Bomburu Ella Waterfall — Attraction in Central Province

It would be a shame to travel all the way to Sri Lanka and not see at LEAST one or two of its beautiful waterfalls. During our two months of travel throughout the country, we were able to visit 20 of these amazing natural beauties! One waterfall that was particularly impressive to us was Bomburu Ella, located near Nuwara Eliya in the hill country of Sri Lanka.

While it is only 50m high, it is the widest waterfall in the whole country and is truly MASSIVE.. especially when you are looking at it from up close. Bomburu Ella Waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in all of Sri Lanka, and conveniently located less than an 30 minutes outside of Nuwara Eliya. Of all the waterfalls you can visit from Nuwara Eliya, this is the one we would recommend.

If you are considering adding a visit to Bomburu Falls to your itinerary, There are a few things you may want to know beforehand. This article is your one stop shop for everything you need to know to visit Bomburu Ella Falls. We will cover how to get there, the best time to visit, and other imortant things to know before you go!

Bomburu Ella is nearby to Hakgala, Sri Lanka. The closest city is Nuwara Eliya, just 30-40 minutes by car/motorbike/tuk-tuk. Here is the Google Maps Pin. While Bombara Ella Waterfall is most accessible from Nuwara Eliya, it is also less than 2 hours from both Ella and Badulla. If you can spare an extra hour, you can visit from these two cities as well.

The entry fee for the falls is 500 Rupees ($2-3) per person. You can also expect to pay about 100 rupees ($0.30) for parking at the start of the hike.

Bomburu Ella Waterfall is open to travelers 24/7. However, you will obviously want to go in the daylight. Sunrise in Sri Lanka is around 6:00 am and the sun is usually out of sight by 6-7 pm year-round. Keep this in mind if you are planning to drive your own transportation (we took a motorbike). You will not want to drive back to your accommodation in the dark.

Nuwara Eliya is rainy all year, but the driest months are January – March. These are great months to visit Bomburu Ella because it will be warm and dry. However, if you are visiting in the rainy season (especially November-December), the waterfall will be at at it’s peak–full and powerful! It is best to bring a raincoat in case you get wet or get caught in the rain!

The best way to visit Bomburu Ella is by basing yourself in Nuwara Eliya. This “little England” town is the closest tourist city to the waterfall and has a ton of other things to do as well!

From Nuwara Eliya, there are a couple of ways to reach Bomburu Ella

We rented a motorbike in Nuwara Eliya while we were staying in the town for a few days. While it can sometimes be tricky navigating through the mountains, driving our own motorbike always makes for the best experiences!

Having your own form of transportation allows you to come and go as you please, making is easier to be flexible in your schedule!

If you are planning on renting a motorbike for the trip, be sure to check that it is more than 100cc. 100cc is not quite powerful enough to make it around in the mountains and it can be stressful trying to make it up the hills.

Be careful while riding in the late afternoon because it is very likely that it will rain. We got stuck in the rain multiple times and it was not exactly a pleasant experience… You can prepare yourself a little better by purchasing a pancho at one of the local shops. This is SO helpful to have while driving in the rain.

Renting a tuk-tuk is Sri Lanka is such a fun experience! In our opinion, a tuk-tuk is a little bit more difficult to drive than a motorbike. Especially in the mountains.. BUT we know that people do it all the time! After driving for a bit, you will get the hang of it! Tuk-tuks provide the same flexibility and convenience as a motorbike while also providing rain cover and a little bit more room to pack your...

Bomburu Ella Waterfall, also known as Perawella Falls, is an exquisite natural wonder nestled in the breathtakingly beautiful hill country of Sri Lanka. With its cascading milky white waters, lush green surroundings, and serene atmosphere, it has captivated the hearts and minds of both locals and visitors alike.

Located in the stunning Horton Plains National Park in the Nuwara Eliya District, Bomburu Ella Waterfall is considered one of the largest and most impressive falls in Sri Lanka. It is part of a series of waterfalls formed by the Kudra Maluwa River, which eventually merges with the Belihul Oya River.

