Hiking & Trekking in Devil's Staircase Trail to Ohiya

Hiking & Trekking in Devil’s Staircase Trail to Ohiya

Hiking & Trekking

Embark on an exhilarating journey through one of Sri Lanka’s most thrilling highland trails—the legendary Devil’s Staircase. This 19 km hike winds through misty mountains, tea estates, cascading waterfalls, and rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views at every turn. The trail’s mix of steep inclines, winding estate roads, and serene landscapes makes it both challenging and deeply rewarding. Along the way, the crisp mountain air and lush greenery create an atmosphere of pure adventure and connection with nature — a true paradise for hikers seeking both endurance and beauty.

Your adventure begins at 7:30 AM at either the Bambarakanda Rest near the famous Bambarakanda Ella Falls or at the Ohiya trailhead, depending on your chosen route. After a brief orientation, your experienced naturalist guide will lead you into the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The journey unfolds along timeworn estate roads surrounded by pine forests, cascading streams, and sweeping mountain vistas.
With rest stops every 1.5 km, you’ll have time to hydrate, photograph the stunning scenery, and enjoy light refreshments. Around midday, a hearty picnic-style lunch awaits you amidst nature’s serenity.
As the trail ascends and descends through dramatic slopes that inspired its name, you’ll truly understand why this route is called the “Devil’s Staircase.” The experience concludes around 3:30 PM, arriving at Ohiya or Kalupahana, where you’ll be greeted by panoramic views and the satisfaction of conquering one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic treks.

What's Included?

Expert Naturalist / Guide
Photography Opportunities
Water Bottle
Entrance Tickets
Lunch
Morning & Evening Refreshments

What to Wear?

Comfortable walking shoes
Light, breathable clothing
Shorts or long pants (as preferred)
Trekking gaiters (provided)

The Devil’s Staircase trail connects the picturesque villages of Kalupahana (near Bambarakanda Falls) and Ohiya, cutting through Sri Lanka’s mist-covered central highlands. Stretching approximately 19 kilometers, it offers a combination of steep ascents, hairpin turns, and breathtaking views of mountain valleys, tea estates, and distant peaks.

This route is popular among adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers alike — providing a raw and authentic look into the untouched beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country. Along the way, trekkers can witness the Bambarakanda Waterfall (the tallest in Sri Lanka) and pass through several colonial-era tea estates.

Accessible from Ohiya Railway Station (around 6 km to the trail junction) or from Kalupahana, the Devil’s Staircase is ideally combined with visits to Horton Plains National Park, Ohiya Village, or Haputale.

GPS Coordinates: 6.7870° N, 80.8414° E
Nearest Towns: Ohiya / Haputale

The hike begins at 7:30 AM with an introduction and route briefing at the trailhead. The trek officially starts at 7:45 AM, with regular rest stops every 1.5 km. Depending on pace and conditions, you’ll reach the end point around 3:30 PM.

The trail is rated as moderate to challenging. It includes steep gradients, narrow estate paths, and uneven terrain. The full hike covers 19 km and takes about 7–8 hours to complete. While no technical climbing is required, a good fitness level and endurance are recommended.

Yes — beginners with moderate fitness can join under the guidance of our experienced trek leaders. The pace is adjustable with scheduled rest stops and hydration breaks. However, this experience is best enjoyed by those who are comfortable walking long distances and handling steep slopes.

The trail passes through tea plantations, pine forests, and misty ridges with panoramic views of the Central Highlands. You’ll also encounter Bambarakanda Falls, small mountain streams, and viewpoints overlooking valleys and distant peaks — making this one of the most scenic hikes in Sri Lanka.

We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, a light rain jacket, and your camera. A backpack for personal items and an extra bottle of water is also useful. All meals and refreshments are provided, so you can travel light.

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Begin Your Hiking & Trekking in Devil’s Staircase Trail to Ohiya

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