Waterfalls of Sri Lanka Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
 

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka

Bambarakanda Falls


Diyaluma Falls


Dunhinda Falls


St.Clairs Falls


Laxapana Falls


Aberdeen Falls


Devon Falls


Rawana Falls


Alupola Ella


Bopath Ella


Lovers Leap Falls


Mawanella Ella


Bakersfalls Falls


Elgin Falls


Bridal Falls


Parawella Falls


Ramboda Falls


Kirindi Ella Falls


Makeli Ella Falls


Densinen Falls


Huluganga Falls


Galdola Falls


Mapana Falls


Olu Falls


Galdola Falls


Rikille Ella


Wadakada Waterfall


Galagediyana Ella Falls


Hellboda Ella Falls


Poona Oya Falls


Devathura Ella Falls


Gerandi Ella Falls


 

 

 

 

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Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
   

 

 

Waterfalls

 

A The island is blessed with 103 rivers and streams radiating from the central hills, rushing down rocky precipices forming a number of roaring waterfalls of various shapes and heights, all ending up loosing the momentum at the Indian Ocean. Here are some of the most picturesque waterfalls, out of which only a few can be viewed with ease, where as the others can only be seen by penetrating thick forests and tea plantations.

 

The mountains of Sri Lanka abound with waterfalls of exquisite beauty. Numbering more than hundred and many of them are virtually unknown, hidden away in forest or approached by steps and remote tea plantation tracks. In fact for it's size Sri Lanka has recorded water falls than another country.Sri Lanka's numerous rivers, fed by two half yearly monsoons, with topography of high and steeply scarped pen plains, and river beds of hard erosion-resistant metamorphic rock, all provide ideal ingredient for the formation of waterfalls.

 

 

Bambarakanda Falls :

The highest waterfall in Sri Lanka (865 feet), which is at it`s peak capacity during September and October. It is however, a wet season fall. A glorious spectacle from October to March when heavy rains turn it in to an impressive, unbroken deluge. The main access to the falls is along a minor but mortable road via Haputale and Kalupahana. Kalupahana is 22 km from Balangoda or 32 km from Wellawaya. From Kalupahana proceeding 3 km along a narrow road through Weerakoongama you come to the gorgeous waterfall.

   

Diyaluma Falls:

Diyaluma You will find the 2nd highest waterfall. Diyaluma means Watery light. Diyaluma , is another spectacular sight spilling over a straight rock wall. 722 ft in height. It is 13 km from Wellawaya town and 6 km from Koslanda in the Hills and seen like a soft veil, is seen from the Balangoda  Wellawaya highway too. Legend says that Gods, seeing the heart break of a prince whose runaway romance ended in the death of his sweetheart whom he had tried haul over the Diyaluma precipice, created this beautiful cascade to weep forever in the wilderness.

   

Dunhinda Falls:

Dunhinda To see the breathtaking beauty of Dunhinda falls(210 feet), you have to travel about 5 Km from Badulla along the Mahiyangana road, and walk for another 2 Km (trekking) away from the main road. On the way can be seen the "Kuda Dunhinda" ( "Kuda" means small in Sinhala ) which is the prologue to its mighty brother . In native tongue "Dun" means mist or vapour which is the ideal explanation for a waterfall creating wreathes of mist on its way down.

   

St. Claire Falls:

The widest waterfall in Sri Lanka, about 265 feet high. St.Clairs falls are close to the main road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya and can well be seen from the Main Line rail track close to Talawakelle. It falls down in two cascades and is an inviting site for regular bathers because it is fairly easily reachable from a footpath (actually there are many) downhill through green tea shrubbery. Named after a British colonist, these are one of two waterfalls threatened by a proposed hydro-power scheme in the area.

   

Laxapana Falls:

At Kotalatenne village, about two kilometres from Norton Bridge is the 377 feet high-waterfall that literally lights up the country. It is formed by the waters of Maskeli Oya which flows from Indikatupana in Sri Pada (Adams Peak). Known in ancient times as Veddahiti Ella, it is better known today as Laxapana (a hundred thousand lamps) its gigantic power generates electricity for the island. Laxapana fall is 377 feet high.  Laxapana falls is the Forth highest waterfall of Sri Lanka and it's situated in the former Aberdeen estate.

   

Aberdeen Falls:

A mere 5 Km away from Laxapana you will find the 322 feet high Aberdeen Falls. The falls is accessible via Ginigathhena, located at the Colombo - Hatton main Road. This waterfall is found below the Castlereigh Reservoir on the grounds of the former Aberdeen Estate. The Aberdeen Falls are notable for the three cascades that plunge past a rock wall containing water-hewn caves into a large, deep pool set within big boulders.

