Diyaluma Falls – Sri Lanka’s most photogenic waterfall The central-southern region of Sri Lanka is filled with winding streams and marshlands, where rivers continuously flow down toward the coastal lowlands.
Diyaluma Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
220m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Diyaluma Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Diyaluma Falls famous?
Diyaluma is Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall at 220 meters and is famous for its dramatic upper-tier natural infinity pools that sit right at the cliff edge, offering breathtaking views over the valley. The pools have become an iconic photo destination, though swimming near the edge is extremely dangerous.
Can you swim at Diyaluma Falls?
Yes, natural pools exist at the top of the falls, popular for swimming. Access requires a hike to the upper tier. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Diyaluma Falls?
Unknown — please check the official website. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Diyaluma Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entrance fee or permit required to visit Diyaluma Falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Diyaluma Falls?
Parking is available near the base viewpoint along the main road (A4). For upper pools, parking is available at a different access point further up the road. Free parking, basic roadside areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Diyaluma Falls?
Viewing the falls from the base requires no hike (roadside). Reaching the upper natural pools requires approximately 1.5–2 km uphill hike one-way from the upper parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Diyaluma Falls hike difficulty
Moderate to Hard for upper pools — steep, rocky terrain with uneven paths, some scrambling required, can be slippery when wet. Roadside (no hike) for base viewing. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Diyaluma Falls?
December to April (dry season) for safer access to upper pools and clearer skies, though water flow is lower. May to September brings higher flow but can be dangerous. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Diyaluma Falls
For the upper pools: from the upper parking area along the A4 highway, follow the trail uphill through tea plantations and rocky terrain. The path can be steep and unmarked in sections. Local guides are often available and recommended. The upper tier has several natural infinity pools near the cliff edge—exercise extreme caution as edges are unprotected.
Attractions near Diyaluma Falls
- •Ella — scenic hill town with hiking, Nine Arch Bridge, and Little Adam's Peak (approx. 35 km away)
- •Bambarakanda Falls — Sri Lanka's tallest waterfall at 263 m (approx. 25 km away)
- •Haputale — mountain town with stunning viewpoints and tea plantations (approx. 20 km away)
- •Adisham Bungalow — colonial monastery and gardens near Haputale (approx. 22 km away)
- •Horton Plains National Park — highland plateau with World's End viewpoint (approx. 40 km away)
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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