The Sri Lankan hills and mountains are a paradise for waterfall lovers. During monsoon season, mountain rivers overflow their banks, creating picturesque canyons and rushing waterfalls that simply amaze.
The island is a haven for waterfall lovers, surrounded by lush green woods and rugged terrains, with dozens of gorgeous waterfall locations to explore. Some are accessible for viewing, others can only be accessed by climbers or hikers.
1. Diyaluma Falls
The 220 m high Diyaluma Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Sri Lanka and a popular day trip from Ella. It’s also a good option for those visiting the Koslanda area who are looking to explore more of the natural beauty that this region has to offer.
The best way to experience this waterfall is by hiking to the upper section, which offers epic views and some of the world’s best natural infinity pools. There is a path that leads to this area and it’s an easy 40-minute hike through long grass.
2. Baker’s Falls
There are more than a hundred waterfalls in Sri Lanka, most of them hidden in thick forests and around tea plantations. Fed by two half-yearly monsoons, rivers rush down the rocky precipices forming spectacular waterfalls.
Baker’s Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Sri Lanka and it’s an easy trek from Horton Plains National Park. Named after Sir Samuel Baker, this beautiful waterfall plunges over a wide rock into a gorge filled with rhododendrons and Fern bushes.
The enormous fall comprises three distinct steps. The first 100 meters tall located in the jungle above the A-5 road (near 53 Km post), the second 3 meters tall flowing close to the road and finally, 100 meters tall flowing down to the Ramboda basin.
3. Belihul Oya Falls
If you’re looking for a waterfall that will leave you with memories of a lifetime, then Belihul Oya Falls is the place to go. This scenic area boasts a series of waterfalls, including the tallest in Sri Lanka, Bambarakanda.
The waterfall is a tributary of the Belihuloya River and it’s a great place to soak up the scenery and take amazing pictures. It’s also an ideal place for those who are looking to hike and explore a nature trail.
The fall can be accessed by turning onto the Nonpareil Estate road. It’s a long and narrow road that requires a high ground clearance vehicle but it’s worth the effort if you want to experience the beautiful waterfall.
4. Kolapathana Falls
Located in the charming village of Mandaram Nuwara, Kolapathana Falls is one of the most popular Best Waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The area is known for its misty mountains, tumbling waterfalls, acres of farmland and friendly villagers.
This waterfall is a multi-step cascade that begins from a stream originating from the Pidurutalagala forest area. It is a must-see waterfall for every traveler to this mountainous town!
Hike through this beautiful landscape to get to the waterfall and take a dip in its natural pools. You can also book a homestay to experience the local life of this village.
5. Bopath Ella Falls
Bopath Ella is located in the midst of a forest and is an excellent spot to spot endemic birds.
This waterfall is also a great place to enjoy a bath in the natural pool that it creates on a rock bed. It’s not dangerously deep, but it is best to be avoided during monsoons.
The water is usually crystal clear and not too cold, which makes it a popular spot to pop in for a refreshing dip! Make sure to access the pool safely as the rocks can be quite slippery.
6. KirindiOya Falls
With its cascading water and beautiful rainbow hues, KirindiOya Falls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Located near Kuruwita in Ratnapura District, this waterfall gets crowded on weekends when locals come to enjoy its cool waters.
The waterfall has a height of 116 meters, and the water plunges into a deep pool called Diyagathwala. Some folk tales say that a stone stairway leads to the bottom of the pool, where a treasure trove awaits discovery.
Visitors can hike through the jungle terrain to catch a glimpse of this waterfall up close, or take an easy dip in the pool below it for a refreshing swim. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes as rocky waterfalls are often slippery.
7. Ravana Falls
Famed for being one of the widest and most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Ravana Falls is more than just a sight-seeing and swimming destination. It is also the home of legendary king Ravana, who is believed to have kidnapped princess Sita and hidden her in the caves behind this waterfall.
Located within the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary, this waterfall cascades down from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. Its size changes significantly during the local wet season, when it turns into what is said to resemble an areca flower with withering petals.