What is the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka?

The Ramayana Trail is a cultural and historical journey that takes visitors to key sites associated with the ancient Hindu epic, the Ramayana, believed to have connections to Sri Lanka.

Which are the main sites on the Ramayana Trail?

Some prominent sites include Ashok Vatika (Hakgala Botanical Garden), Sita Amman Temple, Divurumpola, Ravana Ella Falls, Rumassala, and Ussangoda, among others.

Is the Ramayana Trail based on historical evidence?

The trail is a blend of mythology and local legends, and while some sites have historical and archaeological significance.

What is the significance of Hakgala Botanical Garden on the Ramayana Trail?

Hakgala Botanical Garden is believed to be Ashok Vatika, where Sita was held captive in the Ramayana. The garden's scenic beauty enhances the mythological connection.

Are there guided tours available for the Ramayana Trail?

Yes, there are guided tours that take visitors to the various Ramayana sites, providing insights into the cultural and historical aspects associated with the epic.

What is the best time to visit the Ramayana Trail?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to March, when the weather is generally pleasant for travel and outdoor exploration.

Explore Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka with your family

Places to explore in Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka

1. Ashok Vatika (Hakgala Botanical Garden)

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We all heard about Ashok Van or Ashok Vatika where Sita was captivated by Ravana.

Nestled in the serene surroundings of Nuwara Eliya, Hakgala Botanical Garden is believed to be the mythical Ashok Vatika from the Ramayana. According to legend, it was here that Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, was held captive by the demon king Ravana. The garden's picturesque landscapes, diverse plant life, and the serene Hakgala Rock contribute to its mystical aura.

Visitors can explore the pathways that wind through vibrant blooms and ancient trees, imagining the poignant moments of Sita's captivity. Ashok Vatika, with its historical and spiritual significance, adds a layer of excitement to the Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka.

2. Sita Amman Temple, Nuwara Eliya

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Perched in the Seetha Eliya village, near Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, the Sita Amman Temple stands as a must visit site on the Ramayana tour. Dedicated to the goddess Sita, the temple showcases the believed footprints of the goddess, marking her time in captivity during the epic. Pilgrims and visitors are drawn to the temple's spiritual ambiance, surrounded by scenic beauty.

The Sita Amman Temple, is just 1 km from Hakgala Botanical Garden and the temple adds a touch of divine significance to the picturesque landscape of Nuwara Eliya.

3. Divurumpola

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Situated in the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, Divurumpola holds sacred significance as it is believed that the place where Sita underwent the 'Agni Pariksha' or the trial by fire to prove her purity in the Ramayana. This hallowed ground, surrounded by lush greenery, continues to attract pilgrims and visitors seeking spiritual resonance. Divurumpola's location in Nuwara Eliya, within the cultural embrace of the Ramayana Trail, adds a touch of ancient mystique.

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

4. Thotupola Kanda – Ravana’s Airport

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Thotupola Kanda, known as Ravana's Airport, is a prominent site in Sri Lanka, situated near Horton Plains in the town of Ambewela. According to local legend and Ramayana lore, Ravana's chariot is believed to have taken off from this plateau-like area. The site offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, providing visitors to experience a unique blend of mythology and natural beauty.

5. Sigiriya Lion Rock – Ravana’s Palace

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Sigiriya Lion Rock, often associated with Ravana's Palace in local folklore, is an iconic landmark in Sri Lanka. Rising dramatically from the plains, it features ancient rock fortress ruins with impressive frescoes and a lion-shaped gateway. Located in the central Matale District, Sigiriya is easily accessible and remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage amidst the scenic splendor of the Sri Lankan landscape.

6. Rumassala Sanctuary, Unawatuna

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Rumassala, a mystical hill in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka, is steeped in legend and associated with the Ramayana. Believed to be a part of the Himalayas dropped by Hanuman while carrying medicinal herbs, it adds a touch of enchantment to the landscape. The Rumassala Sanctuary boasts diverse flora, providing a tranquil escape with panoramic coastal views. This sacred site, located near the southern town of Galle, combines natural beauty with the timeless tales of the Ramayana, making it an interesting site in the Ramayana trail.

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

7. Munneswaram Temple

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Munneswaram Temple, believed to be consecrated by Lord Rama post-Ramayana war, stands in Chilaw, Sri Lanka. This ancient Hindu temple holds historical and religious significance, housing a Shiva linga installed by Lord Rama.

Pilgrims visit Munneswaram to pay homage to the deity and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance. The temple, though not directly narrated in the Ramayana, is deeply woven into the cultural fabric, making it a sacred destination along the Ramayana Trail.

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

8. Ramboda

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Ramboda in Sri Lanka holds cultural significance due to the legend of Hanumana. According to the Ramayana, Hanuman, a devoted disciple of Lord Rama, visited the area while carrying a mountain with medicinal herbs to heal Rama's brother Lakshmana. The Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple in Ramboda commemorates this mythological event, making the region a pilgrimage site. Pilgrims believe that Hanuman's benevolent spirit continues to bless and protect the area, adding a spiritual dimension to Ramboda's natural beauty.