   

Devon Falls:

Visitors to the Tea country get the opportunity of viewing it. 318 ft in height and viewing place for this lovely falls is from the 20th milepost on the Talawakelle - Nawalapitiya main road. Devon Falls and St.Clairs Falls are visible from the famous Dimbulla valley, which is internationally popular for Ceylon tea.

   

Rawana Falls:

Rawana Falls Visible from the Ella-Wellawaya road, near Udunuwara village. A popular stopover for travelers.  Although the main drop is 30 ft in height, it's a wide fall and the water rushes over several steps adding to it' beauty. Ravana falls is closely linked in legend with the great epic of the east. Ramayanaya. It's name is from Ravana, The powerful demon king who once ruled SriLanka. The cave hidden behind the fall is still believed by many to be one of the places where he hide the beautiful princess, Seeta, after her abduction from India.

   

Alupola Ella:

Alupola Ella, the 200 feet high fall is to be found 25 Km away from Ratnapura in the Wewalwatte village. It is yet another picturesque waterfall  located in the midst of a tea plantation in the Wewalwatte village.

   

Bopath Ella:

The water falls 100 feet in the shape of a Bo leaf. When you travel along the Colombo-Ratnapura highway, turn at Higasthenna junction and drive along the Agalawatte road up to Devapahala village to see Bopath Ella. Bopath Ella", not like many of the others of her kind , finds her abode in a busy surrounding in the Devipahala Village off Kuruwita on A4 High Level road close to Ratnapura. Being within 3 hours driving distance from the capital, it thus claims the honour of having the highest turn-over of enthusiasts seeking respite from the grimy and monotonous town life .Nevertheless, it has the notorious reputation of devouring its visitors off and on who , attracted by the surroundings ,indulge in over-enjoyment .Here again, the falls take the shape of a "Bo" leave ( "Bo" tree is a sacred tree here ) from which the name has been derived.

   

The Lovers Leap:

The Lovers Leap, the 100 feet high Lovers Leap begins it`s journey as a fountain at the Southern slope of Sri Lanka`s highest mountain Pidurutalagala. The falls can be seen from the town Nuwara Eliya. It is one of the many picturesque waterfalls found throughout Sri Lanka's Central Province. Only a few of them can be viewed with ease.

 

   

Mawanella Ella:

The Ho Oya, which begins on the southern slope of Muwan Pola mountain, forms into Mawanella Ella, located in the Lunuwatta village - 35 km from Nuwara Eliya towards Udapussellawa and another 13 km towards the Napola Gap. According to folklore, ancient King Manawamma had hidden a treasure in the cave behind the Mawanella falls, the waters of which flow into the Mahaweli River.

   

Bakers Falls:

The Baker's Falls in the Horton Plains gets its water from the Belihul Oya. It is close to the famous World's End. The icy waters glisten in the sunshine amid a backdrop of mountain terrain and deep valleys and the patna through which you traverse give it contrast. If you are lucky you may see the rare black monkey and rhododendrons in bloom. Discovered by Sir Samuel Baker and a good stopover on your way to the World`s end.

   

Elgin Falls:

Railway between Nanu Oya and Ambewela offers a panoramic view of the 75 feet high Elgin Falls which can be reached after a short trek, through tea gardens and the rugged country.

   

Bridal Falls:

The winding highway to the Nuwara Eliya plateau offers a memorable view of Bridal Falls - a ground water leap flowing from the mountain stream, Girindi Ela. The falls resemble a bridal veil, while dropping over the rock face.

 
   

Sera Ella Falls:

This is a small water fall found in Reverstern area near Matale.

This is situated closer to the borders of Knuckles Mountain Range.

   

Perawella Falls:

The Dulugala Oya, born in the wilds of Pidurutalagala, flows through a gorge, on its way to join the Uma Oya - the main waterway - before plunging over a 90 meter-precipice. There it becomes the Perawella Falls, set amidst awe-inspiring natural beauty.Perawella.

 
   

Ramboda Falls:

Can be seen from the Ramboda bazaar on the Nuwara Eliya-Ramboda Road is the Ramboda falls, originating from the Puna Ela - one of the principal tributaries of the Mahaweli River. To the east of Ramboda is the Muhalkele Valley, through which flows the Kurundu Oya - the source of Kurundu Oya falls. Kurundu Oya is crossed by the Kandy-Ragala Road.

   

Kirindi Falls:

A difficult to reach fall. Said to be the 3rd highest fall in SL.The delightful Kirindi Falls, 383 feet high, is situated on the Kirindi Ella. This river has numerous sources at Kuttapitiya kande and flows into the Denewak Ganga, a tributary of the mighty Kalu Ganga. The Kirindi Falls can be reached by taking the A4 from Ratnapura to Pelmadulla. About ½ a kilometre before the outskirts of Pelmadulla is a junction to Kuttapitiya. This road leads to a tea factory, from where the falls can be seen. The waterfall can be reached by a kilometre-long footpath through delightful marsh and meadow.

   

Makeli Ella

Situated near Molkawa, in the Kalutara district, Mekeli Ella is another beautiful waterfall that can be compared to any other famous waterfall in Sri Lanka, because of its jaw-dropping beauty. Since it's located in the wet zone, Makeli Ella is blessed with water around the year. An observation platform was built here, capturing the most picturesque scenery of the waterfall. Travelers can proceed via the Mathugama/Agalawatta road to Lathpandura and then take the Malkava road to visit Makeli Ella.

 

   

Dunsinen Falls

Situauted in the "Dunsinen Tea Estate, and can be reached easily on your way to Nuwara Eliya Off the PunduluOya road in the Dansinen. This is one of the falls which is so close to the main road.

 

 

   

Huluganga Falls

Huluganga Falls, just 28 Kms from Knady, situated in the Kandy Wathupitiwala Road. Huluganga Falls (75m in height) is one of many created by the stream originating from the Knuckles mountain range. The cascading water sprinkles the villages of Elliyadda and Aratthana, before flowing to the Victoria Reservoir. It is popular with both local and foreign visitors and villagers regard it as part of their Dumbara heritage.

   

Hunnas Falls

A man made waterfall close to Kandy, the Last Kingdom of Sri Lanka. It is about 60m (200ft) in height and plunges over a steep rock from an artificial lake made by the famous "Hunnas Tourist Hotel".

   

Thudugalla Ella Falls

This is a water fall close to Kalutara, in the vicinity of Dodangoda, a town off Galle road at Katukurunda. It is actually situated in the Thudugala village. A very beautiful fall, plunges over several ledges mimicking a vale of a bride. It is about 15m (50ft) height and provides a beautiful bathing location.

   

Galdola Ella Falls

Galdola falls can be seen in the Sinharaja Forest, in the Rakwana Mountain Range. The fall is 328 feet in height and nourished by the springs in the Sinharaja Virgin Forest.

 
   

Mapanana Ella
Mapanana Falls" found at the foot of the "Sri Pada"( Adam's Peak ) range are one of the tallest and the most beautifully formed falls meandering its way down from a height about 150 meteres. Carrying cooly and crystal clear waters from the springs where they are born in the Peak Wilderness Sanctuary this fall is difficult to get near to due to many reasons,the hazard of sudden gushes of water during especially, rainy seasons,being one of them.

 

 

Olu Ella
This is situated in a remote village called Malalpola off Yatiyantota on the High Level road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya. Dancing its way through several cascades before finding its way under a wooden bridge along the road, this waterfall adds to the rustic scenery of the village . Not very famous among the people here, it still attracts a considerable number of people going there informed by locals. During the periods when the foliage gets covered by lush greenary and the air gets cooly one is greeted with a momentary drizzle when traversing the wooden planks of the bridge.

 

 

Rikille Ella
Bulathkohupitiya is a small town hidden among the mountains of the hill country. From there , a motorable road leads through hair pin bends to Dedugala. On the way can be seen this waterfall in a very serene landscape . Where it originates and whither it flows , unknown to me. In Sinhalese Rikilla means branch of a tree , and Rikille stands for its possesive noun.

   

Rukmal Waterfall
On the same way to Dedugala, this small but attractive Rukmal fall dances down a granite slope very close to the road. The area is not much disturbed by sounds except the perpetual rhythm of this beauty which has harped its tone to the singing of birds and rustle of leaves since time immemorial.

   

Wadakada Waterfall
Wadakada is a typical rural Sri Lankan village encompassed between two highways which connect Colombo to the city of Kurunegala. There lived a poet called Wadakada Navaratne who shared the unspoilt beauty and calmness in his village with many a stranger through his ever-remembered poems which begins to linger and echo in one's ears as one steps into this far away place

   

Galagediyana Ella Falls
This water fall is very close to Colombo can be reached off Dedigama - where the famous Kotavehera Dagaba. If travel from Kotavehera to Stripura (where palace queens were hidden in times of war)- a cave temple with a magnificent stone arch- and then alone the same road to Kegalle.

