Few things capture Sri Lanka’s raw natural beauty as well as its waterfalls do. All throughout the island, you’ll find these spectacular natural creations exuding charm and serenity. Now, if you find yourself visiting Nuwara Eliya, there’s one such attraction you definitely shouldn’t miss out on – the St. Clair’s Falls.
Measuring a colossal 80 metres in height, St. Clair’s Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls you’ll see in Sri Lanka. It is also quite large, being a contender for the title of the widest waterfall in Sri Lanka as well. It is sometimes referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka” for this reason.
The falls are found just 3 kilometres away from Hatton-Talawakele Highway and are often seen by passers-by entering and leaving the area. The falls are sourced by the Kothmale Oya – a tributary of the Mahaveli River. Thousands of gallons of water rush down along the rocky outcrops and crash into the massive pool below every second. St Clair’s actually consists of two main waterfalls – the Greater Fall and the Lesser Fall.
St. Clair’s Falls is one of several major waterfalls in the region that will be affected by the expansion of the Kothmale Hydro Plant. As more water is halted from the tributaries in order to produce power, there is a real danger that the falls could disappear forever. Fortunately, the Sri Lankan authorities have recognised the falls both fort heir aesthetics, natural importance and popularity. As such, they have pledged to release enough water downstream so that the falls will continue to thrive.
