Hike Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail

Name: Hike Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 5 (6 reviews)

6 reviews

Activity

Walking & Trekking

Overview

Head deep into the remote tea hills, following the long-distance trail that’s got the hiking world abuzz

Launched in 2023, the Pekoe Trail has taken the hiking world by storm – offering a cinematic journey through the emerald tea plantations and rural villages of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Join us to hike its most beautiful stages, guided by an expert tour leader ready to share a land rarely seen by outsiders. To elevate your adventure, we also take scenic train rides and scale Kirigalpotta, the highest hikeable peak in Sri Lanka.

Key Information

Trip Code: TSP
Ways to Travel: Guided Group
Countries: Sri Lanka
Carbon Footprint: 54.2kg CO2e per person per day

What's Included

All accommodation: 5 Superior nights (hotels), 6 Classic nights (hotels)
All breakfasts, 10 lunches, one dinner
Immersive itinerary with all transport and listed activities
Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure
Group arrival and departure transfers available

Don't Forget To

Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations.

Day 2: 13 km / 8.1 miles
Day 3: 15 km / 9.3 miles
Day 4: 14 km / 8.7 miles
Day 5: 16.5 km / 9.9 miles
Day 6: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Day 7: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Day 8: 24 km / 14.9 miles
Day 9: 19 km / 11.8 miles
Day 10: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Day 11: 11 km / 6.8 miles

Highlights

Hike 11 of the Pekoe Trail’s most scenic stages to explore the remote tea country
Dive deep into Ceylon tea, walking through estates and watching pickers at work
Summit the second-highest mountain in Sri Lanka, Kirigalpotta
Enjoy scenic train journeys through the central highlands

Itinerary

First Destination: Kandy
Next Destination: Colombo

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Dinner

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Daynish Rock Bungalow (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Daynish Rock Bungalow (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Bandarawela Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Bandarawela Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:O2 Ella (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:O2 Ella (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Galway Heights (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Ramada Colombo (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Kandy
Next Destination: Colombo

Begin in the lakeside city of Kandy. In the central highlands, wrapped by verdant hills and considered the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, it’s the ideal place to start our Pekoe Trail adventure.

Around 6pm, say ayubowan to your tour leader and fellow travellers at our hotel, where we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.

That’s followed by an orientation tour around the city, before your tour leader ensures a big Sri Lankan welcome by arranging dinner.

Want to explore Colombo? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Dinner

Our hiking begins today, though not before we set the scene with a visit to the Ceylon Tea Museum. Within the old Hanthana Tea Factory (a 15-minute drive from the hotel), the four-floor museum dives deep into the history of tea production in the central highlands, providing a fascinating backstory to our adventures ahead.

The museum is also the start point of the Pekoe Trail, so it’s here we set off to walk Stage 1. This relatively easy stretch is an excellent warm-up for our days ahead, a scenic hike through tea estates and patches of forest with views over Kandy Valley.

Reaching Galaha, the end of Stage 1, we take a transfer (1hr 15min) back to our hotel for a chance to relax.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Pick up where we left off yesterday, driving back to Galaha to begin Stage 2. Today’s hike can be broken into two. The first section takes us to Deltota, through the scenic Deltota Estate to the hill country town of Deltota itself, which has a lively market and green mosque.

The second section runs through an old pine forest and another tea estate before reaching an abandoned village. Having walked 6mi (10km), we hit the Loolecondera Estate, where we find the cottage of Scottish tea planet James Taylor, who introduced tea farming to Sri Lanka.

Finishing in Loolkandura, we take a transfer (1hr 30min) back to Kandy for a late lunch.

After, we visit the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka. The Tooth of Buddha was taken from the funeral pyre in 543 BCE and only found its way to Sri Lanka in the fourth century CE.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse Kandy (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Sri Lanka has some of the most scenic train journeys in the world, and we experience this today, enjoying a three-hour ride from Kandy to Watagoda. If the train schedules change (or the train is significantly delayed) we may drive instead to ensure there is time to complete our walk.

Stage 6 of the trail starts from Watagoda railway station, so we begin hiking immediately. The route takes us past highland lakes, through classic tea trails and to the Holyrood Estate. We also cross small villages and railway lines as we head to Talawakelle, the hub of the Dimbula tea planting district, stopping for lunch en route.

Ending in Kotagala, it’s just a 15-minute transfer to our next hotel in Hatton.

Accommodation:Daynish Rock Bungalow (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Returning to Kotagala, we pick up the trail to hike Stage 7. Our route takes us through deep tea country, passing the colonial-era Chrystler’s Farm Tea Factory. We climb a hill for views over the hill town of Hatton, visit Singamalai Lake, which provides drinking water for the surrounding regions, and gaze over Castlereagh Reservoir, a picturesque body of water considered one of Sri Lanka’s best-kept secrets.

We return to our hotel after reaching Norwood and have the rest of the day to relax.

From the full moon of December to the full moon of May, you have the option of joining the many pilgrims hiking up Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) tonight.

