Having being surrounded by water, Sri Lanka comprises of delightful waterfalls ranging from the most attractive of them all is the Diyaluma Falls. Diyaluma Falls is the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and allows a free fall of 220 m up to a gorge, where water is split through a number of natural ponds and greenary. Here, we break down the truly bewitching beauty of Diyaluma Falls, here is your comprehensive guide for every would-be explorer and connoisseur of nature out there.

The Allure of Diyaluma Falls

An Overview of Diyaluma Falls

Diyaluma Falls is situated in the Badulla District and anyone that gets to see the place is going to love it. This is an exhilarating waterfall which emanates from the Poonagala Oya and this water falls over a rough craggy cliff presenting magnificent sight seeing. The name Diyalthura literally translates to ‘rapid flow of water ’ in Singhalese and that seems to capture the potency of the of the falls.

How to Reach Diyaluma Falls

By Car

Diyaluma Falls is about 6kms (3.7miles) from Koslanda town and around 200kms (124miles) from Colombo the capital of Sri Lanka. The car users should use the A4 motor way because the scenery from the motor way is beautiful and passes through various beautiful villages. The journey normally takes about 4 to 5 hours of travel time from Colombo.

By Public Transport

For transport enthusiasts, there is a bus and train to cover all the transport needs of the people. Buses and trains going to Badulla pass through the Ella station, and a short ride in a bus or even tuk-tuk will take a traveler to the Ella waterfall. Most of the busses working on this route are available from Colombo to Koslanda but they offer daily services so it will be quite comfortable for the travelers.

The Hike to Diyaluma Falls

Choosing Your Route

There are two main routes to reach the top of Diyaluma Falls: the lower Diyaluma route and the Poonagala route, Since the beginning of the pioneering entry into the …

Source:  Contact trump October 27, 2014 Both are providing hiking trails with different level of hiking difficulty.

Lower Diyaluma Route

As compared to the first route, this one is much easier and only takes half the time – perfect for an afternoon walk. It is a less physically demanding walk because it is through a forested trail and can take between half an hour to 45 minutes to the base of the falls.

Poonagala Route

The second, Poonagala route is slightly more challenging but the walk is full of rewards. It takes between 2 and 3 hours and passes through tea estates, pedal and steep cliffs or gorges and thickets of Mgahinga. Like the Poonagala route is the picturesque view of the country side that one gets the chance to see.

What to Expect at the Top

The Natural Pools

The water upon reaching the top to the top forms a series of water pools which has been naturally formed. These pools that contain water that look so clean are ideal for a swim. In particular, there is an option for an infinity pool on the uppermost pool – swimming over the waterfall edge.

The Spectacular Views

Its quite beautiful at the top of Diyaluma Falls where one can get a very nice view of the valleys and hills around it. From a distance, the distant mountains and the green cover of the land seem to go on for ever on clear day. These are wonderful vantage point for any traveler especially the photo enthusiast that want to see the essence of natural endowment of Sri Lanka.

Wildlife and Flora

The Diyaluma Falls are located within a area of high biological diversity. Some of the many birds, butterflies, and plants are found within the province. Trekkers are likely to see the Sri Lankan Jungle fowl and beautiful butterflies flying around the flowers in the jungle.

Expectation and Standard of Safety While Going out / Traveling

Hike Preparation

Footwear: One might need a good pair of shoes for hiking because the floor is rocky and at some points one might need a bit of a grip.

Clothing: This means that the participants should wear loose, light coloured and airy clothing. As for accessories – it is still advisable to bring a light jacket since the place becomes cold at the top.

Supplies: Take water, food, and a care kit for the trip too. Sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended Clothing names Clothing are as follows;

Safety Precautions

Stay on Marked Trails: It is very risky to take a different course: one should stick to the marked trails. Stay on the tracks and pay attention to what the local counselors say.

Weather Awareness: Make sure to carry some items that will alert you on the prevailing weather when you are planning to go for the hike. This means that one should never trek, especially during the rainy season because the terrain becomes difficult.

Swimming Caution: Although the natural pools look very tempting, be careful of slippery rocks and water current around the edges.

Best Time to Visit Diyaluma Falls

The most ideal time to visit Diyaluma Falls is during the dry season, there are two seasons, the first one is from March up to May second, and the second season is from August up to October. This is because during these months weather is relatively forecast hence making it safer and more fun to undertake the hike. The waterfall is always there and always running but in different quantities depending on the season, so in effect you get the versions of the waterfall depending on the time of year.

Nearby Attractions

Ella

Ella is another beautiful town where the visitors can find many waterfalls and beautiful natural spots just 10 km from Diyaluma falls. Among them the Nine Arches Bridge, Ella Rock and the beautiful Ravana waterfall will be quite enjoyable.

Lipton’s Seat

Standing at an altitude of 2289m above sea level, Lipton’s Seat is located at Haputale has become a popular viewpoint of tea country scenery. It has the name of the founder of Lipton tea called Sir Thomas Lipton who used to overs his plantations from the island.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Why travellers come and what they do when they first get there

Morning: This tour begins in Colombo and takes you to Diyaluma Falls.

Afternoon: Take a room in a guesthouse or a hotel in a vicinity of Koslanda.

Evening: Take stroll around the environment and be part of the local flavor of the place.

Day 2: Hiking and Adventure

Morning: Begin first thing to hike to Diyaluma Falls.

Afternoon: As far as the options go, get to the top and dip in the natural pools relax, and then have a picnic.

Evening: Go back to Koslanda and seek out restaurants.

Day 3: Exploring Nearby Attractions

Morning: Ella sightseeing and Nine Arch Bridge tour.

Afternoon: Visit Ella Rock or go to Lipton seat.

Evening: Stay back in Colombo or move ahead to exploring other regions of Sri Lanka.