Lakshapana Waterfall

Lakshapana Waterfall, commonly known as Laxapana Falls, is one of the tallest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, standing at approximately 129 metres (423 ft). It is located in the Maskeliya area near Polpitiya and Hangarapitiya in the Nuwara Eliya District.

The waterfall is formed by the Maskeliya Oya near its confluence with Kehelgamu Oya, which together form the Kelani River. It lies about 16 km from Maskeliya town along the Maskeliya–Norton Bridge road and sits at an elevation of approximately 660 metres above sea level.

Lakshapana is considered the 8th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and is ranked among the tallest waterfalls in the world. The name is believed to derive either from “Laksha” (iron ore found in the rocks) or from “Laksha Pahana,” meaning “Hundred Thousand Lamps,” possibly connected to the nearby hydroelectric developments.

The waterfall is closely linked to Sri Lanka’s hydroelectric history. The Laxapana Reservoir powers stations such as New Laxapana, Canyon, and Polpitiya Samanala power stations. Several villages including Laxapana, Pathana, Kiriwan Eliya, Muruthatenna, Kottalena, Hunugala, and Belumgala surround the area.

Visitors can access both the base and the top of the waterfall. A motorable by-road leads near the top, followed by a short walk of about 100 metres. Another footpath from the Hatton– Maskeliya road descends past Pathana village toward the base.