Kadugannawa Tunnel
A historic rock-cut tunnel on the Kandy-Colombo road, blending colonial engineering with scenic valley views and local lore.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Kadugannawa Tunnel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic rock-cut tunnel on the Kandy-Colombo road, blending colonial engineering with scenic valley views and local lore.
"A perfect place to pause, cook your own meal, and enjoy it peacefully while soaking in the natural surroundings."
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the chance to photograph this unique rock-cut tunnel and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Break Your Journey
A perfect spot for a short break, offering snacks and scenic views. :oncoming_bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kadugannawa Rock Tunnel
Kandy-Colombo Road
A historic tunnel carved through rock, a symbol of colonial engineering and local lore.

Captain Dawson Tower
Near the tunnel
A memorial column honoring the engineer of the Kandy-Colombo road, offering panoramic views.

Bible Rock View
Overlooking Kegalle Valley
Spot the distinctive inselberg known as Bible Rock from the vantage points near the tunnel.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Historical Significance and Photo Ops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the chance to photograph this unique rock-cut tunnel and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Break Your Journey
A perfect spot for a short break, offering snacks and scenic views. :oncoming_bus:
⛰️ Enjoy the Vistas
The car park offers excellent views of the Kegalle valley and Bible Rock. :mountain:
💧 Rainy Day Charm
Rainy days add a dramatic, atmospheric touch to the tunnel and landscape. :cloud_rain:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the History
Don't miss the chance to photograph this unique rock-cut tunnel and its surroundings. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Break Your Journey
A perfect spot for a short break, offering snacks and scenic views. :oncoming_bus:
⛰️ Enjoy the Vistas
The car park offers excellent views of the Kegalle valley and Bible Rock. :mountain:
💧 Rainy Day Charm
Rainy days add a dramatic, atmospheric touch to the tunnel and landscape. :cloud_rain:
📜 Learn the Lore
Discover the fascinating history behind the tunnel's construction and local prophecies. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kadugannawa Tunnel as a historically significant and scenic stop on the Kandy-Colombo road. Many appreciate the unique rock-cut tunnel, the views of Bible Rock, and the convenience for a short break. Some note that while facilities are basic, the local snacks and the peaceful atmosphere make it a worthwhile pause.
"Kadugannawa is the name of the pass between the Kegalle valley and the Kandy valley.
Traditionally, this pass was the main access to Kandy for invaders approaching from Colombo. Several battle took place in the suroundings. Whenever foreign troups managed to conquer Kandy, the Sinhalese successfully started a guerilla warfare against the supply line running along Kadugannawa.
The British were the first foreign power to occupy Kandy permanently. In order to secure access, they constructed a road from Colombo to Kandy. Remarkably, they pierced a rock at the Kadugannawa Pass instead of blasting it away or simply baypassing it, as the new road does.
An explanation is, that this Kadugannawa tunnel was a symbol. The tunnel is said to have been created to fulfill an old Sinhalese prophecy that there is no way to foreigners to rule Kandy, unless they pierce the mountains. Thus, the British went out of their way to include a tunnel on the road. Regrettably, this nice story is disputed, as the Kurunegala tunnel is claimed to have been constructed earlier (in 1823) to fulfill the prophetic saying.
The road crossing Kaduganawa pass was designed be the British engineer W. F. Davidson, who died in 1829, before the Kadugannawa pass road was completed. At the highest point of the pass a memorial column known as Captain Dawson Tower was erected by the British administration a few years later on.
A car park near the tunnel is a lovely vantage point. Enjoying the vistas to the Kegalle valley of the river Maha Oya, you can spot the prominent inselberg known as Bible Rock to the west."
Prasad Lokubalasuriya
"Place located on the way to Kandy from Colombo. A age old tunnel along a stone. Not so big but a nicer place to stay for while and have some clicks. The shops near by would provide with fruits and “Solam” to taste for very good prices. Good place to break the journey."
Sp Inthu
"Kadugannawa Rock Tunnel is a beautiful spot to take a break, especially if you’re on a long journey. It’s the perfect place to pause, cook your own meal, and enjoy it peacefully while soaking in the natural surroundings. The view and the calm atmosphere make it a lovely little escape along the way."
Collier Dax
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kadugannawa Tunnel is located on the Kandy-Colombo road, making it easily accessible by car or bus. Many travelers stop here during their journey to Kandy. You can take a bus heading towards Kandy from Colombo, and it will pass by the tunnel. If driving, it's a well-marked stop along the main route.
Yes, Kadugannawa Tunnel is situated on the historic Kandy-Colombo road, making it a convenient stop for those traveling between these two cities.
Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or taxi for flexibility. Public buses also frequent the route, offering a budget-friendly option. Motorcyclists often use it as a scenic stop on their rides.
Yes, the Captain Dawson Tower, a memorial column, is located near the tunnel. You can also spot Bible Rock, a prominent inselberg, from the vantage points.
Absolutely! It's a popular and picturesque stop for road trips, offering a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and learn a bit of history.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Kadugannawa Tunnel itself. It's a roadside attraction accessible to everyone.
As it's an open roadside attraction, there are no specific opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are best for sightseeing and photography.
Typically, there is no separate entry fee for the Captain Dawson Tower, as it's part of the general area around the tunnel.
While you can technically pass by at night, it's not recommended for sightseeing or photography due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns.
There are no major restrictions, but it's important to be mindful of traffic as it's on a busy road. Respect the historical site and its surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
The area near the car park offers excellent vantage points for capturing the tunnel and the surrounding landscape. The road itself provides good angles too.
Landscape photography, historical site photography, and travel photography are very popular. Bikers also love to capture their rides here.
Exercise caution when stopping on the roadside. Use designated parking areas or pull over safely away from traffic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting, with golden hour providing a beautiful glow for your shots.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic tunnel, take photos, learn about its history, and enjoy the scenic views of the Kegalle valley and Bible Rock.
A short visit of 30 minutes to an hour is usually sufficient to explore the area, take photos, and enjoy the views.
Yes, there are shops nearby that sell fruits and local snacks like 'Solam' at good prices. Restroom facilities might be basic.
Many visitors find it a lovely spot for a peaceful break, especially if you appreciate natural surroundings and a calm atmosphere.
The tunnel was carved by the British to build the Kandy-Colombo road, possibly to fulfill a prophecy about foreigners ruling Kandy. It's a symbol of colonial engineering.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
You'll find small shops near the tunnel selling local snacks like fruits and 'Solam' (corn). It's a good place for a quick bite.
Look out for fresh fruits and 'Solam' (roasted corn) sold by vendors. These are popular local treats.
While not a designated picnic area, some visitors enjoy the idea of a peaceful meal amidst nature. However, facilities for cooking are not provided.
Dining options are limited to the small stalls. For a full meal, you'd need to stop in Kandy or other towns along the route.
The prices for snacks are generally considered good and affordable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Bikers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel and Local Lore
While the primary purpose was transportation, the decision to carve a tunnel rather than blast the rock is seen by some as a deliberate nod to this prophecy. The road was designed by British engineer W. F. Davidson, and a memorial column, the Captain Dawson Tower, was later erected at the highest point of the pass to commemorate his work. This historical context enriches the visitor experience, transforming a simple roadside stop into a journey through Sri Lanka's past.
Scenic Beauty and Photography Opportunities
For photographers, the tunnel and its surroundings present a wealth of opportunities. The dramatic rock formations, the winding road, and the expansive valley views create picturesque scenes. Early mornings and late afternoons are particularly favored for their soft, atmospheric light, perfect for capturing the essence of the location. Many travelers, including bikers, stop here to capture memorable shots of their journey and the scenic beauty of Sri Lanka.
A Welcoming Stop for Travelers
The area is known for its local vendors offering fresh fruits and snacks like 'Solam' (roasted corn) at reasonable prices, providing a taste of local flavors. While facilities are basic, the opportunity to enjoy a simple snack while taking in the views adds to the charm of the stop. It's a place where travelers can briefly immerse themselves in the local environment and appreciate the blend of history and nature.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit