Hill Country
Ella
A small hill-country town of tea slopes, short hikes and the famous Nine Arch Bridge.
Hill Country
Diyaluma Falls
Diyaluma Falls drops in a single long plunge down a cliff on the southern edge of the hill country. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, and a walk above the falls leads to natural rock pools.
Diyaluma Falls at a glance
- Where
- Hill Country, Sri Lanka
- Best for
- Mountains & tea country, Adventure
- Time needed
- A half-day visit from Ella or Haputale.
- Best time
- Water flow depends on rainfall.
- Nearby
- Ella, Horton Plains & World's End, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe National Park
- Visit with us
- Private tour with your own vehicle and driver
Why visit Diyaluma Falls?
The view of the falls from below is dramatic, and the upper pools offer a refreshing swim with views across the lowlands.
It is a short drive from Ella and Haputale, easy to add to a hill-country itinerary.
Top attractions and things to do
The main fall
Seen from a viewpoint near the road.
Upper pools
A series of natural rock pools reached by a walk with a local guide.
About Diyaluma
Diyaluma is one of Sri Lanka's tallest waterfalls, dropping around 220 metres from the edge of the hill country near Koslanda. The name is often translated as 'rushing water'.
Seen from the main road below, it is a single dramatic ribbon of water. From above, a series of rock pools forms natural infinity pools with views over the plains.
Reaching the upper pools
A path climbs to the top through a village and estate land. It is steep in places and takes around an hour each way. Many travellers walk with a local guide, who knows the safe routes and the best pools.
Wear shoes with grip, carry water and start in the morning to avoid the heat.
Safety
Never swim near the edge, and avoid the pools after heavy rain, when water levels can rise quickly and the rocks become slippery. Follow local advice on the day.
Combining Diyaluma
Diyaluma is around an hour or so from Ella and Haputale. It makes a good day trip, or a stop on the way down from the hills to Udawalawe or the south coast.
Planning your visit
- Suggested time
- A half-day visit from Ella or Haputale. (Guidance only.)
- Best time to visit
- Water flow depends on rainfall. Avoid the upper pools after heavy rain, when rocks are slippery and water levels can rise quickly.
- Getting there
- Diyaluma is near Koslanda, reached by road from Ella or Haputale.
Check current details before travelling: prices, opening hours, access and seasonal conditions change.
Visitor tips
- Go with a local guide for the upper pools.
- Never swim near the edge of the drop.
- Wear shoes with good grip; rocks are slippery.
Experiences around Diyaluma Falls
Plan with our guides
Diyaluma Falls: frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Diyaluma Falls?
The upper pools are popular for swimming in calm conditions. Stay well away from the edge and avoid swimming after rain.
How do I get to the upper pools?
A trail leads from the village area; local guides know the safest route.
Is Diyaluma a day trip from Ella?
Yes. It is commonly visited as a half-day trip from Ella.
When is the best time to visit Diyaluma Falls?
Water flow depends on rainfall. Avoid the upper pools after heavy rain, when rocks are slippery and water levels can rise quickly.
How much time do I need at Diyaluma Falls?
A half-day visit from Ella or Haputale. This is guidance only; we can adjust it to your pace.
Can you include Diyaluma Falls in a private tour?
Yes. We can add Diyaluma Falls to a private route planned around your dates, and drive you there in our own vehicle. Tell us what else you'd like to see and we'll suggest how it fits.
Nearby destinations
Hill Country
Horton Plains & World's End
A high plateau of grassland and cloud forest ending at the dramatic World's End escarpment.
Hill Country
Nuwara Eliya
Cool highland air, emerald tea estates and colonial-era bungalows high in the hills.
Southern Plains
Udawalawe National Park
Open grassland around a reservoir where wild elephant herds are a regular sight.
Plan a trip that includes Diyaluma Falls
Tell us when you'd like to travel and what you love, and we'll suggest a route that fits. There's no obligation.