Ella Wala Falls is a hidden waterfall tucked into the jungle just south of Ella in Sri Lanka's Uva Province, where a slender cascade tumbles roughly 23 metres (about 75 feet) down a rocky cliff into a shallow natural pool at its base. Locally it is also known as Kithal Ella Falls, after the nearby Kithalella village and railway halt, and it remains one of the most rewarding little adventures you can have while staying in Ella. It is not the biggest or most famous waterfall in the area, but its quiet setting, lush surrounding forest and swimmable pool make it a firm favourite for travellers who want to step a little off the well-trodden path.
In this complete guide we will walk you through where Ella Wala Falls is, how to get there, what to expect at the pool, when to visit for the best water flow, and which nearby waterfalls to pair it with.
Photo by @shan_m.mx on Instagram.
Where Is Ella Wala Falls?
Ella Wala Falls lies hidden inside the jungle close to the small Kithalella railway halt, between the Heel Oya and Ella stations on the famous hill-country railway line. As the crow flies it is only a couple of kilometres south of Ella town, but because it sits away from the main road and inside a patch of forest, it feels far more remote than it really is. The stream that feeds the fall is crossed by a railway bridge just before Kithalella station, which is the key landmark for anyone arriving on foot.
There are two distinct ways to reach the waterfall, so choose the route that suits you.
How to Get to Ella Wala Falls
Option 1: Walk the railway track from Ella (the easy way)
The simplest route is to follow the railway line south from Ella railway station towards Kithalella. It is roughly 2.4 km along the track, an easy walk of around 30 to 45 minutes through tea country and forest. Just before you reach Kithalella station, you will come to a small bridge that crosses the stream feeding the waterfall. Take the narrow path down to your right and follow it a short way through the trees to arrive at the base of the falls.
Walking on the line is a quintessential hill-country experience, but always stay alert and step well clear whenever a train approaches, as this remains a working railway. If you would rather not walk the whole way, a tuk tuk can drop you near Kithalella station via the Kithal Ella road, leaving you only a short walk to the pool. For more on getting around by three-wheeler, see our Tuk Tuk Guide.
Option 2: The Ella–Wellawaya Road and Rathmal Wehera route
The other approach comes in from the Ella–Wellawaya Road. Travelling from Ella, head roughly 20 km along this road until you reach the Rathmal Wehera ancient Buddhist temple (about 3 km out of Wellawaya if you are coming the other way). Take the road directly opposite the temple and follow it up towards the waterfall. The final few kilometres are rough and not suited to a vehicle with low ground clearance, so a 4x4 or a sturdy tuk tuk is strongly recommended. From wherever the track gives out, you will walk a few hundred metres into the jungle to reach the fall. This route is the more adventurous of the two and best done with a local who knows the path.
The drive in from Ella is scenic in its own right, passing close to Ella Rock, Little Adam's Peak and the Ali Kote Ara reservoir.
Photo by @ann_zion on Instagram.
The Natural Pool and Swimming
At the foot of Ella Wala Falls the water collects in a shallow natural pool ringed by rock and forest. It is a lovely spot to cool off after the walk, and a dip here is one of the simple pleasures of the trip. Because the pool is shallow it is not a deep swimming hole, so treat it as a place to wade and splash rather than to dive.
Go carefully near the rocks, which can be slick with spray and moss, and keep a close eye on children. After heavy rain the volume of water can rise quickly with little warning, so if the stream looks swollen or muddy, stay out of the water and enjoy the view from the bank instead.
Safety Tips for Visiting
- Because the falls sit inside a fairly uninhabited stretch of jungle, it is wise to go with a local guide or at least let someone know your plans in case of an emergency.
- Watch the water level closely on rainy days. Constant upstream rain can raise the level dramatically and suddenly, with no warning signs.
- Wear shoes with grip. The riverbed rocks and the forest path are both slippery, especially in the wet season.
- If you are walking the railway track, stay alert for trains and never linger on the line.
- Visit during daylight and avoid leaving it too late, as the jungle path is unlit and harder to follow after dark.
Best Time to Visit
Ella Wala Falls changes character with the seasons. For the most dramatic flow, time your visit to the wetter months. The waterfall is at its fullest during the north-east monsoon, roughly October to December, and it also runs strong during the July to August rains. In the driest stretches of the year the cascade can thin out to little more than a trickle over the rock face, though the green surroundings stay beautiful regardless.
If photographs are your priority, aim for the rainy season but stay cautious about water levels. If you prefer a calmer paddle and an easier walk in, the drier months are the gentler choice. Mornings are the most pleasant time of day, with softer light and fewer people around.
What to Bring
- Plenty of drinking water and a few snacks, as there are no shops at the falls.
- Sturdy, grippy footwear for the track and the wet rocks.
- A swimsuit and a quick-dry towel if you plan to take a dip.
- A dry bag or waterproof pouch for your phone and camera.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen for the walk in.
- A small bag to carry out all your rubbish, because there are no bins out here.
Nearby Waterfalls and Attractions
Ella Wala Falls pairs beautifully with the other natural sights packed into this corner of the hill country. While you are in the area, consider adding:
- Ravana Falls – one of the widest and most famous cascades in Sri Lanka, right beside the Ella–Wellawaya Road.
- Diyaluma Falls and Upper Diyaluma – the island's second-highest waterfall, with a string of natural infinity pools at the top.
- Buduruwagala – an ancient rock temple near Wellawaya famous for its giant carved Buddha figures.
- Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak – two classic hikes for sweeping views over the surrounding valleys.
For a fuller itinerary, browse our roundup of the best things to do in Ella to build the rest of your days around the falls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ella Wala Falls?
Ella Wala Falls, also known as Kithal Ella Falls, sits in the jungle near Kithalella, a couple of kilometres south of Ella town in Sri Lanka's Uva Province. It lies close to the Kithalella railway halt between the Heel Oya and Ella stations, hidden a short walk off the railway line and the Ella–Wellawaya Road.
Can you swim at Ella Wala Falls?
Yes, there is a shallow natural pool at the base of the falls that is lovely for a cooling dip or a paddle. It is not deep, so it suits wading rather than serious swimming. Take care on the slippery rocks and stay out of the water after heavy rain, when levels can rise quickly.
How do you get to Ella Wala Falls from Ella?
The easiest way is to follow the railway track south from Ella station towards Kithalella for about 2.4 km, then take the path down to the right just before the bridge near the station. Alternatively, you can drive the Ella–Wellawaya Road to the Rathmal Wehera temple and take the rough track opposite it, ideally in a 4x4 or tuk tuk.
How tall is Ella Wala Falls?
The waterfall drops roughly 23 metres, about 75 feet, down a rocky cliff face into the pool below.
What is the best time to visit Ella Wala Falls?
For the strongest flow, visit during the rainy months, around October to December or July to August. The dry season offers a gentler, safer experience with thinner water but the same lush greenery. Early mornings are the most peaceful time to go.
Safe travels! And remember, "Take Only Pictures, Leave Only Footprints".
