Dunhinda Falls

Dunhinda Falls is considered one of the most enchanting waterfalls in Sri Lanka, sitting in close proximity to Badulla town. As the water plunges 63 metres into a large pool below, it breaks into a fine mist that resembles a thin cloud — a spectacle that gives the fall its very name. The forested backdrop surrounding the cascade is known as Dunhinda Adaviya.

The name itself tells the story. Dunhinda translates to "spraying or vapour waterfall": the element dun means "gave" or "was given", while hinda means "evaporate". It is a fitting description for a fall that seems to dissolve into mist before it reaches the pool.

A Landscape Steeped in History

Long before Dunhinda became a celebrated natural landmark, the surrounding area was home to the Veddha tribe, the indigenous people of the island. The site carries a remarkable legend from the reign of King Rajasinhe. During that period, a giant fern became lodged at the crest of the fall, wedged between two mountains. Acting as an unintended dam, it caused severe flooding that inundated Badulla town. Faced with the gravity of the situation, King Rajasinhe entrusted the task of clearing the blockage to a man named Ranhavadidaraya. After three months of toil, Ranhavadidaraya succeeded in dislodging the fern and freeing the water, allowing the town to re-emerge.

The fern, swept downstream, came to rest at another location — a place now known as Pussellawa, a name derived from pus, the word for fern. That etymological trace connects two distant points on the Sri Lankan landscape through a single extraordinary event.

A Landmark of Firsts

Dunhinda holds a notable distinction in Sri Lanka's history: it was the first waterfall on the island at which an admission fee was introduced for visitors. That charge applies equally to both local and foreign visitors, a policy that has remained in place ever since.

Getting There

The falls lie 5 kilometres from Badulla town. From the main highway, reaching the cascade requires a winding 1-kilometre walk through the surrounding forest — a short but memorable approach that builds anticipation with every step. The Ella rest-house is situated approximately 29 kilometres away, making it a convenient base for those exploring the wider hill-country region.