A Highland Classic by the Roadside
Devon Falls is one of the central highlands' most graceful cascades, dropping about 97 metres in segmented tiers down a forested cliff near Talawakele. Named after a pioneering coffee planter whose estate once stood nearby, it's a favourite stop on the scenic Hatton–Nuwara Eliya road, often paired with nearby St. Clair's Falls.
Easy to Admire
- A dedicated viewpoint on the A7 road gives a postcard-perfect panorama.
- A small café/viewing tower lets you take in the falls and tea country with a hot drink.
- The falls sit amid classic emerald tea estates — wonderful for photography.
Best Time to Visit
Devon Falls is fullest after the rains (October–January). As with other highland falls, flow can dip when water is drawn for hydropower, so the wet season offers the most impressive sight. Mornings give the clearest light before clouds build.
Tips
- The roadside viewpoint is the easiest and safest way to see it.
- Combine with St. Clair's Falls and a tea-factory tour for a perfect highland day.
Where to Stay
Base in Talawakele, Hatton, or Nuwara Eliya. See our complete waterfalls guide.
Quick Facts
| Height | ~97 m |
| Named after | A pioneering coffee planter, "Devon" |
| Location | Near Talawakele, on the A7 |
| Nearest towns | Talawakele, Hatton, Nuwara Eliya |
| Viewing | Roadside platform & viewing-tower café |
| Best season | October–January (peak flow) |
How to Get There
- From Nuwara Eliya: ~45 minutes west on the A7 toward Talawakele.
- From Hatton: ~30 minutes on the A7.
- By train: Talawakele station, then a short tuk-tuk ride to the viewpoint.
Nearby Attractions
- St. Clair's Falls — the "Little Niagara," minutes away
- Tea factory tours around Talawakele
- Kotmale Reservoir — scenic highland drives
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall is Devon Falls? About 97 metres, dropping in graceful segmented tiers.
Where is the best view? From the dedicated roadside viewpoint on the A7, where a small viewing tower and café overlook the falls.
Why is it called Devon? After a British coffee planter whose estate once stood nearby in the colonial era.
Can I see it and St. Clair's together? Yes — they're close neighbours on the same road and are usually visited as a pair.