Diyavini Ella Falls cascading through dense jungle near Kaltota in Ratnapura District
Waterfall

Diyavini Ella Falls

A 60 m jungle waterfall near Kaltota in Ratnapura District, also known as Diyawini Ella, surrounded by ancient temples, legends, and forest trekking trails.

Moderate153 km from Colombo

Distance

153 km from Colombo

Difficulty

Moderate

Best Time to Visit

December - April

Entrance Fee

Free (No official entrance fee. Donations may be made at the nearby temple.)

Overview

Diyavini Ella Falls (also known as Diyawini Ella) is a 60-metre (197 ft) waterfall located near Kaltota in the Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka's Sabaragamuwa Province. The waterfall lies about 8 km east of Balangoda, south of Vikiliya, within dense jungle terrain.

The falls originate from a tributary of the Diyavini River, which later joins another stream before flowing into the Walawe River. Because of its location deep within forested surroundings, the waterfall can be seen from more than 2 km away during clear weather.

The area around Diyavini Ella is historically and culturally significant. It lies close to the ancient Sri Devagiri Raja Maha Viharaya (Rajamaha Vihare) and an old dagoba overgrown by jungle vegetation. Local folklore speaks of hidden treasure buried in the vicinity and tells the story of a village headman who disappeared while searching for it. Villagers also claim that Brahmi inscriptions can be found in nearby caves, along with three stone vessels carved into rock - each approximately 3 metres deep.

During the dry season, visitors may notice what locals describe as "Naga" carvings on the mid-section rock face of the waterfall.

Reaching the falls involves a moderate forest hike from the temple area, making it ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, history, and light trekking combined in a single destination.

Gallery

Diyavini Ella Falls cascading through jungle near Kaltota
Diyavini Ella Falls in Ratnapura District
Diyavini Ella waterfall forest setting

🧭 How to Get There

📍 Location

Kaltota, Ratnapura District, Sabaragamuwa Province

🚗 How to Reach

  • From Colombo (~153 km • ~4:20 h)

🧭 Select your starting point

Click markers to open locations in Google Maps

Travel Guide

Travel Tips

  • Visit during the dry season to observe clearer rock formations.
  • Wear proper hiking shoes - the forest trail can be muddy after rain.
  • Combine your visit with Sri Devagiri Raja Maha Viharaya.
  • Carry insect repellent due to jungle conditions.
  • Start early in the morning to avoid midday heat.
  • Respect religious and archaeological surroundings.

Safety Notes

Please read before visiting

  • Rocks near the waterfall are slippery, especially during rainy periods.
  • Avoid climbing wet rock surfaces.
  • Leeches may be present after rainfall.
  • Mobile signal can be weak in forest areas.
  • Supervise children carefully near the waterfall edge.

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