Hello! Are you upset? Not in the mood for work? I guessed right Dear. You need to go away for a few days. I suggest Sri Lanka is one of the most visited places in the world. You can start with Laxapana Falls. Around it attractions, when, how all query’s solution Itinerary plans 2024 appeared best tour guide.
Table of Contents
Overview of Laxapana Falls:
- Address: Laxapana Falls, Laxapana 22034, Sri Lanka
- Entry fee: Free
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Parking fee: No official parking fee, but there are small shops near the entrance where you can park by giving a small tip to the shopkeepers.
- When to Go: No official parking fee, but there are small shops near the entrance where you can park by giving a small tip to the shopkeepers.
- Hike Length: 750 meters long
- Height: 126 meters (413 feet)
- Distance from Nuwara Eliya Waterfalls 70.8 km (2 hours 16 minutes)
Map
Location
Laxapana Fall is located in the Nuwara Eliya district’s Maskeliya town. At a whopping 126 meters, it ranks as the 625th-highest waterfall worldwide and the eighth-highest in Sri Lanka. Folklore has it that on a visit to Sri Pada, Lord Buddha repaired his saffron robe here. The terms “Laxa,” which means “hundred thousand,” and “Pahana,” which means “rock,” are the source of the fall’s name. It alludes to the fact that a great deal of lamps may be lit with the power produced by this waterfall’s water.
Best Time to Visit
Sri Lanka has more of a monsoon and non-monsoon climate, characterized by two main seasons:
Wet Season (May to November):
- Rainfall: High rainfall, creates powerful and majestic waterfalls.
- Landscape: Lush and green, with vibrant flora and fauna.
- Temperature: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
- Challenges: Slippery and muddy trails, the possibility of sudden downpours, strong currents making swimming dangerous, and potentially larger crowds.
Dry Season (December to April):
- Rainfall: Low rainfall, leads to less powerful waterfalls.
- Landscape: Drier and less lush, but still scenic.
- Temperature: Warm days with cool nights, temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F).
- Challenges: Less dramatic waterfall experience, potentially fewer wildlife sightings.
Choosing the Best Time:
- For power and grandeur: Wet season (May-Nov) – be prepared for challenges.
- For comfort and smaller crowds: Dry season (Dec-Apr) – accept a less dramatic waterfall experience.
Can I trek to the waterfall at Laxapana?
Yes, you can definitely trek to Laxapana Falls! In fact, the trek itself is a major part of the experience, offering stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and a sense of accomplishment as you reach the magnificent falls.
There are two main access points for trekking to Laxapana Falls:
Upper Entrance:
- Distance: Approximately 1 kilometer
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and passes through tea plantations.
Lower Entrance:
- Distance: Approximately 5 kilometers
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Takes you closer to the base of the falls for a more immersive experience, and passes through a dense rainforest with diverse plant life.
3-Day Itinerary at Laxapana Falls with 8 nearby attractions:
Day – 1
- Morning (8:00 AM): Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local guesthouse or restaurant near Laxapana Falls. Options include Sri Lankan pancakes (appa and hoppers), string hoppers with coconut sambal, or fresh egg roti.
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Hike to the base of Laxapana Falls. Enjoy the cool mist and the surrounding rainforest. Pack water, snacks, and comfortable shoes.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Have a picnic lunch with stunning views from the Laxapana Falls viewpoint. Pack sandwiches, fruits, and local snacks like samosas or fish buns.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Visit Devon Falls, the highest waterfall in the area. Witness its cascading power and admire the scenic backdrop.
- Night Spend (6:00 PM): Check in to your accommodation in Nuwara Eliya or Hatton. Opt for a cozy stay with mountain views or a charming local homestay.
- Dinner (7:30 PM): Enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan dinner at a local restaurant. Try popular dishes like Kottu roti, devilled dishes, or seafood curries.
Day – 2
Second day
- Morning (8:00 AM): Breakfast at your hotel or a local eatery. Explore Nuwara Eliya town, visit Victoria Park for boating and horse riding, or roam the vibrant marketplace.
- Mid-morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Visit Pedro Tea Factory (closed Sundays). Learn about tea production, witness the process, and savor a cup of freshly brewed tea in a scenic setting.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Head to St. Clair’s Falls. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, have a picnic lunch amidst the greenery, and take a refreshing dip in the natural pool below the falls (during safe water levels).
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Explore Haggala Botanical Garden, marveling at the diverse flora and fauna, including orchids, rhododendrons, and local trees.
- Night Spend: Stay in Nuwara Eliya or Hatton, enjoying the cool mountain air and local charm.
- Dinner (7:30 PM): Have dinner at a restaurant with international cuisine or opt for a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry experience.
Day – 3
- Morning (8:00 AM): Breakfast at your hotel, enjoying local specialties like string hoppers with coconut milk or a fresh omelet.
- Mid-morning (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Visit Ambewela Farm (closed Sundays at 5:30 PM). Witness dairy farming practices, cheesemaking, and sheep shearing. Enjoy fresh cheese and other delights at the farm cafe.
