Top 10 Breathtaking Waterfalls in Sri Lanka You Must Visit
Sri Lanka Tourist Attractions
From mystical views to hidden treasures, these falls are perfect for adventure lovers!
Sri Lanka is the home for several beautiful waterfalls that present distinct combinations of natural charm along with thrilling experiences and peaceful moments. The spectacular waterfalls throughout Sri Lanka produce memorable encounters for individuals who love nature along with adventure seekers. The top 10 breathtaking waterfalls in Sri Lanka await visitors who want to trek dense jungles or admire distant views from nearby vantage points.
Bambarakanda Falls
Sri Lankaโs tallest waterfall, a sky-high wonder!
๐ Height: 263 meters (Sri Lankaโs tallest waterfall)
๐ง Flow: Strong flow during the monsoon season, creating a dramatic cascade.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: December to March โ The flow is steady and more dramatic during the wet season, making it a stunning sight.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: Scenic trekking to the falls, beautiful surrounding greenery.
๐ Unique Features: As the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda offers a powerful and awe-inspiring experience.
๐ Location: Badulla District, near the town of Ohiya
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes approximately 6-7 hours by car, and from Ella, itโs about 1 hour.
Diyaluma Falls
Natural infinity pools with a breathtaking view!
๐ Height: 220 meters (second tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka)
๐ง Flow: A cascading waterfall that forms natural pools, ideal for bathing during dry months.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: January to April โ During these months, the flow is moderate, and you can enjoy the natural pools at the top of the falls.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: The natural infinity pools at the top, panoramic views from the top of the falls.
๐ Unique Features: Diyaluma Falls is known for its natural infinity pools, offering a unique and refreshing experience.
๐ Location: Located on the border of the Badulla and Kalutara Districts, near Koslanda.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes around 5-6 hours by car, and from Ella, itโs around 30 minutes.
Ravana Falls
A legendary cascade from the epic Ramayana!
๐ Height: Approximately 25 meters
๐ง Flow: Moderate to strong flow, especially during the monsoon season.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: December to March โ The waterfall is at its fullest during the monsoon, making it a great time to visit.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: Easy access from the main road, the surrounding lush forests, and its connection to the Ramayana legend.
๐ Unique Features: The waterfall is steeped in legend, believed to be connected to the myth of Ravana from the Ramayana.
๐ Location: Near Ella, in the Uva Province
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes about 5 hours by car, and from Ella, itโs around 10-15 minutes.
Dunhinda Falls
The misty beauty that looks like a dream!
๐ Height: 64 meters
๐ง Flow: Gentle and misty flow, creating a unique fog-like appearance around the waterfall.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: January to April โ The misty, soft flow is most visible during the dry season.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: A scenic 1.5 km hike through dense jungle to reach the falls, a misty and magical atmosphere.
๐ Unique Features: The mist from the waterfall creates a mesmerizing effect, especially on sunny days.
๐ Location: Near the town of Badulla, in the Uva Province
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes about 6-7 hours by car, and from Badulla, itโs around 15-20 minutes.
Aberdeen Falls
A hidden paradise surrounded by lush greenery!
๐ Height: 98 meters
๐ง Flow: Moderate flow, creating a beautiful cascade amidst dense forest.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: November to April โ This period offers the best visibility and access, with clear skies and a steady flow.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: A less-crowded waterfall, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
๐ Unique Features: Known for its tranquil surroundings, Aberdeen Falls provides a peaceful escape.
๐ Location: Near the town of Ginigathena, in the Kegalle District
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes about 3-4 hours by car, and from Kandy, itโs around 2 hours.
Laxapana Falls
A mighty waterfall powering Sri Lankaโs energy!
๐ Height: 126 meters
๐ง Flow: Strong, especially during the monsoon season, contributing to the local hydroelectric power.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: May to September โ The waterfall is most powerful and full during the monsoon season.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: The falls are located near a hydroelectric plant, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and renewable energy.
๐ Unique Features: The powerful flow of the waterfall contributes to Sri Lanka's electricity, making it both scenic and functional.
๐ Location: Located in the Nuwara Eliya District, near the town of Maskeliya.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes around 4-5 hours by car, and from Nuwara Eliya, itโs approximately 1 hour.
Bopath Ella Falls
A perfectly shaped leaf-like wonder!
๐ Height: 30 meters
๐ง Flow: Medium flow, forming a beautiful and symmetrical shape as it cascades over the rock face.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: December to April โ Best to visit during the dry season when the waterfall's shape is most visible.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: A distinctive leaf-like shape, making it one of Sri Lankaโs most picturesque waterfalls.
๐ Unique Features: The waterfallโs symmetrical shape gives it the appearance of a leaf, making it a favorite spot for photographers.
๐ Location: Located in the Ratnapura District, near the town of Eheliyagoda.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes approximately 3-4 hours by car, and from Ratnapura, itโs around 30 minutes.
Devon Falls
The โVeil of the Valleyโ you can see from afar!
๐ Height: 97 meters
๐ง Flow: Consistent flow, with a delicate, veil-like appearance as it cascades down the mountainside.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: February to April โ The flow is steady and ideal for photos during these months.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: The fallsโ unique appearance, visible from the main road as you drive towards Nuwara Eliya.
๐ Unique Features: The waterfallโs veil-like flow, which resembles a delicate drapery hanging down the mountain, makes it a striking sight.
๐ Location: Near the town of Talawakele, in the Nuwara Eliya District.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes about 4-5 hours by car, and from Nuwara Eliya, itโs around 1 hour.
St. Clairโs Falls
Sri Lankaโs Little Niagara, wide and stunning!
๐ Height: 80 meters
๐ง Flow: A wide, powerful flow, creating a spectacular, multi-tiered waterfall.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: December to March โ Best to visit when the flow is steady and the weather is pleasant.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: One of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, often referred to as the "Little Niagara."
๐ Unique Features: Known for its vast width, St. Clairโs Falls is one of the most iconic and visually striking waterfalls in Sri Lanka.
๐ Location: Situated on the Kotmale Oya, in the Nuwara Eliya District.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes around 5 hours by car, and from Nuwara Eliya, itโs about 1 hour.
Kirindi Ella Falls
A hidden gem with jaw-dropping views!
๐ Height: 25 meters
๐ง Flow: Moderate to high flow, especially during the rainy season, with a stunning drop.
๐๏ธ Best Time to Visit: March to May โ Ideal for visiting when the weather is dry, making it easier to access the falls.
๐ฟ Key Attractions: A peaceful, secluded location surrounded by lush greenery and offering panoramic views.
๐ Unique Features: Known for its stunning, remote location and breathtaking views, Kirindi Ella Falls is often less crowded, making it a hidden gem.
๐ Location: Located near the town of Tissamaharama, in the Southern Province.
๐ Travel Time: From Colombo, it takes around 5-6 hours by car, and from Tissamaharama, itโs about 20 minutes.
Sri Lanka’s waterfalls bring amazing features to life and they are equally important to nature lovers as well as to those who love a rich and vibrant heritage. Everyone can discover something unique among the top 10 waterfalls. Each waterfall in Sri Lanka presents distinct experiences through their unique heights like the magnificent height ofย Bambarakanda Falls and tranquil charm at St. Clairโs Falls. The breathtaking waterfalls of Sri Lanka should be included on your travel destinations since they showcase the island’s natural wonders.