TOP 10 WATERFALLS IN SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka, known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean," is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the world. With its lush greenery, misty mountains, and abundant rivers, the country boasts a diverse range of waterfalls that captivate travellers. Here are the top 10 waterfalls in Sri Lanka that you must visit:
1. BAKERS FALLS (20M)
Baker’s Falls is a stunning waterfall located in Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka. Named after Sir Samuel Baker, a British explorer, this 20-meter-high cascade is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. Surrounded by lush greenery, misty landscapes, and diverse flora, Baker’s Falls offers a breath-taking sight, especially with its wide rock formations and multiple water streams. The waterfall is a popular stop for hikers trekking through Horton Plains, adding a refreshing and picturesque experience to the journey. The cool climate and the tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit natural wonder in Sri Lanka.
2. RAVANA FALLS (25M)
Ravana Falls is one of the most stunning and famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka, located near the town of Ella in the Badulla District. Cascading from a height of 82 feet (25 meters), this picturesque waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs, creating a breath-taking sight. According to local legend, Ravana Falls is linked to the Ramayana, as it is believed that King Ravana hid Princess Sita in a nearby cave. The falls are especially beautiful during the rainy season when the water flows in full force, forming a magnificent three-tiered cascade. A popular stop for travellers exploring Ella, Ravana Falls is perfect for photography, nature walks, and refreshing dips in the natural pools at its base.
3. BOPATH ELLA (30M)
Bopath Ella is a stunning waterfall in Sri Lanka, located in the Ratnapura District near the village of Kuruwita. The waterfall gets its name from its distinctive shape, resembling a Bo tree (Sacred Fig) leaf when viewed from a distance. Cascading from a height of approximately 30 meters, Bopath Ella is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular tourist attraction and picnic spot. The waterfall is also linked to local folklore and legends, with some believing it to be a mystical site. Easily accessible from Colombo, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers looking to enjoy Sri Lanka’s breath-taking natural beauty.
4. DUNHINDA FALLS (64M)
Dunhinda Falls is one of Sri Lanka’s most breath-taking waterfalls, located near Badulla in the Uva Province. Cascading from a height of 64 meters (210 feet), it is renowned for its misty spray and stunning natural beauty, earning it the name “Dunhinda,” which means "misty spray" in Sinhala. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocky landscapes, making it a popular attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers. A short but scenic 1.5 km trek through a forested path leads visitors to the falls, where they can enjoy the mesmerizing view and refreshing atmosphere. Dunhinda Falls is an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich natural heritage and a must-visit for anyone exploring the country’s waterfalls and scenic landscapes.
5. ST. CLAIR'S FALLS (80M)
St. Clair's Falls, often referred to as the "Little Niagara of Sri Lanka," is one of the widest and most scenic waterfalls in the country. Located in the Nuwara Eliya District, near Talawakele, this breath-taking waterfall cascades down two tiers, surrounded by lush tea plantations and misty mountains. St. Clair's Falls is part of the Kotmale River, a tributary of the Mahaweli River, and is approximately 80 meters high and 50 meters wide. The picturesque surroundings make it a popular tourist attraction and photography spot. Unfortunately, the construction of the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project has reduced its water flow, but it still remains one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful natural wonders, offering a serene and refreshing escape for visitors.
6. DEVON FALLS (97M)
Devon Falls is a breath-taking 97-meter-high waterfall located in the Nuwara Eliya District of Sri Lanka, near Talawakele. Nicknamed the "Veil of the Valley," this stunning cascade is surrounded by lush tea plantations, offering a picturesque view of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The waterfall gets its name from a British coffee planter, Devon, who once owned the nearby estates. Easily visible from the Hatton–Nuwara Eliya road, Devon Falls is a popular stop for travellers seeking natural beauty and a refreshing escape. The best time to visit is during the rainy season when the falls are at their fullest, creating a mesmerizing sight.
7. ABERDEEN FALLS (98M)
Aberdeen Falls is a stunning 98-meter-high waterfall located in the Nuwara Eliya District of Sri Lanka, near the picturesque town of Ginigathhena. Named after the Scottish city of Aberdeen, this breath-taking waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The cascading waters originate from the Kehelgamu Oya, a tributary of the Kelani River, and form a natural pool at the base, perfect for visitors to admire its beauty. The journey to Aberdeen Falls involves a scenic trek through tea estates and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Its unspoiled surroundings and mesmerizing views make it one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
8. LAXAPANA FALLS (126M)
Laxapana Falls is one of Sri Lanka’s most breath-taking waterfalls, located in the Nuwara Eliya District, near the town of Maskeliya. Standing at 126 meters (413 feet) high, it is the eighth tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is surrounded by lush greenery and misty mountains. The Kelani River, which feeds the falls, also plays a key role in hydroelectric power generation, making Laxapana an important natural and energy resource. Visitors can enjoy a scenic trek through tea plantations and forested paths to reach the falls, where they are rewarded with stunning views and a refreshing natural pool at the base. With its serene atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque setting, Laxapana Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
9. DIYALUMA FALLS (220M)
Diyaluma Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, standing at an impressive 220 meters (720 feet). Located near Koslanda in the Badulla District, this breath-taking waterfall cascades down rocky cliffs, creating natural infinity pools that attract adventure seekers and nature lovers. Diyaluma is a popular destination for hiking and swimming, with trails leading to its upper pools, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The combination of lush greenery, crystal-clear water, and dramatic cliffs makes it one of the most picturesque and thrilling waterfalls in the country, perfect for those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
10. BAMBARAKANDA FALLS (263M)
Bambarakanda Falls is Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall, standing at an impressive 263 meters (863 feet). Nestled in the lush Badulla District, this breath-taking cascade is surrounded by misty mountains, pine forests, and tea plantations, creating a picturesque setting for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The waterfall originates from the Kuda Oya, a tributary of the Walawe River, and flows down a steep rock face, offering a stunning view, especially during the rainy season. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, refreshing natural pools, and panoramic landscapes, making Bambarakanda Falls a must-visit destination for those exploring Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.
CONCLUSION
Sri Lanka's waterfalls are a testament to the country's natural beauty, offering mesmerizing views and thrilling adventures. Whether you're a nature lover, a photographer, or an explorer, these waterfalls are must-visit destinations that showcase the island's enchanting landscapes. Pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable journey to witness these stunning waterfalls in Sri Lanka!
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