The High Plateau Trail: Devil's Staircase & Horton Plains

Key Attractions (Kalupahana Upwards)

Waterfalls: Bambarakanda Ella (Sri Lanka’s Highest), Lanka Ella, Baker’s Falls
Trekking: Devil’s Staircase (Yaka-ge Padipela), Udaveriya Tea Estate
Viewpoints: Bambarakanda Viewpoints, Weli Wanguwa (Camping), World’s End, Mini World’s End
High Altitude Sites: Horton Plains, Ohiya & Pattipola Stations, Ambewela, Kande Ela Reservoir

Bambarakanda Falls (Highest in Sri Lanka)

Start at Kalupahana Junction on A4. Drive or trek to Bambarakanda Falls — **263m tall**.

Explore **Bambarakanda viewpoints** for photos and sunrise/sunset views.

Distance: ~5 km | Time: 20 min drive

Method: Car / Bike / 4x4

View Bambarakanda

Overnight near Falls or Haputale

Lanka Ella & Initial Ascent

Hike to Lanka Ella — a hidden gem near Bambarakanda.

Begin the **ascent** past the falls. Prepare gear for rough off-road ahead.

Distance (Trek): 1–2 km | Time: 2 hours

Method: Hiking (Required)

View Lanka Ella

Trekker’s Warm-up

Weli Wanguwa (Sandy Bend) Viewpoint

Ascend the **steep, rugged track** to Weli Wanguwa — a stunning **campsite and viewpoint**.

Panoramic views of southern plains, tea estates, and distant mountains.

Distance: ~7 km | Time: 2–3 hours

Method: 4x4 / Motorbike Only (No Cars)

View Weli Wanguwa

Beautiful Camping Spot

Devil’s Staircase to Ohiya

Conquer the **Devil’s Staircase** — 27 extreme hairpin bends through **Udaveriya Tea Estate**.

Arrive at Ohiya Railway Station (highest in Sri Lanka at 1,771m).

Distance: 13–20 km | Time: 4–6 hours

Method: 4x4 / Motorbike / Trek

View Devil’s Staircase

Overnight in Ohiya

Horton Plains & World’s End

Early entry to Horton Plains National Park. Trek to **World’s End** (887m drop) before mist.

Spot **Sambar deer, leopards, purple-faced langurs**. Explore **Ohiya’s Mysterious Roads**.

Distance (to Park): 10 km | Time: 15 min drive + 3–4 hr trek

Method: Car + Hiking

View World’s End

Start Before 7 AM

Baker’s Falls & Pattipola

Complete the **9.5 km park loop**: visit **Baker’s Falls** and **Mini World’s End**.

Exit toward Pattipola Railway Station** — **highest in Sri Lanka (1,897m)**.

Trek Distance: 9.5 km | Time: 3–4 hours

Method: Hiking
View Baker’s Falls
Highest Train Station