   

Hellboda Ella Falls
This is by the side of A-5 trunk route Kandy to N'Eliya east of Pussellawa.
It is about 60m (197ft) when both parts taken together and a very attractive yet simple water fall. It is by the side of the road and one can almost descends to the foot of the fall.

   

Poona Oya Falls:
In the same location as above (at Ramboda Inn), there are about 5 waterfalls descending down to make the Kothmale river. One of them is "Poona Oya Ella Falls" which is actually a twin fall. It is about 100m (330ft) and both falls about 4m away from each other. This is seen from A-5 road at 53km post and there is an observation site there.

   

Devathura Ella Falls
This also consists of three falls and the lowest which is close to the road at the "ramboda pass", is shown in the photo. it is about 10m (33ft) in height. If the weather permits one can see the rest within the jungle above the fall.

   

Hathmale Ella Falls
These majestic seven storey ( hence "Hath Male" in Sinhala ) falls are situated in the village called Pallegama via Deniyaya around 125 miles from Colombo. Popular among locals for the bathing facility that it offers.

   

Gerandi Ella Falls
A 100m (330ft) waterfall very close to the "Ramboda Fall" plunges to the same "Ramboda basin". You can see, there it's upper part was covered with fog and yet a very attractive scenery

   

Ada Ella Falls
This is just beyond Kitul Ella Falls. The fall is seen best on the bridge over the stream, but it plunges from the top of the mountains in several cascades and not visible due to the thick scrub. Local people believe of an eel with golden ear rings inhabits this tiny waterfall and it's stream to this day!!. The name "Ada" means eel in Sinhala.

   

We-Oya Ella Falls
There are two falls plunging into the same stream in the thick jungle, seen from the road from Yatiyanthota to Pahala (lower) Palanpitiya.It is about 20m (66ft), but provides an eye-fiesta due to the total scenario.

   

Kithul Ella Falls
This 15m (50ft), waterfall is by the side of road to Palanpitiya (same as above) at Malalpola.It's water joins to the We Oya.
Our first sighting of the Gorok Ella was from this place.

   

Gorok Ella Falls
Along the same road towards Palanpitiya, this beautiful and mystic water fall can be seen within the thick jungle. It is about 20m (66ft) tall and flows down to We Oya.

   

Surathalee Ella Falls
This 20m (66ft) water fall can be seen 8km off Belihul Oya along the A-4 trunk road.The fall can be seen as a long stream running down along an angled rock rather than a fall.The word "Surathalee" means as charming as a playful mistress.... exactly suits the purpose.

 

 

Hadun Ella Falls
In Sinhala "Hadun" means sandal wood. We don't know whether there was a sandal forest close by or any smell from the water !!. Still it is called Hadun Ella. This is not easily reached. Closer by is the famous "Belli Lena" caves {where "the 15,000yr history" of Sri Lankan were hidden}.If you want to recah the fall ask the guidance from a residence. Beware of false guiders. It is 30m tall and joins Kelani ganga.

   

Mannakethi Ella Falls
"Manna" means knives. "Kethi" means hatchet. People use to wash their tools in this falls and thus came the name. This is a beautiful fall of about 60m (197ft)..I was able to get a view from the opposite mountain.....the rock over which the fall plunges is not as hard as it should be and thus one can see the erosion in the bed.....in several million years this fall may not exit due to that.

   

Dehena Ella Falls
This is along the country road (good motorable road) from Rathnapura to Alupolla. It is a 40m (131ft) tall.
The fall is just by the side of road and a good site for bathing. The bath in the pool just beneath the fall is a memorable event but there is a danger of drowning and BE CAREFUL.



 

 

 

St. Claire Falls
(
Widest Waterfall in Sri Lanka)

The widest waterfall in Sri Lanka, about 265 feet high. St.Clairs falls are close to the main road from Avissawella to Nuwara-Eliya and can well be seen from the Main Line rail track close to Talawakelle.

 

Bambarakanda Falls

The Highest Waterfall in Sri Lanka

The highest waterfall in Sri Lanka (865 feet), which is at it`s peak capacity during September and October. The main access to the falls is along a minor but mortable road via Haputale & Kalupahana. Kalupahana is 22 km from Balangoda or 32 km from Wellawaya. From Kalupahana proceeding 3 km along a narrow road through Weerakoongama

 
 

Sri Lankan Waterfalls

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