Dunhinda Falls is one of the attractive waterfalls in Sri Lanka which is situated about 5 km away from Badulla town. It is 63 m high and is considered to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka. The falls gets its name dew to the smoky dew drops spray and is also known as the “Bridal Fall”because the shape of the waterfall reflects a bride veil.
Dunhinda waterfall is sourced by the Badulu Oya which flows through Badulla. The best time to see this beautiful waterfall is during the months of June and July, although it is worth a visit during any time of the year. There is a narrow footpath to leading people towards the waterfall and care should be taken along the way. There are also quite a few monkeys in the area. It is advised not to bath in the water stream falling from Dunhinda waterfall as it is very dangerous.
This fall is treaded in history. The area was once populated by aboriginal people. During the time of King Rajasinghethat is a giant fern got stuck at the top of the fall between two mountains. This acted as a dam which resulted in flooding of Badulla town. Seeing the gravity of the situation, the King Rajasinghe entrusted the task of clearing the sluice to a person named “Ranhavadidaraya”. After toiling for three months he managed to clear the water and the town re-emerged. The fern was swept away but got stuck again at a place now known as Pussellawa.
The waterfall is enriched with Uma Oya, Hal Oya and small rivers from Bandarawela and Welimada areas. Hence Randenigala, Victoria and Rantambe are identified as the three main water valleys down sided from the Dunhinda waterfall that apart from being a natural water resource it has been a relaxation for the tourists. And also, you can allocate one full day to spend around Badulla and visit the scared Muthiyangana Temple too which is regarded as one of Solosmasthana as the 16 sacred places in our Country.
On the way to the waterfall you can see another small waterfall named “Kuda Dunhinda” at a glance. Thus you can taste and refresh yourself by having a native herbal drink by the venders on sides of the way to the waterfall. At the end of this journey you can meet a secured stage constructed for the viewers and enjoy the waterfall. If you are very much confident, you can reach the foot of the waterfall and cross the river. While enjoying the fall it is better to remind that do not closer to the fall or bathe as it is deep and full of slippery rocks and stones near the bottom of the waterfall.
Dunhinda Ella is not the closest to Ella, 25-30 km away but definitely worth going as it is one of the high ranked tourist attraction places in Sri Lanka. Walk itself is a fascinating experience to see wild birds, butterflies, monkeys, deer etc. It is worth very much for the tourists interested in wild life. However, don’t throw out any garbage or whatever on this amazing place and keep in good looking for our Future Generation.
