The Trail to ‘Devil’s Staircase’ (යක්ෂයාගේ පියගැටපෙළ ඔස්සේ ඔහියට)

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The "V Cut" - - On the route through Devils Staircase — The “V Cut” – On the route through Devils Staircase – by Dr Ashan Geeganage

The track known as the Devil’s Staircase is one of the most popular hiking and jeep routes in the hill country of Sri Lanka. Its challenging terrain, combined with spectacular views of the surrounding green mountains, has made it a true haven for hikers. However, the full 13-kilometer (approximately 8.1 miles) trail is typically attempted only by the most dedicated and experienced trekkers.

Route and Starting Point

Hikers generally begin the journey near Bambarakanda Rest, located close to Bambarakanda Ella Falls. From this point, the trail follows old, deteriorated estate roads that pass through several tea estates.

The route eventually connects to the Ohiya–Horton Plains road, approximately midway between Ohiya Railway Station and the entrance to Horton Plains.

Navigation and Trail Conditions

There are no clearly marked trail indicators along the route, making navigation difficult for first-time visitors. It is strongly recommended to hire a local guide, as the path contains numerous forks that can easily lead travelers away from the correct route.

The trail extends for approximately 13 kilometers (about 8.1 miles) from Bambarakanda and takes around four hours to traverse by vehicle, depending on terrain and weather conditions.

Key Landmarks Along the Route

One of the most notable features along the trail is the “V Cut”, a channel carved through the hillside to allow the road to pass. This point is encountered after entering the Udaweriya Estate.

Beyond this, the route crosses a stream that contributes to Bambarakanda Falls, the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Route Options and Distances

At approximately 8.5 kilometers (about 5.3 miles) into the journey, travellers reach a junction offering two route options.

The left-hand route extends for about 3 kilometers (approximately 1.9 miles). It is shorter but significantly more challenging, requiring a vehicle with strong off-road capability and suitable tyres. This path is relatively direct, with fewer diversions.

The right-hand route is approximately 7.5 kilometers (about 4.7 miles) in length and provides a longer but less demanding route to the Ohiya Road. However, this route is more complex in terms of navigation, with numerous turn-offs that can easily cause confusion if one is not adequately prepared.

Download the Google Earth KML file for this route here.

Spectacular views of on the route through Devils Staircase

Ohiya - Horton Plains end of the route through Devils Staircase

View of Udawalawe - On the route through Devils Staircase

Also See

Map of ‘Devil’s Staircase’ Trail

Click on the button below to load the Dynamic Google Map

Show Location on Google Maps

The map above also shows other places of interest within a approximately 20 km radius of the current site. Click on any of the markers and the info box to take you to information of these sites

Zoom out the map to see more surrounding locations using the mouse scroll wheel or map controls.

Traveling Directions to the ‘Devil’s Staircase’ Trail

Route from Colombo up to Bambarakanda

Through : Horana – Ratnapura – Pelmadulla – Belihuloya – Kalupahana
distance : 172 km
Travel time : 4 hours
Driving directions : see on google map
Download the Google earth KML file for this route here

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