Sri Lanka, known as the “Island of Waterfalls,” has one of the highest densities of waterfalls in the world, with around 382 waterfalls recorded across the country. Most of these stunning falls are located in the central hill country, where rivers powered by two monsoon seasons plunge down rocky cliffs, creating spectacular sights.
Among the many falls, Bambarakanda Falls stands out as the tallest in Sri Lanka, reaching a height of 263 meters. It’s a must-visit for those looking for breath taking views. Meanwhile, Bomburuella Waterfall in Nuwara Eliya is the widest waterfall in the country, with water cascading over rocks and lush green surroundings, making it another popular attraction.
Some waterfalls are easily accessible and can be seen right from the road, while others require a scenic hike through forests or tea plantations. Hiking to these hidden falls offers visitors an adventure and a chance to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty up close. While many of the famous waterfalls are mapped, the island still has secret, unexplored falls hidden deep in the forests.
Whether it’s a short hike or a glimpse from your car, Sri Lanka’s waterfalls provide an enchanting experience. From towering drops to wide cascades, these natural wonders make the island a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Bambarakanda Waterfall, standing at 263 meters, is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and a must-see for anyone visiting the island. Located about 180 km from Colombo, the falls are tucked away in a dense forest near Kalupahana in the Badulla District, close to Bandarawela. Getting to Bambarakanda involves a scenic drive through winding roads, lush greenery, and tea plantations. The closest town with easy access to public transport is Kalupahana, from which it’s a short, steep hike up to the falls. For those traveling by car or van, you can reach a nearby parking area and then follow the trail on foot.
The view of the waterfall from the bottom is stunning, with the water plunging down from the rocky cliff surrounded by mist and forest. But if you’re up for more adventure, you can hike to the top, where the view is breathtaking—you’ll see green valleys stretching out as far as the eye can see. The best time to visit is during the rainy season, from October to March, when the waterfall is at its fullest.
Bambarakanda offers a unique experience, perfect for those who enjoy nature, adventure, and photography. While the hike can be challenging, the sight of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall in such a peaceful, hidden location is definitely worth the journey.
Diyaluma Waterfall, standing at an impressive 220 meters, is Sri Lanka’s second tallest waterfall, often mistaken as the highest. Located about 200 kilometers from Colombo, Diyaluma can be accessed via a scenic drive through the town of Wellawaya, It is situated 6 km (3.7 mi) away from Koslanda in Badulla District on Colombo-Badulla highway, making it a must-visit for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s central highlands. “Diyaluma” means “rapid flow of water” in Sinhala, and during the rainy season, this waterfall fully lives up to its name, pouring down in a powerful, awe-inspiring cascade.
The waterfall is formed by the Pungala Oya river, which flows from 427 meters above sea level, creating several smaller waterfalls along its path. These smaller falls can be found if you hike to the top of Diyaluma, where natural pools and breathtaking views await. The upper falls are a popular spot for adventurous visitors who want to swim and enjoy the views over the lush landscape below.Whether you're after stunning views, a refreshing swim in natural pools, or simply a peaceful spot in nature, Diyaluma Waterfall is a destination that shouldn’t be missed.
St. Clair’s Falls, often called the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” is one of the widest and most picturesque waterfalls in the country. Located about 130 km from Colombo, it lies near the town of Talawakele in the Nuwara Eliya District. This breathtaking cascade is easily accessible from the A7 Avissawella-Hatton-Nuwara Eliya highway, offering visitors a clear view as they pass through the lush tea estate hills.
The falls are set in the scenic St. Clair Tea Estate, surrounded by rolling green hills and vibrant tea plantations. St. Clair’s Falls is around 80 meters high and 50 meters wide, making it a true standout among Sri Lanka's waterfalls. It’s made up of two smaller cascades: Maha Ella, the “big fall,” and Kuda Ella, the “small fall.” Both of these falls blend together to create a stunning sight, especially during the rainy season when the water flow is at its peak.
A viewing platform nearby gives visitors a perfect spot to take in the beauty of the falls and the surrounding tea landscape. St. Clair’s Falls is not only a popular stop for tourists but also a significant part of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, giving a glimpse into the country’s picturesque hill country.
Dunhinda Falls, a stunning 64-meter-high waterfall, is known for the misty spray that surrounds it, giving it the name “Dunhinda,” which means “mist” or “smoke” in Sinhala. Often called the "Bridal Fall" due to its shape that resembles a bride’s veil, this waterfall is one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful natural attractions.
Located about 180 km from Colombo, Dunhinda Falls is near the town of Badulla in Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. To reach the falls, visitors must take a short hike of about 1 km through scenic paths filled with lush greenery, following a well-marked trail from the main road. The walk to the waterfall offers plenty of viewpoints, so hikers can take in the surrounding landscapes and spot local wildlife along the way.
Dunhinda is especially spectacular during the rainy season, when the water flows at its strongest, creating a thick mist around the base. The waterfall’s unique “bridal veil” appearance is best seen from the viewing platform, which is positioned perfectly for a full view of the falls and the misty spray.
Surrounded by dense forest and native plants, Dunhinda Falls is a must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers. Its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an unforgettable experience for those exploring Sri Lanka's hill country.
Bomburu Ella, also known as Perawella Falls, is one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls and is located near the town of Welimada in the Uva Province. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Sri Lanka’s hill country, this enchanting waterfall is unique because it cascades in several streams rather than a single drop, creating a scenic view that’s both wide and beautiful.
Situated around 170 km from Colombo, Bomburu Ella is accessible by a scenic drive towards Welimada or Nuwara Eliya, followed by a short hike through picturesque landscapes. The path to the falls is about 2 km from the nearest road, making it a relatively easy walk through tea plantations, farmland, and forest areas. The peaceful trail gives visitors a chance to experience the rural beauty of Sri Lanka, with sights of local flora and occasional bird species.
Reaching Bomburu Ella is a treat for nature lovers, as the surroundings are calm and mostly untouched by development. It’s a popular spot for picnics, photography, and simply relaxing by the streams of water that flow down the rocks. Unlike some of Sri Lanka’s other waterfalls, Bomburu Ella isn’t crowded, giving it an intimate, hidden-gem feel for those who make the journey.
During the rainy season, the falls are at their most impressive, with the streams flowing strongly and filling the area with the sound of rushing water. Bomburu Ella is a must-visit for travelers looking to explore Sri Lanka’s natural beauty beyond the well-known tourist sites, offering a refreshing and peaceful escape into the heart of the island’s landscapes.
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