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Mapalana Ella Waterfall (also known as Mapanana Ella)
Nestled among medicinal herbs and thick forest vegetation, the scenic Mapalana Ella waterfall—sometimes referred to as Mapanana Ella—is a 141-meter-high natural wonder composed of three cascading sections. The waterfall is fed by a stream believed to be either Minuwan Dola or Heen Ella Dola, which originates from Thoranabandigala (also known locally as Kondagala) in the Samanala Mountain Range. Eventually, this stream flows down to join the Kalu Ganga (Black River), one of Sri Lanka’s major rivers.

During the monsoon season, when water volumes are high, the combined thunderous roar of all three cascades can be heard from as far as 6 kilometers away.

Legend Behind the Name
Local folklore provides a charming origin story for the name “Mapalana.” It is said that a local nobleman, known as a Maapaa, used to bathe regularly in the falls. The site where he bathed was called Maapaa-nana, meaning “the nobleman’s bathing place.” Over time, this name evolved phonetically into Mapanana and later became Mapalana.

Cultural Significance
During times of drought, villagers perform traditional rituals at the dry waterfall bed, appealing to the Saman God, a revered deity associated with Sri Pada. These rituals include hanging palm leaves and lighted lanterns from the upper rock ledges of the falls, asking for rain and blessing.

Location and Accessibility
Mapalana Ella is located in the remote village of Mapalana, tucked in the shadow of the sacred Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) mountain range. The most common way to reach the village is by foot from Palabaddala, a bustling village during the pilgrimage season as it serves as one of the starting points of the Sri Pada trail from Ratnapura.

From Palabaddala, take the path near the Wildlife Office and walk approximately 2 kilometers to reach Mapalana village. Along this trail, you'll also catch a glimpse of another waterfall, Halmahi Ella, in the distance.

Once in Mapalana, the waterfall is just about 50 meters from the village center. A small footbridge crosses the stream that forms the waterfall. From this bridge, you can get a beautiful view of the cascade, and there is also a path on the opposite side that leads down to the base of the falls.

Additional Notes
The area around the falls is known for its medicinal plant life and untouched natural beauty.

Due to its relatively isolated location, Mapalana Ella remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism, making it an excellent destination for nature lovers, hikers, and those looking for a tranquil escape.

Though it is accessible via footpath, visitors are advised to go with a local guide, especially outside of the Sri Pada season, as the trails may be overgrown or hard to follow.


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