Diyaluma Falls, Waterfall in Badulla District, Sri Lanka

Diyaluma Falls is a 220 m waterfall in Badulla District, Sri Lanka, formed by the Punagala Oya. It drops in a single broad column from a notch at the top of a sheer brown and ochre cliff streaked with dark stains and patched with moss and plants. The water frays into thinner streams and spray before reaching rocks and vegetation at the base.

According to historian R. L. Brohier, the falls mark the setting of a tragedy: a young chieftain banished to the highlands let down a rope of twisted creepers so his betrothed could join him, but she was dashed against the rocks and died. The gods, moved to pity, sent a stream gushing from the mountain to veil the scene in watery light.

In Sinhalese, Diyaluma or Diya Haluma means "rapid flow of water" or "liquid light". Historian R. L. Brohier recorded the legend of a young chieftain banished to the highlands: his betrothed was hauled up a rope of twisted creepers, dashed against the rocks and killed, and the gods made a stream gush from the mountain to veil the tragedy in watery light.

Reaching the waterfall requires roughly a 40-minute hike through grassland from the parking area, with local guides available to show the safest routes. Wearing sturdy shoes and bringing water is wise, as the path is often open and can be slippery in places.

The falls are fed by the Punagala Oya, a tributary of Kuda Oya, itself a tributary of Kirindi Oya. In July 2003 a young man named Duminda, who had earlier descended Bambarakanda Falls, slipped and died while attempting a descent of Diyaluma to set a record.