Diyaluma Falls hike from Ella: Swim in jungle pools

Five natural pools nested in the jungle above the falls

This 6-hour hike from Ella takes you through the Koslanda rainforest to Diyaluma Falls, Sri Lanka's second-highest waterfall, and then up a 20-minute jungle trail to Upper Diyaluma where you swim in crystal-clear pools and rest at a viewpoint overlooking the hills. A local English-speaking guide leads the way. Private transport, entrance fees and lunch are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Diyaluma Waterfall Adventure

• Visit Ravana Ella Falls
• Explore Diyaluma Falls viewpoint
• Hike to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall
• Swim in natural pools
• Enjoy panoramic views

The experience

The hike starts with a visit to Ravana Ella Falls to warm up, then moves deeper into the forest toward Diyaluma's main cascade: a 220-meter drop that hits you with sound before you see it. The falls themselves are a viewing stop. Swimming is not allowed at the base. What makes this trip different is what comes next: a 20-minute scramble up through the jungle to Upper Diyaluma, where five separate natural pools sit in the rocks above the main falls. Each one is fed by smaller cascades and holds crystal-clear water cold enough to shock and refresh.

You spend time swimming across these pools and resting at a viewpoint that opens onto the surrounding hills and valleys: the kind of moment that justifies the trek. Your guide handles the route, explains what you're seeing, and knows the safest way through the forest. Lunch happens after you've dried off, and private transport picks you up from Ella and returns you there, so the day stays contained and you don't lose hours to logistics.

What’s included

• Private transport from Ella.
• entrance fees to both falls.
• a private English-speaking guide.
• lunch.
• access to swim in the five natural pools at Upper Diyaluma.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to18h before

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Child (6 to 17 years) · Infant (under 6)

GroupUp to 6

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Alpine Activities

Is this one for you?Six hours is enough to reach the pools, swim, rest at the viewpoint and eat without rushing, but leaves the rest of your day free if you're based in Ella or nearby Haputale.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (6 to 17 years); Infant (under 6).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the walk to Upper Diyaluma from the main falls?

The jungle walk to Upper Diyaluma takes about 20 minutes and ends at the five natural pools where you can swim and rest at the viewpoint.

Can I swim at Diyaluma Falls itself?

Swimming is not allowed at the base of the main Diyaluma Falls, but you can swim in the five natural pools at Upper Diyaluma, which is the highlight of the day.

What's included in the price?

Private transport from Ella, entrance fees, lunch, and a private English-speaking guide are all included. You bring only water and a change of clothes.

Is this hike suitable if I'm not very fit?

The hike is suitable for all physical fitness levels, though the 20-minute jungle walk to Upper Diyaluma involves some scrambling over rocks and tree roots, so reasonable mobility helps.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, water, and shoes with grip for wet rocks. The guide and transport handle everything else, including your lunch.