Nalagana Ella Falls
Besides its beaches and rich cultural history, Sri Lanka is known for the lush beauty of its tropical rainforests teeming with wildlife and waterfalls. The Nalagana Falls, located at Dedugala around 9 kilometres east of Bulathkohupitiya and approximately 40 kilometres from the adventurous town of Kitulgala, comprises of several chutes of water. Each of these chutes reaches a height of approximately 40 meters. The falls are also known as the Ritigaha Oya Falls, named because it springs from a tributary of the Kelani River called the Ritigaha Oya Reservoir.
How To Get There, Season to Visit & Useful Information
The falls are not directly visible from the road due to the presence of the trees in the area, and visitors will need to trek for around 250 meters toward the river to catch their first glimpse of the water. The area is best visited during daylight hours between the months of February and April. A deep rock pool sits at the base of the falls, but visitors are asked to keep in mind that water levels can increase rapidly and without warning at a moment’s notice and that precautions should be taken not to visit during rainy weather. The area is also known for leeches; leech socks or repellents such as citronella oil can come in handy.
To preserve Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, visitors are requested not to carry plastic items with them during their visits, and to ensure that they bring back all items that are carried with them.