The name Bomburu Ella translates to "the waterfall that swallows the bee." According to local folklore, the name originated from an incident where a bee accidentally fell into the waterfall and was consumed by its force. This charming tale adds a touch of mystique to the already enchanting waterfall.

The waterfall cascades down in multiple tiers, creating a spectacular sight that leaves visitors in awe. The water plunges from a height of approximately 870 feet, and the surrounding cliffs and rock formations add to the grandeur of the scene. During the rainy season, the waterfall transforms into a roaring giant, thunderously crashing against the rocks and creating a misty spray that cools the air.

The journey to Bomburu Ella Waterfall is an adventure in itself. The hike to reach the falls takes you through picturesque tea plantations, dense forests, and rolling hills, showcasing the natural beauty of the region. As you trek along the well-defined paths, the symphony of bird calls and the soothing sound of flowing water accompany you, creating a tranquil ambiance.

Photographers and nature enthusiasts will be delighted by the diverse flora and fauna that adorn the surroundings. The area is a haven for endemic bird species, butterflies, and various other wildlife, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The vibrant greenery of the tea estates and the mist-covered hills provide a majestic backdrop for those looking to capture the beauty of Bomburu Ella Waterfall through their lens.

For those who seek a more immersive experience, taking a dip in the natural pool found at the base of the falls is an exhilarating option. The cool, crystal clear water offers a refreshing respite from the tropical heat and allows visitors to feel at one with nature.

Despite its remarkable beauty, Bomburu Ella Waterfall remains relatively off the beaten path, making it a hidden gem awaiting discovery. The serene and untouched atmosphere adds to its allure, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you visit for the adventure, tranquility, or simply to marvel at its magnificence, Bomburu Ella Waterfall promises an unforgettable experience.

Bomburu Ella Waterfall is a true natural marvel that showcases the remarkable beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country. With its powerful cascades, verdant landscapes, and tranquil surroundings, it offers a magical escape into nature. Whether exploring the hiking trails, capturing its beauty through a camera lens, or enjoying a refreshing dip in its pool, Bomburu Ella Waterfall is a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders that the world...

A Hidden Treasure in the Hills – Boburu Ella Waterfall

Our recent adventure to Boburu Ella Waterfall was an unforgettable journey into one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known natural wonders. Located in the beautiful Welimada–Padiyapelella area, Boburu Ella is a breathtaking waterfall that offers a serene escape into nature — perfect for travelers who seek peace, beauty, and authenticity away from crowded tourist spots.

Boburu Ella is not a massive, roaring waterfall like some others in Sri Lanka, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. It’s calm, graceful, and naturally charming. The water gently flows down a rock face surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills, creating a soothing atmosphere. The sound of the falling water, mixed with the birdsong and forest whispers, is truly healing to the soul.

The area around the waterfall is still untouched by commercialization, which makes it feel like a hidden paradise. The air is cool and fresh, especially in the mornings, and the path to reach the falls includes a short scenic walk through tea plantations, forest patches, and village paths. It's a fairly easy trek, suitable even for families and casual hikers, although proper footwear is recommended as some rocks near the fall can be slippery.

One of the most wonderful parts of the experience was just sitting by the waterfall, dipping our feet into the cold, crystal-clear water and letting time slow down. For those who love photography or just want a peaceful place to relax, this is the ideal location. The surrounding landscape provides an amazing backdrop for photos — especially early morning or during golden hour.

Boburu Ella is also surrounded by small local farming communities, which gives visitors a chance to interact with locals and experience true Sri Lankan hospitality. The people are warm and welcoming, often ready to share a smile or offer directions with genuine kindness.

Things to keep in mind:

There are no ticket counters or major facilities, so it’s best to bring your own water, snacks, and maybe a picnic mat.

Please carry your waste back with you to help preserve this natural treasure.

The waterfall is best visited during or just after the rainy season (but not during heavy downpours) when water flow is at its most beautiful.

In conclusion, Boburu Ella is a hidden gem that captures the heart with its simple, untouched beauty. It's not just a waterfall, but a place where you can connect with nature, breathe deeply, and recharge. If you're traveling through the Nuwara Eliya, Welimada, or Uva areas, don’t miss the chance to stop by. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and grateful for discovering such a peaceful corner...