Highlights
- About 220 metres high, one of the tallest falls in Sri Lanka
- The start point for the Upper Diyaluma trek
- Natural rock pools above the falls are good for a dip
- Wide views from the top over the plains
Overview
Diyaluma Falls drops about 220 metres from the edge of the Koslanda plateau, making it the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It is close to the main Colombo-Badulla road, so the lower viewpoint is easy to reach, and there are natural rock pools at the top for those willing to climb.
What you see and do
From the road and the pool at the base, you see the full height of the fall as a single long ribbon of water. The stream is the Punagala Oya, part of the Kirindi Oya system. The name is often explained as "rapid flow of water" or "liquid light" in Sinhala.
The more popular outing is the climb to the top, where a series of shallow pools sit at the lip of the cliff with wide views over the lowlands. See our Upper Diyaluma trek page for details.
How long it takes
Allow half an hour to see the falls from below. The walk to the upper pools and back usually takes two to three hours, plus time to swim.
Getting there
Diyaluma is about 40 km from Ella, close to Koslanda, roughly an hour to an hour and a half by road. It combines well with a drive towards Haputale or the south coast.
When to go
The flow is strongest after rain, but the upper pools are safest in drier weather. Go in the morning, before afternoon clouds and showers.
Safety
- Never swim near the edge of the drop, and stay out of the water after heavy rain.
- Rocks are slippery; wear shoes with grip.
- Go with a local guide for the upper trail.
Nearby in Ella, see Ravana Falls, or browse things to do in Ella and hotels in Ella.
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