Surathali Ella ( “Ella” means Waterfall ) is 60m in height, 2m wide and made up of three segments. It is named after a film that was shot in the area.
Surathali Ella Falls is 60m in height, 2m wide and made up of three segments. It is named after a film that was shot in the area. Originating from the Sri Pada Reserve’s Ellamana mountain range (948m), the fall is created by the Kadawath River, which flows along Sabaragamuwa Uva and later into the Weli River. It is bordered by an untouched wildlife sanctuary.
At the Mahaeliyakande there are certain soil crystals known as Sita Devi Guli, which resemble the rice used to make sweet meat, called Aggala. According to folklore, Sita Devi (Queen Sita) is said to have made sweet meat here and spilled some of it, which is what remains at the site today.
Another story has it that two villagers saw gold plates glittering in a cave, while on a jungle trek. They decided to retrieve the treasure and ventured inside the cave but as soon as they were inside, the stone door of the cave shut, barring their exit. They were allowed out only once they had acknowledged that the treasure belonged to King Walagamba.
Take the Balangoda – Badulla road to the 169 – 170th mile posts, between Halpe and Marangawela. Turn at the Belihul River, near Halpe and proceed for 8km along the Colombo – Ratnapura – Batticoloa road. Near the 105th mile post, 20m through mountainous jungle, the fall can be found.