
Bambarakiri Ella Falls
A scenic 10-meter waterfall in Matale, known for its lush surroundings and a picturesque hanging bridge. An accessible natural gem.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Full water flow, dramatic views

Bambarakiri Ella Falls
Best Time
Full water flow, dramatic views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 10-meter waterfall in Matale, known for its lush surroundings and a picturesque hanging bridge. An accessible natural gem.
"A very beautiful waterfall located on the way to Riverston, quite large and scenic."

📸 Capture the best shots
Visit during the rainy season for the most impressive water flow. Weekdays offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos.
👟 Be prepared for slippery rocks
If you explore near the water, wear sturdy shoes as rocks can be very slippery.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Waterfall
Main viewing area
Witness the stunning 10-meter cascade flowing through lush greenery, especially powerful during the rainy season.

The Hanging Bridge
Adjacent to the falls
An iconic feature offering unique perspectives, though its condition can vary. Check its safety before use.

Natural Pool (Observation Only)
Foot of the falls
Admire the clear, clean water of the natural pool, though swimming is restricted for safety reasons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Access and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the best shots
Visit during the rainy season for the most impressive water flow. Weekdays offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos.
👟 Be prepared for slippery rocks
If you explore near the water, wear sturdy shoes as rocks can be very slippery.
🚫 Respect the 'No Bathing' signs
The natural pool is beautiful but dangerous. Adhere to safety restrictions and avoid swimming.
🚗 Roadside parking only
Parking is limited to the roadside. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the best shots
Visit during the rainy season for the most impressive water flow. Weekdays offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos.
👟 Be prepared for slippery rocks
If you explore near the water, wear sturdy shoes as rocks can be very slippery.
🚫 Respect the 'No Bathing' signs
The natural pool is beautiful but dangerous. Adhere to safety restrictions and avoid swimming.
🚗 Roadside parking only
Parking is limited to the roadside. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
🛍️ Local treats available
Enjoy local delicacies like Kitul Pani or Belimal drinks sold nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bambarakiri Ella Falls is praised for its scenic beauty and accessibility, making it a worthwhile stop. Visitors enjoy the powerful water flow during the rainy season and the unique perspective from the hanging bridge. However, the restricted bathing access and limited parking can be drawbacks for some.
"Beautiful waterfall with a stunning view! The surroundings are very scenic and peaceful. Unfortunately, the bridge was closed during our visit, and there was a barrier, so we couldn’t get close enough to touch the water. Still, it’s definitely worth visiting for the natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere."
Udara Guruge
"A small waterfall in Matale, renowned for its breathtaking scenic beauty. I've visited a couple of times with friends there. Once in mid-January, when the water levels were low. Quite enjoyed that visit. The second visit was in October 2023 during the rainy season where we could see the full flow of the waterfall and the areas adjacent to the waterfall were almost flooded. It was great for taking photos but couldn't do anything else. There's a hanging bridge that connects two ends of the valley adjacent to the waterfall. It's got repaired and in better condition than a few years ago."
Dineshsanth
"This is a small waterfall compared to others in the country. However, considering the short walking distance to reach the falls, it is worth a visit.
The area close to the falls is barricaded not letting people to reach the pool area as it is dangerous which means you can not bathe here.
Parking is available only roadside as a proper parking area has not been provided. Parking and crowd can definitely be a problem during long weekends."
Asanka Kumarasiri
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bambarakiri Ella Falls is located near Rattota town in the Matale District, easily accessible from the main road. It's often a stop on the way to Riverston.
Parking is available roadside. It can get crowded on long weekends, so arriving early is recommended.
The falls are situated on the way to Riverston, making it a convenient stop if you're exploring that region.
While specific public transport routes directly to the falls might be limited, you can take buses to Matale and then arrange local transport or a tuk-tuk.
Bambarakiri Ella Falls is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Kandy, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Bambarakiri Ella Falls is generally free, though there have been instances where a small fee was charged. It's advisable to check locally upon arrival.
Bambarakiri Ella Falls is a natural attraction and is typically accessible throughout the day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
While the falls themselves are beautiful, the surrounding rocks can be slippery, and the water is deep. It's important to exercise caution and follow any safety barriers.
Swimming or bathing at Bambarakiri Ella Falls is generally not permitted due to dangerous water depths and currents. Safety barriers are in place to prevent access to the pool area.
Basic facilities might be limited. It's advisable to use restrooms in nearby towns before heading to the falls.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The rainy season, typically from October to January, offers the most impressive water flow and a dramatic view of the falls.
A visit to Bambarakiri Ella Falls is relatively short, often taking about 30 minutes to an hour to admire the falls and take photos, depending on how long you linger.
Yes, Bambarakiri Ella Falls is a very scenic spot, perfect for photography, especially during the rainy season. The hanging bridge also offers unique photo opportunities.
There's a hanging bridge adjacent to the falls that offers a different perspective. Its condition can vary, so assess its safety before crossing.
Some visitors have mentioned natural fish therapy being available, but caution is advised due to slippery rocks and the risk of falling into the water.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find local vendors selling refreshments like Kitul Pani (palm syrup) and Belimal drinks near the falls. For full meals, it's best to dine in Matale town.
Look out for Kitul Pani, a sweet palm syrup, and Belimal, a herbal drink. These are often available from roadside vendors.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a snack purchased from local vendors. Please ensure you dispose of any waste responsibly.
The stalls offer local snacks and drinks. It's a good way to experience local flavors, but hygiene standards can vary.
The nearest town with a good selection of restaurants is Matale, which offers various dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The rainy season (October-January) provides the most dramatic water flow. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Drone usage regulations can change. While some videos show drone footage, it's best to check current local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying.
The main cascade, the hanging bridge, and the natural pool area (from a safe distance) are all popular for photography.
Visiting on a weekday, especially outside of peak tourist seasons or holidays, will significantly reduce crowds and make for better, unobstructed photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Beauty of Bambarakiri Ella
The area around the falls offers a tranquil escape. Visitors can admire the clear, clean water flowing into a natural pool at the base. However, due to the depth and potential currents, bathing is restricted for safety reasons, with barricades in place to prevent access to the immediate pool area. This ensures the preservation of the natural environment and the safety of visitors.
Adding to the allure is the presence of a hanging bridge that spans the valley adjacent to the waterfall. This bridge provides unique vantage points for capturing stunning photographs and experiencing the falls from a different perspective. While its condition has been reported as improved, it's always wise to assess its safety before crossing.
Visiting Bambarakiri Ella: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to timing, the rainy season from October to January offers the most dramatic views with full water flow. However, this also means the surrounding areas can become flooded, and access might be limited. For a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds, visiting on a weekday is highly recommended.
While the natural beauty is the main draw, amenities are basic. Restrooms are not readily available, so it's advisable to use facilities in nearby towns. Visitors are also encouraged to be mindful of the environment and avoid littering to preserve the pristine condition of the falls.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit