A Guide to Chasing Waterfalls in Sri Lanka 🇱🇰💧

Diyaluma Falls

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One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, Diyaluma Waterfall stands at a staggering 220 meters. Hike up the waterfall to find 5-6 bathing pools, smaller waterfalls, and even a rock to cliff jump!

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Gartmore Falls

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Situated in Maskeliya Town, this stunning two-tier waterfall features not only a dramatic 30-metre drop but a natural infinity pool that you can bathe in.

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Baker's Falls

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Located in the Horton Plains National Park, the stunning waterfall is on the hike towards the Worlds End viewpoint. Visiting the falls involves a 9km hike on a man-built stone road, so be prepared for a hilly ascent. Also, note that swimming in the pool is prohibited and out of bounds.

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Bopath Falls

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A natural swimming pool, this bo-leave shaped waterfall, is a perfect place to relax, take a dip and enjoy, and is a must-visit spot on your way to Rathnapura or Ella.

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Laxapana Falls

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Sri Lanka's 8th-highest waterfall, this waterfall is surrounded by lush, green scenery. The best part - low crowds. It is a bit difficult to get to the bottom, but it is easy to get to the top of the waterfall which gives you beautiful views of the surroundings.

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Devon Falls

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Known as Sri Lanka's 'veil of the vale', Devon Falls can be seen from the viewpoint located on the Nuwara Eliya-Hatton road. Since the waterfall is located on private land, it is inaccessible to the public. Alternatively, you can admire the beauty of the falls while sipping a cup of Ceylon Tea at the nearby Melsna Tea Centre.

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Kadiyanlena Waterfall

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With three cascades, this stunning waterfall has natural pools at the bottom of the top two cascades. These can be reached by foot and enjoy a swim in the chilled pool down the way. However, bathing is not recommended during the rainy monsoon season, but it is still worth watching from the side of the road. It is located on alongside the Nawalapitiya-Thalawakale main road.

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Lanka Ella - Waterfall

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Lanka Ella Falls is a hidden waterfall, unspoiled by human activities due to its remote location. This fall is located about 1 km away from Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, Bambarakanda Fall and is only on foot. Since the base of the waterfall is very deep, bathing is not recommended here.

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Aberdeen Waterfall

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Located nearby Laxapana, this 98 meters tall waterfall is a perfect spot to take a refreshing dip. The boulders surrounding the fall are great for climbing and exploring the nature.

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Bomburu Ella Waterfall

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Sri Lanka's widest waterfall, getting to Bomburu Ella involves a slightly tough uphill hike (not recommended for babies, the elderly, and those with bad fitness levels). However, the hike is worth it to witness the stunning waterfall. It can get crowded, so it is recommended to go early. There is also a base pool where you can take a refreshing dip.

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Ravana Waterfall

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Near the charming town of Ella, Ravana Waterfall is easily accessible, attracting many visitors. The inviting pools beneath the falls tempt you for a dip, promising a revitalizing experience amidst nature's splendor.

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Bambarakanda Falls

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Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall, Bambarakanda Falls is accessible via a moderate trek. The falls command awe-inspiring views. While the water's chilly temperatures discourage bathing, the surrounding vistas and refreshing atmosphere make the visit truly memorable.

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Lover's Leap Waterfall

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Hidden amidst lush Sri Lankan landscapes, Lovers Leap Falls beckons with its tranquil allure. A moderate hike unveils this secluded gem, where you can bask in its natural beauty and feel the mist on your skin. Though not recommended for swimming, the ambiance makes for an enchanting escape.

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Dunhinda Waterfall

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Located 5 km from Badulla town, this fall is known for its smoky-looking misty spray. It is also known as bridal falls for the mist’s resemblance to a bridal veil. The hike to the top of the fall takes about 45 minutes, and there is an entrance fee.

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Gerandi Ella Falls

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Kirindi Ella Waterfall

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Kirindi Ella is one of the most remote, hard-to-reach waterfalls in Sri Lanka. This breathtaking, 116 m-high Kirindi Ella fall is hidden among the lush vegetation in Kuttapitiya mountain. Although it is difficult to get to, the beauty and gorgeous surroundings make it a worth while visit when around Ratnapura.

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Galboda Falls

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A hidden gem, the Galboda Falls can be found by following a 2km trail along with a tea estate, from the Galboda Railway Station. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Sri Lankan countryside, and feel the warmth of unspoiled Sri Lankan villages on this hike. You can also take a refreshing dip in the cold water of the base pool - the morning is the best time (although be careful of the pits in the water).

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Ramboda Falls

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A three-tiered waterfall, the lowest and least impressive (but still beautiful) part of the fall can be seen from the Kandy-Nuwara Eliya Highhway. To get the first tier (the most beautiful), you would have to take a hike for about 2km - definitely worth it!

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Huluganga Ella Waterfall

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This 75-metre tall waterfall is located in Hulunganga - a rural part of the Knuckles mountain range. Although quite remote and difficult to get to, you will be greeted by crystal-clear base pool (not recommended for swimming), cool air, and stunning scenery.

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Tips for Chasing Waterfalls 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when chasing waterfalls in Sri Lanka:

✔️ Beware of leeches - always check your arms and legs for leeches. Although they aren't dangerous, they carry bacteria that can make you sick. 

✔️Carry a rain jacket (especially if you're visiting during the rainy season)

✔️ Wear strong, sturdy hiking shoes (especially if you plan to hike up to a waterfall).

✔️ The best time to visit is between December and May.✔️Carry water bottles, especially in more remote waterfalls, and the chances of finding shops are low.

✔️ If the waterfall prohibits bathing, DO NOT BATHE. ✔️ Do not leave litter and rubbish. Collect everything before you leave.✔️ Do not light fires (especially if you are camping around the area). Otherwise make sure you put the fire before leaving.✔️ Enjoy and make beautiful memories.

There you have it!

Sri Lanka is filled with some gorgeous waterfalls. Although we've only mentioned 19 waterfalls, Sri Lanka has so much more that you might come across during your travels. Some other waterfalls to check out include St.Clairs Falls, Dumbara Ella, and  Kolapathana Waterfall. 

While some of these falls on the list are easy to access, and are popular tourist attractions, some are extremely remote and totally worth the time, energy, and cost to visit. 

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