Overview
Diyaluma Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka at 171 metres, cascading down a vertical cliff face in the Uva Province highlands near Koslanda, between Ella and Haputale. The standard viewing point at the base of the falls reveals a single dramatic drop from an enormous height — the white column of water appearing almost impossibly tall against the dark rock face. What distinguishes Diyaluma from most waterfalls in Sri Lanka is the upper access — a 2-hour trek up the side of the cliff through forest brings visitors to the top of the falls, where a series of extraordinary natural infinity pools cascade from one tier to the next just before the water tips over the main drop. These upper pools — each a different shade of green and blue, each perfectly shaped for swimming — have become legendary among travellers and represent one of the finest natural swimming experiences in the country.
Highlights
- Second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka at 171 metres
- The lower view of the 171-metre drop is simply breathtaking
- Upper access trail leads to legendary natural infinity pools at the cliff top
- The upper pools cascade in sequence — each a perfect natural swimming pool
- The upper trail is a 2-hour hike with stunning views on the approach
- The swimming in the upper pools is among the finest in Uva Province
- Both lower viewpoint and upper access are rewarding in different ways
- The full experience — lower view, upper hike, pool swimming — takes a full day
Best Time to Visit
June–September for the most dramatic lower falls. November–April for the most accessible upper pools and safest swimming.
Activities
- Lower viewpoint photography of the full 171-metre drop
- Upper trail hike to the natural pools
- Swimming in the upper infinity pools
- Combined lower and upper visit (full day)
Suitable For
Hikers, swimmers, waterfall enthusiasts, photographers, adventurous travellers
Nearby Attractions
- Haputale (20 min drive)
- Bandarawela (25 min drive)
- Ella (30 min drive)
- Lipton’s Seat (30 min drive)
- Ohiya forest (40 min drive)
Travel Tips
- The upper trail starts from a path on the cliff side — ask locally for the current starting point
- Upper pool swimming is best November–April when water flow is moderate and safe
- Never swim in the upper pools in high flow conditions — the current is dangerous
- Bring food and water for the full day experience
- A guide for the upper trail is strongly recommended
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