Bopath Ella Falls

Bopath Ella (Bo-Leaf Falls) is one of Sri Lanka's most distinctive waterfalls, dropping 30m through a cleft in the rock that produces a recognisable heart-shaped spread of water when viewed from the air or from the viewing platform above. The name comes from the resemblance of the water's spread to a sacred Bo leaf (Ficus religiosa). Located just 8km from Ratnapura on the Kuruvita road, the falls are one of the most accessible in Sri Lanka, with a short 10-minute walk from the car park to the base pool. The large natural pool at the base is a favourite swimming spot for local families, and the surrounding forest adds to the atmosphere. The falls are at their most impressive from May to September after the south-west monsoon when water volume is highest.