Pahanthudawa Falls
A small, pretty waterfall on the Belihul Oya near Belihuloya, squeezing through a gap in smooth rock into a pool, named for its lamp wick shape.
Pahanthudawa is a small but beautiful waterfall on the Belihul Oya, a short distance from Belihuloya town. The river squeezes through a narrow gap in smooth, dark rock before tumbling into a pool, and the shape of the water is said to look like the wick of an old oil lamp, which is what the name means. Above and below the fall, the river has carved the rock into channels and basins that are lovely to explore.
Reaching it is easy. A short walk from the road follows the river through woodland and pine trees, and the smooth rock slabs around the fall make a perfect place to sit, cool your feet and listen to the water. It is a favourite with local families and students from the nearby university, so it can be busy at weekends.
Advice on swimming varies, and the rocks are very smooth and slippery when wet, so take care. Stay out of the water when the river is running high after rain, when the current becomes strong, and keep an eye on children near the edges. Wear shoes or sandals with grip for the walk and the rocks.
Pahanthudawa is one of several waterfalls on the Belihul Oya before the river flows into Samanala Wewa reservoir. It pairs naturally with a climb up Hawagala, which shares the access road, or a stop at Surathali Falls on the A4. Go in the morning on a weekday for the quietest visit, and take your rubbish with you.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Best time: Weekday mornings, when the river is not in flood
How to get there
About 2km from Belihuloya town, off the road towards Hawagala. A short walk along the river leads from the road to the fall.