Ramboda Falls is the 11th tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and the 729th tallest waterfall globally, located on the A5 highway at Ramboda Pass in the Pussellawa area of the Nuwara Eliya district. Ramboda waterfall is also known as "Puna Ella." Ramboda Falls is 109 meters (358 feet) tall. Panna Oya, a tributary of the Kothmale River, creates this breathtaking waterfall. Though it is not widely known, Ramboda Falls consists of three sections: Ihala Ramboda Oya Ella (Upper Ramboda Oya Fall), Ramboda Oya Meda Ella (Middle Fall), and Pahala Ramboda Oya Ella (Lower Ramboda Oya Fall) ( Lower Ramboda Oya Falls).
Ramboda Oya, which flows majestically through Ramboda valley, provides this spectacular trio of waterfalls within a few kilometers, closer to the main route connecting Colombo, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya. Ramboda is a lovely site with many waterfalls and a stunning view of Kotmale Valley with the background of Kotmale Reservoir and Mahaweli Maha Seya. Overall, a visit to Ramboda Falls will take you on a wilderness escape. The cascading waves and their sounds as they crackle against the rocks is an awe-inspiring experience. Ramboda Falls offers a one-of-a-kind experience with nature that is free of commercialization!.
The first and most well-known is the Upper Ramboda Oya Fall, about 1.5 kilometers off the main road. Ramboda region is famous for its beautiful scenery, including highlands, ridges, plains, streams, and mountainous ranges. The Ramboda falls are the best of the attractions. The chilly winds are relentless, and the steps of the rocks tumble like ivory cascades, painting a beautiful image against the background of the sky. It is a gentle 2-kilometer uphill climb that anyone can complete quickly. Ramboda Falls ticks all the boxes for keeping travelers engaged and on their feet amid vibrant landscapes and comfortable weather!
How to get to Ramboda Falls
From ColomboTake the Colombo-Kandy-Nuwara Eliya (A5) highway to Ramboda. Pass through the Ramboda tunnel and get to the waterfall.
From Nuwara EliyaRamboda Falls is 23.1 kilometers away from Nuwara Eliya town and will take around an hour to reach. Take Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Highway that connects Nuwara Eliya to Ramboda.
From KandyThere are 55.3 kilometers from Kandy to Ramboda falls, and the journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Take Kandy road (A1), and after crossing the Peradeniya, bridge turn left onto the Colombo – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya (A5) highway.
Weather in Ramboda
The weather is excellent throughout the year, attracting travelers from all over the world. Sri Lanka has a tropical climate; the sun shines all year, while in the wet season full of rain and gloomy skies. Typically, the temperature ranges between 28°C to 32°C. The lowest recorded temperature was 16°C in Nuwara Eliya, not far from Ramboda. The coastal sides are always humid and cool by the salty ocean wind.
Best time to visit Ramboda Falls
The Ramboda Falls is beautiful during the wet season as rainwater fills the cascade. The falls are accessible during the day, but for the best photos, go early-ish in the morning before the sun rises over the top and spoils any pictures.
On the other hand, strong winds have an impact on Ramboda Falls. The climate is moist with rain possibilities from October to January; February is refreshing and ideal, and the heat hits from April to June. The best time to visit Ramboda falls is dry weather because the rocks can be slick, making trekking difficult.
Ramboda Falls entrance fee
The waterfall has two sections, the upper of which is free to observe. The lower half of the waterfall is accessible for a price of Rs. 50.
What to expect at the waterfall
You can see the upper portion of this fall if you stop at the Tea Bush Hotel in Ramboda (which also has a nice view of Puna Oya Ella Falls). Take the footpath near the Middle Fall and run parallel to the main road to get to this waterfall. The uphill journey to visit this 12m tall beauty is pleasant, and there are steps to help you get there.
The middle fall is 6m high and located directly behind the Ramboda tunnel. This place is a popular bathing location for visitors. You may see the topmost part of the higher fall from the bridge if you look closely.
Lower Ramboda Oya Falls is located about 500m below the middle fall and is not visible from the main road. This stunning 15-meter waterfall crosses the main road and flows downward to form. The Ramboda Falls Hotel is the finest site to take in this splendor. The best view is from the hotel restaurant, where you may sip a hot cup of tea while admiring the scenery. You can also find a footpath leading from the hotel to the fall's base.
Read More: Best Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya in 2022
Is it possible to swim in Ramboda Falls?
A natural bathing pool at the base of the waterfall draws many travelers. For a safe swim, use the natural pool at the bottom of Ramboda Falls.
