Bambarakanda Falls
Uva Province
About Bambarakanda Falls
Bambarakanda is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, dropping 263 metres in one slender, mesmerising thread from the crest of the Horton Plains massif into a valley of planted pines near Kalupahana. Its remoteness keeps it blissfully quiet: a narrow lane winds up from the A4 highway to a viewpoint and a couple of simple guesthouses, and a short forest path leads to the base pool, where the fall's spray drifts over dark rock. The waterfall is at its thundering best during and just after the rains (roughly March–May and October–December); in dry months it thins to a delicate ribbon, still beautiful against the cliff. Hikers use Bambarakanda as the trailhead for the spectacular climb via Lanka Ella and the 'Devil's Staircase' road toward Ohiya and Horton Plains - one of the great walks of the hill country.
Top Activities
- ✓Viewpoint and base-pool walk
- ✓Devil's Staircase hike toward Ohiya
- ✓V-shaped valley photography
- ✓Overnight at a valley guesthouse
- ✓Combine with Horton Plains via Ohiya
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Visit after rain for maximum drama; dry-season flow is thin.
The Devil's Staircase walk needs an early start and good shoes.
Stay a night in the valley to catch the falls in dawn light.
Quick Info
Best Time
March to May and October to December (fullest flow)
Weather
Cool valley air; fullest flow in and after the rains.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.7669°N, 80.8331°E
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