Walking in Sri Lanka: Along the Pekoe Trail
Example Itinerary
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Overview
Explore the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country with a journey along part of the Pekoe Trail, a newly-developed 300km-long hiking odyssey that weaves through the lush tea plantations, local villages, and scenic railway routes of this enchanting region. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of tea cultivation dating back to the mid-19th century, as you traverse the verdant landscapes that have long captivated travellers from around the world.
The Pekoe Trail helps empower local ...
Explore the timeless beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country with a journey along part of the Pekoe Trail, a newly-developed 300km-long hiking odyssey that weaves through the lush tea plantations, local villages, and scenic railway routes of this enchanting region. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of tea cultivation dating back to the mid-19th century, as you traverse the verdant landscapes that have long captivated travellers from around the world.
The Pekoe Trail helps empower local communities by generating economic opportunities through tourism. Guided treks along the trail provide employment for residents as guides, hosts, and artisans, and taking part in this unforgettable adventure you will be guided by local experts who will introduce you to the hidden gems of each village, the serenity of ancient temples, the warm hospitality of local residents, and the vibrant wildlife that calls this area home.
The journey begins in the cultural hub of Kandy, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's historic treasures and savour local culinary delights at a women's cooperative. From here, you set out on the first leg of your journey along the Pekoe Trail, meandering through tea estates and lively markets, enjoying sweeping mountain views as your backdrop.
Next hop aboard the iconic train to Nuwara Eliya and Ella, both renowned for their breathtaking scenery, and home to wonderful plantation bungalows and organic farms which will act as your base while you spend your days exploring undulating hills, picturesque valleys and sprawling tea estates, all the while following the Pekoe Trail deeper into this mesmerising landscape. Indulge in a culinary masterclass before bidding farewell to the hill country as you conclude your journey with a day of relaxation on the pristine beaches near Galle, soaking in the sun and serenity of this coastal paradise.
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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
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Example Itinerary
This is an example itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes and budget, or build a trip from scratch.
Day 1 Colombo – Kandy: Arrival
Arrive at Colombo airport and transfer directly to Kandy for check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore at leisure with a stroll around this vibrant city.
Day 2 Kandy: Sacred Sites
Begin your adventure with a day exploring Kandy. This one-time capital city is a blend of historic and modern sights, and is now considered the cultural centre of Sri Lanka, Beautifully located amongst the thickly forested mountains of the central interior, its impressive Botanical Gardens provide a wonderful respite from the heat of the day and are home to the largest collection of orchids in Asia. After a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, you’ll also pop into Hela Bojun Hala, a spacious open-air food court set up with the aim of not only providing delicious Sri Lankan food at subsidised prices, but also providing employment opportunities for local women.
Day 3 Pekoe Trail: Hanthana - Galaha
Set out today on your first hike of the Pekoe Trail. This 12km section is classed as easy and takes you from the Ceylon Tea Museum through the Hanthana Tea Estate, one of the largest and most impressive in Sri Lanka. Journey alongside the ridge of Katusu Konda, where you soak up stunning views of the peaks of the Hanthana Range and also out towards the Knuckles Range. Passing through many villages today, you will also see the rocky mountain façade used in the film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. The walk ends in the charming town of Galaha where you will be met and transferred back to your hotel.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 1
Approx. 4 hrs walking (458m ascent, 410m descent. Total distance 12.8km)
Day 4 Pekoe Trail: Galaha – Loolkandura
Transfer back to the start of the trail and set off through the Deltota Estate passing a Dravidian temple before climbing and up and over mountain peaks. The trail through the tea plantation takes many turns before you arrive at Deltota village where you can stop at the busy market. Continuing on, the Loolkandura Estate provides views of rainforest, rock formations and of course the delightful tea fields. The end of the 15km trail is in Loolkandura where you will be transferred to your accommodation.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 2
