Bambarakanda Ella Falls

Sri Lanka’s highest waterfall, the horsetail Bambarakanda Ella Falls cascades beautifully from a cliff face amidst high mountains in the hill country, in Kalupahana. Ranked the 299th tallest waterfall in the world, it has an impressive height of 790 ft. A picturesque waterfall which is spectacular to see and it originates from Kuda Oya which is a branch of the Walawe River. This destination with endless panoramas of the plains is a perfect getaway for family picnics and excellent photography of nature and scenery. At the bottom of the falls, there is a natural pool in which one can enjoy a dip and swim for fun and leisure.
There is an interesting trail/hike to the top of the falls for the adventurous seeking a thrilling hiking experience. The best time to visit the falls would ideally be from the months of March to May since it is during this period, there is a considerable amount of water which gives great flow. The months of November to February are the rainy season so it is not recommended to visit since viewing would be difficult.
Trek of Bambarakanda Ella Falls
This mighty trek to the Bambarakanda Ella Falls is relatively easy. The trail begins at the head being Bambarakanda Rest in Kalupahana and ends at the crest of the falls which is 1.6 km in length. When trekking, you will descend down before climbing up and it takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. The hiking season for this vicinity is from April to September. It is recommended to bring plenty of drinking water and a pair of good boots that are suitable for hiking since the trail can be slippery. Added benefits would be to take some salt to ward off the leeches if any and insect repellant for extra safety.
This trek will go through pine trees and intense climbs to wooded areas. You will be able to have good views of Horton Plains at the halfway point. The trail continues through the woods with a steep climb of 300 metres and goes to the edge of the cliff where you can get a 360 degree view. To reach the crest of the falls, the trail continues for a further 100 metres reaching the smaller waterfall above and the pool that fills Bambarakanda Ella Falls. Thereafter there is a sharp drop of 50 metres that can be used to get to the edge of the pool. This is the crest of Bambarakanda Falls.