Devon Falls

Devon Falls is one of the classic waterfalls of Sri Lanka's tea country. It drops in three tiers for a total of about 97 metres, through forest and tea estates near Talawakele. It is named after a British planter, Devon, whose estate lay nearby.

What you see

The falls tumble down a steep green valley in a long white ribbon, formed by a stream that feeds the Kotmale Oya, part of the Mahaweli system. From the main viewpoint you see the full height of the fall framed by tea bushes. After rain it is at its most powerful.

Viewpoints

• The roadside viewpoint: on the A7 Hatton to Nuwara Eliya road at Dimbula, with a parking area. This is where most people stop.
• The tea centre opposite: a tea shop and sales centre across the road has a terrace looking at the falls; a cup of tea here is a popular break.
• From the train: the falls can be glimpsed from the hill-country railway near Watagoda.

How long it takes

Fifteen to thirty minutes at the viewpoint.

When to go

The falls are fullest during and just after the rains. Morning light is usually clearer; afternoons can bring mist.

Getting there

Devon Falls is about 6 km west of Talawakele, roughly 20 minutes from Hatton and an hour from Nuwara Eliya. It is an easy stop on the drive between Hatton or Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

Practical tips

• Park only in the marked area; the road is busy.
• Do not try to climb down to the falls on informal paths.
• Bring a rain jacket.

Combine it with St Clair's Falls just down the road. See things to do around Hatton and Hatton hotels.