guides 

⚠️ Wear Good Shoes: You need comfortable shoes for climbing the steps.

⚠️ Bring Water: It gets hot and you will get thirsty on the stairs.

⚠️ Entrance Fee: There is a small ticket price (usually around LKR 150-200) for foreigners and locals.

⚠️ Not for Everyone: The climb is steep and uneven. It is not recommended for elderly people or those with knee problems.

⚠️ Bring a Light: The cave is dark inside, so a torch or phone light is very helpful.

Ravana Cave is a small but historically rich spot in Ella. It mixes a good hike with a fascinating legend. If you are in Ella for a few days, take a morning to climb up here and see where the legendary King Ravana might have walked thousands of years ago!