Baker's Bend
A dramatic horseshoe bend on the Nonpareil estate road above Belihuloya, built up on the mountain edge, with views over the hills and Samanala Wewa.
Baker's Bend is a dramatic horseshoe shaped bend on the Nonpareil estate road above Belihuloya, built up with stone walls right on the edge of the mountain. It is often described as the 23rd bend on the road that climbs from Belihuloya towards the Nagrak bungalow, and from the curve you look out across ranges of hills, deep valleys and, far below, the waters of the Samanala Wewa reservoir.
The story of the name is a local legend. A British official's horse is said to have fallen from the cliff here, and the bend was built and named in its memory. The details change depending on who tells it, and some versions name the rider as Sir Samuel Baker, but nobody seems quite sure, which only adds to the charm.
The road up is steep, narrow and rough, so most people come by motorbike or in a 4x4 with a local driver. Normal cars struggle on the upper section. Vehicles are usually not allowed past the estate factory gate unless you have a booking at the bungalow further up, so check the current access before you go, and be polite to the estate staff, since this is working land.
Come early in the morning for the clearest views, before the cloud rises from the valleys. The bend is an easy add on to a day in Belihuloya, with Pahanthudawa and Surathali falls nearby, or to a hike on Adara Kanda, which looks out over the same landscape.
At a glance
- Entry fee: Free. Jeep hire is paid separately.
- Opening hours: Daylight hours, subject to estate access
- Time needed: 2 to 3 hours, including the drive
- Best time: Early morning, in clear weather
How to get there
On the Nonpareil estate road above Belihuloya, about 11km from the town. A 4x4 or motorbike is recommended. Check estate gate access before you go.