Bambarakanda Waterfall Located in Sri Lanka, it is an absolutely breathtaking natural landmark that every traveler should add to his or her bucket list. Located at 263 meters above sea level, Bambarakanda Waterfall is the tallest waterfall in all of Sri Lanka and sits high atop the lush and lush forest floor located deep within the misty mountains of Badulla.
When traveling internationally (US tourists), Bambarakanda represents everything you would want to experience; the combination of Nature, Hiking, and dramatic Cliff Views are a perfect setting to enjoy one of these hidden gems while visiting Hill Country, and will give you many options for scenic views during your travels to and around Sri Lanka’s pristine natural beauty.
🏞️Best Things to Do at Bambarakanda Waterfall, Sri Lanka
Bambarakanda Waterfall is not just a sightseeing spot—it’s a complete nature experience. From hiking to photography, here are the best things you can do during your visit:
Enjoy the Stunning Base View of the Waterfall
Stand at the bottom of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall and witness the powerful water drop from 263 meters above. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, taking pictures, and enjoying the cool mist.
Hike to the Top of Bambarakanda
A short but rewarding trail leads you to the top of the waterfall, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. It’s ideal for adventure lovers and makes for incredible photo opportunities.
Explore the Pine Forest Trails
Surrounding the waterfall are beautiful pine forests with shaded paths, calm winds, and scenic viewpoints. These trails are great for casual walks, picnics, and nature photography.
Visit the Hidden Lanka Ella Waterfall
Just a 30–40 minute hike from Bambarakanda, Lanka Ella is a peaceful and secluded waterfall. It’s perfect for travelers who want quiet nature time away from the crowds.
Enjoy Nature Photography & Drone Shots
Capture dramatic cliff drops, long-distance shots of the cascade, and forest landscapes. The area around Bambarakanda is a paradise for photographers and drone creators.
Relax with a Mountain-View Picnic
There are several calm spots near the waterfall and pine forests where you can sit, relax, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by fresh mountain air.
🗺️How to Reach Bambarakanda Waterfall in Sri Lanka
Reaching Bambarakanda Waterfall is part of the adventure—winding mountain roads, misty hills, and lush greenery make the journey just as beautiful as the destination. Here’s the simplest guide for travelers:
From Colombo
Option 1: Train + Tuk-Tuk
- Take a train from Colombo Fort to Haputale or Ohiya.
- From there, hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to Bambarakanda (30–45 minutes).
This is the most scenic and budget-friendly route.
Option 2: Direct Private Taxi
- Hire a private car from Colombo to Bambarakanda.
- Travel time: 5–6 hours.
This is the most comfortable option for foreign travelers.
From Ella
- Take a taxi or tuk-tuk from Ella town.
- Travel time: 1.5–2 hours.
The route is full of stunning viewpoints, making it one of the most enjoyable drives.
From Kandy or Nuwara Eliya
- Drive towards Haputale or Beragala.
- Follow the Kalupahana turn-off to reach the waterfall.
Road Conditions & Travel Tips
- The last stretch leading to the waterfall is narrow and semi-off-road.
- Small vehicles or tuk-tuks can navigate easily.
- Visit in the morning for better road safety and fewer crowds.
Entrance & Parking
- A small fee is charged at the entrance.
- Parking is available near the trailhead.
🌤️Best Time to Visit Bambarakanda Waterfall
The best time to visit Bambarakanda Waterfall depends on what kind of experience you want—strong water flow, clear hiking paths, or cool mountain weather. Here’s the simplest guide:
Best Overall Time — March to June
This period offers the perfect balance of:
- Clear skies
- Safe hiking trails
- Strong but not dangerous water flow
- Pleasant mountain temperatures
It’s ideal for photography, sightseeing, and hiking.
For Full Water Flow — After the Rainy Season (October–December)
If you want to see Bambarakanda at its most powerful, visit right after the monsoon.