- Lunch (1:00 PM): Grab lunch at a restaurant in Nuwara Eliya or pack a picnic for your onward journey.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM): Head to Bomburu Ella Falls, easily accessible with stunning cascades and a natural pool for swimming (safe water levels permitting).
- Departure (4:00 PM onwards): Depending on your travel plans, you can start your journey back or explore more attractions like Lake Gregory or Nuwara Eliya Golf Club before your departure.
Reaching Laxapana Falls
By Air:
It is not possible to reach Laxapana Falls directly by air. The nearest airport is Hatton Airport, which is about 80 km away. From there, you would need to take a taxi or hire a car to reach the falls.
By Bus:
There is no direct bus service from major cities in Sri Lanka to Laxapana Falls. However, you can take a bus to Kegalle or Nawalapitiya, and then hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach the falls.
By Train:
There is no train station near Laxapana Falls. The nearest train station is in Hatton, which is about 30 km away. From there, you would need to take a taxi or hire a car to reach the falls.
Hire a bike:
From Kithulagala, drive to Kalugala Junction, and from there, go to the Laxapana Falls lower access point. The upper entry point is about a kilometer further on.
Rental Cost:
- Car rental in Sri Lanka costs around ₹ 5,825 per day.
- Motorbike rental costs around ₹ 1000-2000 per day.
Distance from different cities:
- Colombo to Laxapana Falls: 120.8 km
- Kandy to Laxapana Falls: 69.6 km
- Galle to Laxapana Falls: 207.3 km
Best Photo Places at the Laxapana Falls
Laxapana Falls, with its cascading waters and lush backdrop, offers a plethora of opportunities to capture stunning photos. Here are some of the best spots for photographers:
1. Observation Deck:
- The Classic View: This panoramic viewpoint captures the entire waterfall, mountains, and surrounding landscape for a majestic shot.
2. Lower Viewpoint:
- Up-close and Detailed: Descend for a closer look at the cascading water, rainbows in the mist, and the raw power of the falls.
3. Bridge near Power Station:
- Unique Perspective: Capture the falls framed by greenery and the power station for a creative composition.
4. Hiking Trail:
- Journey through Nature: Capture the beauty of the rainforest, diverse plant life, streams, and potentially wildlife along the hike.
5. Pool at the Base (with caution):
- Dramatic View (exercise extreme caution): During safe water conditions, capture a dramatic close-up perspective from the pool at the base (prioritize safety!).
Essentials for Your Laxapana Falls Trip:
Footwear:
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction
Clothing:
- Comfortable, breathable clothing (quick-drying preferred)
- Long pants for protection and coverage
- Rain gear (raincoat or poncho) for possible downpours
Sun Protection:
- Sunscreen (apply generously and reapply)
- Wide-brimmed hat for shade
Hydration and Nutrition:
- Reusable water bottle
- High-energy snacks
Essentials:
- Camera
- First-aid kit
- Cash (for potential shops or stalls)
Optional, but helpful:
- Trekking poles for extra stability
- Insect repellent
- Binoculars for wildlife observation
Emergency Response in Nuwara Eliya:
- General Emergency Number: 119 (Sri Lanka Police)
- Ambulance Service: 110 (National Ambulance Service)
- Tourist Police Hotline: +94 11 242 1485
Hospitals in Nuwara Eliya:
- General Hospital Nuwara Eliya: +94 52 222 2366
- Holy Family Hospital: +94 52 222 2570
- Seetha Eliya Adventist Hospital: +94 52 223 7151
FAQs For Laxapana Falls:
What is the distance from Nuwara Eliya to Laxapana Falls?
-Approximately 70.8 kilometers, taking about 2 hours 16 minutes by car.
How do I get to Laxapana Falls?
-You can drive, hire a taxi, take a local bus, or join a tour. Public transportation options might require transfers and may take longer.
Is there an entrance fee for Laxapana Falls?
-No, entry to Laxapana Falls is currently free.
What is the best time to visit Laxapana Falls?
-The wet season (May-Nov) offers powerful falls and lush greenery but can be slippery and crowded. The dry season (Dec-Apr) provides comfortable hikes and fewer crowds, but less dramatic falls.
How long does it take to hike to Laxapana Falls?
-There are two main trails: the upper trail is a short and easy walk, while the lower trail is a more challenging hike that takes about 1-2 hours.
Can I swim in Laxapana Falls?
-It’s generally not recommended due to strong currents and uneven depths. Only swim in designated areas with safe water levels.
What facilities are available at Laxapana Falls?
-Basic amenities like washrooms and small shops selling snacks and drinks are available near the entrance.
What should I wear and pack for Laxapana Falls?
-Wear comfortable, breathable clothing, and sturdy hiking shoes, and bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, water, and snacks.
What other activities can I do near Laxapana Falls?
-Visit nearby waterfalls like Devon Falls, St Clair’s Falls, or Bomburu Ella Falls. Explore tea plantations, Victoria Park, Pedro Tea Factory, or Ambewela Farm.
What are the difficulty levels of different Nuwara Eliya waterfalls?
-Difficulty ranges from easy walks to moderate hikes and challenging treks depending on the specific waterfall.