St. Clairs Falls

Sri Lanka is a land of waterfalls with 103 rivers and streams, whereby the country boasts of the highest waterfall density in the world. However, only a small number of waterfalls can be viewed with ease since the majority are positioned amidst thick lush forests and tea plantations.

The 265 feet high, St. Clairs Falls is among those that can be viewed easily and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the country. St. Clairs is also renowned as the widest and the 20th highest in Sri Lanka.  The name of this unique natural treasure derived from a tea estate located close by. The most important feature of St. Clairs Falls is that it consists of two waterfalls, namely Maha Ella and Kuda Ella.

Falling in three uninterrupted cascades is the Maha Ella which is the larger one that flows down to Kothmale fall. The Maha Ella is 80 metres high.  The smaller one which is known as the Kuda Ella is 60 metres high. The Kuda Ella also flows to the Kothmale fall.

Positioned 3 kilometres west from Talawakele town, St. Clairs Falls can be easily viewed from A-7 road as well as the nearby railway line. Although most people prefer to witness the waterfall from the road at a distant, it is always better to head closer in order to get a glimpse of its true beauty. Travellers can reach St. Clairs Falls through a beautiful tea plantation.

Also known as the Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clairs Falls is a much talked about political topic too. Most environmentalists pointed out that the waterfall will come under enormous threat with the inception of the Upper Kothmale Hydro-Electricity Project. However, the government has ensured to take necessary action to protect this incredible waterfall that is also of immense national importance.
 
This beautiful gift from Mother Nature, is a sight worth viewing. Travel to the hill country and be awed by its majestic beauty as it cascades in shimmering white clouds down the lush foliage around.

Waterfalls in Sri Lanka