Colombo , Sri Lanka

Waterfalls Trail at Rathnapura

Active

12h - 14h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Early Morning You will be pick up by our Guide at Your Hotel, After about 03 hours journey You can Reach Rathnapura Area, Firstly You at Visit the Bopath Ella water Fall,If You like You can bath at the Bopath Ella water Fall, After that You can Visit Mapalana Ella & Katugas Ella Water Falls, Lastly You can go Rajanawa Water Fall, After end of the tour You will be pick up Your Hotel in Colombo

Available options

Waterfalls Trail at Rathnapura

Pickup included

What's included

Experience Chaffer Guide

Transport by Luxary Vehical Colombo to Mirissa & Back to Colombo

Goverment Charges & Tax

Mineral Water Bottle

Detailed itinerary

The Bopath Falls cascades in the shape of a bo (Ficus religiosa) tree (hence its name) and is the most comprehensively studied fall in Sri Lanka. Its source is the Kurugana River that later joins the Kaluganga River at Kurugaomaodara.

The average temperature of the area is 26.9 – 27.8 degrees Celsius and the annual rainfall of the fall’s catchment area is 5080mm. The mean speed of the flow is 6 cubic metres per second. The upper reach of the fall is made up of granite and biotite virin, and is covered by sand. The water from the fall irrigates the paddy fields of the Udakada and Kuruwita areas.

Situated amongst medicinal herbs, the 141 m high Mapalana Ella fall consists of three sections and is served by a stream which originates from the Thoranabandigala in the Samanala mountain range. This stream joins Kalu Ganaga river further down. During the rainy season the simultaneous flows can be heard from up to 6km away.

According to legends, the fall gets its name from a local nobelsman (maapaa) who used to bath at this fall. The Maapaa-Nana (place where the nobel bathe) became mapanana and later Mapalana

This is a small waterfall located near the Rathnapura town.
To reach the waterfall you have to travel few kilometers towards Balangoda from Rathnapura until reach to Weralupa Junction. You have to turn to the small road from there and travel about 2 km where you meet a small bridge. From there turn to the small path and walk until you meet the water stream called Katugas Dola. From there, you need to walk over that water stream until you reach the thin 6m height Katugas Ella.
It may be difficulty to reach this location for an elderly person sine it is required to walk with the water stream of Katugas Dola over the slippery rocks.

Rajanawa Ella Falls is a waterfall which is situated in Ratnapura. It is 12 m in height and its water is used for the paddy fields in the surrounding area. According to folklore, King Walagamba used to bathe at this waterfall. Hence it is aptly named as “Rajanawa Ella Falls” which means the falls where the king (raja) bathed (nawa). It is also believed that there is gold, stored in a mysterious, hard-to-locate tunnel which is guarded by stone doors, at this location.

What's not included

Any Other Servise not mentioned above

Entrance Fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat