Hey, Want a tour somewhere far away to enjoy the weekend? But not going to worry about travel planning? No more worries. The itinerary plan is here. Today we present the best of the many falls in Sri Lanka. Let’s talk about St Clairs Falls. Explore how to reach it, the best time to visit, tips for visitors, resort options, the best photo spots of the falls, and things to do in the region.
Table of Contents
Overview of St Clairs Falls:
- Address: XJ2X+M6V, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka
- Entry fee: Free.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7.
- Parking fee: No designated parking lot, but you can park along the side of the road.
- When to Go: During the wet season, from May to September, when the water flow is at its most dramatic.
- Hike Length: which takes about 30 minutes
- Height: 80 meters (260 feet) high and 50 meters (160 feet) wide.
Map
Best Time to Visit St. Clair’s Falls
The best time to visit St. Clair’s Falls is during the dry season, which extends from December to March. During these months, the water flow is at its peak, creating a breathtaking display of cascading water. However, the falls are accessible and attractive throughout the year. If you visit during the wet season, from April to November, you’ll witness a different kind of beauty with the falls surrounded by lush, green foliage. Keep in mind that the weather in the central highlands can be quite chilly, so pack accordingly.
3-Day Itinerary for St. Clair’s Falls and Nearby Attractions:
Day – 1
- Morning: Arrive in Nuwara Eliya and check into your accommodation. Leave your luggage and freshen up.
- Afternoon: Visit the majestic St. Clair’s Falls, about 3 km from Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the cascading water and lush surroundings. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy near the falls or explore the short hiking trails.
- Evening: Stroll through Victoria Park, a beautiful botanical garden showcasing diverse flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and serene landscapes.
- Dinner: Savor a delicious Sri Lankan meal at a local restaurant. Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like Kottu Roti, Lamprais, or String Hoppers.
Day – 2
- Morning: Embark on a scenic train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Haputale. This breathtaking route offers stunning mountain and tea plantation views.
- Afternoon: Explore Lipton’s Seat viewpoint, known for its panoramic vistas of the surrounding hills and valleys. Learn about the fascinating history of tea plantations in Sri Lanka.
- Evening: Visit the Adisham Bungalow, a heritage bungalow nestled amidst the mountains. Take a guided tour and learn about its colonial past. Enjoy a cup of tea with breathtaking views from the veranda.
- Dinner: Have dinner at a restaurant in Haputale, enjoying the local cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.
Day – 3
- Morning: Travel from Haputale to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through diverse landscapes, including grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls. Look out for endemic wildlife like sambar deer and leopards. Consider hiring a local guide for the trek.
- Afternoon: Visit the scenic Gregory Lake near Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy boating, cycling, or simply relaxing by the lake and soaking in the serene atmosphere.
- Evening: Do some souvenir shopping at the Nuwara Eliya market, picking up local crafts, tea, and spices as mementos of your trip. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant in Nuwara Eliya, reminiscing about your adventures.
Resort Options
Nuwara Eliya and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are a few noteworthy choices:
- Grand Hotel: A colonial-era luxury hotel that offers a blend of history and comfort.
- Jetwing St. Andrew’s: A charming boutique hotel with a colonial vibe and beautiful gardens.
- Heritance Tea Factory: A unique hotel set in a converted tea factory, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Camellia Lake Resort: A budget-friendly option with a serene lake view.
- Glendevon Bungalow: A cozy and quaint stay with a homely atmosphere.
Best Photo Places at the Falls
Capturing the beauty of St. Clair’s Falls is a must for any visitor. Some of the best spots for photography include:
- The Viewing Deck: There is a viewing point near the falls that provides a clear and stunning view. This is an excellent spot for taking panoramic shots.
- Tea Plantations: The lush, green tea plantations surrounding the falls make for a picturesque backdrop.
- Horton Plains: If you hike to World’s End in Horton Plains National Park, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the landscape.
- The Train Ride: The train journey to and from the falls offers numerous opportunities to capture the essence of Sri Lanka’s highlands.
How To Reach St. Clair’s Falls
Train:
- Distance: Around 230 km from Colombo Fort Railway Station.
- Time: Approximately 7-8 hours.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, ranging from Rs. 300 for the 3rd class to Rs. 2,000 for the 1st class (approximately $2-$14).
- Route: Take the train from Colombo Fort to Hatton Railway Station. From Hatton, you can either hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to cover the remaining 20 km to the falls (around 45 minutes, costing Rs. 1,500-2,000 or $10-$14).
