St. Clairs Falls

A stunningly beautiful and wide waterfall, St Clairs falls, fondly referred as “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”, the twin waterfalls gushes out from between hills covered in green nestled among lush green tea plantations.

Highlights

  • It is known as the ‘Little Niagara of Sri Lanka’ as it is so wide
  • It is the 20th highest waterfall in the country
  • It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country

Overview

Popularly known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”, the twin waterfalls of St. Clair’s are among the widest in Sri Lanka and the 20th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It comprises two waterfalls; The Greater Fall (“Maha Ella” in Sinhalese) and The Lesser Fall (“Kuda Ella” in Sinhalese), and torrents over three rock crags into a massive pool. Embedded among a scenic tea plantation after which they were named, The Falls are indisputably a glorious spectacle to behold. It is also an ideal break spot whilst travelling. Opposite the falls and along the road there is a tea shop which also serves snacks.
The Falls are located on the Hatton-Talawakele Highway, 500m from the road. It is formed by the Kotmale Oya which is a branch of the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka. St. Clair’s is among the 7 waterfalls that are affected as a result of the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project.