Surathali Ella
An easy to reach waterfall at Walhaputenna near Belihuloya, where water slides around 60 metres down a long rock face in the forest.
Surathali Ella is one of the easiest waterfalls to visit in the Belihuloya area. It sits at Walhaputenna, close to the A4, and from the roadside it is only a few minutes' walk to the base. Rather than a single straight drop, the water slides down a long, sloping rock face in the middle of the forest, around 60 metres from top to bottom, spreading into thin white ribbons as it goes.
The fall takes its name from a Sinhala film that was shot in the area, which is a nice bit of local trivia to share when you visit. It is a popular quick stop for travellers driving between Belihuloya and Haputale, and for local families looking for a cool spot on a hot day.
The lower part of the fall is easy to reach and good for photos, with the full length of the rock face visible above you. The upper section is steeper and harder to climb, and the wet rock is extremely slippery, so most visitors are happy to enjoy it from below. Do not try to climb the rock face itself.
The fall is fullest during and just after the rainy months, and can shrink to a trickle in a long dry spell. Combine it with Pahanthudawa Falls and Hawagala on the Belihuloya side, or with Bambarakanda Falls further up the A4 towards Haputale.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening hours: Daylight hours
- Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Best time: During or just after the rainy months, in the morning
How to get there
At Walhaputenna, close to the A4 near Belihuloya, around 9.5km from the town. Park by the main road; the fall is a few minutes' walk away.