Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda in January 2024.
Upper Diyaluma Waterfall, Koslanda in January 2024.
A spectacular day out from GlenMyu Estate to the second tallest Sri Lankan Waterfall.
Our close friends were over from the UK and we had to show them this wonderful natural site that is only 40 minutes drive from GlenMyu Estate.
A couple of Tuk Tuks
We could have taken our car but instead we decided to hire two Tuk Tuks with drivers for the day. I had previously driven my car to the car park at the entrance to Upper Diyaluma and didn’t want to do this again.
The main reason was that I was quite nervous driving up the road which was really designed for Tuk Tuks.Â
I would have a less stressful day and the drivers would be able to keep an eye on our belongings when we were in the pools.
Knowing the best route?
We regularly get Indunil to take guests by Tuk Tuk to Upper Diyaluma Waterfall and he knows the best route to take.
We consider that getting to the top of the waterfall and then descending down enjoying the pools is the best route to enjoy Upper Diyaluma.Â
An early start
Like many other experiences in Sri Lanka we got up early to beat the crowds to Upper Diyaluma in January 2024.
The journey took longer that we anticipated and was just over an hour.Â
The road had deteriorated with heavy rains in October and November.
There, however, was evidence that the road was being fixed.
We realised that there was an easier way up.
Our guide took us up some roughly made steep steps to the ticket booth.
It was only when we descended that we saw that there had been new smooth concrete steps all the way down to the road.
If I had known this before the start of the walk would have been so much easier on my legs!
Next time!
The hike up was not too challenging however you really need to watch your footing on some of the pathways.
When the concrete pathway ends you will be walking through some rougher tracks so you will need to be careful.
Now there are reasons to get to the top of Diyaluma Waterfall and also reasons to get there early.
The sight of the cool water after your hike is really appealing.
What will I see when I get there?
The top of upper Diyaluma is amazing.
I spent some time in the shallow pools wading around and enjoying the fresh, cool water.
What an experience at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall
I was in awe of this place and the nature it presents.Â
Getting closer to nature is something that you can do in the Sri Lankan hill country. When there are few or no other people around it really is a special experience.
I wonder why this is an Instagram spot?
Well, if you want to know why Upper Diyaluma Waterfall has started to become a popular Instagram spot just have a look at this video.
What a wonderful place and experience.Â
My only concern is, that with more exposure on social media, it will get very crowded.
There is something about being alone in this beautiful environment. You can really experience the true beauty of the place when you don’t hear the noise of other travellers.
What a special time!
Time for a swim at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall
I missed swimming in some of the pools at the top of the waterfall as they were a little dangerous when we were there in January.Â
Sri Lanka had experienced usual heavy rainfall in October and  November which resulted in the waters being a little rough.
I decided that self preservation was more important and I waited until I found a more calm spot
Looking over the edge!
We reached the point where you can see Diyaluma Waterfall from the roadside.
I was careful and only went close to the edge but not near enough to be in danger of falling!
How much did it cost for the day trip in January 2024?
The entrance fee is minimal at LKR 350. We did our trip early and the ticket office was closed. However, given the minimal cost I would have been happy to pay the fee.
I plan to buy some extra tickets on my next trip there so that they have not lost the income.
Additional costsÂ
Tuk Tuk hire from Glenmyu Estate is around LKR 6,000.
Indunil will come with you on the hike and show you the best route.
He will also keep hold of your valuables when you are swimming in the pools.
The road home
On our Tuk Tuk ride on the way back to GlenMyu Estate, we were able to see the landscape and towns that we had travelled through now it was light.
Is it worth it?
Visiting Upper Diyaluma was a special experience that we highly recommend at GlenMyu Estate.Â
It was such a great experience that I will be doing it again at different times of the year.
As we got up early we were back at GlenMyu Estate act a reasonable hour so we had time for a swim in the pool and could relax in the afternoon.
Stay at GlenMyu Estate to explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country
A stay at GlenMyu Estate as you explore the Sri Lankan Hill Country and see sights like Upper Diyaluma Waterfall which is a unique experience.
We only have three bedrooms and you will need to book early during the peak holiday season.
The estate is usually within an hours drive of the major sightseeing locations such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ella Town, Horton Plains National Park (UNESCO), Lipton’s Seat, Bambarakanda Waterfall and many more,
GlenMyu Estate is listed on Booking.com and Airbnb.
Contact us by the WhatsApp button on our website for direct booking rates.
