St. Clairs Falls

St. Clair’s Falls, often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”, is one of the most breathtaking and well-known waterfalls in the country. Located in the Nuwara Eliya District, near the town of Talawakelle, this waterfall is famous for its wide, multi-tiered cascade and spectacular beauty. It’s one of the largest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, with a height of around 80 meters.

St. Clair’s Falls is composed of two main drops, creating a stunning view of water tumbling down the rocks in multiple stages. The waterfall is surrounded by lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty mountains, making it an ideal spot for photography and nature enthusiasts. The falls are particularly stunning after rainfall, when the water flow is at its peak, though they can be enjoyed year-round.

The falls are easily accessible from the main Kandy-Nuwara Eliya Road (A5), and visitors can enjoy the view from a well-established viewpoint by the roadside. There is also a short walk down to the base of the falls for those who wish to get closer to the waterfall, where they can appreciate its full grandeur and take in the crisp mountain air.

St. Clair’s Falls is located approximately 15 km from Nuwara Eliya and 200 km from Colombo, making it a popular stop for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s central highlands. The surrounding area is also home to several other attractions, such as the Horton Plains National Park and the Tea Plantations, making it a great place to visit while exploring the region.

The best time to visit St. Clair’s Falls is during the dry season (from December to April), when the weather is cool and clear, offering the best views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes. However, it is also an incredible sight during the rainy season, with the increased water flow creating a more dramatic cascade.