Waterfalls in Sri Lanka

Dehena Ella waterfall

Ratnapura District

The Dehena Ella waterfall is about 20Km from Ratnapura on the Ratnapura - Wewalwaththe road. It is surrounded by lush jungle and is by the side of the road. When there is heavy rain in the upper reaches it becomes a roaring torrent.

The Kirindi Oya Falls

Ratnapura District

The Kirindi Oya Falls is the third largest waterfall. It cascades down 200 metres. It can be seen when you go from Ratnapura to Pelmadulla and get on to the Katupitiya road which goes by a tea factory. You have to go along a footpath just beyond the tea factory and if you are not bothered by the wild grass and reed, you could get quite close to the waterfall.

At the base of the fall, the water plunges into a deep pool called Diyagathwala. It is said that a flight of stone steps leads down to the bottom, where a treasure trove is hidden. It is worth noting however, that the water completely dries up during times of drought and there have been no reports of any treasure being found.

In the wooded area surrounding the fall, a multitude of plant species can be found, together with wildlife including wild boar, cobra, monkeys and reptiles. This area was previously known as Kustapitiya, meaning itch, as folklore has it that a king suffering from an itch had lived here. Local villagers also believe that voices can be heard near the fall. it is said that fireballs can be seen in the skies above the fall at night.

The nearest town to Kirindi Falls is Pelmadulla, in the Ratnapura District (Pelmadulla Divisional Secretariat, Kuttapitiya Grama Seva area).

The Kirindi Ella River has several other sources at Kuttapitiya Kande. The river flows into the Denewak Ganga, which is a tributary river of the magnificent Kalu Ganga.

The falls are located in the Ratnapura district in Pelmadulla. It specifically falls in the Kuttapitiya region.

To reach the Kirindi Ella falls one needs to take the A-4 road from Ratnapura to Pelmadulla. Just about another half a kilometre prior to the fringes of Pelmadulla lays the junction that leads to Kuttapitiya. This road will take you to a tea factory and the falls will be visible from this area.