Ravana Ella: Where Waterfalls, Legends, and Adventure Collide
Beyond its visual appeal, Ravana Ella carries a strong emotional weight, especially for locals who grew up hearing stories of King Ravana. The whole territory was at one time considered a part of the kingdom of Ravana, and it is believed that the waterfall was one of the bathing places of the king and his queens. Though history and myth are intermingled here, that oldness is palpable. When you are close to the bottom of the falls, when the mist attacks your face and the water falls down on the rock face, you can understand why this place became so enveloped in legend.
The landscape around the town contributes to that impressiveness. The greenery, vines, and moss-covered rocks make the space seem rough and untamed. The movie is even cinematic even in the road that passes next to the falls, with buses and travelers halting on the road, making camera clicks continuously. At more relaxed times, the sound of traffic can be felt, and the waterfall takes over all that, giving a weirdly relaxing beat that makes you be drawn.
On your way up the mountain around the falls, there are little natural pools and rock ledges, which have been formed through the years by flowing water. Here the natives usually sit, with their feet in the water, and either chat or sleep. Many visitors miss this slower, earthy experience of enjoying Ravana Ella. It is not a stop; it is a point of stopping.
Together with the rest of the hills, caves, and adventure locations, Ravana Ella is not just a one-stop destination. It is almost as though it were a window into the wild side of Ella, where nature, myth, and modern adventure are in a relationship of simultaneous presence but not excessive effort to impress one another, for which none need waste the effort.
You might be someone who enjoys nature, or is an adrenaline junkie, or a myth buff itching to see where King Ravana may have had a splash or two, or just want to tour the attractions and want to know what to see, how much it costs, when to go, and how to get the most out of your day. This is the guide that cuts through the confusion and tells you what to see, how much to spend, when you want to see it, and how to get the most out of your day.
1. First Stop: Ravana Ella Waterfall
TheCrash Course
Ravana Falls is a wide, scenic cascade about 25 m high, dropping into a shallow pool and surrounded by green hillsides. It’s one of the most photographed waterfalls in Sri Lanka, and for good reason: it’s dramatic, easily accessible, and perfect for photos or a quick splash.
There’s no formal entrance fee; you can walk right up from the roadside.
How to Get There
Tuk-tuk: From Ella town it’s about 6–10 minutes. Expect around LKR 600–2,000 return, depending on bargaining and traffic.
Bus: A local bus to Wellawaya stops right by the falls and costs less than LKR 50 one way.
Walk: A scenic 45–60 min walk along the road with views of tea plantations if you want the exercise.
What to Do
Photos & Viewing: Ideal early morning or golden hour.
Swim: You can wade or swim in the pool at the base safely during dry months, but it is risky in heavy rain.
Mini Hikes: Climb nearby rocks for a different vantage point.
Best Timing: Peak water flow is during or just after the monsoon (October–January), but currents are stronger then too.
2. The Legend & Short Climb: Ravana's Cave
Ashort hike (10–20 minutes) from the falls takes you up to Ravana’s Cave, the rocky cavern linked to the Ramayana epic. While its archaeology is debated, it’s a fun climb and offers sweeping views of the valley below.
Cost: Usually a small ticket fee (about LKR 200–300), paid near the trail entrance.
Pro Tip: Do this before the heat of the day sets in; the stairs get steep and hot.
3. The Hidden Adventure: Nil Diya Pokuna Blue Water Underground Pool
Ifyou only do one “off-grid” experience near Ravana Ella, it should be Nil Diya Pokuna, a hidden underground cave pool that feels like something out of an adventure movie.
The Lowdown
Hidden near Karandagolla (about 13 km from Ella), Nil Diya Pokuna means Blue Water Pond. It lives up to the name: deep inside a cave system lies a natural underground pool with blue, cool water, and getting there is half the adventure.
What You Actually Do
Walk a short forest trail to the cave entry.
Descend ladders and crawl through narrow, rocky passages.
Reach the underground cavern and swim or dip in the lovely blue pond.
Headlamps and guides typically accompany you for safety.
Cost
Guide-led entry is roughly LKR 1,500–3,000 per person (guide and headlamp included).
Difficulty & Safety
This isn’t a casual walk; expect narrow, muddy, slippery passages and moderate physical effort. Not recommended if you’re claustrophobic or unsteady on your feet. Guides help navigate safely.
Best Time to Go: Morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Water levels rise in rainy spells too.
4. Adrenaline Central: Flying Ravana Adventure Park
If the falls and caves get your heartbeat up only a little, Flying Ravana turns the adventure right up. Think of it as the Ella adrenaline hub.
Mega Zip Line: More than half a kilometer long, flying at up to 80 km/h over hills and tea estates.
ATV/Quad Bikes
Abseiling (rappelling)
Mountain biking trails
Archery & Air Rifling
Rates (2025 Guide Pricing)
Mega Zip Line: Around LKR 9,900 (foreign) / LKR 5,000 (local) per ride.
Adventure Packages: Combo deals like Sky Rider Pack (~LKR 14,200 foreign) or Ravana’s Ultimate Thrill (~LKR 24,950 foreign) include multiple activities. flyingravana.com
How to Play Smart
Combine zip lining with one more activity (ATV or abseiling) for value.
Go late afternoon for cooler air and soft light.
If you’re budget-sensitive, pick just the zip line; it’s the highlight for most.
5. Hikes Around Ella Sweat for the Views
The Ravana Ella area isn’t just one waterfall and a cave it’s surrounded by hills perfect for hiking. Skip just one hike and you miss some iconic views of this region.
Top Nearby Trails
Mini Adam’s Peak – Easy ~1–2 hrs round trip with tea estate views.
EllaRock Hike — Longer and more demanding (half-day), but the crest views over the valley are insane. (Guides recommended unless experienced.)
Walkto Nine Arch Bridge – A flat, photogenic walk with rail track scenery.
Tip:Start hikes early (6:30–8:00 AM) to avoid midday heat and get the best lighting for photos.
6. Meal & Chill Time Without Killing Your Budget
Around Ravana Ella and in Ella town, you’ll find loads of cozy cafes, budget restaurants, and tea hut stops. From local rice & curry stalls to smoothie bowls and cold drinks, hitting a café after a waterfall or adventure time is practically mandatory.
Ravana Ella isn’t just another waterfall stop; it’s a compact adventure destination. You get dramatic views, legendary caves, adrenaline activities, and genuine local culture all within a couple of hours of Ella town. Go early, budget your activities, and mix nature with adrenaline for the best experience.