Bambarakanda Falls

Sri Lanka's Tallest Waterfall

At 263 metres, Bambarakanda Falls holds the record as the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and one of the tallest in South Asia. The waterfall drops from the edge of the central highlands, where the Horton Plains plateau meets the escarpment dropping towards the southern lowlands. During the rainy season, the thin ribbon of water becomes a dramatic torrent visible from several kilometres away.

The Setting

What makes Bambarakanda unique among Sri Lankan waterfalls is its surrounding landscape — rather than tropical rainforest, the area is covered in pine and eucalyptus plantations established during the British colonial period. These tall, straight trees create an almost European forest atmosphere that contrasts strikingly with the tropical climate. The combination of the towering waterfall and the pine forests makes for unusual and memorable photographs.

Visiting the Falls

A walking trail of approximately 2 kilometres leads from the road to a viewing point near the base of the falls. The trail passes through the pine plantations and can be muddy during wet weather. The falls are at their most dramatic from October to January during the northeast monsoon, though they flow year-round. During very dry periods (July-September), the flow can reduce to a thin stream.

Getting There

Bambarakanda Falls is located near Kalupahana on the road between Haputale and Belihuloya. From Colombo, the journey takes approximately 5-6 hours via Ratnapura. The falls can also be combined with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, located on the plateau above. Public transport is limited — hiring a vehicle or tuk-tuk from Haputale or Belihuloya is recommended.