Devon falls is one of the most picturesque water falls in Sri Lanka. Its view through the lush green and the rocky dunes, caught while travelling in the famous Hatton- Nuwera Eliya road is a stunning vision to die for. It is usually a key spot recommended by most private tour providers who offer Sri Lankan Luxury holidays such as the Sri Lanka Tailor-made. However if not included in your tour package, please make sure you make the suggestion as this is a resemblance of the glorious tropical wonders of the island thus is a must see destination.
It is situated 6km towards the west of Nuwara Eliya District, and is about a 50 minute drive through Talawakele. The waterfall, formed by the Kothmale Oya and a branch of the Mahaweli River is located 1140 m above sea level. This is a 97 m high waterfall, gushing down gigantic rocks and boulders through the rich greenery that is the exotic eco system of the hill country of Sri Lanka.
The area surrounding the falls is home to a variety of attractive biodiversity including the endemic purple-faced leaf monkey and the many multi-coloured bird species. However it is quite appalling that Devon falls is one of the six waterfalls that has been adversely affected by the Kotmale hydro power project. Environmentalists believe that this project have greatly affected the eco system and exclusive species living in its surroundings. For example Kotmale was famous for ‘treacle’ and ‘juggery’; both products of the Kitul tree and these plants have gradually disappeared from the area since the initiation of the project. Nevertheless, the tenacious urging of various other environmental assemblies and projects have managed to prevent the complete destruction of this natural utopia.
The falls got its name, from the popular, British coffee planter Devon, whose plantation is still located near the waterfall.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, Joanna James ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought. Her interests include Politics, law and Philosophy. Google+
