Diyaluma Falls
Waterfall Sri Lankan waterfall and popular natural swimming spot
Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, Diyaluma offers a steep trail to natural pools atop the falls and wide views across the Uva hills; many arrive for swimming and photography.
Diyaluma Falls is a large waterfall in Uva Province, Sri Lanka, with a total drop commonly cited at about 220 metres, making it one of the country’s highest falls. The waterfall consists of a series of cascades and a prominent main drop set in a steep ravine.
The site is visited for dramatic views of the cascades, photography and for the natural rock pools at the top of the falls where visitors often bathe. There are viewing points both at the base and on the plateau above the falls; the upper pools require a short scramble.
The falls are formed on a mountain stream in the Badulla District and are reached from nearby roads with short hikes or local tracks from the village of Koslanda and surrounding settlements. Facilities are basic and the site is primarily a natural attraction rather than a developed park.
Diyaluma has always been a natural geographic feature rather than a cultural construction; access and visitor use have increased with road improvements and growing interest in hill-country attractions.
- Height: Measured at about 220 metres, it is commonly cited as Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall.
- Top pools: Natural rock pools at the top are a popular destination but require a scramble to reach; swimming is common though conditions can be slippery and currents unpredictable.
What to See #
- Top pools: Series of natural rock pools and small cascades at the top plateau above the main drop that are regularly used for bathing and viewing the falls from above.
- Base viewpoint: Base viewing area beside the stream where the main series of drops is visible and photographed; downstream trails offer lower-elevation views.
How to Get to Diyaluma Falls #
From Badulla or Bandarawela, take the A4 toward Koslanda; signage points to Diyaluma Falls. The roadside car park sits near the base and a steeper track leads to the top pools. Public buses stop at Koslanda; local tuk-tuks handle the final mile.
Tips for Visiting Diyaluma Falls #
- To reach the top of the falls, use the marked path from the roadside settlement of Koslanda - the trail is steep and slippery in places.
- Go early morning: the natural pools at the top fill with locals and families by late morning on weekends.
- Avoid wet-season monsoon days: the access path becomes hazardous when the river runs high.
Best Time to Visit Diyaluma Falls #
Dry months (December-March) are the most reliable for access and safer conditions for exploring the top pools.
Weather & Climate near Diyaluma Falls #
Diyaluma Falls's climate is classified as Tropical Rainforest - Tropical Rainforest climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 19°C to 29°C. Abundant rainfall (1967 mm/year), wettest in November.
January
January is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (143 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 19°C. Significant rainfall (114 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (182 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (272 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is the warmest month with stifling humidity (dew point 24°C). Significant rainfall (150 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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June
June is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Moderate rainfall (39 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Moderate rainfall (60 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Moderate rainfall (67 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Regular rainfall (90 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (268 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (337 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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December
December is mild with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Heavy rain (245 mm) and mostly overcast skies.