Approx. 5hrs walking (853m ascent, 520m descent. Total distance 14.7km)
Day 5 Kandy – Hatton: Tea Country Train
A more restful day today sees you take in the views of the lush tea country from the train, one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world. Boarding the train in Kandy, you will travel to Hatton from where you will transfer on to your accommodation close to Castlereagh Reservoir. This afternoon, if you are still feeling energetic, perhaps take one of the bikes out to explore the area, or for those looking for some downtime, enjoy the peaceful gardens and rooms which offer beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Day 6 Pekoe Trail: Watagoda – Kotagala
Begin today’s hike at Watagoda Train Station and set off on a day filled with mountain lakes, streams and beautiful trees such as the banyan tree. You will hike through the Holyrood Estate, through small villages and on to the largest tea growing area, Dimbula. With rolling hills stretching out before you, hike up and down valleys, each bringing new panoramic views across the mountains. Once you reach Kotagala you will be transferred back to your accommodation.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 6
Approx. 4.5 hrs walking (534m ascent, 637m descent. Total distance 15.3km)
Day 7 Pekoe Trail: Kotagala – Norwood
Today’s hike of 16km passes Chrysler’s Farm Tea Factory before taking you up a peak to enjoy spectacular views over the town of Hatton. Pass by Singamalai Lake and soak up views of Castlereagh Reservoir, and discover small areas of tea worker housing where you will also find Hindu temples and Christian churches. The end of the trail gently descends into Norwood, from where you will be transferred back to your accommodation.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 7
Approx. 4.5 hrs walking (438m ascent, 568m descent. Total distance 16.3km)
Day 8 Pekoe Trail: Norwood – Bogawantalawa
This next stage of the trail will take you through the Norwood Estate, climbing to a ridge which divides the Bogawantalawa and Maskeliya Valleys, the latter being thought of as one of the most picturesque in the area and also home to Adam’s Peak. Descending into the Bogawantala Valley, known as the Golden Valley of Tea, the trail takes you along village roads and past churches, temples and cottages until you reach the town of Bogawantala and are transferred back to your accommodation.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 8
Approx. 4.5 hrs walking (562m ascent, 377m descent. Total distance 15.8km)
Day 9 Hatton – Ella: Tea Country Train
Travelling further on by train today, you will pass through some of the most beautiful of Sri Lanka's tea country on this scenic train line. The track passes through Horton Plains National Park as well as giving more views out over the tea plantations, cloud forests and mountains. Arrive into the small town of Ella and transfer to your accommodation on the organic farm of Amba.
Day 10 Pekoe Trail: Makulella – Ella
Transfer to the small village of Makulella which overlooks the Ambagaswatte Valley. The trail begins by the Buddhist Temple and takes you through areas of eucalyptus forest and past tea bushes with panoramic views. Climbing up towards Ella Rock takes you through jungle, and on reaching the rock you will be able to see Ella Gap, Little Adam’s Peak and the town of Ella. Continue on to Ella through more eucalyptus and local homes and gardens, before arriving along the railway track and transferring to your accommodation.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 15
Approx. 3 hrs walking (216m ascent, 423m descent. Total distance 9.5km)
Day 11 Pekoe Trail: Ella – Demodara
Starting back in Ella you will cross forest reserves and pass by the Nine Arch Bridge, often busy with tourists taking photos. Continue along village roads taking you past tea estates, a small lake and railway tracks. Arrive at Demodara Tea Estate, a highlight of the day before arriving into Demodara railway station where this stage pf the trail ends. The station itself is known for its train loop round the hill, emerging from a tunnel underneath the station.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 16
Approx. 3 hrs walking (393m ascent, 524m descent. Total distance 8.8km)
Day 12 Pekoe Trail: Demodara – Hali Ela
Your final day of hiking takes you through more tea plantations again with stunning views, crossing bridges and winding your way along tea trails. Don’t forget to stop and take in the huge vistas you are treated to as you climb. Pass through forested areas and enjoy the shade of the trees as well as seeing bougainvillea and a large tea weighing station. Your journey ends at Hali Ela train station from where you will be transferred back to the hotel. This evening you can reward yourself with some of Sri Lanka's most delicious culinary delights as you take part in a cookery class on the farm, hosted by local chefs.
Pekoe Trail Stage: 17
Approx. 4h15 walking (531m ascent, 688m descent. Total distance 13km)
Day 13 Ella – Udawalawe – Galle: Elephant Transit Home
This morning you will slow make your way by road to the coast where you can enjoy a couple of days of well-earned rest after your hike. Along the way, stop off in Udawalawe at the Elephant Transit Home where orphaned elephants are taken care of before being released back into the wild. On arrival in Galle, check into your hotel, and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 14 Galle: Day at Leisure
Today is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful beach, take a walk through the villages that dot the coastline or perhaps head into Galle to explore the fascinating 16th century fort. Built originally by the Portuguese and added to by the Dutch, this mini city is encircled by high walls, ramparts and bastions.
Day 15 Galle – Colombo: Departure
Transfer up the coast to Colombo Airport for your return flight.
EXAMPLE ACCOMMODATION
Why House, Galle
The large walled gardens of Why House, set amidst paddy fields, hide three buildings and two cabanas with 10 rooms split between them. A main house, a garden villa and a garden bungalow all have large, well appointed rooms with period decor, most of the rooms can be joined together to create a private space and are perfect for families. The lush gardens provide the perfect place to relax, a large pool is set amidst the native plants with a terrace for guests to enjoy. The restaurant and bar create a communal space for guests to enjoy meals together and the friendly and welcoming team at Why House offer excellent service from preparing delicious authentic Sri Lankan and Asia meals to providing ayurvedic treatments and traditional entertainment. There is a yoga shala offering classes or one on one tuition as well as an open air gym. Why House is committed to sustainability and takes measures to reduce the environmental impact such as reducing plastic, recycling grey water, and using local produce instead of imported goods. They also have a role to play in the community and work with local charities, make use of local products and invest in their staff with English lessons and in hose training. Galle is just 15 minutes away and the beach at Dalawella with its lagoon and reef are a walk or a few minutes by tuk-tuk away.
Mandira Craig Appin Bungalow, Hatton
One of three bungalows on the Dickoya Estate, the Craig Appin Bungalow was once the home of a colonial ruler of the area. The colonial features and furniture are still present and the bungalow has been polished to create a luxury stay for guests. There are three spacious bedrooms and a suite as well as a communal lounge and dining room and delightful gardens in which guests can sit out and enjoy the peace and the views. Delicious meals are created especially for each guest and are served on the terrace or in the garden when weather permits. The staff from the local area really go the extra mile to ensure a relaxing stay for all guests.
Ellerton Bungalow, Kandy
Ellerton Bungalow is over 100 years old and is now a delightful boutique hotel with a strong emphasis on sustainability. The bungalow retains its colonial features through the decor and furniture, much of which is original but necessary updates have been made. The 9 rooms and suites vary in size and decor, some have two rooms suitable for families and others with a balcony overlooking the hills or with access to the pool terrace. Each room is large, comes with an en suite bathroom and ceiling fan as there is no air conditioning. The bungalow is set in 7 acres of land and guests can head out to explore the property, or just relax in one of the lounges, take a book from the library or have a swim in the pool. Delicious meals are served in the restaurant with a daily option of rice and curry or a western alternative, produce from the organic garden is used and special diets are catered for. The bungalow has its own water filtration system for drinking water, does not use plastic and only uses biodegradable soaps and cleaning products. The staff and community are at the forefront of the owner's thoughts with various community initiatives in place and a profit share scheme in place for staff.
Amba Estate, Ella
A guesthouse spread over a farmhouse and three cottages on an organic farm in Sri Lanka's tea country, Amba is also an organic working farm and a social enterprise working with the local community. The simple rooms are bright with traditional furnishings and decor. Those in the houses have access to a kitchen and communal living area and meals are served together. The smaller line rooms have balconies to enjoy the view from. The meals are all traditional Sri Lankan cuisine cooked by local ladies who have worked on the estate, the emphasis is on fresh local produce and the estate produces many of its own products. There is plenty of hiking in the area and the opportunity to see wildlife, guests can also take a tour of the farm, try some tea and learn about the organic farming methods. The ethos at Amba is to increase economic opportunities for local citizens whilst also protecting the natural environment, all those employed at Amba come from the local area as do the many goods and products needed to run the guesthouse. The estate is working to restore natural habitats and eco systems in the area and minimise any negative impact.
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Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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