Hike To The Top Of Diyaluma Falls

Written by Arijana Tkalčec

Diyaluma Falls is a perfect place for all the adventurers out there. It is the 2nd highest waterfall in Sri Lanka which offers spectacular views once you reach the top. But not just that, you can relax bathing in one of the many natural pools. The best one is the one where you can see all the surroundings and the pool is basically on the cliff.

Small pools everywhere.

The waterfall is located in the Badulla region, and during your hike, you can see multiple waterfalls and natural pools. It's one of those places for which you have to save the whole day if you want to enjoy it properly.

There are several ways to do this hike. At the main waterfall viewpoint, we hired a guide to take us to the waterfall. It's said that wild elephants sometimes roam around, so we didn't want to encounter one on our own. You can easily do this hike without the guide, but this time we didn't want to risk it.

It took us around 20 minutes with scooters to the waterfall parking lot. The parking fee was 100 Rp (~$ 0.5). Then the hike started. We chose an easy trail (the one that isn't steep), so it wasn't actually a hike, it was more of a walk. The trail is easy, and anyone can do it.

The path for going up is like this almost the whole time and it's not hard at all.

It took us only 25 minutes of moderate walk to reach the first set of pools, the most impressive ones. They are cascading towards the edge of the cliff, and when they reach the edge they fall into one final pool (the best one for bathing and enjoying in natural waterfall massage). From that pool the water is crashing 191 meters into the pool, far below. It's impossible to see that from that point, but you can peek over the edge to see small part of it.

You can also try the free massage. :)

After chilling at that spot, we continued following upper falls to reach the top of them. It takes only around 10-15 minutes to reach them. All the way you're passing next to the water so you can stop whenever to refresh yourself. The upper falls are suitable for jumping too (if you're into that) as the pool is deep enough and there are no rocks in the water.

Perfect spot to chill . There wasn't even that many people there.

As a huge waterfall lover, I suggest not missing this place when visiting Sri Lanka. But you have to take the whole day for it to enjoy it properly. Just don't forget your bathing suit and suncream. Also, fresh coconut and all kinds of drinks are sold at the top for refreshment.

Refreshment after hike - priceless.