Sri Lanka's Pekoe Trail Hiking Tour

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka.

Upon your arrival, our guide will warmly greet you and escort you to your hotel in Negombo. Take some time to relax and unwind after your journey, enjoying the serene coastal surroundings. Spend your first night soaking in the tranquil ambiance by the sea.

Start your morning with a visit to the bustling Negombo Fish Market, where you can witness the vibrant local trade and the fishermen bringing in their fresh catch. Afterward, set out on your journey to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.

In the evening, embark on a city tour of Kandy. The highlight of your visit will be the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, where a revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha has been enshrined since the 4th century AD. Admire the temple’s intricate woodwork, decorative walls, and gleaming golden roof, which reflect centuries of devotion and artistry.

Today marks the beginning of your hiking adventure along the Pekoe Trail. Your journey starts at Stage 01, from Hanthana to Galaha, with the trail commencing at the Ceylon Tea Museum, housed within the historic Hanthana Tea Factory. From here, follow the winding paths shaded by tall trees through the Hanthana Tea Estate, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest tea plantations.

This first stretch is a gentle and scenic introduction to the days ahead, offering a pleasant mix of tea estates and forest patches. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views over the Kandy Valley, a sight that beautifully combines nature and heritage. Upon reaching Galaha, the endpoint of Stage 01, you will be transferred back to your hotel to rest and rejuvenate.

After breakfast, set out on Stage 02 of the Pekoe Trail, a scenic trek that leads you from Galaha to the legendary Loolkandura Estate. This historic plantation holds a special place in Sri Lanka’s heritage as the country’s very first tea estate, established in the 19th century by James Taylor, the pioneer of Ceylon tea.

The route unfolds along winding estate roads and shaded forest paths, offering breathtaking views of rolling tea fields, mist-covered mountains, and glimpses of village life. The mix of gentle uphill and downhill stretches makes for a pleasant and rewarding hike, combining natural beauty with cultural history.

After completing the trek, you will be transferred to Deltota, where you can check in to your charming boutique hotel and relax after the day’s adventure.

After breakfast, begin Stage 03 of the Pekoe Trail, setting off from the small bridge over the Ma Oya in the historic Loolekandura Estate. The trail meanders through the heart of the hill country, leading you along picturesque tea estate paths lined with emerald-green bushes and fresh mountain air.

This stage rewards hikers with breathtaking viewpoints, where panoramic vistas of valleys and distant mountain ranges open before you. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages where time seems to move slower, offering glimpses into the simple lifestyle of the local communities. With its perfect blend of serenity and adventure, this trek captures the very soul of Sri Lanka’s highlands.

After completing the hike, transfer to Nuwaraeliya, a delightful hill country retreat often referred to as “Little England” for its colonial charm and cool climate. Check in to your hotel and unwind for the evening

Today you will begin Stage 11 of the Pekoe Trail, a trek through some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning natural landscapes. Starting in the cool, misty climate of Horton Plains National Park, you will be surrounded by lush grasslands and the serene beauty of cloud forests.

Keep an eye out for endemic bird species and unique flora along the way, as this stage offers a rich experience for nature lovers. A dirt track through a small section of woods marks the start of the famous “Devil’s Staircase,” the steepest downward descent of the Pekoe Trail, adding both challenge and excitement to the journey.

After completing the trek, continue to Ohiya, where you can relax and enjoy the refreshing mountain breeze and scenic surroundings.

Embark on one of the most exciting stretches of the Pekoe Trail, leading you through the remote and picturesque Udaweriya Valley. This hidden gem of the tea country offers crisp mountain air and panoramic views that will stay with you long after the journey. Along the trail, you will encounter charming villages and friendly locals whose warmth reflects the rich culture of the highlands.

The first 1.7 km takes you deep into the valley, eventually bringing you to a crossroads near an old tea estate house, your highest point of the day at 1,948 meters. From here, the path gradually descends toward Haputale, unfolding scenic vistas at every turn.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel in Haputale and relax, surrounded by sweeping views of the hills and valleys

Today is reserved entirely for leisure. Wake up to the cool mountain breeze and enjoy the panoramic views that surround Haputale. You can spend the day relaxing at your hotel, soaking in the peaceful highland atmosphere, or take a gentle walk around the town at your own pace. The slower rhythm of Haputale provides the perfect opportunity to rest, recharge, and reflect on your trekking adventures so far.

After breakfast, begin Stage 13 of the Pekoe Trail from St. Catherine’s. This scenic section leads you through vast tea plantations, mist-covered valleys, and tranquil forest paths that showcase the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

The trail winds through a cool forest reserve before opening out toward the Thotalagala–Dambatenne Valley. From here, the path ascends gently along picturesque tea trails, passing an organic bio-tea estate and offering panoramic views across the valley towards the famous Lipton’s Seat.

After completing the trek, continue your journey to Ella, a lively hill town surrounded by dramatic landscapes and waterfalls. Check in to your hotel and spend the evening relaxing in the refreshing mountain atmosphere.

Today’s adventure follows Stage 16 of the Pekoe Trail, a short but unforgettable journey from the hill town of Ella to the quiet village of Demodara. The path meanders through lush tea plantations, opens up to sweeping mountain views, and takes you across the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks.

After crossing the bridge, continue about 100 meters along the railway line before turning onto a narrow path that leads uphill. This short but steep climb winds through a village, passing local homes and stone steps before emerging onto a village road. The final highlight of this stage is the Demodara Loop, a remarkable engineering feat that spans nearly 900 meters, designed to overcome the steep gradients of the hill country railway.

At the end of the trek, enjoy a scenic train ride back to Ella, a relaxing and picturesque way to conclude the day’s journey.

After an early breakfast, begin the day with a refreshing hike to Little Adam’s Peak, a short yet rewarding trail that winds through lush tea plantations, where you may see tea pluckers at work. The climb requires minimal effort, but the panoramic view from the summit is truly breathtaking, offering sweeping vistas of valleys and surrounding hills.

Following the hike, continue your journey to the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last remaining expanse of primary tropical rainforest in Sri Lanka. This lush paradise is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, including over 50% of the island’s endemic mammals, butterflies, reptiles, and amphibians. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the presence of many rare and colorful species.

End the day immersed in the cool, green tranquility of the forest surroundings.

Today, set out on a trek through the dense canopy of the Sinharaja Rainforest, following adventurous jungle trails that reveal the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. The journey takes you to two stunning waterfalls, Kekuna Ella and Pathan Oya Ella, where you can pause to admire their natural beauty. At Kekuna Ella, you may even enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool shallow pool at the base of the falls.

Along the way, keep an eye out for the incredible variety of birdlife, including mixed-species flocks with some of Sri Lanka’s rare endemic species. This trail promises a truly immersive rainforest experience, combining lush greenery, cascading water, and vibrant wildlife.

After the trek, return to your hotel and unwind, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest.

After a delightful breakfast, continue your journey to Mirissa, where a relaxing beach stay awaits. Following days of trekking through mountains and forests, this is the perfect opportunity to give your feet a well-deserved rest.

Spend the day at leisure, soaking up the sun, enjoying the golden sands, and listening to the gentle rhythm of the waves. The serene setting of Mirissa provides the ideal escape, offering peace and tranquility by the ocean.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure. Though it is always difficult to say goodbye, every journey must come to an end. We hope you carry with you unforgettable memories of your time in Sri Lanka and look forward to welcoming you back on another vacation in the future. Until then, have a safe and pleasant journey.