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Sri Lanka is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking waterfalls, owning hundreds within the country. While most of them remain hidden and untouched they remain to be more magical. Even the accessible ones are no less in their beauty; surrounded by lush greenery, misty mountains, rugged terrains, and peaceful landscapes, these waterfalls create the perfect space for nature lovers, adventure hunters, and photographers.
If you are hunting for stunning landscapes or pursuing an adventurous escape, make sure you add these magnificent waterfalls to your travel plan. Their sheer beauty and majesty will leave you inspired! Here is your comprehensive guide to the top 10 waterfalls in Sri Lanka.
Paint a Picture Straight out of a Dream; Sri Lanka’s Top 10 Waterfalls!
Bambarakanda Falls – The Tallest Waterfall in Sri Lanka
At a glance:
- Height: 263 meters (863 feet)
- Location: Kalupahana, Badulla District
- Best Time to Visit: March to May
- Highlights: The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, best for trekking and camping. can swim in the base
Locating among the misty pine woods of Badulla, Bambarakanda Falls is Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall with 863 feet in height. It is a breathtaking marvel of nature.
Unlike many of Sri Lanka’s smoothly reachable waterfalls, Bambarakanda requires a moderate trek through pine-covered slopes. As the trail opens, visitors are greeted with the splendid sight of water tumbling from towering cliffs into a calm rock pool below.
Diyaluma Falls – The Second Tallest and Best for Natural Rock Pools
At a glance:
- Height: 220 meters (720 feet)
- Location: Koslanda, Badulla District
- Best Time to Visit: April to September
- Highlights: Known for the best natural rock pools. Features stunning rock pools at the top where you can swim welcomed by spectacular views
Diyaluma is the second-highest waterfall on the island and the sixth-tallest in the world. This breathtaking natural wonder cascades down the cliffs, taking the waterfall into a striking horsetail shape.
The real beauty of Diyaluma is not found at its base but at the top, where you find natural rock pools at the edge offering incredible sight of the valley below. It takes about a 40-minute moderate hike to reach for a refreshing dip while enjoying stunning surroundings.
Bakers Falls – A Hidden Gem in Lush Green
At a glance:
- Height: 20 meters (66 feet)
- Location: Horton Plains National Park
- Best Time to Visit: January to March
- Highlights: Takes a short trek through the Horton Plains National Park. It is best to spot wildlife
Bakers Falls is a hidden gem surrounded by vibrant pink-purple rhododendrons and luxurious green ferns. With its setting, it is known as one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic waterfalls. It has gained its name after British explorer Sir Samuel Baker and this wide waterfall splits into many streams as it tumbles down, which overall gives out a mesmerizing sight among the solid greenery.
It is an easy short trek from Horton Plains National Park to reach this location, but avoid visiting during the rainy season.
Devon Falls – The Veil of the Valley
At a glance:
- Height: 97 meters (318 feet)
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Best Time to Visit: November to April
- Highlights: This beautiful waterfall can be spotted from the viewing deck on the Hatton-Nuwara Eliya road
Devon is famous for its lovely formation and is called “The Veil of the Valley”. It is 19th among the highest waterfalls of Sri Lanka which was named after an English coffee planter. This is one of the most spectacular waterfalls near Colombo which is only 6 km away from Talawakelle town and connects to the Colombo-Nuwara Eliya road (A7 highway).
Dunhinda Falls – A Misty Marvel
At a glance:
- Height: 64 meters (210 feet)
- Location: Badulla
- Best Time to Visit: November to March
- Highlights: Best known for the mist that wraps it. Can take a trek through the forest to this stunning waterfall
When it comes to waterfalls in Sri Lanka there is no way you could miss Dunhinda Falls which is most popular for its smoky surrounding spray. The name Dunhinda exactly translates to “misty spray” which describes its view.
The way to Dunhinda is equally amazing just like the final stop at the fall; a scenic 1.5-kilometer trek takes through dense jungle, leading visitors through trickling streams and across a swaying suspension bridge before the wonderful sight of the waterfall.