Bus:
- Distance: Around 180 km from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal.
- Time: Approximately 5-6 hours.
- Cost: Varies depending on the bus type and comfort level, starting from Rs. 400-500 for ordinary buses to Rs. 1,000 for AC buses (around $3-$7).
- Route: Take a direct bus from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya. From Nuwara Eliya, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the falls (around 3 km, 10-15 minutes, costing Rs. 500-800 or $3-$5).
Private Taxi/Car Rental:
- Distance: Same as bus route, around 180 km.
- Time: Approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
- Cost: The most expensive option, with taxi fares starting from Rs. 10,000-15,000 for the entire journey (around $68-$102). Car rentals would cost around Rs. 3,000-5,000 per day (around $20-$34) plus fuel expenses.
- Convenience: Offers flexibility and comfort, especially if traveling with a group.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy the view: Marvel at the cascading waterfall and lush surroundings. Take photos and soak in the natural beauty.
- Hiking: Take a short walk to the viewpoint for a closer look at the falls. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider the longer trail leading down to the base.
- Picnic: Pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxing meal near the falls, listening to the sounds of the water.
- Swimming: Although tempting, swimming is not allowed at St. Clair’s Falls due to safety concerns.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes: The terrain around the falls can be uneven, so wear shoes with good traction.
- Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential, especially during the midday sun.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you plan on going for a hike.
- Insect repellent: Depending on the season, consider insect repellent to avoid bites.
- Camera: Capture stunning photos and memories of your visit.
- Cash: There are no ATMs or shops near the falls, so have enough cash for any expenses like food or souvenirs.
Additional Tips:
- Be respectful of the environment and avoid littering.
- Dress modestly, especially if you plan on visiting nearby temples.
- Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against slippery rocks and uneven terrain.
- Carry a first-aid kit for minor injuries.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities and park within designated areas.
- Enjoy the beauty of St. Clair’s Falls responsibly and leave no trace!
FAQs for St Clairs Falls-
How do I get to St. Clair’s Falls?
-The most convenient option is flying to Colombo and taking a taxi or private driver to Nuwara Eliya, followed by a tuk-tuk to the falls. Alternatively, consider trains or buses for a budget-friendly option, but with longer travel times and transfers.
What is the entrance fee for St. Clair’s Falls?
-Entry to St. Clair’s Falls is free! Enjoy the falls without any additional costs.
What are the opening hours for St. Clair’s Falls?
-Good news! St. Clair’s Falls is open 24/7, allowing you to visit at your own convenience, be it early morning or a starlit evening.
Is there parking available at St. Clair’s Falls?
-There’s no designated parking lot, but you can park along the side of the Hatton-Talawakele Highway near the viewpoint. Be mindful of traffic regulations and park safely.
What is the best time to visit St. Clair’s Falls?
-For the most dramatic waterfall flow, visit during the wet season (May-September). However, be prepared for potential rain showers. The dry season (December-May) offers clear skies and
pleasant temperatures, but the waterfall might be less powerful.
How long does it take to hike to the base of St. Clair’s Falls?
-The short walk to the viewpoint takes around 5 minutes, offering stunning views. If you’re up for a challenge, the longer trail leading down to the base takes around 30 minutes, providing a more immersive experience.
Is it safe to swim in St. Clair’s Falls?
-Unfortunately, swimming at St. Clair’s Falls is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns. The currents can be unpredictable, and there’s no lifeguard supervision. Admire the falls from a safe distance and enjoy responsible activities.
What are some nearby attractions I can visit after St. Clair’s Falls?
-Explore the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, visit Victoria Park for its botanical wonders, or embark on a scenic train journey to Haputale. Consider Horton Plains National Park for breathtaking landscapes, Hakgala Botanical Gardens for diverse flora, or Pedro Tea Factory for a taste of Sri Lankan tea culture.
What should I pack for my visit to St. Clair’s Falls?
-Comfortable shoes for uneven terrain, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, a water bottle, and a camera to capture memories. Remember some cash for any unforeseen expenses.
Are there any cultural sensitivities I should be aware of when visiting St Clairs Falls?
-Dress modestly, especially if you plan on visiting nearby temples. Respect the local environment and avoid littering. Be mindful of your noise levels and maintain a peaceful atmosphere for everyone to enjoy the falls.