Laxapana Falls
A 126 metre waterfall near Maskeliya, one of the tallest in Sri Lanka, falling in a wide white curtain into a rocky valley in the Adam's Peak hill country.
Laxapana Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, dropping around 126 metres from the edge of the Maskeliya plateau into a rocky valley below. It sits in the village of Kiriwan Eliya, about 16 km from Maskeliya town along the road towards Norton Bridge, deep in the hill country that surrounds Adam's Peak.
The fall is fed by the Maskeliya Oya, and it gives its name to the Laxapana hydropower scheme further downstream, one of the oldest in the country. That means the flow can change with how much water is held back upstream, but after good rain it is a powerful sight, a broad white curtain spilling over dark rock and sending mist across the valley.
Getting here takes a little effort, which keeps the crowds away. The last stretch of road is narrow and rough in places, and from the parking area it is a short walk to the viewpoints. Paths around the base are uneven and slippery, so take care, and avoid getting into the water, where the current is stronger than it looks.
Laxapana works best as part of a day in the Hatton and Maskeliya area. Combine it with Aberdeen Falls nearby, the tea estates around Maskeliya, or a rest day before the night climb up Adam's Peak. Come in the morning, when the light is soft and the clouds have not yet rolled in, and bring a rain jacket at any time of year.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
- Best time: Morning, after a spell of rain when the fall is at full flow
How to get there
In Kiriwan Eliya, about 16km from Maskeliya on the road towards Norton Bridge. The last stretch is narrow and rough, so a driver who knows the road helps. A short walk leads from the road to the viewpoints.