Did you know Colombo also has waterfalls? Among all districts, Ratnapura stands out with the highest number of waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Here’s the distribution of waterfalls by district:
- Colombo District: 5 waterfalls
- Galle District: 27 waterfalls
- Gampaha District: 2 waterfalls
- Kalutara District: 27 waterfalls
- Badulla District: 57 waterfalls
- Matale District: 37 waterfalls
- Matara District: 17 waterfalls
- Monaragala District: 9 waterfalls
- Nuwara Eliya District: 90 waterfalls
- Hambantota District: 2 waterfalls
- Kandy District: 47 waterfalls
- Kegalle District: 52 waterfalls
- Kurunegala District: 3 waterfalls
- Ratnapura District: 120 waterfalls
Sri Lanka is indeed a paradise for waterfall lovers. Below are some of the most famous waterfalls in the country. How many of these have you visited?
Most Popular Waterfalls in Sri Lanka
1. Gartmore Falls
- Location: Maskeliya
- Height: ~25 meters
- Highlights: Located near Gartmore Estate, this waterfall cascades into the Castlereagh Reservoir, offering picturesque views.
2. Mare Falls
- Location: Sabaragamuwa Province, near Balangoda
- Height: ~45 meters
- Highlights: Known for its pristine surroundings and vibrant greenery, it’s a serene retreat.
3. Aberdeen Falls
- Location: Ginigathena, Nuwara Eliya
- Height: 98 meters
- Highlights: A striking waterfall named after the city of Aberdeen, with clear pools ideal for relaxing.
4. Bomuru Falls
- Location: Uva Province, near Welimada
- Height: ~50 meters
- Highlights: Known as the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush forest.
5. Bambarakanda Falls (Sri Lanka’s Tallest)
- Location: Kalupahana, Badulla
- Height: 263 meters
- Highlights: The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, set amidst a serene pine forest, offering stunning views.
6. Lanka Falls
- Location: Belihuloya
- Height: ~40 meters
- Highlights: A secluded and peaceful waterfall accessible via a short hike through lush greenery.
7. Diyaluma Falls
- Location: Koslanda, Badulla
- Height: 220 meters (Second tallest in Sri Lanka)
- Highlights: Known for its scenic upper pools and panoramic views.
8. Ravana Falls
- Location: Ella, Uva Province
- Height: 25 meters
- Highlights: A three-tiered cascade linked to the Ravana legend, easily accessible near Ella town.
9. Laxapana Falls
- Location: Maskeliya
- Height: 126 meters
- Highlights: Known for its role in hydropower generation and scenic surroundings.
10. Thaliya Wetuna Falls
- Location: Matale
- Height: ~30 meters
- Highlights: Named for its plate-like formations, located amidst rugged terrain.
11. Mohini Falls
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Height: ~30 meters
- Highlights: A smaller, mystical waterfall often shrouded in mist, adding to its allure.
12. Ramboda Falls
- Location: Pussellawa, Nuwara Eliya
- Height: 109 meters
- Highlights: A tiered waterfall, easily accessible and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
13. Pahanthuda Falls
- Location: Badulla
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: A serene cascade shaped like an oil lamp (“Pahanthuda” in Sinhala).
14. Na Falls
- Location: Badulla
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: Surrounded by Na trees, this peaceful waterfall offers a tranquil retreat.
15. Passi Falls
- Location: Badulla
- Height: ~25 meters
- Highlights: Noted for its multiple cascades and lush surroundings.
16. Ice Falls
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: Named for its icy-cold water and often frozen appearance during the colder months.
17. St. Clair Falls
- Location: Talawakele
- Height: 80 meters
- Highlights: Known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” it features twin cascades amidst tea plantations.
18. Dunhinda Falls
- Location: Badulla
- Height: 64 meters
- Highlights: One of the most iconic waterfalls in Sri Lanka, known for its misty spray and scenic hike to the falls.
19. Sera Falls
- Location: Matale
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: Unique for the cave behind the cascade, offering a unique perspective.
