Olu Ella Fall: Sri Lanka’s Hidden Gem Waterfall in Kegalle

What makes Olu Ella Fall Sri Lanka special is its location – it is not well-known, so it’s still clean and unspoiled. An old wooden bridge, built during British rule, cuts through the middle of the waterfall. This bridge is believed to be the oldest wooden bridge still in use in Sri Lanka. 

The area around Olu Ella is full of natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Despite its height and beauty, Olu Ella remains a hidden gem, waiting to be discovered by those who want to explore the off-beaten path.

Olu Ella is a very tall waterfall. It’s the 6th highest in all of Sri Lanka and the tallest in the Kegalle area. It is also the highest waterfall that flows into the Kelani River.

The water for Olu Ella comes from a stream called Wee Oya. This stream starts on Baranawa Mountain, which is 1200 meters high. The stream joins another called Welihel Oya, and then they both flow into the big Kelani River near a place called Yatiyanthota.

Olu Ella waterfall is big – 18 meters wide and 127 metres tall. It drops in four steps. If you count the part below the bridge, it’s even taller, about 200 meters high. 

But because it’s in a far-off place, not many people know about it. This is good news! It means the waterfall area is still clean and not full of trash from lots of visitors.

The road to Seepoth cuts through the middle of Olu Ella waterfall. There’s an old wooden bridge that goes over Wee Oya, the stream that makes the waterfall. 

This bridge is really old. It was built when the British ruled Sri Lanka. They used it to carry tea leaves. People say it is the oldest wooden bridge in Sri Lanka that is still being used today. Enjoying nature here is one of the best things to do at Olu Ella Fall. 

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Other Waterfalls Nearby Olu Ella Fall

1. Wee Oya Ella Falls

They are in the Bombepola Forest, just north of Weeoya Estate. You can spot these waterfalls from the road from Yatiyanthota to Lower Palanpitiya. They’re hidden in the thick forest. 

Both waterfalls are about 20 meters high. The water from these falls joins a stream called Wee Oya, which later flows into the bigger Kelani River.

2. Malalpola Ella Falls 

Just before you reach Malalpola Junction, you’ll spot the waterfall right next to the road. It’s a nice, quick stop for travellers in the area who want to see a waterfall without any hiking.

3. Kitul Ella Falls 

You can find this waterfall in the Kegalle area, about 15 kilometres from Yatiyantota, near a place called Mellapola. It’s easy to get to. 

You can use any type of transport. If you want to stay nearby, there’s a rest house in Kitulgala, which is 33 kilometres away.

4. Gorok Ella Falls

To see Gorok Ella, you need to take the road from Yatiyantota to Pahala Palampitiya. The trip takes you through a thick jungle, which makes for a scenic drive. It’s a nice waterfall to visit if you’re exploring the waterfalls around Yatiyantota.

5. Katuwel Ella Falls 

Cross the narrow footbridge over the river. On the other side, you’ll see a pink house and a tea field to the left. Walk along the tea field towards Yatiyanthota for about 100 metres, listening to the sound of falling water. 

To reach the base of the falls, you’ll need to carefully navigate through some thorny bushes. It’s a bit of an adventure, but the waterfall is worth the effort.

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How To Get To Olu Ella Fall?

Stop here, and you’ll have a great view of Olu Ella waterfall. It is a scenic drive that takes you through the Sri Lankan countryside before revealing the beautiful waterfall.

Best Time To Visit Olu Ella Fall

Stays Near Olu Ella Fall 

1. Kandy Mountain Cottage 

The inn has helpful staff at the front desk all day and night, and they can store your bags for you. There’s also a restaurant right at the inn if you don’t want to go out to eat. 

If you’re driving, you can park your car for free. It’s a nice, convenient place that makes it easy to enjoy your time in Kandy.

2. Kandyan View Holiday Bungalow

Whether you’re staying for a short time, a long trip, or planning a family gathering or party, this place is perfect. It’s a great spot to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. 

The area around it used to be known as “the five counties on the hill”, which adds to its charm and history.

3. Sunrich Hotel 

You also get a small fridge, hot water, and a balcony in your room. The hotel has some nice extra amenities like a swimming pool outside, big rooms for events, and an elevator to make moving around easier. 

There’s also a restaurant and bar where you can eat and drink. It’s a comfortable place with lots of conveniences for visitors to Kandy.

4. Saninro Hotel Ragama 

If you stay at Saninro, you can easily take trains to travel all over the country. There’s also a big church nearby called Tewatte Basilica. So, Saninro is in a good spot for people who need to be near hospitals, want to travel by train, or like to visit churches.

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5. Colombo Tree House

Two famous architects from Sri Lanka designed and built this house for themselves. The villa has some nice features like an indoor swimming pool and wooden floors.

It has three bedrooms, and each bedroom has its own bathroom. From the top of the hill, you can enjoy lovely green scenery all around.

Conclusion 

The best time to visit is during the rainy season from May to September when the waterfall is at its most spectacular. However, visitors should be cautious of slippery paths during this time. The area around Olu Ella is rich with other natural attractions, including several nearby waterfalls and lush forests. 

There are several comfortable stays in nearby towns like Kandy and Colombo. As you plan your visit to Olu Ella Fall, remember to respect the natural environment to help preserve this hidden gem for future generations to enjoy.