In the heart of the resplendent island of Sri Lanka, a land of lush greenery and misty mountains, ancient legends come to life. The epic tale of Ravana, the demon king of the Ramayana, and the abduction of Sita, the virtuous princess, is woven into the very fabric of this stunning paradise. As you traverse the emerald landscapes and hidden corners of Sri Lanka, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where mythology and reality blur and where the footsteps of gods and demons are said to have left their indelible mark.
Places In Sri Lanka Offering An Insight Into Ramayana
1. Ella
Ella Rock is a stunning natural formation located in the town of Ella, Sri Lanka. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including tea plantations, valleys, and other scenic beauties. There is a local belief that Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, hid Sita in a cave or crevice on Ella Rock during the period of her captivity. The rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas from Ella Rock certainly contribute to the mystical atmosphere of the place, making it a popular destination for tourists and those interested in local folklore and mythology.
2. Ravana Falls
Ravana Falls in Sri Lanka is a picturesque waterfall with a strong connection to the Ramayana, a revered Indian epic. It is a place of historical, cultural, and natural significance, attracting both pilgrims and tourists who seek to explore its beauty and mythological heritage. Ravana Falls is named after the legendary demon king Ravana. According to the epic, Ravana, who ruled the kingdom of Lanka (modern-day Sri Lanka), kidnapped Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, and took her to his palace in Lanka. This event ultimately led to a great war between Ravana’s forces and Lord Rama’s army.
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3. Ashok Vatika
Ashok Vatika, also known as Ashoka Vana, is a significant location in the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. It is associated with the period of exile of Lord Rama, his wife Sita, and his loyal brother Lakshmana. Ashok Vatika is located in the modern-day town of Sita Eliya in Sri Lanka. It is a place of great religious and mythological importance to Hindus. Today, there are several shrines and temples in and around Sita Eliya that commemorate this legendary episode of the Ramayana.
4. Ravana Caves
Ravana Caves, also known as Ravana Lena, are a series of natural caves located in Ella, Sri Lanka. These caves are of historical and cultural significance due to their association with the Indian epic, the Ramayana. While the caves themselves are natural formations, they are believed to have connections to the legendary King Ravana, a prominent character in the Ramayana. Ravana Caves are a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka. They provide an interesting glimpse into the legends of the Ramayana.
5. Ravana Palace
Ravana’s Palace, also known as Lanka Palace, is a significant location in the Indian epic, the Ramayana. It is associated with Ravana, the antagonist in the Ramayana, and is believed to be located in Sri Lanka. Near the city of Kandy, there are ruins believed to be the site of Ravana’s palace. These remnants offer a glimpse into ancient Sri Lankan architecture and history.
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6. Thotupola Kanda
According to local legends and beliefs, Thotupola Kanda is said to be one of the locations where Ravana, the demon king of Lanka, landed with his aerial vehicle, the Pushpaka Vimana, after kidnapping Goddess Sita. In these local interpretations, Thotupola Kanda is seen as a place of significance because it is associated with a pivotal event in the Ramayana, marking the point where Ravana’s journey with Sita began.
7. Sita Amman Temple
The Sita Amman Temple, also known as the Sita Devi Temple or Sita Eliya Temple, is a Hindu temple located in the village of Sita Eliya in the Nuwara Eliya district of Sri Lanka. This temple is significant in the context of the Hindu epic, the Ramayana, as it is believed to be the place where Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, was held captive by the demon king Ravana. The Sita Amman Temple is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus, and it attracts devotees and tourists from various parts of the world.
8. Mandodari Temple
Mandodari Temple is a well-known religious site located in Sri Lanka, primarily associated with the Hindu epic, the Ramayana. The temple is situated in the city of Ravanahatha, which is believed to be the place associated with Ravana, a central character in the Ramayana. The temple dedicated to Mandodari is significant for followers of the Ramayana and Hinduism. It serves as a reminder of the events in the epic and the moral and ethical lessons associated with them.
Visiting these places in Sri Lanka allows travellers to immerse themselves in the legendary tales of Ramayana.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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