20. Punchi Niagara Falls (Ratna Falls)
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Height: ~20 meters
- Highlights: Named for its resemblance to Niagara Falls, though on a much smaller scale.
21. Olu Falls
- Location: Ratnapura
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: Surrounded by dense forests, offering a peaceful atmosphere.
22. Nalagana Falls
- Location: Kegalle
- Height: 40 meters
- Highlights: A striking cascade with scenic views and tranquil surroundings.
23. Ella Uda Falls
- Location: Colombo District
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: A hidden gem close to the bustling city of Colombo.
24. Kadiyanlena Falls
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Height: ~25 meters
- Highlights: A three-tiered waterfall surrounded by greenery.
25. Algama Falls
- Location: Kegalle
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: Known for its peaceful environment and accessibility.
26. Dunumala Falls
- Location: Kegalle
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: A scenic waterfall tucked away in a quiet location.
27. Meeyan Falls
- Location: Kegalle
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: A lesser-known cascade surrounded by a serene environment.
28. Kumari Falls
- Location: Colombo District
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: Known for its accessibility and tranquil surroundings.
29. Ran Mudu Falls
- Location: Colombo District
- Height: ~10 meters
- Highlights: A small, peaceful waterfall near the Thummodara area.
30. Hadapan Falls
- Location: Kegalle
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: A scenic cascade surrounded by thick vegetation.
31. Bopath Falls
- Location: Ratnapura
- Height: ~30 meters
- Highlights: Famous for its shape resembling a Bo leaf and its ease of access.
32. Galaboda Falls
- Location: Nuwara Eliya
- Height: ~30 meters
- Highlights: Easily accessible by train, located near the Galaboda Railway Station.
33. Hoss Falls
- Location: Ratnapura
- Height: ~15 meters
- Highlights: A relatively small but serene waterfall.
34. Kiridi Falls
- Location: Ratnapura
- Height: 116 meters
- Highlights: A tall, majestic cascade surrounded by lush greenery.
35. Dancing Falls
- Location: Ratnapura
- Height: ~25 meters
- Highlights: Named for the way the water dances over the rocks.
Detailed List of Waterfalls by District
Colombo District (5 Waterfalls)
- Dambora Falls
- Ella Uda Falls
- Kumari Falls
- Thummodara Ranmudu Falls
- Hewainna Falls
Galle District (27 Waterfalls)
- Andahelena Falls
- Doowili Falls – Lankagama
- Doowili Falls – Neluwa
- Thattu Falls – Lankagama
- Wathugala Falls
- Beraliya Dola Falls
- Kudalu Oya Falls
- Viharamaldeniya Falls
- Lankagama Uran Wetuna Falls
- Deniyaya Brahmana Falls
- Doowili Falls – Dellawa
- Doowili Falls – Bambaraweldola
- Doowili Falls – Thambalagama
- Gal Oruwa Falls
- Ratawaldola Falls
- Suduwelikotha Falls
- Lenkiri Falls
- Malmora Falls
- Narangas Falls – Kanneliya
- Nelugolla Falls
- Hathbinna Falls
- Hathe Falls
- Lankagama Brahmana Falls
- Lankagama Kekuna Falls
- Pathanoya Falls
Gampaha District (2 Waterfalls)
- Alagiyawanna Falls
- Alawala Devin Panna Falls
Kalutara District (27 Waterfalls)
- Mara Kapu Falls
- Molan Falls
- Pansala Falls
- Maha Ella
- Makeli Falls
- Managampala Falls
- Manamala Dola Falls
- Pilituda Falls
- Raja Maruna Falls
- Tudugala Falls
- Ahasbokku Falls
- Hathdinnath Falls
- Julee Falls
- Rassadola Falls
- Rathwala Falls
- Tambadola Falls
- Thotas Falls
- Kabaragoi Falls
- Elladola Falls
- Galpihilla Falls
- Ginigedara Falls
- Kapurukanda Falls
- Amuwakanda Falls
- Dalveen Falls
- Deiyagala Falls
- Kekunadola Falls
- Rannagala Falls
Badulla District (57 Waterfalls)
Badulla is a paradise for waterfall lovers, with its lush greenery and cool mountain air complementing the beauty of these natural wonders. Whether you’re looking for adventure or tranquility, these waterfalls offer something for everyone!
