Saradiel Rock, Uthuwankanda
Saradiel Rock, Uthuwankanda

Travel Guide Contents

Utuwankanda – On the trail of a legend

Uthuwankanda Or “Saradiel Rock” is a beautiful village with green paddy fields and mountains. The place that Sri Lanka’s most unknown place made his hideout. If you are wish to go there mainly four important places such as Saradiel rock, Saradiel cave, Saradiel village and Bo Ella, you can visit during this journey. The Saradiel rock climb is one of the main adventure activities in our tour. While exploring the cave tunnel, you will need to creep through certain areas, making it quite an adventure. 

The place is famously known as the hide out of Deekirikevage Saradiel alias Utuwankande Sura Saradiel. He was a gang leader and outlaw who rebelled against British authorities during the colonial rule. ‘Sura Saradiyal’ is a bandit who became a legendary figure in Sri Lanka also referred to as the “Sri Lankan Robin Hood”. He is making a regional uprising against British Colonial rule instead of a manifestation of local lawlessness or economic injustice.

Distinctive rock outcrop with ruined stone fortification at Saradiel Rock, Uthuwankanda, surrounded by dense green jungle under a bright blue sky

Getting There – Route

  • Colombo –> (Kandy Road) –> Uthuwankanda Junction –> Turn Left –> Uthuwana Road (1km)

Let’s walk with our journey

Villages will tell you that it’s a 20 minute climb, but it’ll take you about half an hour to 45 minutes I reckon.

The hike bit dangerous but there are a couple of places where you have to use your palms or knees as you try to climb through rock. Keep in mind that some places are dusty and slippery, so be careful/ wear proper footwear.


The view from the top is as in most cases in Sri Lanka extraordinary. No disappointments and you can enjoy the beauty of mountains around.

Attractions and Activities

  • Activities at Uthuwan Kanda: Rock Climbing, Photography , Village Tourism , Nature Trails
  • Near by  Attractions: Saradiel Village, Bo Ella, Dedimunda Devalaya – Aluthnuwara
Fisheye aerial view from the Saradiel Rock summit looking down over forested hills, with a Sri Lankan flag and a hiker near the edge

Notes, Tips and Special Remarks

  • To do the both hikes start the journey early as possible as you can.
  • Take necessary precautions to avoid stinging plants(in Uthuwankanda)
  • You need a flash light if you go inside the cave.
  • Climbing & Staying on the peak of Saradiyel Gala may be extremely dangerous even when drizzling.
  • Be prepared for leech attacks (in Bathalegala)
  • The Summit is misty, windy and cold (Depends on weather)
  • Carry a water bottle for each person (1L)

Image Gallery

  • Aerial fisheye view looking down at the rocky summit with a hiker near the edge, green forest below
  • Fisheye shot looking up at the rock formation with the Sri Lankan flag flying against a blue sky
  • The twin-rock summit formation viewed from a distance with a hiker standing nearby, panoramic green hills below and a bird in flight
  • Rocky boulder summit formation with a small flag, green forested hills panorama below
  • Fisheye sunset shot of the rock summit with golden light and a misty distant valley
  • Aerial view of the summit with the Sri Lankan flag flying and a hiker in teal, green forested hills panorama
  • Twin stacked rock formation summit with a small flag against a deep blue sky
  • Wide aerial view over misty layered mountain ranges at dawn under a blue-purple sky
  • Aerial fisheye view of the rocky summit boulders with hikers visible, green hills all around
  • View from the rock summit overlooking green rolling hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds
  • Panoramic view of layered green mountain ranges stretching to the horizon, Uthuwankanda
  • Close-up of the distinctive stacked boulder rock formation at Saradiel Rock against a blue sky

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the climb to Saradiel Rock take?

Villagers will often say it’s a 20-minute climb, but plan for about 30 to 45 minutes at a realistic pace.

Is the hike to Saradiel Rock difficult?

It’s a moderately challenging hike – there are a couple of spots where you’ll need to use your palms or knees to climb over rock, and some sections are dusty and slippery, so proper footwear matters.

What should I bring for the hike?

Carry a flashlight if you plan to explore the cave tunnel, at least 1 litre of water per person, and take precautions against stinging plants around Uthuwankanda and leeches around Bathalegala.

What else is there to see nearby?

Along with the rock climb, the area includes Saradiel Cave, Saradiel Village, Bo Ella, and the Dedimunda Devalaya at Aluthnuwara.

Plan Your Trip

For help timing your visit around Sri Lanka’s seasons, see our Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka guide.