Galboda Falls is situated in Nawalapitiya. It stands at a height of 30 meters and starts from the Galboda River (Hanguranketha River). The water of the falls cascades into two streams at certain times of the year. It provides shelter to a variety of wildlife and flora, including orchids.
About the destination:-
The fall is located on Hatton rail track in an abandoned but beautiful tea estate adjacent to Galboda station, Nawalapitiya in the Nuwara Eliya District. Therefore taking the train is very convenient.
Its width ranges from 3 m to 6 m depending on the season. The name “Galboda” is derived from the large boulder that is situated at the foot of the falls. “Galboda” means “fall adjoining the stone” when translated. There is also another story saying that the water here is heavier than anywhere else in Sri Lanka and thus is named as such.
The surrounding of Galboda Falls is home to many species of wildlife and flora. A rare species of orchids can be found in this area. The area is also home to a total of twelve species of reptiles out of four which are endemic to Sri Lanka.
Reaching the destination:-
From Kandy travel along the Kandy Road passing Peradeniya, Gampola, and Ulapane up to Nawalapitiya to reach the Galboda Falls situated in Galboda Road, Galboda.
Located along the connecting railway lines between Colombo and Badulla, Galboda Falls can be reached only via train as there is no properly developed road system. You can also take the Nawalapitiya – Dekinda road but this is a difficult route. You can board a train from Kandy to visit Galboda Ella, which is a 20 to 25-minute walk from the station.
Special information:-
A temple to the deity Mahasamy who is one of seven deities collectively known as Devol who came to the hill country stands on the mountain above the magnificent Galboda fall. The deity named Mahasamy is the only one of the seven who remained in the hill country. Since the place experiences a sudden and rapid increase in water level, it is highly prohibited to enter the water.
Witness this huge and spectacular waterfall on your visit to Nuwaraeliya.