- Pallewela Ella
- Kithal Ella
- Chandani Ella – Beragala
- Adi Hate Wala Ella
- Alakolagala Ella
- Alikola Oya North Ella
- Aradunu Ella
- Arawakumbura Dunhinda Ella
- Bambarakanda Ella (tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka)
- Dehigala Ella
- Diyabetma Ella
- Diyaluma Ella (Second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka)
- Diyawetena Ella
- Dumpeella Ella
- Dun Ella
- Dunhinda Ella (One of the most famous waterfalls in Sri Lanka)
- Ellatota Ella
- Gal Ekka Ella
- Galkanda Ella
- Gerandi Ella
- Kirindioya Ella
- Gerandi Ella (variation near Ettampitiya)
- Kuda Dunhinda Ella
- Kudalu Ella
- Lanka Ella
- Mahadola Ella
- Mana Ella
- Meemana Ella
- Milla Ella
- Nagadowa Ella
- Nagarak Ella
- Nalini Ella
- Obada Ella
- Pankandura Ella
- Papulagala Ella
- Piyangiri Ella
- Ranpuhulan Ella
- Ranugalla Dunhinda Ella
- Ravana Ella (1 and 2)
- Uduwara Ella
- Unagolla Ella
- Walankanda Ella
- Wanduramala Ella
- Wewassa Ella
- Wishari Ella
- Haldummulla Ella
- Gotuwala Ella
- Weebeddegedara Kandura Ella
- Akurukaduwa Ella
- Polgahaarawa Kaluwala Ella
- Maduwalla Kandura Ella
- Jeewan Ella
- Hakurutale Ella
- Mandawala Ella
- Radella Ella
- Diyagalla Ella
- Bomburu Ella (largest waterfall by width in Sri Lanka)
Popular Highlights of Badulla Waterfalls
- Dunhinda Falls: Known as the “Smoking Falls” due to the misty spray created by its powerful cascade, it is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Sri Lanka.
- Diyaluma Falls: A spectacular plunge waterfall, perfect for hiking and photography.
- Ravana Falls: Named after the legendary King Ravana from the Ramayana epic, it is a major tourist spot near Ella.
- Bomburu Ella: A wide waterfall with multiple cascades, located in a scenic area perfect for picnics.
- Bambarakanda Falls: The tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, a must-visit for its height and beauty.
Matale District (37 Waterfalls)
Matale District offers a mix of easily accessible and hidden waterfalls, catering to adventurers, nature lovers, and families alike. Whether you’re exploring the famous Knuckles Mountain Range or relaxing by a serene cascade, Matale’s waterfalls provide an unforgettable experience of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
- Meemure Ella – Located near the remote village of Meemure, this waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery.
- Minuwan Ella – A picturesque waterfall known for its serene environment.
- Nagenahira Gorakadeniya Ella – Found in the Gorakadeniya area, this is a lesser-known but stunning waterfall.
- Nanda Weti Ella – A quiet and peaceful cascade.
- Opalgala Ella (4 variations) – A series of waterfalls in the Opalgala region.
- Pitawala Pathana Ella 1 – A small but beautiful waterfall near the famous Pitawala Pathana grasslands.
- Pitawala Pathana Ella 2 – Another nearby waterfall with a stunning backdrop.
- Rathninda Ella – A majestic waterfall flowing through rocky terrain.
- Sera Ella – One of the most popular waterfalls in the district, known for its two-tiered structure and the cave behind the cascade.
- Thaliya Wetuna Ella – A scenic waterfall with a unique formation, translating to “where the plate fell.”
- Wambatuhena Ella – A lesser-known but serene waterfall.
- Watagoda Ella – Located in a rural area, this waterfall is surrounded by dense vegetation.
