Bopath Ella Falls. Before you come.
A quick, easy-access waterfall shaped like a bo-leaf, but often crowded with locals and litter.
Bopath Ella Falls is a waterfall shaped like a bodhi leaf, set in a forested area near Ratnapura. The plunge pool is popular for swimming, and the surrounding rainforest adds to the atmosphere. It's a good option for travelers wanting a waterfall break with the possibility of a swim.
Visitors expect a serene, hidden waterfall, but the reality is a popular local picnic spot with noise and trash. Visitors note the water is often murky from upstream activities, and thebo-leafshape is only visible from a specific angle. The short walk is pleasant, but the site can feel more like a public pool than a nature escape.
Many travelers complain about the litter and lack of maintenance, though the waterfall itself is impressive during the rainy season. The best experience comes from visiting early morning (before 8 AM) to avoid the crowds and the midday sun, as the surrounding area offers little shade. Suggest combining with a visit to nearby tea plantations for a fuller day.
- Entrance fee: approx 200 LKR per person (local price) or 500 LKR for foreigners; parking free.
- Best time of day: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM (before the crowds arrive).
- From Rathnapura town, take a tuk-tuk or bus towards Kuruwita (about 30 minutes); the falls are a 5-minute walk from the main road.
Have a specific question about Bopath Ella Falls?
Ask BYC — honest answers from 300,000+ real guest reviews.