Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Travelling along the central highlands of Sri Lanka you are bound to get a glimpse of the breathtaking sight of veils of water cascading down precipices, willing you to stop for a while and enjoy its beauty. Waterfalls are one of Sri Lanka's most treasured natural attractions, continuing to mesmerise both visitors and locals alike. From the mountain peaks that they originate, colossal volumes of rain water hurtle down steep slopes creating one of nature's most wonderful scenes before loosing momentum and streaming along peacefully in to the Indian Ocean; its final resting place.

Bambarakande Falls

Tumbling down a staggering 263 metres, Bambarakande Falls heads the list of waterfalls in Sri Lanka as the tallest waterfall in the country. It is nestled in a forest clearing just 4 miles / 6 kilometres off the Colombo-Bandarawela road. Although, the number of visitors does not do justice to the captivating beauty of Bambarakande Falls, visitors guarantee that it is well worth the trip.

Bopath Waterfall

As the name suggests, this 30-metre fall drops down in three separate cascades, creating the shape of the sacred Bo leaf. A mere three hour drive from the capital Colombo, it is visible on the Agalawatta crossroad, along the Ratnapura road. Bathing at the foot of the fall is not encouraged as there have been a considerable amount of lives lost here.

Devon Waterfall

This unusual waterfall plunges down to the valley below in three continuous cascades, quite close to its brother, the 'St Clairs'. Driving from Colombo via Avissawella, you will catch glimpses of its peculiar formation leading up to the spectacular St Clairs Falls. A modern tea centre is situated directly across the road from this waterfall.

Diyaluma Waterfall

Once believed to be the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, the Diyaluma Falls is formed by a torrent of water dropping down a 200-metre precipice. The Diyaluma or Diya Haluma, meaning 'water-gush' in native tongue, is born from the waters of Poonagala Oya which rises from the Mahakande Pass in Koslanda. It is situated just 6 miles / 10 kilometres from Koslanda and 13 miles / 21 kilometres from Wellawaya and all it takes is a small detour on the way to Haputale to witness this magnificent sight.

Dunhinda Waterfall

'Dun' means mist or steam in Sinhala, and what could be a better example than the breathtaking Dunhinda Falls which create misty garlands along its way downwards. This much talked about waterfall, although no match in its height certainly proves to be a worthy competitor to almost all of the world's famous waterfalls for its sheer splendour. One of the most frequently visited waterfalls in Sri Lanka; Dunhinda Waterfall is situated approximately two kilometres from the main road on the way to Taldena from the remote city of Badulla in the Uva Province. You can catch a glimpse of 'Kuda Dunhinda' on your way, which acts as an initial sign to the greater wonders that follow in the form of the spectacular Dunhinda Waterfall.

Duvili Ella Waterfall

Situated in the area of Kaltota near the Walawe Ganga, Duvili Ella is one of the most unusual waterfalls in Sri Lanka. A 40 metre downpour of gushing water creates droplets that resemble dust particles offering onlookers a truly spectacular sight. What you get to see, unlike in other waterfalls, is a misty haze of dust sparkling in the light.

Kirindi Oya Waterfall

Boasting of its position as the third largest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Kirindi Oya Waterfall plunges down 200 metres, creating heavenly scenes near the tea factory along the Katupitiya road on the way from Ratnapura to Pelmadulla. For a closer look, stroll down the foot path beyond the factory which will lead you directly to the Kirindi Oya Falls.

Lakshapana Waterfall

Renowned for the power plant which is named after it, the magnificent Lakshapana Waterfall is concealed amidst the trees and foliage, a territory hardly visited by man. Waters of the Maskeli Oya feeds this falls and a smaller version is visible to those travelling from Norton Bridge and Maskeliya. For a close view of this natural wonder, you must take the by road towards the Polpitiya power station and seek a little help from the ever-friendly villagers to find the falls.

Mapanana Waterfall

Winding down from a height of about 150 metres, the Mapanana Waterfall is one of Sri Lanka's tallest and most beautiful waterfalls. Located at the base of 'Sri Pada' (Adam's Peak) range, it brings down the pure, icy waters from the springs in Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Getting close to this waterfall is not encouraged as the unassuming visitor may be caught off guard by the sudden rush of water, quite a common scenario especially during the rainy season.

Ravana Ella Waterfall

Featured in the Ravana mythology, where Sita is said to have bathed from this waterfall while she was in captivity, Ravana Ella is a sight to behold with a scenic backdrop of mountains and valleys. It is clearly visible along the main road between Ella and Wellawaya. Originating from the Wewatenna highland, Ravana Ella cascades down in three stages for full nine metres before ambling gently under the bridge.

St Clair Waterfall

Named after a British colonist, St Clair is situated within close proximity to the main road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya and clearly visible from the Main Line rail track near Talawakelle. This imposing mass of water is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Sri Lanka and sadly it is also one of the two falls which are threatened by a proposed hydro-power scheme in the area. For those looking to have a bath can follow one the many footpaths that will lead them to foot of the falls where bathers are seen quite frequently.

The Baker's Waterfall

Located in the Horton Plains quite close to World's End, The Baker's Waterfall gets its water from Belihul Oya. Cascading down in torrents, the veil of water shimmering in sunlight proves to be a scenic contrast to the huge mountains and deep valleys behind. A fortunate few may also come across the rare black monkey and rhododendrons in bloom.

Olu Ella Waterfall

Although it is not one of the famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka, the Olu Ella Waterfall still attracts quite a number of visitors. Located in a remote village called Malalpola off Yatiyantota on the High Level road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya, it enhances the rural panorama of the village. Formed by a number of cascades this waterfall finally flows under a wooden bridge along the road. A soft drizzle is to be expected during the season when the air is cooler and the surrounding area is covered in lush greenery.

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