A factual guide
Measuring 263m in height, Bambarakanda is the largest waterfall in Sri Lanka. In Sinhalese, Bambarakanda means "Mountain Wasp" - an allusion to its humming sound and the elusive way it weaves its way through rock and pine trunks. The waterfall is located in the central highlands, at an altitude of 1100m. It lies in the extension of the Horton Plains Reserve, near the town of Kalupahana (in the Badulla district). The waterfall is formed by the Kuda Oya river that flows through the Horton Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After this spectacular drop, the waters of the Kuda Oya calm and meander towards Samanala Wewa, the famous Butterfly Valley. The waters eventually merge with the Walawe River.

The waterfall is 160 km from Colombo. You have to leave the city heading inland, and then take the Kalupahana exit off the A4 highway. When you are about to arrive, you will see Bambarakanda Rest. This guest house is perfect for an overnight stay so that you can leave for the falls at dawn. From here, the waterfall is about 5 km away. The walk with take you along a hilly path with panoramic views of tea plantations.

Walking to the waterfall

As you start to walk through the wilderness, you will gradually start to hear the murmur and then the hum of the waterfall. Another 500 metres and the vegetation clears as you reach a bluff. It offers an excellent view of the falls. Rushing over its crest, the water loses its momentum, tumbling and bouncing from one rock to another. Eventually it forms a sort of delta at the tan rocks underneath. A large stone slab on the side of the mountain gleams like a mirror. Its island-wide record height, which gives it all its power, is also the secret to its beauty.

As you leave this observatory, you continue a little further and then take a footpath. It continues to the foot of the waterfall. To reach the top of Bambarakanda, you will have to climb through fragrant pine forests and you will come across a bridge where you can cross the water. Railings and steps make the somewhat challenging climb easier. Beware of wet pine needles if it has just rained or fog has lifted. At the top, you will see a smaller waterfall ahead, which has a natural pool.

Around the falls

It takes about two hours to complete the tour and returning is a bit quicker. The best time to visit is from April to September. You can use a car or a small vehicle to get closer, but it is important to bring water and good shoes. If you plan to swim, you should bring a swimsuit!

For a complete waterfall tour, you can also go to Lanka Ella Falls located in the middle of the jungle. The pool is very deep so if you decide to swim in it, then be very careful. You may feel more comfortable swimming in the Surathali waterfall pool.