- Waterfall is full and dramatic
- Forests are lush and green
But:
- Trails may be slippery
- Leeches can be present
- Rain showers are more frequent
Best Time for Hiking & Clear Views — January to March
This is the driest period, offering:
- Blue skies
- Clear mountain views
- Comfortable temperatures for hiking
However, the waterfall may have less water compared to other months.
Avoid Peak Rain Months — May & November
These months bring heavy rain, making hiking unsafe and visibility low.
📸Must-Have Photos at Bambarakanda Waterfall
Bambarakanda Waterfall is one of the most photogenic spots in Sri Lanka, offering dramatic landscapes, forest trails, and breathtaking heights. If you’re visiting, here are the top photo moments you shouldn’t miss:
The Full Waterfall Shot from the Base
Capture the entire 263-meter drop from the bottom for a powerful, iconic shot.
- Best taken with a wide-angle lens
- Morning light gives the clearest view
Pine Forest Pathway Photos
The surrounding pine forests create a magical atmosphere.
- Perfect for travel portraits
- Creates a soft, misty background in early mornings
Aerial/Drone Shot of the Waterfall
If allowed, a drone shot offers breathtaking views of:
- The waterfall drop
- The valley below
- Pine forests and mountain ridges
From the Top Viewpoint
A short hike takes you to the top of Bambarakanda.
- Capture the rushing water before it drops
- Great for scenic landscape photography
Close-Up Water Stream Shots
Get artistic shots of:
- Flowing water
- Rocks and textures
- Sunlight reflecting through the mist
These small details add variety to your travel photos.
Trail & Adventure Photos
The trail leading to the fall is beautiful on its own.
- Capture hikers walking through forests
- Add storytelling to your trip album
Bonus: Shots at Nearby Lanka Ella
A quiet waterfall close to Bambarakanda.
- Great for peaceful, nature-focused photos
- Less crowded and more serene
🧳Traveler Tips for Visiting Bambarakanda Waterfall
A trip to Bambarakanda Waterfall in Sri Lanka is unforgettable when you’re well-prepared. Here are the most useful, simple, and practical travel tips for a safe and enjoyable adventure:
Safety Tips
- Avoid climbing wet or slippery rocks near the waterfall.
- Stay on marked trails—edges can be steep.
- Watch out for leeches during rainy months (carry citronella or leech socks).
- Visit earlier in the day for better visibility and fewer crowds.
What to Pack
- Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
- Water bottle + light snacks
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Raincoat or jacket (weather changes quickly in the mountains)
- Power bank for phones and cameras
- Small first-aid kit
Entry & Parking Details
- A small entrance fee is collected by local authorities.
- Parking is available near the trail start point.
- Toilets and basic shops may be available depending on the season.
Best Travel Practices
- Respect nature—do not litter.
- Keep noise low to preserve the peaceful environment.
- Be mindful of strong winds near higher viewpoints.
- Check weather forecasts before your visit.
Tips for Photographers
- Visit in the morning for soft lighting.
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full waterfall.
- Use a tripod for long-exposure shots.
- Early mist adds a magical touch to photos.
🏡Where to Stay Near Bambarakanda Waterfall
If you want to turn a visit to Bambarakanda Waterfall into a relaxing getaway, staying nearby makes it simpler and more enjoyable. Here are some good areas and types of accommodations to consider when planning your trip.
🌄Stay in Nearby Town – Haputale
- Haputale is one of the closest towns with several mid‑range hotels and guesthouses.
- Offers mountain‑view rooms, easy access to food and shops, and a comfortable base for waterfall day trips.
- Ideal if you want convenience and moderate comfort on a budget or mid‑range stay.
🍃Eco‑Friendly Guesthouses & Cottages around Kalupahana / Ohiya
- Small guesthouses or eco‑cottages near Kalupahana or Ohiya offer a peaceful stay close to nature.
- Great for travelers seeking serenity, mountain air, and proximity to forest trails and waterfalls.
- Usually more affordable, simple, and perfect for backpackers or nature lovers.
🏨Resorts and Boutique Hotels in Ella
- Ella offers a wider range of accommodations — from budget‑friendly hostels to boutique resorts.
