Rikilla Ella

Rikilla Ella is a seldom-visited waterfall tucked into the forested hills of Sri Lanka's Central Province. Standing around 30 metres tall, it drops into a calm pool surrounded by dense canopy — a setting that rewards visitors who make the effort to reach it. The name derives from the Sinhala word rikilla, meaning "leaf," an apt reference to the thick foliage that frames the falls on every side.

What makes Rikilla Ella worth visiting?

Unlike the more-photographed cascades near Ella, Rikilla Ella sees relatively little foot traffic, which preserves the quiet that most waterfall seekers are actually looking for. The plunge pool at the base is calm enough for wading after the rainy season subsides, and the surrounding forest provides reliable shade even on warm afternoons. Birdlife is active in the early morning, and the sound of the falls carries well before the water comes into view — a gradual reveal that adds to the experience.

The waterfall is also a reasonable subject for photography throughout the day. Mist from the cascade softens the light at the base, and the green-on-white contrast of the falls against the rock face is consistent whatever the hour.

When is the best time to visit Rikilla Ella?

The falls flow most powerfully during and just after the inter-monsoon periods — typically in April–May and again in October–November. During these windows the volume of water is at its peak and the surrounding vegetation is at its greenest. The dry season (January–March and June–September in the Central Province) still sustains a good flow, and the trek itself is considerably easier on drier ground. Avoid visiting immediately after heavy overnight rain if the trail involves stream crossings, as paths can become slippery and water levels unpredictable.

How do I get to Rikilla Ella from Colombo or Kandy?

The waterfall sits within the Central Province, making Kandy the most practical staging point for visitors coming from the west. From Kandy, travel by car or tuk-tuk toward the hill country interior; the roads are winding and journey times vary, so building in extra time is sensible. The nearest town provides the trailhead, after which the approach is on foot through forested terrain. The trek itself is moderately demanding — uneven ground and occasional steep sections — so sturdy footwear and at least one litre of water per person are advisable. A local guide is worth engaging both for navigation and to enhance the experience with knowledge of the surrounding ecology.

Visitors combining Rikilla Ella with a broader hill-country itinerary often pair it with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, which shares the same general region and offers a contrasting high-altitude landscape.

What can I see and do at Rikilla Ella?

• Wading in the plunge pool — The base pool is generally calm enough for supervised wading; swimming depends on current conditions and water depth after recent rainfall.
• Nature walks — The forested trail to the falls passes through secondary and semi-primary jungle, with opportunities to spot endemic bird species, butterflies, and occasionally small mammals.
• Photography — The falls, surrounding vegetation, and rock formations offer strong compositional material throughout the day.
• Picnicking — The clearing around the base of the falls is a natural rest point; packing a simple lunch means no need to rush the return journey.
• Biodiversity observation — The Central Province hill forests are part of a broader ecological corridor; guides familiar with the area can identify tree species, medicinal plants, and the calls of forest birds that most visitors would otherwise miss.

Is the trek to Rikilla Ella suitable for families and beginners?

The trail is achievable for reasonably fit adults and older children who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain for an extended period. It is not recommended for very young children or anyone with limited mobility, as the path involves gradual elevation gain and sections without formal steps or railings. Trekking poles are helpful on the descent. The overall round-trip distance is manageable within a half-day, leaving time to combine the visit with another attraction in the area.

What should I bring to Rikilla Ella?

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with grip — sandals are inadequate on the forest trail
• Light, quick-drying clothing; the forest is humid even in dry conditions
• Sufficient drinking water and a small snack
• Insect repellent — leeches are present during and after wet weather
• A waterproof bag or cover for camera equipment
• Cash for any local guide fees, as digital payment is rarely available at trailheads

Are there other waterfalls to combine with a Rikilla Ella trip?

The Central Province and its borders contain some of Sri Lanka's most impressive cascades. Hakgedi Ella is another lesser-known fall that suits visitors who prefer quieter destinations. For travellers based in or passing through Ella, a dedicated waterfall itinerary can take in multiple sites across the hill country in a single journey. The Makandawa Rainforest further west adds a distinct forest environment to complement any waterfall-focused day.

Practical information at a glance