Gartmore Falls cascading into Maskeliya Reservoir near Adam's Peak
Waterfall

Gartmore Falls

A 25 m scenic waterfall near Maskeliya, close to Adam's Peak, flowing into the Maskeliya Reservoir.

Easy145 km from Colombo

Distance

145 km from Colombo

Difficulty

Easy

Best Time to Visit

May - September

Entrance Fee

Access may require permission or a small fee when entering Gartmore Estate area.

Overview

Gartmore Falls is a 25-metre (82 ft) high waterfall located in Maskeliya in the Nuwara Eliya District of Sri Lanka's Central Province. The waterfall is also known as "Sri Pada Falls" or "Adam's Peak Falls" due to its close proximity to the sacred Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) mountain.

The waterfall lies within the Gartmore Estate and cascades directly into the Maskeliya Reservoir, creating a beautiful scenic backdrop. It is fed by two streams that merge above the main drop. Each stream forms its own waterfall before joining together - commonly referred to as Upper Gartmore Falls and Lower Gartmore Falls. Together, they are known as the Gartmore Estate Waterfalls.

Because of its location near the Sri Pada pilgrimage route, Gartmore Falls is often visited by travelers exploring the central highlands. The waterfall's wide cascade and reservoir setting make it a popular photography spot, especially during the rainy season when the water flow increases.

Gallery

Gartmore Falls cascading into Maskeliya Reservoir
Gartmore Falls near Adam's Peak
Gartmore Estate Falls upper cascade
Gartmore Falls reservoir panorama

🧭 How to Get There

📍 Location

Mulgama, Maskeliya, Nuwara Eliya District, Central Province

🚗 How to Reach

  • From Colombo (Lower Point) (~145 km • ~4:30 h)
  • From Colombo (Upper Point) (~146 km • ~4:30 h)

Click markers to open locations in Google Maps

Travel Guide

Travel Tips

  • Combine your visit with Sri Pada (Adam's Peak) pilgrimage.
  • Best photography during rainy season when water flow is strong.
  • Early morning visits offer clearer reservoir views.
  • Respect estate property and local workers.
  • Check local access permissions before visiting.

Safety Notes

Please read before visiting

  • Roads within tea estates can be narrow and slippery.
  • Avoid approaching reservoir edges during heavy rain.
  • Be cautious when walking near wet rocks.
  • Mobile signal may vary in estate areas.

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