The destinations in Sri Lanka always have their own stories, oftentimes attributing to the legends holds dear by the locals in honor of rulers, gods or any other respectable ancient figures. Makeli Ella is the same holding the belief of people who tells a legend of Vidiyabandara, a ruler of the region ascending as a deity named Makeli. Thus the name Makeli came to be in identifying the nearby waterfall. The waterfallis most popular amongst the domestic tourists and explorers when the development of roadways commenced. Oftentimes the waterfall and its immediate area is subjects to the rituals, religious events and many events that culture of the area seemed appropriate. This valuable water source located near the Lathpandura, Agalawatta in Kaluthara District. Beside the amazing views and activities, the relatively isolation has the perfect opportunity to house the bio-sensitive area. The Flora and fauna of the area are the most eye-catching and always monitored to ensure the perseverance of the endangered species.
A wayside rest located beside a natural pond overlooking a scenic paddy field, legend has it that King Walagamba who was travelling towards Pilikutthuwa, stopped here to break journey. The queen who bathed at the natural pond here had lost her hair extension (hawariya) at the particular location and the place was named Hawariyawala, and later, Averiyawala. Though declared as an archaeologically protected monument, Averiyawala Ambalama still serves as a wayside rest for those traveling to Adam’s Peak by foot.
According to Brahmi cave inscriptions found in Warana Raja Maha Vihara and Pilikutthuwa Raja Maha Vihara, those are temples located near to Maligatenna, it can be assumed that this vihara may also have been on abode of Buddhist monks