- Wedda Peni Ella – A cascade with historical significance related to the Vedda community.
- Wegala Watte Ella – Found near Elkaduwa, this waterfall is surrounded by lush tea estates.
- Yatawatta Biso Ella – Known for its gentle cascades and tranquil setting.
- Andanwala Ella – A hidden gem in the district.
- Ashburnham Estate Falls – A beautiful waterfall within a private tea estate, offering a peaceful environment.
- Balakaduwa Ella – Located amidst forested hills, ideal for nature lovers.
- Bambarakiri Ella – A popular destination for picnics and swimming, surrounded by natural pools.
- Bambarun Gahana Ella – A lesser-known but picturesque waterfall.
- Dumbara Ella – Nestled in the Dumbara Valley, a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Elle Gedara Ella – A serene cascade located in a remote area.
- Halkadura Ella – A small but charming waterfall.
- Indala Ella – Surrounded by dense forest, offering a peaceful retreat.
- Kaluwara Ella – A dark, mysterious cascade, hence its name “Black Waterfall.”
- Kande Sudu Ella – Found near a forested mountain range.
- Kopi Ella – A scenic waterfall known for its coffee plantations nearby.
- Kumbaloluwa Ella – Located in a rural area, with clear and calm waters.
- Kurunduwala Ella – A hidden gem surrounded by rich biodiversity.
- Biso Ella – A small, tranquil waterfall.
- Raththota Ella – Found near the village of Raththota, it is a serene cascade.
- Telgamu Oya Ella – A unique waterfall along the Telgamu Oya River.
- Uduwela Ella – A charming cascade in a quiet area.
- Wilshire Ella – A remote waterfall ideal for nature lovers.
- Punchi Sera Ella – A smaller version of the famous Sera Ella.
- Knuckles Range Waterfalls – A group of unnamed waterfalls within the Knuckles Mountain Range.
- Kithul Falls – A beautiful waterfall surrounded by kithul palms.
Highlights of Matale Waterfalls
- Sera Ella: One of the district’s most visited waterfalls, offering a cave behind the cascade for exploration.
- Bambarakiri Ella: A family-friendly spot with natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.
- Balakaduwa Ella: A serene and lesser-visited spot for those seeking tranquility.
- Pitawala Pathana Falls: Located near the famous grasslands, these waterfalls are surrounded by dramatic landscapes.
- Knuckles Range Falls: A collection of stunning, unnamed waterfalls hidden within the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Nuwara Eliya District (90 Waterfalls)
TNuwara Eliya District, renowned for its lush landscapes and cool climate, is home to numerous breathtaking waterfalls. Here’s a detailed list of 90 notable waterfalls in the district:
- Aberdeen Falls – A 98-meter-high waterfall located near Ginigathena,
- Aggra Ella Falls
- Aggra Upa Ella
- Alakola Ella Falls
- Andawala Ella Falls
- Angutumiti Ella Falls
- Atupola Ella Falls I
- Atupola Ella Falls II
- Baker’s Falls – Situated in Horton Plains National Park, this 20-meter-high waterfall is a popular tourist attraction.
- Beraliya Galenda
- Bomburu Ella – Also known as Perawella Falls, it’s the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka, located near Uva-Paranagama.
- Dessford Falls
- Devathura Ella Falls
- Devon Falls – A 97-meter-high waterfall near Talawakele, visible from the main road. Nuwaraeliya
- Diviya Ella Falls
- Diyagalla Ella Falls
- Diyathiri Ella Falls
- Doturugala Ella Falls
- Dummala Ella Falls
- Dunsinane Falls – Also known as Pundalu Oya Falls, it’s a twin waterfall near Pundalu Oya.
- Elgin Estate Falls 1
- Elgin Estate Falls 2
- Elgin Falls – Located near Ambewela, this 25-meter-high waterfall is close to the Elgin tea estate.
- Elgin Front Falls
- Ellaggala Ella Falls
- Galboda Ella Falls – A 30-meter-high waterfall accessible via a scenic train ride to Galboda station.
