Sri Lanka’s landscape is sprinkled with innumerable waterfalls that tell their tale
through falling water and misty ambiance. Such natural beauty includes massive falls
in the central highlands and hidden falls in the denser forest, showcasing the pristine
natural beauty of the island.
These waterfalls provide memorable experiences that help depict the various ecological heritage of Sri Lanka.
Baker’s Falls, Horton Plains
This captivating cascade flows through multiple tiers in the heart of Horton Plains
National Park. The falls were named after Sir Samuel Baker, who explored this
region during British colonial times.
The surrounding cloud forest creates a mystical atmosphere, making this waterfall particularly photogenic during the early morning hours.
Dunhinda Falls, Badulla
Often called the ‘Bridal Falls’ due to its white spray resembling a bridal veil, this 207-
foot waterfall creates a thunderous spectacle. The narrow gorge channels the water
with immense force, creating a constant misty environment around the falls.
Visitors must traverse a scenic, nearly 1-mile-long trail through the forest to reach the main viewing platform.
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St. Clair’s Falls, Nuwara Eliya
Famous in Sri Lanka as the ‘Little Niagara,’ this dual waterfall is one of the widest in
the country. The upper fall drops over 262 feet, with the lower fall cascading over
164 feet high into tea plantations and against a colonial-era setting that blends
natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Devon Falls, Talawakele
Named after an early coffee planter, this 318-foot cascading water system boasts
panoramic views across the valley. The place becomes especially picturesque
during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to August.
Easy access to viewing points via the A7 highway makes it feasible for photographers and nature lovers.
Diyaluma Falls, Koslanda
Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, this 722-foot cascade, is an impressive sight
from miles away. In Sinhala, ‘Diyaluma’ translates to ‘rapid flow of water,’ perfectly describing its powerful descent.
The falls have been a significant landmark in the region for generations.
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Ravana Falls, Ella
This 82-foot cascade is deeply connected to the ancient Indian epic Ramayana.
Local tradition associates the falls with the legend of King Ravana.
The waterfall’s broad face creates a curtain-like appearance during the rainy season.
Aberdeen Falls, Ginigathena
This 322-foot waterfall demonstrates nature’s raw power through its strong flow year-
round. The surrounding forest harbors diverse wildlife and rare plant species.
Access requires a moderately challenging hike through rubber plantations and forest paths.
Bambarakanda Falls, Kalupahana
This 863-foot giant is said to be the highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It creates a
dramatic sight, with impressive flows even during dry seasons.
This is because high- altitude streams are available here. Many endemic species thrive in this cloud forest ecosystem.
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Bopath Ella Falls, Ratnapura
This 98-foot waterfall, shaped like a Bo leaf (sacred fig), is culturally significant in
Buddhist traditions. The unique fork in the water flow creates its distinctive shape
throughout the year.
Local communities consider the site sacred and maintain its pristine condition.
Kirindi Ella Falls, Pelmadulla
This series of falls creates seven distinct cascades over granite rock faces. The falls
play a crucial role in local agriculture by feeding numerous paddy fields.
Ancient irrigation systems near the falls showcase early Sri Lankan engineering prowess.
Laxapana Falls, Norton Bridge
This powerful 413-foot waterfall is a vital hydroelectric power source for the nation.
The falls maintain their majesty despite partial water diversion for power generation.
The surrounding area features rare mountain flora adapted to the misty environment.
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Ramboda Falls, Pussellawa
These triple cascades are 358 feet high and easily accessible from the Kandy-
Nuwara Eliya road. Each tier offers unique viewing angles and photography
opportunities.
The falls are surrounded by tea estates that provide excellent vantage points.
Gartmore Falls, Maskeliya
Hidden within private tea estate lands, this 328-foot cascade’s name reflects colonial
history. The falls create multiple pools perfect for observing local amphibian species.
Mist from the falls supports a unique microclimate for rare ferns and orchids.
Gerandi Ella Falls, Badulla
This 98-foot cascade features distinctive rock formations that create natural pools.
The falls serve as a critical water source for local communities year-round, and the
area around them has been inhabited since ancient times.
Traditional medicinal practitioners gather rare herbs found only in the unique microclimate created by the falls’ constant mist.
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Kudawa Falls, Sinharaja
This waterfall is located within the UNESCO World Heritage Sinharaja Forest
Reserve and supports incredible biodiversity. The surrounding rainforest hosts
numerous endemic bird species and rare plants.
The falls maintain their flow throughout the year due to the forest’s unique ecosystem.
Bomburu Falls, Nuwara Eliya
The cascades fall over several jumps that span more than 164 feet in height. The
earliest settlers of this region carved the old stone steps.
The surrounding areas also have a very significant watershed for the central highlands. During the monsoon season, the falls become thunderous as water volume increases dramatically.
Lovers Leap Falls, Nuwara Eliya
This 98-foot waterfall, which drops dramatically from a cliff face in the Pedro Tea
Estate, is associated with a romantic legend of ancient Sri Lankan nobility. The
viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Nuwara Eliya valley below.
Residents often gather wild herbs and flowers that grow uniquely along the waterfall’s misty edges.
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Surathali Falls, Ratnapura
These falls played a historical role in gem mining operations in the region. The
cascade creates natural sluices that have revealed precious stones over centuries.
Local gem miners still consider the falls a lucky location for their trade. The
surrounding rock formations contain rare specimens of zircon and sapphire deposits
that date back millions of years.
Glen Falls, Nuwara Eliya
Nestled within a eucalyptus forest, this cascade reflects British colonial influence in
its name. The falls create multiple terraces that support unique aquatic ecosystems.
The surrounding area serves as a popular local picnic spot throughout the year.
Katulgala Falls, Yatiyanthota
This powerful cascade has shaped the surrounding landscape over millennia. The
falls create a natural barrier that has preserved local flora and fauna.
Ancient trade routes once passed near these falls, connecting coastal and hill regions.
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Embrace Sri Lanka’s Cascading Natural Wonders
Sri Lanka’s waterfalls indicate much more than aesthetic beauty; they are
symptomatic of the richness that biodiversity, cultural heritage, and geological history
bring humanity. Each cascade has an old story behind it, from historical legends to modern conservation programs.
Thus, they are a wonderful destination for anyone interested in exploring this tropical paradise. These waterfalls are natural testaments to the art that nature has to offer.
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