Those interested are picked up around midnight and transferred (1hr 30min) to the base of the peak. From here, it’s a four-hour climb (3,208ft/978m) to the top for sunrise. Overall, the hike is around 6mi (10km) and you will lose an entire night’s sleep which will likely mean you wish to opt out of tomorrow’s walk.

Accommodation:Daynish Rock Bungalow (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we transfer (1hr 30min) to Dayagama to tackle Stage 10. At the end of the Agarapatana Valley, this village is one of the most remote in the tea country, a special chance to see a part of Sri Lanka few ever visit.

Our route takes us along wide tea trails and into dense foliage, and we enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. It ends in the cloud forest of Horton Plains and we transfer (1hr 30min) to our next hotel.

Accommodation:Bandarawela Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

It’s a walking day today, but not on the Pekoe Trail, as we take the opportunity for an adventurous walk up Kirigalpotta.

First, we hop on the train for another scenic ride, this time a 30-minute journey to the village of Ohiya. After a short transfer to the trailhead, we begin our hike up Kirigalpotta, the highest trekkable mountain in Sri Lanka.

Our trail winds through mystical cloud forest to the windy summit. On a clear day, we’re rewarded with panoramic views, although more often the summit is cloaked in mist, giving it an ethereal beauty.

A delightful picnic will be waiting for you at the base; if we’re lucky, we may spot sambar deer grazing in the distance, a common yet special sight.

At the end of this adventurous day, catch a transfer (1hr 30min) back to our hotel to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.

Accommodation:Bandarawela Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

We’re back on the Pekoe Trail today, driving 30 minutes to Haputale, where we hike Stage 13 to St Catherine’s. This scenic route takes us through cool, humid forest reserve, before an uphill climb along tea trails and onto paths with views across the valley.

Reaching the tea plantation workers’ village of St Catherine’s, we begin Stage 14 – a wonderful insight into the lives of the local people, allowing us to see tea pickers at work. Our route takes us past vegetable plots, eucalyptus forest and along the edge of a plateau, where we wander past village homes.

Arriving in Makulella, we catch a 30-minute transfer to our hotel in Ella.

Accommodation:O2 Ella (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Tackle two more stages today, returning to yesterday’s end point for the beginning of Stage 15. Our route begins at a Buddhist temple in Ella, heading through eucalyptus forest, tea bushes and jungle patches as we climb to the top of Ella Rock. From the top, admire a wonderful view of Ella Gap, Little Adam’s Peak, and the town of Ella.

We descend steeply from Ella Rock and walk the final part of this stage along a scenic section of railway track into the town of Ella.

After lunch in Ella, we head back on the trail, this time for Stage 16 to Demodara. One of the shortest and most popular stages on the trail, it takes us through tea plantations and past the Nine Arches Bridge (also known as the Bridge in the Sky), which we can admire from several viewpoints today.

Completing the stage, we return (15 minutes) by road to Ella. If there’s enough time after the walk, you could take the scenic train instead (ticket not included, 2,000 rupees/US$6.70, subject to train schedule).

Accommodation:O2 Ella (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Bid farewell to Ella and transfer (2hr 30min) to the small-yet-lively town of Udapusellawa near Nuwara Eliya, taking a packed breakfast with us.

Here, we begin Stage 21, the second to last stage of the Pekoe Trail. Our route takes us along tea trails, through an area also known for cultivating crops including carrot and leeks. There should be plenty of beautiful valley views today and we’ll stop for lunch in a village on the trail.

Ending in Kandapola, we have a 30-minute transfer to Nuwara Eliya, where we have the rest of the day to relax.

Accommodation:Galway Heights (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Return to Kandapola this morning for the final stage of the Pekoe Trail, and our final hike of the adventure – a bitter-sweet day!

The route wraps around Court Lodge Tea Factory, one of the oldest tea estates in the area, along scenic tea trails through estates and villages – a fitting end to our time in Sri Lanka’s beautiful tea region.

Finishing at the Pedro Tea Estate, we drive (five hours) to Colombo, ready for our flights home tomorrow.

Accommodation:Ramada Colombo (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

The adventure ends today and we begin our return journeys home. Alternatively, if you’d like more time to explore, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Call us: 020 3733 5948

Your Group, Your Adventure

Want to choose your travel companions? Gather your family and friends and let us create a Private Adventure just for you.

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Accommodation

Selection of hotels

We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony on Day 1, 2 and 3 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details

Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Post-trip Extensions

Exclusive Add-ons

Sri Lanka Beach Hotels

Recharge with a few relaxing nights by the beach and make your Sri Lankan adventure feel even more extraordinary. Think warm waves, swaying palms, and fresh seafood enjoyed with a coastal breeze. Here are a few of our favourite beach hotels to inspire your stay:

Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle: An iconic hotel celebrated for its unique architectural heritage near the historic trading post of Galle. Perched on a rocky headland with rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean, Jetwing Lighthouse offers exceptional service, multiple pools and elegant dining.

