Galboda Falls

Galboda Falls

Galboda Falls is one of the best among the most spectacular waterfalls in the beautiful county of Sri Lanka. Situated in Nawalapitiya, Nuwara Eliya District, she stands at a height of 30 meters. This beauty originates from the Galboda River (Hanguranketha River) and the water of the falls cascades into two streams at certain times of the year, ranging from 3m- 6m. It provides shelter to a variety of wildlife and flora, 12 species of reptiles, in which 4 are only found in Sri Lanka A rare species of orchids can also be found in this area.

About the destination

The fall can be reached by taking the Hatton rail track. You will find this beauty inside an abandoned tea estate, closer to Galboda station, Nawalapitiya, Therefore, taking the train is the most convenient way. If you travel from Colombo, there is a train leaving Colombo Fort station early in the morning that stops at the Galboda station. From there, it is about a 20-25-minute walk to the waterfall. When you reach the waterfall, there is abundant time for you to walk around, have a bath, and then return to the station to catch the evening train to go back towards Colombo. Recently, the roads have been developed around the area and now you can get closer to the waterfall from a vehicle as well.

“Galboda” means “the fall adjoining a stone” and there is a  large boulder located at the foot of the falls, which was the reason this name came into being.  There is also another story saying that the water here is heavier than anywhere else in the country and thus is named as such.

Reaching the destination

From Kandy travel along the Kandy Road to Nawalapitiya to reach the Galboda Falls situated in Galboda Road, Galboda. You can also take the Nawalapitiya – Dekinda road but this is a difficult route.

Located along the connecting railway lines between Colombo and Badulla, Galboda Falls can be reached via train as it is the easiest way.

Special information

Magnificent waterfalls are usually bound with legends. Galboda waterfall also has such a story. It is believed that deity Mahasamy (Devol) is the only deity out of seven, who remained in the hill county and a temple devoted to this deity, stands on the mountain above this waterfall.