Location & Setting
Both Sera Ella and Bambarakiri Ella are located in Matale District, Central Province, within or near the Knuckles Mountain Range Riverston region of Sri Lanka. They are part of the network of natural waterfalls along forested hills and jungle routes between Illukkumbura, Rattota, and the Riverston highlands.
• Sera Ella is in Pothatawela village, near the route toward Riverston / Illukkumbura.
• Bambarakiri Ella lies near Rattota, accessed from the Matale-Pallegala-Hasalaka mountain road (B274) about 5 km uphill from Rattota.
• These falls are often included in nature and hiking trips around the Riverston / Knuckles area.
How to Reach
By Road (Bus / Taxi / Car)
• From Matale, drive toward Rattota via the mountain road. Bambarakiri Ella is about 16 km from Matale by road, and near a bend off the B274 road.
• For Sera Ella, you travel past the route to Riverston / Illukkumbura. After around 45 minutes from Matale one enters roads toward Pothatawela / Illukkumbura side.
• The final stretches may involve minor forest roads or trails: local advice and guidance help.
By Public / Mixed Transport
• Use bus / shared transport to Rattota / Illukkumbura from Matale, then local tuk-tuk or walk to the falls trailheads.
• Some falls (Bambarakiri) are only ~200 m off the main mountain road from Rattota, so the hike is short.
Top Features
Sera Ella Waterfall
• Height & Layout: Sera Ella is a twin-section waterfall of about 10 m in height. Cave Behind the Falls: One of its most distinctive features is the cave behind the falling water. Visitors can reach behind the curtain of water via carved stone steps, even when the falls are flowing strongly.
• Year-Round Flow: Sera Ella flows throughout the year; its flow is robust during monsoon seasons (November to March). Scenic Surroundings: It lies within dense forest and views from the Dumbara Jungle / valley provide a striking backdrop.
Bambarakiri Ella Waterfall
• Height & Structure: Bambarakiri Ella is about 10 m in height, often visible in three viewing parts, offering multiple vantage points.
• Easy Access Path: The waterfall is accessible via a short walk (~200 m) from a bend of the B274 road near Rattota.
• Suspension Bridge: A suspension bridge is part of the vantage route across the stream below parts of the cascade.
• Scenic & Quiet: Because it is less visited, Bambarakiri offers a tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings near the Knuckles.
Best Time to Visit
• Dry Season (December to April): Ideal time to visit both waterfalls, when trails are accessible and water flow is steady but not hazardous.
• Shoulder periods (May, September, November): Less crowded, scenic greenery, moderate flow.
• Monsoon (June–October): Falls are dramatic, but paths may be slippery and risky. Use caution.
• For Sera Ella, the peak flow is often in the rainy months (Nov–Mar).
Time of Day: Visit in early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh light, heat, and to capture beautiful shadows and mist.
Travel Tips
• Wear non-slip shoes—rocks near waterfalls can be very slippery.
• Bring water, insect repellent, waterproof cover for your gear.
• Be cautious: the cave behind Sera Ella has slippery surfaces; avoid risky moves.
• Use a local guide to ensure safe paths and correct trail navigation.
• Respect nature—don’t litter, stay on path, avoid damaging flora.
• Access to some parts, especially behind the falls, may have limited structural support. Be careful.
Why Visit Sera Ella & Bambarakiri Ella in ?
These waterfalls are off-the-beaten-path gems in Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands, offering a more intimate nature experience than more commercial falls. Sera Ella’s hidden cave and twin cascades make it unique, and Bambarakiri’s multiple viewpoints and suspension bridge add character. For nature-lovers, photographers, and hikers exploring Riverston / Knuckles area, these waterfalls are must-visits.
They complement other nearby attractions (Riverston, Pitawala Pathana, Knuckles treks) and add diversity to any Matale / Central Province itinerary.
Conclusion
Sera Ella and Bambarakiri Ella are two of Matale’s most enchanting waterfalls. From walking behind Sera Ella’s cascading curtain to crossing suspension bridges at Bambarakiri, each offers a distinct experience of Sri Lanka’s wilderness. Incorporate them into your 2025 Sri Lanka travel plans for a refreshing, scenic, and memorable journey.
Hotels / Stay Nearby
• Guesthouses in Rattota.
• Lodges / eco-stays in Riverston / Illukkumbura region.
• Hotels or lodging in Matale town as base.