Diyavini Ella | Piyangiri cave and waterfall | උඩවලව ජලාශයට පේන දියවිනි ඇල්ල

Diyavini Ella Waterfall
Height: 60 meters
Location: Near Balangoda, Ratnapura District

Hidden deep within a jungle 8 km east of Balangoda, south of Vikiliya, the majestic 60-meter-high Diyavini Ella cascades gracefully as part of a tributary of the Diyavini River. This tributary eventually merges with the Walawe River, creating a lush and vibrant ecological corridor.

The waterfall lies close to the ancient village of Diyavini, accessible via the Balangoda–Weligapola road, turning off onto Kapugala Road. It is nestled near the historical Sri Devagiri Raja Maha Viharaya, an age-old Buddhist temple complex. Visitors can also explore the ruins of an ancient Dagoba (Buddhist stupa) hidden in the overgrown jungle nearby.

One of the intriguing features of this fall is the ‘Naga’ (serpent deity) carvings that are said to become visible in the midsection of the waterfall during the dry season. These mysterious markings, believed to be of religious or cultural significance, add to the aura of ancient mysticism that surrounds the site.

Legend has it that a village headman once disappeared while searching for a hidden treasure thought to be buried in the area. Locals also claim that ancient Brahmi inscriptions can be found etched into nearby cave walls. Additionally, there are three stone vessels, each around 3 meters deep, scattered within the terrain—believed to be of archaeological importance.

Piyangiri Ella Waterfall
Height: 44 meters
Location: Near Diyavini Ella, Ratnapura District

Not far from Diyavini Ella, the enchanting Piyangiri Ella stands at 44 meters high, cascading into a large natural rock pool that shows signs of a historical dam structure. This scenic waterfall lies along the Alangoda–Weligapola road, also in proximity to the Sri Devagiri Raja Maha Viharaya, making both falls accessible on a single nature trail or pilgrimage journey.

One of the most captivating legends connected to this fall is the interplay between Piyangiri and Diyavini Falls. Local tradition holds that if Diyavini Falls begins to flow before Piyangiri, the region is destined for drought, crop failure, and illness. In contrast, if Piyangiri flows first, it is believed to herald plentiful rains, a rich harvest, and overall good fortune—a reflection of how deeply the local community is spiritually and agriculturally connected to the natural world.

Between the two waterfalls, hidden high in the mountains, lies a 128-foot-long cave with drip ledges, a hallmark of ancient Buddhist monastic dwellings. Several such caves with drip ledges can also be found near Piyangiri Ella, suggesting the presence of a once-flourishing monastic complex.

Villagers continue to preserve their traditions with ceremonies like ‘Kirimadu’, a local ritual performed near the falls to invoke prosperity and blessings.