Listly by Joanna James
Nuwara Eliya, located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, is famous for its scenic beauty and has several showstopping waterfalls for all lovers of nature to explore.
Perhaps the most famous waterfall in Nuwara Eliya, it has earned its name from the harrowing tales of young lovers plunging into their watery doom. To hike up to the waterfall requires a 30-minute trek, while the cascades descend from a 30-metre drop to form a refreshing freshwater pool. Don't forget to take a nice dip in the pristine cold water! The likes of Oliphant Boutique Villa are situated close by and are just a 20-minute drive away from the falls.
It is one of the bigger waterfalls in Nuwara Eliya and requires a 3 km hike to reach its location. Overlooking verdant mountains and fields of green, it is a sight for sore eyes. The waterfall forms a large crystal-clear water pool below. From Nuwara Eliya Town, it takes an hour's drive to reach the fall, which is 23 km away.
St Clair's is an incredibly beautiful and picturesque waterfall. The signs to reach the place, however, are inaccurate, so, the best option is to take a tuk-tuk to reach the location via Google Maps. The directions will take you to a small village, where you can request someone to take you close to it, providing they are willing. The scenery here is beautiful, as incredible sights unfold before one after another, culminating in a majestic waterfall emerging from the surrounding tea plantations.
Located near St Clair's fall, it is known commonly as the "Little Niagara of Sri Lanka". Reaching the waterfall requires a 50-minute drive from Nuwara Eliya. There are different viewpoints, and some only need a small walk. One of the best views is from the Mlesna Tea Castle. From there, you get to see a spectacular panoramic view of the waterfall. You also have the option to dine outdoors, overlooking Devon falls at a distance, or have tea and cake, which are ridiculously good!
Ramboda is a popular stop when driving from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and is the 11th tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. There is a trail to reach its summit, which begins at a restaurant located near the falls.
There is a 50-rupee entrance fee to the viewing spot, hardly anything compared to the priceless sights you will get to see! A trip to Ramboda Falls is about an hour's drive from Nuwara Eliya.
It is the second biggest waterfall in the area and is surrounded by lush trees, and mist. Visiting this falls is one of the best things to do around Nuwara Eliya and is just a walking distance away from the town. The dense forests make the place ideal for treks and camping.
It has a height of 98 metres and is surrounded by green hills and forest, perfect for a hike in the crisp morning air. The best part is you get to cool off in the incredible pool beneath the falls, which is perfect for swimming! However, it is a little further away from the city at 63 km and will require a two-hour drive to get there.