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Hidden deep within the hills of Yatiyanthota, Olu Ella plunges an impressive 200 meters (656 feet), making it the tallest waterfall linked to the Kelani River and the sixth tallest waterfall in the country. Its untouched beauty, colonial wooden bridge, and serene surroundings create a breathtaking escape far from the crowds.
| Height : | 127 metres |
| District : | Kegalle |
Source and Flow
The waterfall originates from Wee Oya, which begins at the 1,200-meter (3,937-foot) Baranawa Mountain. The stream then merges with Welihel Oya in the Parusella area before flowing into the Kelani River at Yatiyanthota.
Description and Access
Olu Ella is 18 meters (59 feet) wide and 127 meters (417 feet) tall, cascading gracefully in four segments. Including the section below the bridge, the total height reaches approximately 200 meters (656 feet). It is the 6th tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka and the tallest linked to the Kelani Ganga river. Despite its accessibility by vehicle, the waterfall remains largely undiscovered by casual travellers due to its secluded location. As a result, it has retained its natural charm and remains free from the litter that plagues many other popular sites.
Historic Wooden Bridge
The waterfall is intersected by the road leading to Seepoth, where an ancient wooden bridge spans the Wee Oya. Built during the colonial period to transport tea leaves, this structure is believed to be the oldest wooden bridge still in use in Sri Lanka today.
The list of waterfalls lying on the Yatiyanthota – Seepoth road is as follows
- Wee Oya Ella Falls
- Malalpola Ella Falls
- Kitul Ella Falls
- Punugala Ella Falls
- Gorok Ella Falls
- Katuwel Ella Falls
- Olu Ella Falls
In addition, there are several waterfalls without names on this route.
Also See
- Waterfalls of Sri Lanka
- Other Places of Interest Within Close Proximity
Map of Olu Ella Falls
The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites
Zoom out the map to see more surrounding locations using the mouse scroll wheel or map controls.
Travel Directions to Olu Ella Falls
The fall lies 12 km from the Yatiyantota town on the Seepoth Road
| Route from Kegalle to Olu Ella Fall | Route from Avissawella to Olu Ella Fall |
| Through : Moronthota – Alawatura – Bulathkohupitiya – Parussella Distance : 45 km Travel time : 1.15 hours Driving directions : see on google map | Through : Dehiowita – Karawanella – Yatiyantota – Punugala – Amanwala Distance : 35 km Travel time : 1 hour Driving directions : see on google map |
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