Caving Tour in Sri Lanka

Caving Tour In Sri Lanka

Speleology is a recreational activity of exploring caves. It is a scientific study of caves, how they made-up, structure, physical features, history and its life form.

Speleology is a recreational activity of exploring caves. It is a scientific study of caves, how they made-up, structure, physical features, history and its life form. Sri Lanka has a great history with caves. This is a once in a life time experience which involves mapping, photographing, surveying and exploring of hidden caves in the island as the word ‘Speleology’ describes. The most famous being Batadomba Cave at Balangoda, attributed to the “Balangoda man” a prehistoric man whose skeletal remains were uncovered inside this cave. At present, some of these mysterious cave have been converted into Buddhist Temples or hermitages in Sri Lanka. Eventhough this caving is relatively new to Sri Lanka, the island has many caves to be explored some even date back to approximately 500 million years. Take an opportunity to be a part of this unusual experience of finding prehistoric features on a holiday in Ceylon!

Batatotalena Cave

Located 85km from Colombo at Sudagala, about 5 km away from Kuruwita, has been used as a dwelling place and it dates back over 25,000 years. This has been used as a dwelling place during many historical eras as per the archeological findings while Skeletal remains, ancient cave drawings and painting, a Buddhist shrine room and a Devalaya has been excavated here. Apart from that, Buddhist literature states Batatotalena as a sacred place where Lord Buddha rested on his way back from Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak).

Walk around 400m and reach the base where climb starts. The cave is heigh in 50 feet. To add more worth to your cave expedition, head to explore the underground cave which is located about 30m away from the main site. It is partly submerged in a stream and to see the real place, you will have to swim

Batatotalena Cave

Belilena Cave

Located in picturesque area of Kitulgala, Belilena cave is one of the largest caves in Sri Lanka. Evidence shows that this site had a prehistoric human presence as early as 32,000 years ago and some of the unearthed several fossils probably occupied by the Balangoda man has been found here. You may encounter colorful butterflies and hundreds of bats residence in this cave’s cool interior.

Belilana cave

Batadombalena Cave

A must visit cave in Sri Lanka! Batadombalena Cave is situated in close proximity to Kuruwita, which is about 90 kilometers away from Colombo. This has been the home of the prehistoric ‘Balangoda Man’ or Homo sapiens balangodensis, as the remains revealed. Further, various land and fresh water shells which date back over 28000 BC and stone tools that are interpreted as arrow and carefully shaped for hunting has also been uncovered here. You can find this archeological treasure trove behind a gently cascading waterfall, and it creates mesmerizing scene with the soft breeze of the wind.

batadombalena cave

Waulpane Cave

Waulpane cave is also named as the ‘Cave of Bats’, as hundreds of thousands of bats call it as their home! Located in the
astern foothills of the Sinharaja range and renowned for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites which are approximately 500 million years old. You may discover a prehistoric world with ancient fossils in the cavern walls. This cave is one of the only limestone caves of Sri Lanka and it has a beautiful internal waterfall which provide habitats to water monitors, amphibians and fish species too.

Waulpane cave<br />

Mahalenama Cave

Located between Kumana and Lahugala-Kithulana, Mahalenama Cave is a very different cave than others. It was inhibited by “Nittaewo” the strange lost race in Sri Lanka. There are some controversies as to the identity of this folk but most of them identify as ape-man who is nearly one meter in height, hairy bodied, short, and dagger claws with great length and strength.

Mahalena cave

Pannila Calcarious Cave

This cave is a home to a wide variety of fishes, butterflies, birds, reptiles and bats. You will feel you step into an underground zoo. The Cave has two main caves situated near an enchanting waterfall. The prehistory of this caves are estimated to be around 500 million years old and has some smaller caves as well containing ancient stalagmites and stalactites.

