relive the epic
OF THE RAMAYANA TRAIL
with SriLankan Holidays
The Ramayana Trail
Embark on a mystical journey through Sri Lanka on the Ramayana Trail, where ancient legends and breathtaking landscapes come alive. Discover 20 enchanting sites tied to the epic tale of Rama and Sita, from sacred temples and lush gardens to serene waterfalls and historic caves.
Each location on this trail offers a unique glimpse into their captivating story of love, devotion, and heroism. Explore the very places where history meets mythology and experience the magic of Ravana's Lanka. Let SriLankan Holidays guide you through this unforgettable adventure.
Discover the wonders of the Ramayana Trail and create memories that last a lifetime.
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Historic Locations
Adam’s Bridge/Rama Setu – Mannar
This natural chain of sand mounds from Rameswaram in India to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka is believed to be the bridge built by the Monkey Army for Lord Rama to rescue Princess Sita. It’s a captivating link between legend and geography.
Other attractions nearby:
Talaimannar Old Lighthouse,
Talaimannar Pier,
Mannar Fort,
Baobab Tree,
Thiruketheeswaram Kovil,
Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu (Madhu Church)
Chariot Path - Pussellawa
This scenic trail in Pussellawa is believed to be the route taken by Ravana’s chariot, offering breathtaking views of the landscape. It’s a popular spot for mythology enthusiasts and trekkers exploring the Ramayana narrative.
Other attractions nearby:
Ramboda Falls,
Kotmale Dam,
Monaragala Mountain (Peacock hill)
Divurumpola Temple - Welimada
This temple is believed to be the site of Sita’s Agni Pariksha, where she proved her chastity to Lord Rama. It remains a revered site where locals take oaths and pledge fidelity, continuing ancient traditions.
Other attractions nearby:
Sita Amman Temple - Nuwara Eliya
Dunuwila Lake - Matale
This lake is believed to be the location where Lord Rama killed King Ravana using his Brahma Astra weapon. The name "Dunuwila" translates to "arrow lake" in Sinhala, tying it to the epic's battle narrative.
Other attractions nearby:
National Spice Garden of Sri Lanka,
Riverston,
Knuckles Forest Reserve,
Hunnasgiriya Waterfall
Hakgala Botanical Garden - Nuwara Eliya
Known as Ashok Vatika in the Ramayana, this garden is believed to be where Princess Sita was held captive. Today, it’s a serene place filled with lush greenery and exotic plants, drawing both mythological enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Other attractions nearby:
Hakgala Ella Falls,
Moon Plains View Point
Kanniya Hot Water Springs – Trincomalee
These hot springs are believed to have been created by Ravana after his mother’s death. The springs have been a pilgrimage site for centuries, known for their healing properties and mythological roots.
Other attractions nearby:
Buddhist Ruins at the Kanniya Hot Water Wells,
Atambagas Ulpotha Archaeological Ruins,
Uppuveli Beach
Ruhunu Maha Kataragama Dewalaya – Kataragama
This temple is dedicated to Lord Karthikeya, who protected Lord Rama during his battle against Ravana. The temple is a revered site, highlighting the divine intervention that is a key theme in the Ramayana.
Other attractions nearby:
Kiri Vehera,
Sella Kataragama Temple,
Wedahiti Kanda Viharaya,
Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance
Kelaniya Temple – Kelaniya
After helping Lord Rama defeat Ravana, Prince Vibhishana was crowned ruler of Lanka. The Kelaniya Temple has a shrine dedicated to Vibhishana, worshipped as a deity. The temple is also significant for being visited by the Buddha himself.
Other attractions nearby:
Maha Kali Amman Temple,
Beddagana Wetland Park,
Siwurugala Viharaya
Thirukoneswaram Kovil – Trincomalee
Built by Agastya Rishi on Lord Shiva’s instructions, this temple is linked to Ravana’s devotion. Lord Rama is also believed to have built a lingam here to atone for killing Ravana, a Brahmin, thus making it a significant spiritual site.
