Ethamala Ella

Ethamala Ella is a hidden treasure tucked away in the lush greenery of the Matara District, specifically near the village of Pitabeddara in Sri Lanka. Unlike the more famous waterfalls that are easy to spot from the road, this one is a bit of a secret, making it perfect for nature lovers who want to escape the crowds.

The waterfall gets its name from a local legend involving an elephant (Etha in Sinhala), and it drops beautifully into a large, deep pool at the bottom. It is surrounded by thick rainforest and tea plantations, giving you a real feeling of being deep in the wild.

📌 Why Should Visit

✅ Peace and Quiet: Since it’s not a major tourist “hotspot,” you can often enjoy the sound of the water without hundreds of people around.

✅ Natural Beauty: The waterfall is stunningly photogenic, with white water crashing against dark rocks.

✅ Pure Air: Being located near the Sinharaja Forest area, the air here is incredibly fresh and cooling.

✅ Adventure: The journey to reach the falls involves a bit of a trek, which is great for those who love a mini-adventure.

📌 Other Important Details 

↔️ Height: The fall is approximately 52 feet (15 meters) high.

↔️ Water Source: It is fed by the Nilwala River basin.

↔️ Local Legend: Locals say an elephant once fell from the top of the falls, which is how it earned its name “Ethamala” (The place where the elephant died).

📌 Things to Do 

🌟 Photography: Capture the amazing contrast of the white foam against the green jungle.

🌟 Picnicking: There are nice spots nearby to sit down and have a light snack while listening to the water.

🌟 Nature Walking: Enjoy the walk through the village and the small trails leading to the falls.

🌟 Bird Watching: Keep an eye out for colorful tropical birds that live in the surrounding trees.

📌 How to Get There 

🚗 Start from Matara: Travel towards the town of Akuressa.

🚗 Head to Pitabeddara: From Akuressa, take the road leading to Pitabeddara.

🚌 Local Transport: You can take a bus to Pitabeddara and then hire a Tuk-Tuk to get closer to the waterfall area.

🚶The Final Hike: You will need to walk a short distance through a tea estate or a jungle path to reach the actual waterfall. It is best to ask a local for the exact path!

📌 What Experience Visitors Can Get

Visiting Ethamala Ella feels like stepping into a “hidden world.” You get the thrill of discovery as you find the path through the greenery. The mist from the falling water feels cool on your skin, and the atmosphere is very calm. It’s a great place to clear your mind and connect with the natural beauty of southern Sri Lanka.

📌 Important Tips and Guides 

⚠️ Safety First: The pool at the bottom can be very deep and the currents are strong. Swimming is not recommended unless you are with a local guide who knows the safe spots.

⚠️ Wear Good Shoes: The path can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear shoes with a good grip.

⚠️ Check the Weather: During heavy rainy seasons, the water level rises very quickly and can be dangerous.

⚠️ Keep it Clean: Please do not leave any plastic or trash behind. Let’s keep this hidden gem beautiful!

Ethamala Ella is a must-visit for anyone traveling through the Matara district who wants to see the “untamed” side of Sri Lanka. It’s quiet, beautiful, and full of local charm. If you respect the water and the environment, it will be one of the most peaceful highlights of your trip!