Heritance Ahungalla: Set in a tranquil coastal location, this five-star resort blends beachfront luxury with sweeping ocean views. Its prime position on a long stretch of sandy beach makes it perfect for travellers looking to unwind and soak up Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Jetwing Beach Hotel, Negombo: A stylish and comfortable base with direct access to Negombo’s golden sands and a beachfront pool. Spacious rooms, excellent dining and close proximity to the airport make it an ideal choice for unwinding before your journey home.

This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your sales representative, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.

Maldives Hotels

Why not end your adventure with a touch of luxury in the Maldives, just a one-hour flight from Sri Lanka?

Beautiful islands covered with tropical vegetation, surrounded by wide sandy beaches and azure waters. Spend your days diving, snorkelling or swimming in the warm, calm ocean. For an unforgettable stay pick an iconic Overwater Villa, where panoramic sea views and serene sunsets come as standard. With many properties offering all-inclusive options, the Maldives can offer an indulgent finale to your holiday. Here are a few of our favourites to inspire your stay:

Royal Island Resort, Baa Atoll: Set on a lush, palm-fringed island in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this peaceful retreat is known for its excellent diving/snorkelling, serene beaches and relaxed, natural atmosphere.

Hotel Riu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll: A modern, all-inclusive resort offering overwater suites, beachfront rooms and a selection of dining options on Maafushi island. With great snorkelling, it’s perfect for those who want convenience and activities.

Taj Coral Reef Resort, North Malé Atoll: A stylish boutique island retreat, renowned for its vibrant marine life and exceptional diving. With elegant villas and personalised service, it offers an intimate and luxurious escape.

This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your sales representative, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.

Essential Information

This trip is rated Activity Level 4 (Moderate & Challenging). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.

Suitability: This trip is considered among our more challenging Activity Level 4 adventures – Day 8 is even slightly above the normal maximum distance and altitude gain for this level. We mostly hike on tea trails and good paths; however, there are some short sections that are more difficult underfoot and sometimes slippery. On Day 7, the trail to Kirigalpotta is wet and slippery, as well as overgrown in places – it can require ducking down to get through vegetation. On Day 9, the descent from Ella Rock is steep and can be hard on the knees, and if you climb Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak), you will miss a night’s sleep. On this day we also walk a section of the trainline – we need to take care as trains do use this line but they can be heard a long way off.

Key information

Start hotel: Hotel Suisse Kandy, 30 Sangaraja Mawatha, Kandy 20000
Phone: +94 812 233 024
Recommended arrival time: Aim to arrive at the start hotel before 6pm for the welcome briefing
Airport: Colombo International Airport (CMB)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 3hr 30min drive from the airport. We provide one group transfer from the airport to the hotel, which you can join at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.

Catching your return flight

There’s one group transfer to the airport, which you can join at no extra cost. Please speak to your sales representative for the time of the transfer. If the group transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative.

Sri Lanka

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally need a visa (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Travellers from most countries can obtain a 30-day ETA (US$50) at www.eta.gov.lk. We strongly recommend that you do this prior to travel to avoid any complications and delays on arrival. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Local customs and laws: You should be aware of local laws and customs in Sri Lanka (see: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/local-laws-and-customs). The mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is an offence; please note, people have been refused entry to Sri Lanka because of visible tattoos of Buddha.

Allow about 4,500 rupees (US$15) per day for lunch and dinner.

You can eat out very cheaply in Sri Lanka and your tour leader provides recommendations for where to eat locally; however, the options may not always be suited to larger groups.

Some locations you stay may have limited local restaurant choice, in which case meals will be at the hotel. Hotel meals are generally buffets; the majority offer an à la carte menu, but service can be slow. Where suitable, your tour leader will be happy to arrange a shuttle transfer into the local town or, if you prefer to be more independent, take a tuk tuk or taxi. Your tour leader can help recommend some good places to eat.

Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent in Sri Lanka. For example, wheat- or dairy-free options outside of hotels are limited. Please be prepared for this and you may need to bring these from home. Spicier food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels will serve Western options alongside traditional food.

Generally, you should expect rain at some time but with plenty of sunshine. The temperatures drop as we go higher into the hills where daytime temperatures are 15C-25C (59F-77F) and night temperatures will be cooler (about 10C/50F minimum) and a warmish fleece will be needed.

Mak our wonderful guide and leader.
Walking through the amazing tea plantations and seeing the tea pickers. Great walks and scenery.
The beautiful people of Sri Lanka who were so happy to see us. It was heartwarming to be met by the children as we walked through the local villages.
Lunches prepared for us, traditional and authentic cuisine.
Our visit to the Temple of the tooth in Kandy.
Our visit to the tea factory on our last day.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The tour leader Mak was absolutely brilliant. He made the holiday and his local knowledge was invaluable. He was very organised, a great communicator and he went the extra mile to make our trip memorable. The bus driver and his assistant were also excellent. A great team who looked after us extremely well, thank you.

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