Location of Riverston
Riverston (sometimes spelled "Riverstone") is located in the Matale District, Central Province, Sri Lanka. It sits on the Knuckles Mountain Range and is often accessed via the Matale – Hettipola road through Illukkumbura. The Riverston Peak rises to about 1,424 meters above sea level.
Riverston is famous for its mist-clad landscapes, panoramic views over valleys and the Knuckles range, waterfalls, grasslands like Pitawala Pathana, and tranquil hiking trails.
How to Reach Riverston from Colombo / Kandy
By Road (Bus / Taxi / Car)
• From Colombo, you can drive via Kandy → Matale → Illukkumbura toward Riverston.
• From Kandy, take road toward Matale, then branch off via Hettipola / Illukkumbura to the Riverston access road.
• The access road from the main road to Riverston is partly paved and partly forested, so a sturdy vehicle helps.
By Train + Road
You may travel by train to Kandy, then by bus or private transport to Matale, and onward to Riverston via Illukkumbura. The scenic route via train + road offers beautiful countryside views.
On Foot / Trek Start
The final stretch to Riverston Peak is by foot (trek), often starting from the Riverston Tower / base road, with trails climbing through forest and grasslands. The hike is short (about 2 km upward on paved road plus paths) to the summit.
Top Attractions in Riverston
Riverston Peak & Observation Tower
The Riverston Peak is the main draw. From the base road (~27-30 km from Matale), the climb up to the Riverston Tower takes 15–45 minutes depending on pace. The summit offers sweeping views over the Knuckles range, valleys, mist layers, and the Mini World’s End escarpment drop.
The paved climb is relatively gentle and accessible even for moderate hikers.
Pitawala Pathana & Mini World’s End
Close to Riverston lies Pitawala Pathana, an open grassy plateau often called "Mini World's End." The edge provides dramatic views over steep drops (~300 m) and vistas across the Thelgamu valley and central hills.
Trek from Riverston through Pitawala Pathana to reach the cliff edges.
Sera Ella Waterfall
One of the notable waterfalls in the Riverston area is Sera Ella, which even has a cave behind the falling sheet of water. It’s a refreshing stop on routes around Riverston.
The waterfall is especially spectacular in the wet seasons with strong flow.
Bambarakiri Ella
Bambarakiri Ella is another waterfall near Riverston, known for its scenic surroundings and photogenic appeal. It’s often visited in conjunction with Riverston treks.
Flora, Mist, & Landscapes
Riverston is known for its misty climate, cloud cover, and shifting weather, giving it an ethereal ambiance.
Trails cross montane forest, grasslands, and open ridges, offering biodiversity and wild views of the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Best Time to Visit Riverston
• December to April (Dry Season): The best period for clear views, trekking, and avoiding heavy rainfall.
• May to September: The area gets mist, occasional rains, and wind, but scenery is lush and dramatic. Early morning / late afternoon: For best views and less cloud cover.
Avoid the heaviest monsoon months if you want stable hiking conditions.
Riverston Travel Tips
• Wear good hiking shoes as some trails (especially off the paved road) are rocky.
• Bring water, sunscreen, hat, rain jacket—weather can change quickly.
• Trek early (morning) for clearer views and fewer clouds.
• Use a local guide if unfamiliar with the paths.
• Respect nature—avoid littering, stay on trails.
• Minimal facilities exist at the higher reaches, so carry essentials.
• Photography fans: bring a tripod for misty sunrise or sunset captures.
Why Visit Riverston in ?
Riverston remains one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known highland escapes, offering solitude, breathtaking vistas, and an “off the beaten path” experience. It combines mountain trekking, waterfalls (Sera Ella, Bambarakiri Ella), Misty peaks, Pitawala Pathana, and lush forest ambiance. For travelers seeking nature, photography, or quiet hikes in the Knuckles Range, Riverston is a hidden gem.
It's becoming increasingly popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts, yet still retains its serene, uncrowded appeal.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting from Europe, the UK, USA, the Middle East, or Asia, Riverston Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable natural escape. From the climb to Riverston Peak, walking through Pitawala Pathana / Mini World’s End, exploring hidden Sera Ella and Bambarakiri Ella waterfalls, to absorbing misty mountain landscapes—this is a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers in Sri Lanka.
Hotels Near Pidurangala & Sigiriya
• Local guesthouses / homestays around Riverston & Matale.
• Eco lodges in Knuckles / Matale surroundings.
• Options in Matale town (base).