Waterfalls of Sri Lanka: Discover the Island’s Natural Wonders.

Plunge into the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes and discover the cascading beauty of the country’s waterfalls.Embark on a journey to witness these majestic wonders, and be captivated by the raw power and serenity of Sri Lanka’s cascading waters. Sri Lanka’s water falls offer a refreshing escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Introduction

Sri Lanka, a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including its diverse array of waterfalls. From the misty highlands to the lush rainforests, these cascading wonders offer a breathtaking display of nature’s power and grace. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the most captivating waterfalls in Sri Lanka, providing essential information for tourists looking to discover these natural gems.

The Tallest Waterfalls

Sri Lanka boasts several impressive waterfalls, with Bambarakanda Falls being the tallest. While the exact height is debated, it is generally accepted as the highest waterfall in the country, ranging from 790 to 863 feet (241 to 263 meters) . The second and third highest waterfalls, Diyaluma Falls and Dunhinda Falls, are also popular destinations for visitors seeking to experience the island’s natural beauty.

Waterfalls in the Central Highlands

The central highlands of Sri Lanka are home to a number of stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Ramboda Falls and St. Clair’s Falls. Ramboda Falls, with its 109-meter (357-foot) drop, is a popular spot for tourists to visit and take in the breathtaking views . St. Clair’s Falls, often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” is a series of eight separate falls that cascade over a distance of 200 meters (656 feet).

Waterfalls in the Southern Province

The southern province of Sri Lanka is home to several impressive waterfalls, including the Diyaluma Falls and Ravana Falls. Diyaluma Falls, the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, features a stunning 220-meter (722-foot) drop and is a popular spot for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike . Ravana Falls, located near the ancient city of Ella, is a 25-meter (82-foot) waterfall that is steeped in legend and mythology.

Waterfalls in the Uva Province

The Uva province, located in the southeastern part of Sri Lanka, is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Dunhinda Falls and Diyaluma Falls. Dunhinda Falls, the third highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, features a 305-meter (1,001-foot) drop and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the breathtaking views . Diyaluma Falls, located in the Badulla district, is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades over a distance of 220 meters (722 feet).

Waterfalls in the Sabaragamuwa Province

The Sabaragamuwa province, located in the central part of Sri Lanka, is home to several stunning waterfalls, including the Kinneliya Falls and Bopath Falls. Kinneliya Falls, located in the Ratnapura district, is a 50-meter (164-foot) waterfall that is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the natural beauty of the region. Bopath Falls, located in the Ratnapura district, is a 30-meter (98-foot) waterfall that is known for its unique horseshoe shape and is a popular spot for visitors to take in the breathtaking views.

Major Waterfalls in Sri Lanka

Bambarakanda Falls

Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, plunging 263 meters (863 feet) over the base pool. It is located in Kalupahana and can be reached by a hike from the Colombo–Bandarawela road. The waterfall is formed by a branch of the Walwe River known as Kuda Oya. 

Diyaluma Falls

Diyaluma Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, cascading 220 meters (722 feet) down the Poonagala Oya, a tributary of the Kirindi Oya river. The waterfall features several natural infinity pools at different levels along its length. Hiking to the top of the falls and swimming in the pools are popular activities. 

Ravana Falls

Ravana Falls is a 25-meter (82-foot) waterfall located near the town of Ella. It is connected to the famous Indian epic in which King Ravana hid Princess Sita in a cave behind the falls after abducting her from India. The waterfall is one of the largest tourist attractions in the Ella region. 

Dunhinda Falls

Also known as the “Bridal Veil Falls,” Dunhinda Falls is a 63-meter (207-foot) waterfall located in Badulla. The falls tumble down a narrow gap between rocks, creating a smoky, veil-like appearance. Reaching the falls involves a 1-kilometer hike across a suspension bridge and steep steps. 

St. Clair’s Falls

Referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” St. Clair’s Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in the country. It consists of two falls, “Maha Ella” (the Greater Fall) and “Kuda Ella” (the Lesser Fall), and is located in the Talawakele town of the Nuwara Eliya District. 

Ramboda Falls

Ramboda Falls is a 109-meter (357-foot) waterfall located in the Pussellawa district near Kandy. The waterfall is surrounded by lush highlands, ridges, and hilly mountains, and can be accessed by a 20-minute hike with concrete steps and railings. 

Baker Falls

Named after the famous explorer Sir Samuel Baker, Baker Falls is located in the Horton Plains National Park. The 20-meter (66-foot) waterfall cascades down amid lush greenery and exotic flora, including rare black monkeys and rhododendrons. A 3-kilometer hike is required to reach the top of the falls. 

Conclusion

Sri Lanka’s waterfalls are a testament to the island’s natural beauty and diversity. From the towering heights of Bambarakanda Falls to the serene beauty of Ravana Falls, these cascading wonders offer visitors a chance to experience the power and grace of nature. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a nature enthusiast, Sri Lanka’s waterfalls are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Sri Lankan hospitality and tourism industry getting great benifits from this breathtaking display of nature’s power and grace.