Sera Ella Falls (සේර ඇල්ල)

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Height :	10 metres
District :	Matale

The beautiful Sera Ella waterfall, celebrated in several poems, is located within the Dumbara forest region. The waterfall is divided into two cascades, each measuring approximately 10 m (32.8 feet) in height.

Formation of the Waterfall

The Kitul Canal, originating from the Kaudagammana Mountain, and the Hunumadala River, which flows from the Gonamada and Deyuthu Gammadduwa mountains, merge together to form the Puwakpitiya River. This river later joins the Thelgamu Oya, where the waterfall is created as the water plunges over a projecting rock face visible within the Dumbara forest.

Natural Features

Sera Ella flows throughout the year and reaches its fullest volume during the monsoon season between November and March. The waterfall derives its name from the Sera species of fish found in its waters.

Location and Access

The waterfall is situated in the village of Pothatawela, near Laggala in the Matale District, within the Laggala Pradeshiya Sabha Division. Visitors traveling from Matale or Laggala should proceed toward Illukkumbura to reach the site.

The Cave Behind the Waterfall

One of the most remarkable features of Sera Ella is the cave located behind the falling water. Stone steps have been cut into the rock to provide access to this cave, allowing visitors to reach it safely even when the waterfall is in full flow.

References

Lanka Council On Waterfalls. (n.d.). Lanka Council On Waterfalls. http://www.srilankanwaterfalls.net/

Also See

Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
Other Places of Interest Within Close Proximity

Map of Sera Ella Falls

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Sera Ella Falls Video

An informative video clip by Nade Gura Travel & Conservation Society

Travel Directions to Sera Ella Falls

Though the road is not in good condition from Illukkumbura, the fall can be reached in any vehicle. Once you pass the Pitawala Pathana, there is a concrete road to Puwakpitiya. Entrance to the fall is approx. 8.5 km on this road. From here you need to climb down about 200 m on a path to reach the viewing platform. If the vehicle does not have a high ground clearance, you may have to park the vehicle about 1.5 km before the entrance and walk the rest.

Route from Matale to Sera Ella	Route from Illukkumbura to Sera Ella
Through : Pitawala Patana Distance : 45 km Travel time : 1.5 hours Driving directions : see on google map	Distance : 15 km Travel time : 30-45 minutes Driving directions : see on google map

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