Tucked away near Belihuloya in Sri Lanka, Pahanthudawa Waterfall derives its unique name from its deep, plunging pool that perfectly resembles the shape of a traditional clay oil lamp's wick, offering adventurous hikers a mystique and off-the-beaten-path jungle escape.

Why visit Pahanthudawa

• A Unique Naming Convention: The waterfall gets its name from its distinctive shape. The Sinhala word pahanthudawa means "lamp wick." The base pool looks like a clay lamp, and the cascading water resembles the wick.
• A Short and Accessible Walk: The trail to the waterfall is an easy 300m walk (not a hike) through lush greenery and rocky terrain, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls for most visitors.
• Tranquil Canyon Sanctuary: Tucked between towering rocky cliffs in a deep, shaded gorge, Pahanthudawa creates a cool, misty micro-environment filled with birdsong and lush greenery — a perfect peaceful hideaway that feels far from the outside world.
• Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers & Photographers: Though only about 15 metres high, its elegant fan-like cascade into the unique lamp-wick-shaped pool, combined with golden morning or evening light, makes it one of Sri Lanka’s most photogenic and Instagram-worthy small waterfalls.