- Good option if you want more amenities, dining options, and flexibility for day trips to Bambarakanda or nearby attractions.
- Offers scenic mountain‑valley views and a lively small-town vibe.
💡Booking Tips & What to Check
When choosing where to stay:
- Check how far the place is from the waterfall — mountain roads can be winding and travel slow.
- Prefer places that offer dinner or easy food access (especially near Kalupahana).
- Pick accommodations with simple transport or local contact for taxis/tuk‑tuks for early morning waterfall visits.
- For rainy season, check whether the place is easily accessible and has good shelter and amenities.
🍛Food & Dining Near Bambarakanda
If you’re visiting Bambarakanda Waterfall, there are several good options nearby — from simple home‑cooked meals in local guesthouses to casual cafés in nearby towns. Below are some dining suggestions and tips for what to expect.
🍲 Where to Eat: Local Guesthouses & Resorts
- Bambara Ella Agro Resort & Camping — a stay-and-eat option very close to the waterfall: their on‑site restaurant serves traditional Sri Lankan dishes and home‑cooked meals, ideal after a long hike or nature trek.
- Bambarakanda Eco Holiday Resort — a comfortable option for travellers who want a mix of nature stay + simple dining. They reportedly serve both Sri Lankan and some international meals, often made with local ingredients.
These are especially handy if you want to stay close to nature and have easy access to food after visiting the waterfall.
🍛 Nearby Towns: Cafés & Restaurants (Ella, Haputale Region)
If you’re okay with a short drive or tuk‑tuk ride from Bambarakanda, the nearby towns — especially Ella and Haputale — offer more varied dining options. For example:
- In Ella, you’ll find small cafés and backpacker‑friendly restaurants offering a mix of local and western‑style food: rice & curry, kottu, hoppers, and even international dishes.
- Vegetarian or vegan travelers generally find good options in this region because several eateries offer veggie‑friendly or meat‑free meals.
🥥 What to Eat: Local Sri Lankan Dishes to Try
- Rice & Curry — a staple Sri Lankan meal: rice served with several vegetable and/or meat curries, dhal (lentils), coconut sambol or sambals, and possibly fish or chicken curry depending on availability.
- Vegetarian Curries & Plant‑Based Options — many places in Ella/Haputale cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering curries made with jackfruit, beans, lentils, dhal, and more.
- Local Snacks & Simple Meals — for quick bites after trekking: simple rice meals, vegetable curries, or snacks available in small cafés or family‑run restaurants in the towns nearby.
✅ Dining Tips for Travelers
- Staying at a guesthouse or eco‑resort near Bambarakanda is very convenient — you won’t need to travel far after hiking or exploring.
- If you crave more variety (western‑style food or vegetarian/vegan meals), plan a short trip to Ella or Haputale — they have more restaurant options.
- Local meals are often very affordable — rice & curry or vegetarian meals tend to be budget‑friendly, great for backpackers or budget‑conscious travelers.
- Morning or early‑day meal slots are ideal if you want to visit the waterfall and eat without worrying about late‑night travel.
✨ Conclusion & Call-to-Action
Bambarakanda Waterfall in Sri Lanka is more than just the tallest waterfall on the island—it’s a destination that combines adventure, tranquility, and stunning natural beauty. From hiking through lush pine forests to capturing breathtaking photographs of the cascading water, every moment here is an opportunity to connect with nature and experience Sri Lanka’s hill country charm.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking a romantic getaway, or a family looking for a peaceful retreat, Bambarakanda Waterfall offers an unforgettable experience. Plan your visit during the best season, pack wisely, and make sure to explore the surrounding trails and nearby attractions.
Call-to-Action:
Start planning your adventure today! Add Bambarakanda Waterfall in Sri Lanka to your travel itinerary and immerse yourself in the island’s most spectacular natural scenery. Don’t forget your camera—memories here are as tall as the waterfall itself!
Read more about Madol Duwa Sri Lanka, Wonder of Trincomalee Sri Lanka in our other travel articles.
