Andahalena Ella Waterfall
Discover a hidden waterfall in the countryside near Bentota.
Hidden in the forest near Elpitiya, Andahalena Ella offers a different experience from the beaches and coastal attractions around Bentota. A short forest walk leads to the approximately 12-metre waterfall.
When conditions are suitable, the natural rock pool above the falls offers the chance for a refreshing swim. A BBC team member accompanies you throughout the excursion and acts as your local guide.
From the coast to the countryside
Travel inland towards Elpitiya and the village of Pituwala, as the landscape becomes increasingly rural and forested. The countryside offers a refreshing contrast to the coast.
From the access area, the final section is an approximately 300-metre walk each way along a natural forest path through the green surroundings of Beraliya Mukalana.
A short walk through tropical forest
The walk and quiet forest environment are an important part of the experience. Andahalena Ella lies away from the main tourist routes, combining light adventure, nature and relaxation.
The short trail has uneven ground. After rain, parts can become muddy and slippery, and leeches may occur during wetter periods. Comfortable shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended.
Water, shade and tropical greenery
Andahalena Ella is not a huge waterfall, but its secluded setting gives it a special atmosphere. Water drops about 12 metres over the rock face, surrounded by dense tropical vegetation and shade.
A place to slow down
Enjoy the forest setting and a waterfall also visited by local Sri Lankan families. This is a natural location rather than a developed tourist attraction.
Wet rocks can be slippery. Follow the BBC guide’s advice while walking and around the falls; do not jump from the waterfall.
A natural pool, when conditions allow
One of Andahalena Ella’s unusual features is the natural rock pool above the waterfall. When water and weather conditions are suitable, there is time to cool down and enjoy a swim before returning through the forest.
The pool is popular with local visitors, especially at weekends and on public holidays. Swimming always depends on current conditions, and care is essential around wet, slippery rocks.
A different side of the south coast
Experience rural Elpitiya, a short tropical-forest walk and a secluded waterfall away from the main tourist routes. With conditional swimming, nature and time to relax, the excursion offers a small adventure in the green countryside behind Sri Lanka’s south coast.
Your BBC team member stays with you throughout the trip and provides local guidance along the way.
Plan your visit
Duration
Approximately 3.5–4 hours total.
Driving time
Approximately 45–60 minutes each way from BBC.
Time at waterfall
Approximately 2 hours.
Forest walk
Approximately 300 metres each way along a natural forest path.
Guidance
Always accompanied by a BBC team member, who also acts as your local guide.
Transport
BBC tuk-tuk, plus walking.
Swimming conditions
Swimming is possible only when water and weather conditions are suitable. Follow the BBC guide’s advice.
Difficulty
Easy to moderate.
Suitable for
Couples, active families, nature lovers and adventurous travellers.
Best visiting conditions
The waterfall can be visited during much of the year. After rainfall it normally carries more water, but the path may be wetter and swimming may not be advisable. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends and public holidays.
What to bring
Swimwear and towel; comfortable shoes or sturdy sandals; drinking water; insect repellent; camera or phone; light clothing, and a change of clothes if swimming.
Safety & local conditions
Only enter the natural pool when conditions are suitable. Swimming depends on current water and weather conditions. After rainfall the waterfall may carry more water, the path may be wetter, and swimming may not be advisable.
Wet rocks are slippery. Do not jump from the waterfall. Take care around the falls and always follow the advice of your BBC guide.
The forest path is uneven and may be muddy and slippery after rain. Leeches may occur during wetter periods. Wear comfortable shoes or sturdy sandals and remember this is a natural location, not a developed tourist attraction.
Price & what is included
LKR 13,700
Per group of 1–2 guests.
Included: BBC tuk-tuk transport and a BBC team member as your local guide.
Purchases, tips and donations are not included.
How to join this activity
Speak to reception or any BBC team member. We arrange the transport and timing, accompany you throughout the trip and provide local guidance along the way.
Andahalena Ella combines a forest walk, a hidden waterfall and, when conditions allow, a refreshing swim.