Alagalla Mountain Range: A Hiker's Guide
Moderate · Kegalle and Kandy Districts
Alagalla is a range of four peaks straddling the border of the Central and Sabaragamuwa provinces, above Kadugannawa. The railway from Colombo to Kandy tunnels beneath it, and the classic hike starts at a station on that line, Ihalakotte.
What you’ll walk through
From Ihalakotte station the route climbs through the village and on to the ridge. A longer alternative starts at Poththapitiya junction, reached by bus from Pilimathalawa. The range includes Pooja Gala, which carries a small stupa, and the historic Balana Pass on its southern edge was once the main way up into the hill country. Village paths branch often, and a local guide is strongly advised.
Published heights for Alagalla disagree (1,033 m and 1,140 m both appear), so we have not quoted one. Paths through the villages are not obvious; go with a guide.
Access & permits
We found no permit requirement or fee.
On the map
Pin 1 is Alagalla. The others are the nearest places in our trail directory.
- Alagalla: The range above Kadugannawa.
- Bible Rock: The flat-topped rock near Kadugannawa. About 13 km away.
- Ambuluwawa: The tower above Gampola. About 17 km away.
- Hanthana: The range above the Ceylon Tea Museum, Kandy. About 18 km away.
Key landmarks & features
- Ihalakotte railway station - The trailhead, on the Colombo-Kandy line.
- Dekinda Ella - A small waterfall a short way off the Ihalakotte route.
- Meeyangala tunnel - The 423 m railway tunnel beneath the range.
- Pooja Gala - One of the four peaks, with a small stupa.
- Balana Pass - The historic pass on the range's southern edge.
When to go
Dry mornings. Start early to finish the exposed ridge before midday heat.
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Nearby in the directory
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