The island of Sri Lanka nonchalantly brings together natural beauty and historical wonders. The jewel just south of India contains a myriad of natural scenery ranging from pristine beaches, lush rainforest landscapes and boasts a stunning assortment of wild-life ranging from leopards to elephants. One of the most popular destinations on the island is the small scenic town of Ella, featuring Bandarawela Hotel, amongst many other hotels in Bandarawela.
Located less than two kilometres away from the scenic town of Ella, is Ravana Falls, one of the most renowned locations in Sri Lanka. The waterfall is one of the widest on the entire island and measures about eighty-two feet in height. During particularly wet seasons, the waterfall is said to resemble an Arecca flower with withering petals.
The Ravana Falls bear immense cultural significance to not just Sri Lanka but most of South and South-East Asia. The waterfall derives its name from the legendary king Ravana, from the legendary epic ‘Ramayana’, where Ravana kidnapped the Princess Sita, who was the wife of Rama. Rama was the legendary incarnation of the Hindhu God Vishnu, and the Demon-King Ravana kidnapped his wife as an act of vengeance for Rama slicing off the nose of Ravana’s sister.
Legend has it that Ravana kept Sita hostage at the major cave located within the waterfall and she bathed in the waters that flow within. It is said that Ravana’s civilisation was technologically advanced, and to this day there are paintings within the walls of the cave that, despite being ancient, seem to be painted with almost modern-day materials.
If you find yourself on the tropical island of Sri Lanka, be sure to visit this historical and enigmatic location that is truly the stuff of legend.
Caleb Falcon is a travel writer who specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
