St. Clair's Falls, Nuwara Eliya Overview

An idyllic representation of Sri Lanka’s natural being is the famous St. Clair’s falls. Referred to as the Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair’s falls is perched at an altitude of 1198 metres. It is located in the Talawakele town of Nuwara Eliya District and St. Clair’s stands as one of the widest falls in Sri Lanka.

The falls are along the Kotmale Oya, a tributary of the Mahaweli River, It is surrounded by mountains amidst the sky overlooking with its moving clouds. The element of attraction lies in the way the falls is positioned – the rock gradients at three different levels and waters glide by the incisions and fall into a pool of life.

The waterfalls consist of two falls called “Maha Ella - The Greater Fall” which is 80 metres in height and 50 metres in width and the “Kuda Ella - The Lesser Fall” which is 50 metres in height. The name of the falls is derived from the St. Clair’s tea estates that flourish along the falls.

Things to Do at St. Clair's Falls

Taking a dip in the streams whose waters flow from the creeks of the rocks is absolute paradise. There is nothing that can equate to that experience. There are numerous homestays and inns in Talawakele that can add a touch of the local lifestyle in terms of food, living and sightseeing. The forests are surrounded by tea estates which provide for a beautiful walk!

Tips to Visit St. Clair's Falls

Wear comfortable knickers while scaling the rocks and carry water to stay hydrated. Take the help of the locals to explore nature and the nearby tea plantations!

Best Time To Visit St. Clair's Falls

The falls in Nuwara Eliya district are a constant reminder of God’s wondrous creation. All through the year, the climate is tranquil and sees a chilly breeze that adorns Talawakele. October – January welcomes rains and an overall wet environment; February is one of the most beautiful months as the weather is awe-perfect topped with cosy droopy skies and mystical clouds; Summers hit during March – June where the climate gets slightly warmer, but never unbearable. The temperature ceases to soar and pampers tourists. The dawn is foggy, and it only clears at 9 AM, or sometimes even 10 AM which leaves for a blissful afternoon date with the sun and an evening chai time overlooking the pool