Sri Lanka, often hailed for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage, also carries a deep connection to the Hindu mythological epic Ramayana. For travellers with a penchant for history and mythology, exploring these legendary sites can be an enriching experience. Here are some places in Sri Lanka associated with the Ramayana epic that you should consider visiting on your trip:
1. Kothmale – A Tale of Sacrifice: Kothmale holds a unique significance in the Ramayana as the place where Sita, in captivity by Ravana, dropped the rice balls she was given to eat. This selfless act played a pivotal role in her plan to create a trail for Lord Rama to follow and ultimately rescue her.
2. Sigiriya – The Lion Rock: Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock, is an ancient capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Local lore suggests that the Naguliya Cave in Sigiriya is one of the locations where Ravana held Sita captive. The site’s archaeological importance and historical allure make it a must-visit.
3. Dolukanda Sanjeevi Mountain – Hanuman’s Feat: Dolukanda Sanjeevi Mountain is celebrated for its association with the epic Ramayana. Legend has it that this is one of the five locations where Lord Hanuman dropped a part of the divine Sanjeevani Mountain, a pivotal moment in the story.
4. Sita Kotuwa – Sita’s Captivity: Located near Gurulupotha, Sita Kotuwa was the first place where Sita was held captive by Ravana after her kidnapping. This was the site of the city of Lanakapura, where Sita was initially kept in Queen Mandodhari’s palace before being moved to Ashoka Vatika.
5. Jaffna – Nilavari’s Miracle: The quaint village of Nilavari in Jaffna is steeped in Ramayana lore. It is believed that during a water crisis in the war with Ravana, Lord Rama, with his divine prowess, shot an arrow into the earth, creating a water spring to quench the thirst of his army.
6. Ella – Waterfalls and Caves: Ella, a picturesque mountain village, offers two notable Ramayana-linked locations – Ravana Ella Falls and Ravana Caves. Sita is believed to have bathed in a pool formed by the waterfall’s cascading water. The caves are thought to have been used by King Ravana to hide Sita.
7. Dunuvila – Rama’s Victory: Located in Laggala, Dunuvila Lake is believed to be the site where Lord Rama defeated Ravana in single combat, marking the culmination of the epic battle.
