Ramboda Falls is found in the lush central highland of Sri Lanka in the tea plantation climatologies and mist shrouded mountains. Not just a wonderful natural attraction, this majestic waterfall is a testament to the way the ecological, and cultural tapestry of the region weave together in a way that offers something special to all. In this article, we go in depth to discuss about Ramboda Falls, and what makes it so attractive in terms of natural beauty, area around and the experiences in store for travelers.
The Majesty of Ramboda Falls
One of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, located just 1.2 kilometres (0.75 mi) east of the village of Ramboda, Ramboda Falls is a 109 meter (358 ft) tall waterfall. It is just located in Pussellawa area of Kandy District and so is a major landmark on the way to Nuwara Eliya, being one of the most important area for tea in the country.
The Panna Oya, a tributary of the Kothmale Oya is fed the waterfall. Water volume and the force of its descent are so big, it produces a misty atmosphere which can both cool down and hydrate tired travelers. Ramboda Falls is the best visited during the months of monsoon season which last from October to January when the rainfall is at its highest and thereby adding to the volume and its beauty.
Exploring the Surroundings
The destination itself is Ramboda Falls, but the journey has breathtaking views. In this morning the plant leaves are covered with dew and the roads wind up through lush green tea plantations. There are viewpoints every few hundred metres dotting the area, each with a different view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Nearby the tea estates also beckon visitors to Ramboda Falls. Most of these estates arrange guided tours of the tea picking, processing and brewing process, giving you a glimpse of one of Sri Lanka’s most important industries. In addition to being educational, having the chance to taste some of the freshest teas directly from their source makes the experience.
Activities at Ramboda Falls
There are plenty of activities to keep the adventure and nature lovers busy in the area surrounding Ramboda falls. Several trails, easy walks to more challenging, offer an extensive hiking option. These trails are often to secluded spots where the person can go to enjoy the natural beauty area in solitude.
The more adventurous type can also hike to the base of the waterfall along a moderately difficult trail where, in return, you get sweeping views and can actually swim in the natural pools created by the waterfall. Swimming in the cool, clear water in the highlands saturated with lush greenery is an invigorating experience to get.
Environmental and cultural significances.
Locally the Ramboda Falls are special. As waterfalls in Sri Lanka are, most are also associated with legends and folklore and Ramboda Falls is no exception. Local myths say it holds spiritual significance and mythical gods and ancient warriors are said to have lived there. This turns a nature trip to Ramboda Falls to a cultural exploration.
Also, the surrounding ecosystem of the waterfall is vital to local biodiversity. Some flora and fauna in the area are endemic to Sri Lanka and the moist environment supports the diversity. Attempts are being made to conserve this fragile ecosystem from the impact of tourism and development.
Sustainable Tourism
Like many of the world’s natural wonders, Ramboda Falls has problems with tourism and environmental conservation. There are worries that an increase in visitors will mean an increase in littering and environmental degradation. However, local authorities and community organizations are developing strategies to encourage sustainable tourism practices, such that environmental impact is reduced, and local economies are bolstered instead. On your visit, you are encouraged to respect the natural environment and participate in eco friendly practices.
How to Get There
Ramboda Falls is linked by road from Kandy or Nuwara Eliya. You do have public transport options, though if you want to travel a little more comfortably and flexible, I’d recommend sitting behind the wheel of a rental car. Although it is well sign posted it is not far from the main road and a short walk to the waterfall.
Best Places to Visit Near Ramboda Falls
1. Nuwara Eliya: Sri Lanka’s ‘Little England’
A charming hill station located about a short drive from Ramboda Falls is Nuwara Eliya full of colonial era bungalows and lush greenery along with vibrant flower gardens. Along with the traditions that remain, like afternoon tea and horse racing, the architecture of the town catches the old world colonial charm of the region. Visitors are allowed to visit picturesque Victoria Park, serene Gregory Lake and Hakgala Botanical Gardens holding a large variety of exotic plants not available any where else in Sri Lanka.
2. Tea Estates of Pussellawa
The Ramboda Falls region is noted for its tea production, and a thorough look at tea estates of Pussellawa takes you one step closer in appreciating this part of Sri Lankan culture. The estates you visit, including Pedro and Labookellie, offer guided tours, which show you how teas are made, from leaf picking to brewing. Sometimes the tour will end with a tasting session where you can taste different Ceylon teas—the must do for teaholics.
3. Kandy: The Cultural Capital
Kandy being a city of history and culture and being located about an hour’s drive from Ramboda Falls. The most sacred place of worship in the Buddhist world is Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of its famous places. Within few km of the city centre there are Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya with over 4000 species of plants to admire for the visitors. As a result of its position of cultural vibrancy, historical importance and beautiful surroundings, Kandy is well worth a stop, if you are traveling in central Sri Lanka.
4. Horton Plains National Park
For those willing to go a bit out of the way, Horton Plains National Park provides the view of dramatically different landscape than the lush tea country. Unique grasslands are interspersed with patches of forest and unusual high altitude vegetation make up this special ecosystem. World’s End, a cliff face affording dramatic views of the surrounding countryside is also accessible from the park, and it provides the starting point for a walk to World’s End. Best visibility and sunrise views are early morning visits.
5. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)
Adam’s Peak is a bit further afield but there are some good day trips from Ramboda Falls here. Famous for its sacred footprint at the summit, revered by many religions, this conical mountain is the only natural landmark in the whole country. Commonly done at night, the climb is full of thousands of steps and climbers arrive at the summit in time to watch a gorgeous sunrise from the mystical peak and the awe inspiring views that surround it.
6. Laxapana Falls
Another stunning waterfall to visit would be Laxapana Falls and not far from Ramboda. The waterfall stands at 126 meters and is one of the country’s tallest waterfalls and eases the island’s production of hydroelectric power. Laxapana is a great place for hiking and in fact the falls itself is also a picturesque place for photography.
Conclusion
Ramboda Falls is not just a waterfall, as it is picturesque. A vibrant part of Sri Lanka’s natural and cultural heritage, it combines ecological beauty, adventure and cultural depth. From being a fan of nature, a culture lover or searching for a perfect place to relax Ramboda Falls is a place to have a rich and memorable holiday. Besides being the literal flow of water, cascading waters also symbolise the flow of life and cultural existence in this region that has thoroughly existed for centuries.
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