Is Bomburu Ella the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka?

Yes, Bomburu Ella is widely recognised as the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It is formed by approximately eight smaller jungle cascades merging into a broad, multi-tiered curtain roughly 50 metres high. Its width, rather than its height, is what sets it apart from other falls in the country.

Can I swim at Bomburu Ella Waterfall?

Swimming is possible at the base pool under moderate flow conditions. However, the current close to the active cascades can be strong, especially during or after monsoon rains. Always assess conditions carefully before entering the water, and avoid swimming during high flow periods.

Is camping allowed at Bomburu Ella?

No. Camping at the Bomburu Ella waterfall site is prohibited by the Sri Lankan government. The area can be visited for day hiking and picnicking, but overnight stays at the waterfall itself are not permitted.

How far is Bomburu Ella from Nuwara Eliya?

Bomburu Ella is approximately 22 km from central Nuwara Eliya, typically around a 45–60 minute drive. The route passes through Seetha Eliya and Hakgala along the Peradeniya–Badulla highway before turning onto Bomburuella Road in the Uduhawara area.

What district is Bomburu Ella Waterfall in?

Bomburu Ella sits on the border of the Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts in Sri Lanka's Central and Uva provinces. The nearest village is Perawella, and the falls are within the Sita Eliya Kandapola Forest Reserve.

What is the best season to see Bomburu Ella at full flow?

The south-west monsoon from May to July brings the heaviest rainfall to the highlands and pushes Bomburu Ella to its fullest volume. January and February offer drier trails and clearer skies but with a reduced water volume. Either window can be rewarding depending on whether you prioritise ease of hiking or visual drama.

Why is Bomburu Ella also called Perawella Falls?

The waterfall takes the alternative name Perawella Falls from the nearby village of Perawella (also spelled Perawalla), which is the closest settlement and the common local reference point. Both names refer to the same waterfall; Bomburuella is the more widely used form in tourism literature.

Is there an entry fee to visit Bomburu Ella Waterfall?

There is no formal government-set entry fee for Bomburu Ella at present. The site has no ticketing booth or managed visitor centre, though this can change and it is worth confirming locally before your visit. You may encounter informal requests for a small contribution near the access point.

Bomburu Ella Waterfall

Bomburuella Waterfall is situated in Perawella near the border of the Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts. It is 50 meters high and is also known as “Perawalla Falls”. It is the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka and consists of many small waterfalls grouped together.

The source of the Bomburuella Waterfall is a lake located in the central province of Sri Lanka. It is the ideal location to rest, have a picnic and take a bath as you wish. Camping at this site is prohibited by the government of Sri Lanka. The Waters of Bomburuella waterfall has been diverted to a powerhouse in the area and also for use in cultivation.

Getting to Bomburuella Waterfall

From Nuwara Eliya travel along the Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Highway and the Rendapola-Galahagama-Ambagasdowa Road passing Katumana, Seetha Eliya and Hakgala up to Bomburuella to reach the Bomburuella Waterfall which is situated along Bomburuella Road in Uduhawara.

Amongst the natural collection of waterfalls Sri Lanka is home to, is a lesser known yet magnificent cascading mass of rivulets; the Bomburu Ella Falls, located on the outskirts of the Nuwara Eliya and Badulla districts, roughly a 6 hour drive from Colombo. Settled in the Sita Eliya Kandapola Forest Reserve, shrouded by neighbouring greens and enveloped in crisp, cool mist, Bomburu Ella is nothing short of picturesque, with its many falls plummeting down a height of roughly 50 metres.

Best Known For

Coined as the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka, the Bomburu Ella Falls, also known as Perawella Falls, is a natural work of art. Fed by the upper segment of the principal tributary of the Uma River, the waterfall is a collection of little jungle waterfalls branched together, creating 165 feet.
An arduous yet rewarding hike amidst the Sita Eliya Kandapola Forest Reserve and the river descent; Bomburu Ella makes up for this by way of its breathtaking view presented.
Along the trek to the top of Bomburu Ella, one may stumble on roughly 8 little jungle waterfalls situated above. Each play their own part in the creation of Bomburu Ella Falls with their rivulet branches flowing in, collectively paving way to what is now classed as the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Interesting Facts

The waterfall is situated between 1,500 to 2,000 metres above sea level.
A walk through the wilderness of the Sita Eliya Kandapola Forest Reserve, along the track to the top of Bomburu Ella Falls affords one surreal glimpses of neighbouring waterfalls, varying in height and fo