The Mountain Links offers a world of indulgence within its gates, from golfing on the private nine hole course to tennis, swimming and serene hikes through the estate’s scenic trails. A stay here is often about unhurried moments, mist curling through the pines, quiet mornings on the veranda and starlit evenings wrapped in stillness. Yet, for those who wish to weave a hint of adventure into their serene escape, the hills surrounding Maskeliya hold their own hidden charms and this journey will take you through some of the captivating waterfalls scattered around the region.

The Nuwara Eliya District is home to some of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking cascades, many of which are an easy drive from the villa. Some are visible from the roadside while others are tucked deep within tea estates and forest glades, rewarding those who are willing to walk a little further.

If you’re planning a scenic day out, here are some of the most beautiful waterfalls near The Mountain Links, complete with approximate distance from Maskeliya and how to reach them.

Waterfalls in the Maskeliya Area

Laxapana Falls – 17 km from Upcot

Plunging 126 metres into a rocky gorge, Laxapana is the eighth highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and a true force of nature. It is part of the local hydropower system and framed by lush greenery on all sides.

Access: Driveable to the vicinity by car, then a short hike along a stepped trail is required to reach the base for the best view.

Gartmore Falls – 12 km from The Willows, Upcot, Maskeliya

Set within the scenic Gartmore Tea Estate, Gartmore Falls is among the most accessible and striking waterfalls near Maskeliya. The cascade splits into an upper and lower section: the Upper Gartmore creates a natural infinity pool that overflows into the reservoir, while the Lower Gartmore drops dramatically into the Maussakelle Reservoir.

Access: Reachable by car up to the estate, followed by a short hike through tea fields. The views over the reservoir and tea plantations make this one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

Moray Falls – approx. 13 km from The Mountain Links

Neighboring Gartmore Falls, Moray Falls is another gem of the Maskeliya hills. Flowing gracefully into the Maussakelle Reservoir, the falls can be reached by weaving through the Moray Tea Estate, where the paths themselves are as beautiful as the destination.

Access: Drive through the Moray estate and walk a short distance; relatively easy to access, especially for those combining it with a trip to Gartmore.

Aberdeen Falls – 25 km from The Willows, Upcot, Maskeliya

Hidden near Ginigathena, this dramatic 98-metre waterfall thunders into a deep rock pool surrounded by thick forest. Its secluded setting makes it feel like a secret treasure.

Access: Reachable by car up to the trailhead, followed by a moderate 20 minute trek through a forest path to the falls.

Waterfalls Near Nuwara Eliya Town

Lover’s Leap Falls – 59 km from Maskeliya

Perched above Nuwara Eliya town, Lover’s Leap is a romantic cascade wrapped in local legend. The short uphill walk weaves through the Pedro Tea Estate, rewarding you with sweeping views over the city and Lake Gregory.

Access: Driveable to Pedro Estate by car, then a 15 minute walk through tea fields to reach the waterfall.

Dunsinane Falls – 53 km from Maskeliya

Also called Pundalu Oya Falls, this striking cascade drops between the historic Dunsinane and Sheen Tea Estates. Fed by the Pundalu Oya river, the waterfall is flanked by emerald hills and terraced tea fields.

Access: Can be reached directly by car, a short walk from the roadside viewpoint brings you closer to the base.

Along the Hatton Nuwara Eliya Road

Devon Falls – 30 km from Maskeliya

Often called the “Veil of the Valley,” this elegant three-tiered fall drops 97 metres near Talawakele. The best panoramic viewpoint sits opposite the Mlesna Tea Centre, making it a favourite stop for travellers.

Access: Easily visible from the A7 highway by car, with no hike required.

St. Clair’s Falls – 33 km from Maskeliya

Nicknamed the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” this broad, multi cascade waterfall spills gracefully through tea fields near Talawakele. It’s one of the widest waterfalls in the country and particularly photogenic during the monsoon months.

Access: Clearly visible from the main road by car, short footpath walk to reach the closer viewpoint.

Near Ramboda

Ramboda Falls – 67 km from Maskeliya

Tumbling in tiers for 109 metres, Ramboda Falls is one of the tallest in the island’s central highlands. Several viewpoints and roadside cafés offer dramatic views from above, while a path leads down to its misty base.

Access: Can be seen from the A5 road by car, 10 – 15 minutes of walking required to reach the base.

Puna Ella – 63 km from Maskeliya

Also known as Poonawa Ella, this rare double waterfall forms where the Puna Oya and Pundalu Oya merge into one stream. It’s beautifully framed by forested hills and roadside tea shops.

Access: Clearly visible from the main road between Pussellawa and Ramboda, no hike required.

Galboda

Galboda Falls – 34 km from Maskeliya

Nestled in a cool, rainy microclimate, Galboda Falls sits between Nawalapitiya and Watawala on the railway line. The name means “falls beside the rock,” and its secluded location keeps it blissfully uncrowded.

Access: Best accessed by train to Galboda railway station, then a 2 km walk along the tracks to reach the falls (not accessible by car directly).

A Perfect Day Out from The Mountain Links

Exploring waterfalls from The Mountain Links is about more than sightseeing, it’s about stepping into Sri Lanka’s untouched highland wilderness. Whether you want a peaceful roadside stop or a hidden gem that requires a rewarding hike, the Maskeliya region places them all within easy reach.

Return in the evening to your private veranda, warm tea in hand, as the hills turn gold in the setting sun, the perfect end to a day spent chasing waterfalls.