Laxapana Falls – Hydroelectric Source
At a glance:
- Height: 126 meters (413 feet)
- Location: Maskeliya, Nuwara Eliya District
- Best Time to Visit: April to September
- Highlights: Surrounded by tea estates. It is a source of hydroelectric power for Sri Lanka
Laxapana Falls is located in a picturesque setting surrounded by tea estates. It is also significant as it supplies hydroelectric power to the area, marking it both stunning and purposeful. Laxapana Falls is known as the 8th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. According to the popular traditional stories, this is the place where Buddha mended his saffron robe on the way to Sri Pada.
Ravana Falls – Legendary Beauty
At a glance:
- Height: 25 meters (82 feet)
- Location: Ella
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Highlights: Ravana Falls is connected to the Ramayana legend
Linked with the famous Ramayana legend, this waterfall holds so much popularity in Sri Lanka. Comparatively, this is easily accessible and features stunning cascades. According to the Ramayana, King Ravana covered Princess Sita from others in the Ravana Cave. The cave lies behind the falls and makes this waterfall a sacred and historically worthwhile site. This popular legendary waterfall is located near the town of Ella making it one of the easiest waterfalls to access. It is a popular stop for visitors.
Kirindi Ella Falls – A Serene, Hidden Gem to Embrace
At a glance:
- Height: 116 meters (381 feet)
- Location: Ratnapura
- Best Time to Visit: May to September
- Highlights: A peaceful and lesser-noticed waterfall, making it perfect for solitude in nature
This mesmerizing waterfall calls nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience among Sri Lankan waterfalls.
Unlike most of the others, Kirindi Ella brings an air of mystery. As to the local folktale, hidden treasures lie at the base of the fall, adding more to its charming beauty. It is just 5 kilometers off the A4 highway, and reaching the base of Kirindi Ella takes some adventure in itself which adds some thrill to the journey.
Aberdeen Falls – A Refreshing Escape
At a glance:
- Height: 98 meters (322 feet)
- Location: Ginigathena, Nuwara Eliya District
- Best Time to Visit: December to March
- Highlights: Found in a secluded spot, Aberdeen Falls is a peaceful retreat
This is a perfect escape for those who are looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy nature’s beauty. Aberdeen Falls is smoothly accessible by road via Ambatale Road, which leads to the Buddha statue.
This is a main attraction in Nuwara Eliya, captivating visitors with its easy access and wonderful natural beauty. Even if the pool at the base of the waterfalls may look welcoming and shallow, safety should always come prior. Swimming or bathing in the center of the pool is not recommended due to potential threats.
St. Clair’s Falls – The Niagara Falls of Sri Lanka
At a glance:
- Height: 80 meters (260 feet)
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Highlights: Called “Niagara of Sri Lanka,” St. Clair’s Falls is at the top of the widest waterfalls on the island. Delivers unbelievable panoramic
St. Clair’s Falls cascades 80 meters sitting in the hills of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, just 3 km from Talawakelle. Creating a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty it stands as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka” just to showcase its grandeur. This beauty is beloved equally by both locals and travelers and it has been named with the influence of nearby St. Clair’s Tea Estate.
Reaching St. Clair’s Falls requires a scenic 500-metre walk through the stunning St. Clair’s Tea Estate proving that it has the best setting.
Some Tips for Your Waterfall Adventure in Sri Lanka
What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes, waterproof gear, and a camera for capturing.
Best Time to Visit: Most waterfalls are best to visit during the wet season (April – September), but some are caught stunning year-round. Check with the dates and try each of their best time to make your visit.
Safety First: Ensure you avoid swimming in unknown areas and are always watchful of slippery rocks.
Whether you are an adventurer, a nature fan, looking for a tranquil retreat, or hunting beautiful shots, Sri Lanka’s waterfalls have the potential to deliver an unforgettable experience. So visit Sri Lanka!
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