12 Ramayana Places in Sri Lanka

Seetha Amman Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Seetha Eliya, near Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. This temple is believed to be the place where Sitha Devi, wife of Lord Rama, was held captive by King Ravana. It is an important place for devotees and tourists who are interested in the Ramayana story.

This is one of the best Ramayana places in Sri Lanka. It has a beautiful structure with colorful statues of Lord Rama, Sitha Devi, Lakshmana, and Hanuman. There is a stream nearby, which is said to be the place where Sitha used to bathe. Devotees believe that Hanuman visited this spot to meet Sitha Devi and assure her that Lord Rama would rescue her.

Many visitors come here to pray and seek blessings. The peaceful surroundings, with lush greenery and mountains, make the place even more special. Whether you are religious or not, this temple is a must-visit to learn about Sri Lanka's connection to the Ramayana.

Why is this place special?
This temple is believed to be the place where Sitha Devi was held captive by King Ravana.

Sitha Kotuwa is among the famous Ramayana places in Sri Lanka. This historic site is believed to be the place where Sitha Devi was first kept after being kidnapped by King Ravana. The name "Sitha Kotuwa" means "Sitha’s Fort," as it was once part of a grand palace complex. According to the Ramayana, this was the palace of Mandothari, King Ravana's queen.

This location is surrounded by thick forests and beautiful waterfalls, making it a peaceful and scenic place. It is said that Sitha Devi lived here before being moved to Ashoka Vatika. The ruins of the ancient structures can still be seen, giving visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich past.

Many tourists and pilgrims visit Sitha Kotuwa to explore its natural beauty and learn more about its connection to the Ramayana. It is a must-visit place for those interested in history and mythology.

Why is this place special?
Sitha Kotuwa is believed to be the first place where Sitha Devi was kept after being kidnapped by Ravana.

Kothmale is a place in Sri Lanka connected to the Ramayana. It is believed that when Ravana took Sitha Devi to Lanka, she dropped small rice balls (Sitha Goli) along the way. She did this so Lord Rama could trace her path and find her.

Today, Kothmale is a beautiful area surrounded by mountains and rivers. The locals say that these rice balls turned into medicinal herbs, which are still found in the region. The place is also famous for the Kothmale Dam, which provides water and electricity to nearby towns.

Visitors come here to see the lush greenery and learn about the stories of Sitha Devi. The peaceful environment makes it a great spot for those interested in both nature and history. Kothmale remains an important location for Ramayana followers.

Why is this place special?
Kothmale is believed to be where Sitha Devi dropped rice balls to help Lord Rama find her.

Munneswaram Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in Chilaw, Sri Lanka. It is believed that after Lord Rama defeated King Ravana, he felt guilty for killing him. Since Ravana was a Brahmin, Lord Rama needed to perform a special prayer to remove this sin, known as Brahmahasti Dosha.

Lord Rama prayed to Lord Shiva at Munneswaram Temple for forgiveness. It is said that Shiva advised him to install a Shiva Lingam in another location to completely cleanse his sin. This led to the creation of the Manavari Temple nearby.

Munneswaram Temple is still an important place of worship today. Many devotees visit the temple, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival. The temple has beautiful architecture, with colorful carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.

Why is this place special?
Munneswaram Temple is believed to be where Lord Rama prayed to Lord Shiva to remove the sin of killing Ravana.

Dolukanda Sanjeewanee Mountain is a sacred place in Sri Lanka linked to the Ramayana story. This is among the popular places to visit in Sri Lanka related to ramayana. It is believed to be one of the locations where a piece of the Himalaya Mountain fell when Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani herb to save Lord Lakshmana. According to the legend, Hanuman dropped parts of the mountain as he flew over Sri Lanka.

The mountain is famous for its rare medicinal plants, some of which are not found anywhere else in Sri Lanka. Many locals believe these herbs have healing powers. The place is also a great spot for nature lovers, offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Pilgrims and adventure seekers visit Dolukanda for its spiritual and natural beauty. It is a great place to hike and explore.

Why is this place special?
Dolukanda Sanjeewanee Mountain is special because it is believed to be where a part of the Himalaya fell when Hanuman carried the Sanjeevani herb.

Manavari Temple is a sacred Hindu temple near Chilaw, Sri Lanka. According to the Ramayana, after killing King Ravana, Lord Rama wanted to cleanse himself of the sin of Brahmahasti (killing a Brahmin). Lord Shiva told him to install a Shiva Lingam at Manavari to purify himself.

This temple is unique because it is one of the few places where Lord Rama personally installed a Lingam. It is called "Rama Lingam," and it is the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. Devotees believe that praying at this temple brings blessings and removes negative energy.

The temple is peaceful and has beautiful stone carvings. Many Hindu pilgrims visit Manavari Temple, especially during religious festivals. It is an important stop for those exploring Ramayana sites in Sri Lanka.