- Galwala Ella Falls
- Gatmore Ella Falls (Adam’s Peak Ella)
- Glen Falls – A small but charming waterfall near Nuwara Eliya town.
- Glassaugh Falls
- Gollumpana Ella
- Gurugalla Ella Falls
- Hakgala Ella Falls
- Heeran Ella Falls
- Helboda Ella Falls
- James Taylor Falls
- Kandamula Ella Falls
- Katabula Ella
- Kelvin Falls
- Kurundu Oya Ella – A 189-meter-high waterfall, one of the tallest in Sri Lanka, located near Ragala.
- Laxapana Falls – A 126-meter-high waterfall near Maskeliya,
- Laxapana Kuda Ella
- Lemastota Oya Ella Falls
- Lendola Ella Falls
- Lover’s Leap Falls – A 30-meter-high waterfall near Nuwara Eliya, named after a local legend.
- Magan Ella Falls
- Mahakandura Ella Falls
- Mahapokuna Mahakandura Ella
- Mapala Ella Falls
- Mapalalla Ella Falls
- Mohini Ella Falls
- Monarakanda Oya Ella Falls
- Moray Falls
- Mount Vernon Falls
- Nanu Oya Ella Falls
- Okandagala Ella Falls
- Palagolla Ella Falls
- Palingu Ella Falls
- Parakumpura Ella Falls
- Penapusnawa Ella Falls
- Perawella Ella Falls
- Piduruthalagala Ella Falls
- Poonkanda Ella
- Queensberry Estate Sub Waterfall 1
- Queensberry Estate Sub Waterfall 2
- Queensberry Estate Waterfall
- Rajamale Ella Falls
- Ramboda Falls – A 109-meter-high waterfall near Pussellawa, consisting of three tiers.
- Ramboda Oya Meda Ella Falls
- Ramboda Oya Ihala Ella Falls
- Ramboda Oya Pahala Ella Falls
- Rambukpotha Ella Falls
- Ravan Ella Falls
- Seethalakanda Ella Falls
- Slab Rock Falls
- St. Andrew’s Cascade
- St. Clair’s Falls – Known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” it’s an 80M waterfall near Talawakele.
- St. Kumbs Falls
- Upper Elgin Falls
- Walltream Falls
- Wedimalaya Ella Falls
- Windy Corner Falls
- Yaka Andu Ella Fall
- Hakurutale Ella Fall
- Mandawala Ella Falls
- Kolapathana Ella
- Radella Rail Bridge Waterfall
- Mandaramnuwara Falls 2
- Ethiniwala Ella (Mandaramnuwara)
- Hawari Oya Ella
These waterfalls, ranging from popular tourist attractions to hidden gems, contribute to the district’s reputation as a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
Ratnapura District (120 Waterfalls)
Ratnapura’s waterfalls offer unparalleled beauty, making it a must-visit district for nature lovers and adventurers alike!
- Alupola Ella Falls
- Alupotha Ella Falls
- Ambanganga Ella Falls
- Anda Ella Falls
- Anguruwawala Ella
- Arambe Ella Falls
- Balangoda Ranmudu Falls
- Ballamala Ella Falls
- Bambarabotuwa Ella Falls
- Bandigewatta Ella Falls
- Baththuluoya Ella Falls
- Beruwatte Ella Falls
- Bihiri Ella Falls
- Bisodola Ella Falls
- Bopath Ella Falls (Famous for its resemblance to a Bo leaf)
- Brampton Falls
- Buluthota Ella Falls
- Chitramala Ella Falls
- Dahaigala Ella Falls
- Dehena Ella Falls
- Delwala Ella Falls
- Demali Ella Falls
- Diyan Ella Falls
- Diyawini Ella Falls
- Dodan Ella Falls
- Dodan Gallena Ella Falls
- Doowili Ella Falls (Balangoda)
- Doowili Ella Falls (Illumbekanda)
- Doowili Ella Falls (Kalthota)
- Doowili Ella Falls (Maduwanwela)
- Doowili Ella Falls (Pitakale)
- Doowili Ella Falls (Udagama)
📌 Ratnapura alone is home to 10 waterfalls called “Doowili Ella.”
- Dumpus Ella Falls
- Ellepola Ella Falls
- Ethawetunu Ella
- Fairlawn Falls
- Galagama Ella Falls
- Galamuna Ella Falls
- Galdola Ella Falls
- Galpoththawa Ella Falls
- Gerandi Gini Ella Falls
- Gerandi Rikili Ella Falls
- Gonawati Ella Falls
- Gonnan Ella Falls
- Goxin Falls
- Gurumeti Ella
- Hal Ella Falls
- Haldola Ella Falls
- Halmahi Ella Falls
- Handapan Ella Falls
- Handhapan Ella Falls
- Hathbili Ella Falls
- Hettigama Kanda Falls
- Hunukatu Ella Falls
- Jodu Ella Falls
- Kachchaputa Falls 1
- Kachchaputa Falls 2
- Kaltota Kuda Doowili Ella Falls
- Kaluwala Ella
- Kanabadu Ella
- Kandu Ella Falls
- Karalu Ella Falls
- Katu Kitul Ella Falls
- Katugas Ella Falls
- Kiri Ella Falls
- Kirinda Ella Falls
- Kirindi Ella Falls (One of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfalls at 116 meters)
- Kuda Ella Falls
- Lihiniyan Kelina Ella
- Lihiniyandola Ella
- Madanagiri Ella Falls
- Madola Ella Falls
- Maduwanwela Aralu Ella
- Mala Ella Falls
- Malpudana Ella Falls
- Mapanana Ella Falls
- Marakkala Falls
- Masimbula Ella Falls
- Meddekanda Ella Falls
- Mini Ella Falls
- Miniran Ella Falls
- Miyunu Ella Falls
- Munangala Ella Falls
- Muwan Vetuna Ella Falls
- Nagaha Ella Falls
- Napath Ella Falls
- Naya Dola Ella Falls
- Nivun Ella Falls
- Pahanthuda Ella
- Pandioya Ella Falls
- Papol Ella Falls
- Patta Ella Falls
- Peessa Ella Falls
- Petiyagala Ella Falls
- Pulun Ella Falls
- Rajanawa Ella Falls
- Rathu Palama Ella (Kolambagama)
- Sannasi Ella Falls
- Silu Ella Falls
- Sipirimala Ella Falls
- Surathali Ella Falls
- Thini Oya Ella Falls
- Udakanda Ella Falls
- Umage Ella Falls
- Unaoya Ella Falls
- Uran Watuna Ella Falls
- Upper Galdola Ella Falls
- Walawe Ganga West Falls
- Warnagala Ella Falls
- Watawala Ella Falls
- Wawulagala Ella Falls
- Wawulpane Ella Falls
- Wedan Ella Falls
- Welwaththa Ella Falls
- Wewal Ella Falls
- Yakdinnawa Ella Falls
- Polwatta Amuran Ella Falls
- Aliya Wetuna Ella (Bolthumbe)
- Demala Ella
- Hathbamba Ella Falls
Highlights of Ratnapura District Waterfalls
- Bambarakanda Falls: Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall at 263 meters.
- Kirindi Ella: A 116-meter-tall cascading beauty.
- Bopath Ella: A waterfall with a unique Bo-leaf shape.
- Surathali Ella: Featured in local folklore and surrounded by lush greenery.
Sri Lanka: A Paradise for Waterfall Enthusiasts
Sri Lanka is one of the most waterfall-rich countries in the world, with over 500 documented waterfalls. Additionally, there are many unnamed or unregistered waterfalls, which add to the mystery and allure of exploring this island nation. Tourists from around the globe visit to experience the serene beauty of these cascades.
Interesting Facts
- Sri Lanka is one of the countries with the highest number of waterfalls globally.
- Many waterfalls are unregistered or lesser-known, so there are still hidden gems waiting to be explored.
- Tourists worldwide visit Sri Lanka to enjoy its natural beauty, including its majestic waterfalls.
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