Joanna James
For an island so small, Sri Lanka is home to a whopping 400 waterfalls. From its grandest waterfalls to lesser-known beauties hidden in the island's picturesque hills, here's a rundown of the country's top cascades.
Ranked among the widest cascades on the island, the breathtaking Baker's Falls is easily accessible to those who venture down to the Horton Plains National Park. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the dry season as the area around the falls can become dangerously slippery during rainy days.
Providing hydroelectricity to nearly every corner of this tiny island nation, the Laxapana Falls is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. The cool waters of the waterfall and the deep pool at its base can be accessed by a short hike up from the parking area near Laxapana.
Occupying pride of place within the jungles of Bambarakotuwa, Kirindi Ella is a mammoth waterfall that has a massive pool at its feet. Easily accessible to those travelling along the Ratnapura or even the Pelmadulla road, visitors can catch a great view of the falls from a viewing platform erected near the cascade.
Having the distinct honour of being the highest waterfall on the island, the Bambarakanda Falls measures in at a whopping 263 meters. Although swimming and bathing at the pool at its base are prohibited, visitors can still enjoy stunning views of the cascade during the monsoon season when it gushes forth with a powerful force.
Thus named for its unique shape, which resembles the leaf of a Bo tree, this relatively small waterfall makes up for what it lacks in size with sheer charm. Ideally situated close to the gem town of Ratnapura, visitors can splash around the small pool at the foot of the cascade during a tour.
Located in the scenic environs of Ella, the Ravana Falls is located in an area that is considered a hiker's haven in Sri Lanka. Thus named due to the cave located near the waterfall, the cascade is linked with the myth of the Ramayana and King Ravana's kidnapping of Princess Sita due to the location of the cave. As one of the best-known waterfalls in Ella, a visit to Ravana Falls is a must for all those who travel to Ella for a holiday.
Situated in the hills of Nuwara Eliya, St Clairs Waterfall is one of the most visually arresting cascades in the country. Loved by locals and honeymooners, the St Clairs Waterfall is so photogenic due to its setting amidst criss-crossing tea estates.
Those heading to the Badulla District should not miss a chance to witness the majesty and the sheer beauty of the Diyaluma Waterfall. A whopping 220m in height, the waterfall is the second tallest in Sri Lanka and is ranked among the most romantic locations in the area due to its wild surroundings and camping possibilities.
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