From Ella -: Explore Blue Water Pond Cave (Nildiya Pokuna )

Tucked away in the picturesque hills near Ella, the Blue Water Pond Cave, also known as Nildiya Pokuna, beckons adventurous travelers. This natural marvel offers a thrilling exploration, where visitors can descend into its depths and enjoy the refreshing, azure waters. Guided by knowledgeable locals, explorers uncover the cave’s rich history and legendary tales, adding to the allure of this unique experience. From the challenging descent to the serene swim, the Blue Water Pond Cave promises an unforgettable adventure that captivates the senses and leaves one eager to delve deeper into its captivating secrets.

Key Points

• Set out on a 4-hour private group adventure to explore the mystical Blue Water Pond Cave (Nildiya Pokuna) near Ella.
• Enjoy a 45-minute black cab ride from Haputale, Bandarawela, or Ella to reach the cave and engage in activities like photography, visiting, and swimming.
• Challenge yourself with a 1-hour descent to reach the refreshing blue waters, where you can swim and learn about the cave’s historical significance from a local guide.
• Ensure safety with provided equipment like helmets, life jackets, and headlamps, as well as a first-aid-trained guide to accompany you.
• Discover the cave’s connections to legendary figures like King Ravana and Goddess Sita, enhancing the mystical and cultural appeal of the adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This excursion allows visitors to explore the captivating Blue Water Pond Cave (Nildiya Pokuna) situated near the town of Ella, offering a unique and refreshing experience.

Lasting approximately 4 hours, the activity provides a private group experience with an English-speaking guide.

Visitors can save up to 5% on the cost, which ranges from $41.25 to $39.19 per person.

The trip also features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Visitors will have the opportunity to take photos, visit, and swim in the blue waters of the pond, seeing the natural beauty of this hidden gem.

Itinerary and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from three convenient locations: Haputale, Bandarawela, and Ella. Participants then embark on a 45-minute black cab ride to reach the Nildiya Pokuna, or Blue Water Pond Cave. Once there, the main activities include a photo stop, a visit, a walk, and a refreshing swim, which lasts approximately 2 hours. At the end of the adventure, participants are dropped off at the same three locations.

Pickup Locations	Transportation	Main Activities	Duration	Drop-off Locations
Haputale	45-minute black cab ride	Photo stop, visit, walk, swimming	2 hours	Haputale
Bandarawela	to Nildiya Pokuna			Bandarawela
Ella				Ella

Exploring Blue Water Pond Cave

Upon arrival at the Nildiya Pokuna, or Blue Water Pond Cave, visitors embark on a challenging descent of about one hour to reach the serene blue water pond.

Along the way, they’ll be equipped with safety gear like helmets, life jackets, and headlamps, ensuring a secure exploration.

Once at the pond, the refreshing, clear water invites a dip, providing a rejuvenating experience.

The local guide, trained in first aid, accompanies the group, sharing insights into the cave’s historical and cultural significance.

Legends tell of King Ravana and Goddess Sita’s association with the site, as well as rumors of an underground palace complex with connecting tunnels, guarded by the Police Special Task Force.

Safety Measures and Precautions

To ensure the safety and well-being of participants, the tour operator employs a range of precautionary measures during the Blue Water Pond Cave exploration.

Helmets, life jackets, and headlamps are provided to protect explorers during the challenging one-hour descent to the pond. A local guide trained in first aid accompanies the group, ready to respond to any emergencies.

The tour also includes a first aid kit, ensuring immediate access to essential medical supplies if needed.

These safety measures combined with the refreshing experience of swimming in the clear blue waters of the pond make for a thrilling yet secure adventure for visitors to Nildiya Pokuna.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Historical and Cultural Significance

Beyond the safety precautions, the Blue Water Pond Cave holds significant historical and cultural importance.

According to legend, the cave is associated with King Ravana and Goddess Sita, hinting at its role in ancient times.

Explorers believe the cave was once part of an underground palace complex, with several tunnels connecting it to other notable sites like the Bogoda Rajamaha Viharaya and Dowa Rajamaha Viharaya.

Rumors abound of a throne and crown protected by the Police Special Task Force, further adding to the cave’s mystique.

This historical and cultural significance, coupled with the stunning natural beauty of the blue water pond, makes the Blue Water Pond Cave a captivating destination for adventurous travelers.

What to Bring and Wear

Participants should bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and a waterproof camera to get the most out of the Blue Water Pond Cave exploration. The challenging descent and immersion in the refreshing, clear waters require proper attire and equipment.

What to Bring	Why
Comfortable Shoes	For the hike and descent
Swimwear	To enjoy the blue water pond
Change of Clothes	To change after swimming
Towel	To dry off after swimming
Waterproof Camera	To capture the stunning scenery

Bringing the recommended items will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the Blue Water Pond Cave near Ella.

Participant Suitability

The Blue Water Pond Cave exploration isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to the challenging descent and terrain. This caving adventure requires a moderate level of physical fitness and agility.

Participants should be prepared for a steep, hour-long descent to reach the stunning blue water pond. Safety equipment like helmets, life jackets, and headlamps are provided, and a first aid-trained guide accompanies the group.

However, those with mobility issues or other medical concerns may find the trek and potential swimming too strenuous. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring along a change of clothes, towel, and waterproof camera to fully enjoy this unique natural wonder near Ella, Sri Lanka.

Guest Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Blue Water Pond Cave exploration, with an impressive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

Guests have highlighted three key aspects that make this adventure so special:

• The friendly and knowledgeable local guide who kept the group safe and engaged throughout the experience.

• The refreshing swim in the crystal-clear blue waters, which provided a welcome respite from the heat.

• The sense of adventure and exploration, as visitors descended into the cave and uncovered its fascinating history and legends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cave Open Year-Round for Visitors?

The Blue Water Pond Cave (Nildiya Pokuna) is open year-round for visitors, though the best time to visit may vary depending on weather conditions. Visitors should check with local authorities for any seasonal restrictions or updates.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Visit the Cave?

The best time to visit the Blue Water Pond Cave is in the morning, as it’s cooler and less crowded. The midday sun can make the descent more challenging, and the cave is less busy earlier in the day.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Visitors per Group?

The activity has a private group experience, but the maximum group size is not specified. The tour guide can accommodate a reasonable number of participants while ensuring their safety and providing a personalized experience during the cave exploration.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Visit Beyond the 2-Hour Activity?

The duration of the visit can be extended beyond the 2-hour activity, but this would need to be arranged with the tour operator. Additional fees may apply for an extended stay at the Blue Water Pond Cave.

Are Any Special Permits Required to Explore the Cave Tunnels?

Special permits are required to explore the rumored cave tunnels, as they are reportedly protected by the Police Special Task Force due to the presence of a throne and crown within. Access to these areas is restricted for safety and preservation reasons.

Recap

Embarking on the exhilarating journey to explore the enchanting Blue Water Pond Cave from Ella is a must-do activity.

Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural beauty, dive into the refreshing blue waters, and uncover the fascinating legends of King Ravana and Goddess Sita.

With comprehensive safety measures in place, this adventure offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: