Sri Lanka is a land of stunning natural beauty, but few places capture the magic of its wilderness quite like Uda Diyaluma, also known as Upper Diyaluma Falls. Located above the famous Diyaluma waterfall, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, this lesser-known gem offers breathtaking panoramic views, crystal-clear infinity pools, and the thrilling charm of raw nature—without the tourist crowds.
Whether you’re a passionate hiker, an adventure traveler, or a local explorer searching for the best waterfalls in Sri Lanka, Uda Diyaluma is a must-visit destination. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Uda Diyaluma Falls—from how to get there and what to expect on the hike, to nearby attractions and travel tips.
The Waterfall’s Features and Natural Infinity Pools
One of the biggest highlights of Udu Diyaluma Ella is the series of natural infinity pools at the top of the waterfall. These are basically rock pools carved by the flowing water over centuries, and they offer an otherworldly place to swim – with the world dropping away at the pool’s edge and a panoramic view beyond.Natural rock pools at the top of Diyaluma Falls. In the dry season, these “infinity pools” are calm enough for a refreshing dip right on the waterfall’s edge.
Aside from swimming, the top of the falls is a place to simply enjoy nature. You can sit on the warm rocks and have a picnic with one of the best views in Sri Lanka – a vast valley dotted with villages and a ribbon of road in the distance. Sometimes, monkeys can be seen in the nearby trees, and a variety of birds soar across the valley. It’s a serene contrast: the thundering sound of the big waterfall nearby, and the still, peaceful feeling of sitting by a calm pool above it.
Photographers will love Udu Diyaluma: not only can you capture reflections in the pools with the sky above, but during late afternoon the sun begins to descend opposite the falls, offering golden light and even rainbows in the mist. Some travelers time their visit to catch sunset from the top of the falls, which can be magical (just remember you’ll need to hike back in dusk/dark, so bring a flashlight or headlamp if you do this).
🌍 Where is Uda Diyaluma?
Uda Diyaluma is located in Koslanda, in the Badulla District of Sri Lanka’s Uva Province. The area is part of the central highlands, offering cool mountain air, lush greenery, and breathtaking scenery. While the lower part of Diyaluma Falls is visible from the main A4 highway (Beragala to Wellawaya road), the upper falls—Uda Diyaluma—is hidden above the cliff edge and only accessible via a scenic hiking trail.
📍 Distance from major towns:
- Ella to Uda Diyaluma: approx. 30 km (1.5 hours)
- Haputale to Uda Diyaluma: approx. 25 km (1 hour)
- Colombo to Diyaluma area: approx. 200 km (5–6 hours by car)
🚗 How to Get There
You can reach Uda Diyaluma in two main ways:
1. Via Ella or Haputale
Most travelers base themselves in Ella, a vibrant mountain town, or Haputale, known for its tea plantations and views. From there, hire a tuk-tuk or private vehicle to Makaldeniya Bend, near Poonagala, which serves as the upper trailhead. The cost of a tuk-tuk from Ella ranges from LKR 4,000–6,000 for a round trip.
2. From Koslanda (Lower Diyaluma Base)
If you wish to start from the base of Diyaluma Falls, near the main road, you can take the steeper uphill trail to reach the top. This route is more challenging and less scenic compared to the upper trail.
🥾 The Hike to Uda Diyaluma
The Poonagala route is the most popular and rewarding hike to Uda Diyaluma. The trail is relatively moderate, making it suitable for hikers of average fitness levels.
Trail Overview:
- Distance: ~1.5 km one way
- Duration: 30–40 minutes (downhill), 45 minutes back (uphill)
- Terrain: Grasslands, rock paths, light forest
- Difficulty: Moderate
🧭 Route Details:
- Start your journey from Makaldeniya junction, where a footpath descends through open grasslands and tea plantations.
- Along the trail, you’ll enjoy incredible mountain views and a cool breeze.
- Eventually, the path leads to the first tier of Uda Diyaluma Falls, where the water tumbles over smooth rocks into a series of natural infinity pools.
💡 Tip: Start your hike early in the day to avoid the heat and potential afternoon rain.
💦 Why Visit Uda Diyaluma?
1. Natural Infinity Pools
The top of Diyaluma Falls features a series of naturally carved pools, fed by clean mountain streams. These pools are safe to swim in during the dry season and offer one of the most surreal swimming experiences in Sri Lanka. From some pools, you can sit and watch the valley stretch for miles—like being in the clouds.
2. Unmatched Scenic Views
As you relax in the rock pools, you’re treated to expansive views of the Uva countryside, mountain ranges, and green tea estates. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause and breathe deeply.
3. Low Crowds, High Reward
Unlike popular spots like Ravana Falls or Little Adam’s Peak, Uda Diyaluma remains relatively untouched. It offers the peace and quiet that many travelers crave.
🛑 Safety at Uda Diyaluma
Uda Diyaluma is not fenced or patrolled, so you are fully responsible for your safety.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid getting close to the cliff edge.
- Don’t jump into pools without checking depth.
- Wear non-slip hiking shoes.
- Avoid swimming in high flow (especially after rain).
- Travel with a buddy or guide if possible.
📵 No mobile signal in many areas, so download offline maps or tell someone your hiking plan in advance.
🌦 Best Time to Visit
The dry season (January to May) is ideal for visiting Uda Diyaluma. During this time, the water levels are safe for swimming, and the trails are less muddy.
✅ Best months: January, February, March, April
❌ Avoid: September to December – heavy rains make the rocks slippery and swimming dangerous.
🛏️ Where to Stay
While there are no hotels directly at Uda Diyaluma, you can choose nearby towns:
In Koslanda:
- Living Heritage Koslanda – a luxury eco-resort with forest trails and private waterfall access
- Diyaluma Falls Inn – budget option close to the falls
In Ella (recommended for variety):
- 98 Acres Resort & Spa – luxury with mountain views
- Zion View Ella Green Retreat – great mid-range guesthouse
- Hangover Hostel – budget and backpacker-friendly
🧭 Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your visit to Uva Province with these nearby highlights:
1. Diyaluma Waterfall Base
Don’t miss the full view of the towering 220-meter Diyaluma Falls from the base on the A4 road.
2. Lipton’s Seat
One of Sri Lanka’s most scenic viewpoints, located near Haputale. It’s where Sir Thomas Lipton once surveyed his tea empire.Not far from Diyaluma (approximately a 1-hour drive west, near Haputale), Lipton’s Seat is a must-visit if you love panoramic views. This viewpoint sits at about 1,970 meters above sea level, atop the Poonagala range (yes, the same Poonagala area that extends towards Diyaluma). It’s named after Sir Thomas Lipton, the Scottish tea baron, who used to come to this very spot to gaze over his vast tea plantations. When you visit Lipton’s Seat, you’ll understand why – the view is absolutely breathtaking.
3. Ella Rock & Little Adam’s Peak
Famous hiking trails in Ella that reward you with panoramic views of Ella Gap and the surrounding valleys.This is another adventure – a hike to one of the most famous viewpoints in Sri Lanka. Ella Rock is a tall mountain/cliff at the south end of Ella Gap. Hiking to Ella Rock involves a 2-hour trek (about 4 km each way, roughly 8 km round trip) through railway tracks, tea plantations, and forests. The trail is a bit tricky to find (many people hire a local guide or follow detailed directions), but the reward at the top is a sweeping view of the Ella Gap, the valley that runs between Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak.
4. Ravana Falls & Cave
Named after King Ravana from the Ramayana epic, this is another spectacular fall about 30 km north of Diyaluma.
🌿 Environmental Responsibility
Uda Diyaluma’s beauty is delicate. Help preserve it:
- Leave no trace – take your rubbish with you.
- Avoid loud music – respect the peaceful environment.
- No soap or shampoo – the pools are part of a clean water source.
- Be respectful of local villagers and their land.
📸 Photography & Drone Tips
- The golden hour (7–9 AM and 4–5 PM) is perfect for dreamy photos.
- A drone can capture incredible footage of the waterfall’s drop—but be cautious of wind currents near the cliff.
- Waterproof phone pouches are highly recommended if you plan to swim.
🗺️ Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Koslanda, Badulla District, Sri Lanka |
| Altitude | ~1000 m above sea level |
| Height of Waterfall | 220 meters (Diyaluma main falls) |
| Trail Type | Downhill/uphill footpath from Poonagala |
| Best Time to Visit | January–May (dry season) |
| Popular Activities | Swimming, hiking, photography, sightseeing |
| Accommodation Nearby | Koslanda, Ella, Haputale |
| Suitable For | Hikers, couples, backpackers, eco-tourists |
✍ Final Thoughts
Uda Diyaluma isn’t just a waterfall—it’s a full-on experience. A place where you can hike through untouched wilderness, swim in natural pools above a 720-foot drop, and soak in views that seem to stretch forever.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple seeking serenity, or a group of friends chasing adrenaline, Uda Diyaluma offers something magical. And the best part? It’s still relatively unknown. So go before the secret gets out.
Plan your escape to Uda Diyaluma Falls today—and discover one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular hidden gems.
