Who is King Ravana?
Ravana is the central character of one of Sandyas Indian Epic called as Ramayana. In the text in question, Ravana was a wise and learned king of Lanka which is supposed to be where modern day (Sri lanka) now stands. He is painted as a dynastic, yet also frail and flawed figure. Ravana is considered the holistic rakshasa and main antagonist known for his abduction of Princess Sita in ancient Hindu epic Ramayana, but who represents Sri Lankan culture based on a different perspective than mythology.
In Sri Lanka, Ravana is considered not so much as a villain but rather than the greatest king who brought great prosperity for both him and his people. He is also believed to be a master of medicine, certainly politics and his precious flying machine’ Pushpak Vimana’. This perspective kept him as a legend in Sri Lankan folklore, and made his could not fade away with time ever make certain people follow stars — nationally iconic.
Ravana’s Connection to Ella
Ella: A small town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka with stunning views, tea plantations and waterfalls. On the other hand, this is also said to be a crucial place in Ravana legends. The town and its surroundings are the main source of stories about Ravana, in particular his abduction of Princess Sita.
Ravana falls is the most famous site associated with this legend, and Ravana Ella Cave which is located a few kilometres away from town of Ella. A local belief is that this place was used by Ravana to hide Princess Sita after her kidnapping. 21)Udayagiri and Khandgiri Caves, Odisha: The cave which was originally a habitation for Jain Monks is now 4500 Ft above sea level offering an insight to its mythic past. The caves are trekked by the adventure lovers. From its top, we witness the stunning panoramic view of greens & deep shadows with misty mountains on other side and hence this is quite tourist-y spot.
Many people think that Ella is the resting place for the mummified body of this ancient king. To preserve Ravana’s cultural heritage, it is said the remains were concealed from the world after his death. Although this theory captures the imagination of many tourists and local inhabitants alike, no evolutionary anthropology evidence exists for the presence of Ravana’s body in the town of Ella.
Ravana Falls: Where Nature and Mythology Lie
No holiday in Ella is ever finished without visiting the well-known Ravana Falls. It is among the broadest waterfalls in Sri Lanka and takes its name after King Ravana. The lovely king is said to have utilized this waterfall as a washing place during his period reign. The falls plunge to a height of around 82 feet and are actually quite stunning during the rainy season when they are fed to the max. There are waterfalls and development hands. This natural beauty gives stunning photographs.
People who would like swimming can enjoy the cool waters at the foot of the falls, while others can just enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the falls. These falls are not difficult to get to from Ella so they are pleasant even for ordinary sightseers as well for the fans of nature.
Ravana Cave Temple: Jaunt to Heaven and Earth
In addition to the falls and the caves, Ella is also home to the magnificent Ravana Cave Temple which is of great importance in relation to the famous king. The temple can be found near the Ravana Ella Cave and it is a holy place for the people of the area. Legend has it that the temple stands over ancient underground tunnels that helped connect Ravana’s palace to its numerous quarters around the kingdom.
Even if the location is small in comparison to the temples in the remainder of Sri Lanka, its spiritual importance is quite high. The temple has a nice atmosphere for meditation & contemplation and the sight from the location is also very beautiful. The visitors are free to walk around the temple premises and know about the history of Ravana and his relevance to Sri Lankan narrative.
Discovering Ella’s Scenic Beauty
People travel to Ella for the mythical imagination of Ravana, but the place has more to offer to the tourists. Now famous for its easy-going attitude as well as beautiful scenery, Ella has developed into a centre of eco-friendly tourism in Sri Lanka. Travelers can undertake a trek to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak that provides views of the greater landscape from above.
Another highlight around Ella is the iconic Nine Arches Bridge constructed during the colonial times and now a railway bridge. The structure is surrounded by dense forestation and tea plant fields making it ideal for the photographers. Quite a number of tourists also plan their trip to get to see a train passing on top of the bridge which adds more fun to the experience.
Ravana and the Legend of Sri Lanka Culture
For those who wish to acculturate themselves more with the Sinhala heritage of Sri Lanka, the drama of the king Ravana in Ella can be a interesting way of doing so. The synthesis of myths and natural surroundings creates an enchanting scene which mesmerizes people across the globe.
Ravana takes his place in the history of Sri Lanka as a legendary character but does not only represent folklore. Even though visitors to Sri Lankan beaches and witnessing its wildlife is usually commended, sights such as Ella show travellers that it is the tales and the past the island had which is equally enchanting. Be it while climbing up to the ancient cavities, peaks of breathtaking falls or merely inhaling fresh cool air of the mountains, Ravana’s account makes your engagement with Sri Lankan history even more interesting.