Other attractions nearby:
Uppuveli Beach,
Nilaveli Beach,
Pigeon Island,
Coral Cove Beach
Manavari Kovil – Chilaw
Built by Lord Rama after defeating Ravana, this temple houses a Shiva Lingam named Ramalingam, one of only two in the world named after Rama. It holds great significance for devotees on the Ramayana Trail.
Other attractions nearby:
Sri Munneswaram Kovil
Nildiya Pokuna - Ella
This underground pond, known for its crystal-clear water, is believed to be where Ravana took Princess Sita to bathe. The journey to Nil Diya Pokuna involves navigating challenging terrain, adding to its allure and mystique.
Other attractions nearby:
Ravana Adventure Park,
Arrow Head Viewpoint (hiking trail),
Ella Rock,
Nine Arch Bridge
Ramboda Falls - Ramboda
Famous for its 109-meter-high waterfall, Ramboda is also home to the Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple. This site is believed to be where Hanuman launched his search for Sita, blending the location’s natural beauty with spiritual significance.
Other attractions nearby:
Ramboda Oya Old Bridge,
Devathura Falls
Ravana Cave – Ella
The legend has it that the cave was used by King Ravana to keep Princess Sita in captivity. Located about 2 km from the Ella town, the cave lies on the base of a cliff, making it a popular hot-spot among hikers.
Other attractions nearby:
Little Adam’s Peak Trailhead,
Nine Arch Bridge,
Ella Town Nightlife
Rumassala - Galle
During the Ramayana war, Hanuman was tasked to fetch a lifesaving herb from the Himalayas. Unable to identify the herb, he carried a piece of the mountain back, dropping it in Rumassala. Today, the hill is home to exotic flora otherwise found only in the Himalayas.
Other attractions nearby:
Galle Fort,
Jungle Beach,
Rumassala South Beach,
Unawatuna Observation Point,
Unawatuna Beach
Sita Amman Kovil - Nuwara Eliya (Sita Eliya)
The temple marks the place where Princess Sita was believed to have been held captive by Ravana. She is said to have prayed here daily for her husband, Lord Rama. The temple is a spiritual site for devotees and tourists alike.
Other attractions nearby:
Hakgala Botanical Gardens,
Bomburu Ella Falls,
Ashok Vatika Temple
Sigiriya
Known for its stunning rock fortress, Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is also believed to be one of the places where Ravana kept Sita captive. The site’s rich history and mythological significance make it a must-visit spot on the Ramayana Trail.
Other attractions nearby:
Pidurangala Rock,
Hiriwadunna Village Tour,
Sigiri Art Gallery,
Minneriya National Park,
Kaudulla National Park,
Dambulla Cave Temple
Sita Kotuwa – Hasalaka
The temple marks the place where Princess Sita was believed to have been held captive by Ravana. She is said to have prayed here daily for her husband, Lord Rama. The temple is a spiritual site for devotees and tourists alike.
Other attractions nearby:
Hakgala Botanical Gardens,
Bomburu Ella Falls,
Ashok Vatika Temple
Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple – Ramboda
Built by the Chinmaya Mission in Ramboda, this temple marks the spot where Hanuman searched for Sita. It is a significant pilgrimage site, drawing thousands of devotees each year to pay homage.
Other attractions nearby:
Glenloch Tea Factory and Tea Center,
Kalugala Gerandi Ella Waterfall
Thotupola Kanda - Nuwara Eliya
This site in Ramboda is believed to be where Hanuman began his search for Sita. The area offers stunning views, making it a sacred and scenic spot for visitors.
Other attractions nearby:
Ambewela Farm,
Horton Plains National Park (Pattipola Entrance)
Ussangoda park – Ambalantota
Now a national park, Ussangoda is believed to have been one of Ravana’s landing strips for his flying craft, the Pushpaka Vimana. The park is known for its unique landscape and rich folklore.
Other attractions nearby:
Pulinatalaramaya Viharaya,
Girihandu Rajamaha Viharaya