Pannila cave<br />

Andirilena Cave

You can visit Andirilena Cave while you are in the southern coast. It is about 4km form Udugama in Galle District. The space of inside is huge even though the entrance is very small. There are two tunnels dividing the main cave and those funnels guide to few more caves. After 500m these two tunnels joining back together

Andirilena cave

Ravana Ella Cave

Located about 2km away from famous city Ella. Quite a small cave comparing to other caves in Sri Lanka. History says that this cave is used by King Ravana to hide the Princess Sita same as the Sthripura cave. And it is believed that this cave is connected with cities / dairy farms & airports by Kind Ravana. The man-made tunnels proves that this cave had been used to transport through the hills and as a secret passage.

Ravana ella cave

Bogoda Ella Cave

The history says that Bogoda Cave has been used by a Sri Lankan king called Walagamba as one of his hide outs from South Indian forces. King Walagamba had many invading from South Indian Forces during the ancient times, so he used this cave as a network to other caves through tunnels. He was able to move to other hideouts such as the Narangala mountain cave, Dowa rock temple at Bandarawela and Rawana Ella cave in Ella. But as the time passes the tunnels have been covered by dense vegetation and earth over the years.

Bogoda Cave

Pahiyangala Ella Cave

Located about 40km away from Colombo in a village called Yatagampitiya, Pahiyangala Cave is the largest cave in Sri Lanka. This is also known as Fa-Hien Lena and one of the largest natural rock formations in all of Asia. The prehistoric remains of this cave go back to 37 000 years while those were one of the region’s oldest prehistoric human settlements

Pahiyangala

Sthripura Cave

Located in a village called Kiriwanagama which is 16km away from Welimada. According to the Great Ramayanaya, legend, it is believed that this cave had been used by Kind Ravana to hide princess Sita who was the princess of Prince Rama of India. Kind Ravana was abducted Pricess Sita after defeating Price Rama and the legend says that he kept her in this cave.

Speak to Team Blue Lanka to get a carefully curated package including these treasury caves or add any of these impressive caves to your itinerary on hand!

Sthripura Cave

Journey Highlights

  • Uncovering Hidden Depths: Explore the captivating unknown, unveiling the intriguing depths of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural wonders.
  • Wildlife Encounters in Udawalawe National Park: Experience thrilling safaris amidst Udawalawe National Park’s stunning landscapes, encountering diverse wildlife along the way.
  • Canoeing at Samanala Wewa: Glide serenely across the tranquil waters of Samanala Wewa by canoe, immersing yourself in breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Exploring Prehistoric Sri Lanka: Journey into Sri Lanka’s ancient past with visits to historic sites like Batatotalena Cave and Waulpane Cave, steeped in mystery and heritage.
  • Encountering Mythical Tales: Uncover the mythical tales of Sita and Ravana as you visit the enchanting Ravana Ekka Waterfall and its hidden cave, immersed in legend and lore.

Insightful Tips for Adventure Seekers

  • Trekking at Knuckles Mountain Range: Prepare for an exhilarating trek through rugged terrain, ensuring sturdy footwear and ample supplies for the journey.
  • White Water Rafting: Gear up for an adrenaline-pumping adventure, navigating thrilling rapids and cascading waters for an unforgettable experience.
  • Hiking Little Adam’s Peak: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a scenic hike to the summit, where breathtaking panoramas await as your reward.
  • Exploring Coral Reefs: Dive into the vibrant underwater world, exploring the stunning beauty of coral reefs and marveling at diverse marine life beneath the surface.

FAQ

Q. Is it possible to visit Belilena Caves by bicycles?

Yes, it is possible.

Q. How many steps are there in Dambulla Caves Temple?

There are 364 steps.

Q. Can we customize an itinerary including some interesting caves?

Yes, our travel consultants are always ready to customize a wonderful caving tour itinerary for you.

Q. Will you provide a tour guide for the tours?

Yes, of course you will be accompanying by one of our best chauffeur guides throughout the tours.