Why is this place special?
Manavari Temple is special because it houses the first Shiva Lingam installed by Lord Rama to cleanse his sin.

Nilawari is a small village in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, known for its deep underground well. According to the Ramayana legend, this well was created by Lord Rama. It is believed that during the war between Rama and Ravana, Rama's army was in great need of water. To solve this problem, Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground, and fresh water sprang up, forming the Nilawari well.

This well is unique because it never dries up, even during the hottest months. Locals say that the water level stays the same throughout the year. Many visitors come to see this special place and offer prayers. The area around Nilawari is peaceful and surrounded by nature, making it a relaxing spot to visit.

Why is this place special?
Nilawari is special because it is believed that Lord Rama created the well by shooting an arrow into the ground to provide water for his army.

Laggala is one of the historically important Ramayana places in Sri Lanka. It is believed to be the spot where King Ravana’s army first saw Lord Rama’s army approaching Sri Lanka. This area is surrounded by hills, making it a perfect lookout point during ancient times.

According to the legend, Ravana’s soldiers climbed the hills of Laggala to keep watch. When they saw Rama’s army crossing the ocean on the bridge built by Lord Hanuman and his vanara (monkey) army, they quickly informed Ravana. This allowed Ravana to prepare for battle.

Today, Laggala is a quiet and beautiful place filled with greenery. Many visitors come here to see the hills and enjoy the breathtaking views. Some believe that ancient watchtowers may have once existed in this area.

Why is this place special?
Laggala is special because it was the first place where King Ravana’s army spotted Lord Rama’s army approaching Lanka.

Dunuvila is an important place in Sri Lanka, connected to the final battle between Lord Rama and King Ravana. According to the Ramayana, this is where Lord Rama killed Ravana using the powerful Brahmastra weapon.

The name "Dunuvila" comes from two Sinhala words: "Dunu" meaning arrow and "Vila" meaning lake. It is believed that Lord Rama prepared his divine arrow here before shooting it at Ravana. The place has a peaceful lake, surrounded by lush green forests, making it a serene spot for visitors.

Many people visit Dunuvila to see the lake and feel the connection to the Ramayana legend. The area is known for its natural beauty, and some believe that the water in the lake has spiritual significance.

Why is this place special?
Dunuvila is special because it is believed to be the place where Lord Rama fired the Brahmastra to defeat King Ravana.

Yahangala is a sacred rock formation in Sri Lanka, believed to be connected to King Ravana’s final moments. According to the Ramayana, after Ravana was defeated by Lord Rama, his body was laid to rest on this rock. The name "Yahangala" means "Bed Rock" in Sinhala, symbolizing that it was where Ravana’s body was honored by his followers.

The rock is located in a scenic area, surrounded by mountains and forests. Many visitors and pilgrims come here to pay their respects and experience the peaceful atmosphere. Some locals believe that Ravana’s spirit still protects this place. The view from the top of Yahangala is breathtaking, making it a great place for trekking and nature lovers.

Why is this place special?
Yahangala is special because it is believed to be the place where King Ravana’s body was kept and honored after his death.

Divurumpola is an important site in Sri Lanka, believed to be the place where Sita Devi proved her purity after being rescued by Lord Rama. According to the Ramayana, after Ravana’s defeat, Lord Rama doubted Sita’s chastity since she had been held captive in Lanka. To prove her innocence, Sita performed the Agni Pariksha (trial by fire) at this location. Miraculously, she emerged unharmed, proving her purity and devotion.

Today, Divurumpola is a respected place where many devotees visit to seek blessings. The site has a temple with a peaceful atmosphere, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. It is also a popular location for traditional Buddhist ceremonies. Surrounded by greenery, the temple’s calm setting makes it an ideal place for reflection and prayer.

Why is this place special?
Divurumpola is special because it is believed to be the site where Sita Devi underwent the Agni Pariksha (trial by fire) to prove her purity.

Ravana Waterfalls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka, located near Ella. It is named after King Ravana, who is believed to have ruled Lanka during the time of the Ramayana. According to the legend, Ravana kidnapped Sita Devi and kept her hidden in a cave behind this waterfall. 

This is one of the top Ramayana places in Sri Lanka. This cave, known as Ravana Cave, is still visited by many tourists and devotees today.

The waterfall is around 82 feet (25 meters) high and flows down in multiple streams, creating a breathtaking sight. During the rainy season, the waterfall is at its fullest, making it even more spectacular. Visitors can enjoy the cool mist and take pictures of the scenic surroundings. Some adventurous travelers also climb up to the cave for a better view.

Why is this place special?
Ravana Waterfalls is special because it is believed to be the place where King Ravana hid Sita Devi in a cave behind the waterfall.