Nalagana Ella waterfall surrounded by lush greenery in Sri Lanka

Nalagana Ella Falls – A Beautiful Cascade of Nature’s Splendor

Nalagana Ella Falls – A Beautiful Cascade of Nature’s Splendor

✈️ Why should you visit Sigiriya?

Nalagana Ella Falls is a beautiful series of cascades in Sri Lanka’s Kegalle District, known for its multiple chutes of water, with the falls measuring about 40 meters high.
  • Multiple Cascading Chutes: The falls consist of several chutes (multi-tiered cascades), with the overall or main drop measuring approximately 40 meters in height.
  • A Hidden Gem: The waterfall is not directly visible from the main road due to a dense cover of trees. Visitors must trek about 250 meters from the road to get their first view of the falls, making it a discovery for those who venture off the beaten path.
  • Source from a Reservoir: The falls are unique in that they spring directly from the Ritigaha Oya reservoir, which is a tributary of the Kelani River. This gives it the alternate name, “Ritigaha Oya Falls.”
  • A Perilous but Refreshing Rock Pool: At the base of the falls, there is a deep rock pool where visitors can bathe. However, the texts explicitly warn that the water level can rise “rapidly and without warning,” making it a location that requires extreme caution.
  • Location in a Biodiversity Hotspot: The texts mention that the area is known for leeches, suggesting a lush, natural environment. Visitors are advised to bring repellents, highlighting the falls’ location in a pristine rainforest setting teeming with natural life.

Entity

Government

Entrance

Free

Wheelchair Access

No

Water

Available

Restaurants

Available

Toilets

Available

District: Kegalle

Reach

Any vehicle

Road Quality

Good

Public Transport

Available

Crystal-clear stream flowing from Nalagana Ella waterfall
Breathtaking landscape near Nalagana Ella waterfall
Scenic view of Nalagana Ella cascading through forest rocks
Waterfall hidden in the dense jungle of Kegalle district

Guidelines

Travel Prepared : Mobile signals may be weak. Bring water, first aid, and wear sturdy footwear suitable for rocky paths. Be Cautious on Slippery Rocks : The rocks near the falls are extremely slippery. Avoid climbing or standing too close to the edge. Swimming Safety : Do not swim in deep or fast-flowing areas. Hidden currents can be dangerous, especially during the rainy season.