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Trail Guide · 22 Stages
The Pekoe Trail Sri Lanka's First Long-Distance Hike
A 300+ kilometre walking trail through the Central Highlands — 22 interconnecting stages across tea plantations, remote villages, forests, sanctuaries, and viewpoints. Walk it in sections or as one epic multi-day journey.
01 · Why Hike It
Walk the tea country on foot.
The Pekoe Trail is the first in a series of walking trails by Serendipity Trails — designed to let visitors discover Sri Lanka's varying terrain, history, culture, food, and local communities by foot.
Tea Plantations
Walk the emerald carpets of Sri Lanka's most famous export — with opportunities to visit working factories and estates.
Forests & Sanctuaries
Traverse protected forests, wildlife corridors, and sanctuaries rich with endemic birds, monkeys, and deer.
Viewpoints
Ridge-line lookouts, waterfall stops, and sunrise vantage points that reward every climb along the way.
Culture & History
Pass temples, colonial-era landmarks, and cultural sites that reveal the layered heritage of the highlands.
Sustainable Travel
The trail encourages sustainable travel and brings economic opportunity to rural communities along the route.
02 · The Story
A trail that connects the highlands.
The Pekoe Trail is a 300+ km walking trail traversing the central highlands of Sri Lanka. As the first of a series of long-distance walking trails on the island, it is made up of 22 stages that can be completed in short sections or as part of a multi-day experience.
The interconnecting trail demonstrates the island's diversity, encourages sustainable travel, and brings economic opportunity to rural communities — promoting a more holistic traveller experience that embraces adventure, nature, wellness, and sustainability.
Whether you have a single free morning in Kandy or three weeks to cross the entire highland spine, the stage structure lets you design a journey that fits your pace, your fitness, and your curiosity. Each stage stands on its own — and together they form one of Asia's most rewarding long-distance walks.
03 · The 22 Stages
Every stage, region by region.
Distances, walking times, difficulty ratings, and current trail advisories. Select a region below to explore its stages.
Stages 1 – 5 · Kandy Area
The opening chapters of the Pekoe Trail begin in the hills around Kandy — Sri Lanka's cultural capital — before climbing deeper into the tea country.
Stage 1
Advisory
Hanthana ⇌ Galaha
Stage 2
Closed
Galaha ⇌ Loolkandura
Stage 3
Precaution
Loolkandura ⇌ Tawalantanne
Stage 4
Precaution
Tawalantanne ⇌ Pundaluoya
Stage 5
Advisory
Pundaluoya ⇌ Watagoda
Special trail hours
Stages 6 – 10 · Hatton Area
Enter the heart of the tea estates — Hatton's stages pass working plantations, reservoirs, and climb steadily toward the Horton Plains plateau.
Stage 6
Advisory
Watagoda ⇌ Kotagala
Special trail hours
Stage 7
Advisory
Kotagala ⇌ Norwood
Special trail hours
Stage 8
Advisory
Norwood ⇌ Bogawantalawa
Special trail hours
Stage 9
Precaution
Bogawantalawa ⇌ Dayagama
Stage 10
Advisory
Dayagama ⇌ Horton Plains
Special trail hours
Stages 11 – 14 · Haputale Area
High ridges, cloud forest edges, and the iconic Haputale escarpment define this dramatic run of stages.
Stage 11
Precaution
Horton Plains ⇌ Udaweriya
Special trail hours
Stage 12
Precaution
Udaweriya ⇌ Haputale
Stage 13
Advisory
Haputale ⇌ St. Catherine's
Stage 14
Advisory
St. Catherine's ⇌ Makulella
Stages 15 – 18 · Ella Area
The most accessible and best-loved stretch of the trail — gentle ridge walks and tea-country villages around Ella.
Stage 15
Advisory
Makulella ⇌ Ella
Stage 16
Advisory
Ella ⇌ Demodara
Stage 17
Advisory
Demodara ⇌ Hali Ela
Stage 18
Advisory
Hali Ela ⇌ Etampitiya
Stages 19 – 22 · Nuwara Eliya Area
The final run into "Little England" — the trail closes through cool-climate tea country above Nuwara Eliya.
Stage 19
Advisory
Etampitiya ⇌ Loonuwatte
Stage 20
Advisory
Loonuwatte ⇌ Udapussellawa
Stage 21
Advisory
Udapusellawa ⇌ Kandapola
Stage 22
Advisory
Kandapola ⇌ Pedro
04 · Plan Your Hike
Hours, permits, and safety.
Before you set out, understand the trail's opening hours, ticketing requirements, and safety guidelines. A little preparation makes all the difference on the highland stages.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Open Hours | Most stages are open 6am – 6pm. Some stages in wildlife corridors and protected areas operate shorter hours. |
| Tickets & Permits | Certain stages may require separate tickets or permits from the Department of Wildlife Conservation, the Department of Forest Conservation, or private landowners. |
| Safety | Read all trail terms, conditions, and safety guidelines before you hike. Carry water, sun protection, and a charged phone. |
| Trail Pass | A Trail Pass contributes to trail maintenance, signage, monitoring, and hiker safety — including contact in the event of an incident. |
What to carry
- Water — at least 1.5–2L per person for most stages.
- Sun protection — highland sun is deceptive at altitude.
- Rain shell — afternoon showers are common year-round.
- Sturdy shoes — trails mix estate paths, forest tracks, and village lanes.
- Cash — small notes for tea stalls, tuk-tuks, and village shops.
- Charged phone — for maps, and to contact your driver or operator.
Pairing with a private driver
Many of our guests combine Pekoe Trail stages with a private chauffeur-guide — walking one or two stages a day and being met at the trailhead with fresh water, dry clothes, and a warm car. It is the most comfortable way to experience the highlands without carrying a heavy pack.
Frequently Asked
Pekoe Trail Stages — FAQs.
Everything you need to know before hiking Sri Lanka's long-distance highland trail.
We strongly recommend using digital maps or GPS files, which are available on our Trail App, as well as on our official profiles on Wikiloc and AllTrails. Waymarking is in place along most of the trail, but not all segments are fully marked.
Hiking all 22 stages typically takes 16 to 22 days, depending on your fitness, hiking speed, and how much time you spend in each location.
Absolutely. Each stage is designed to be walked independently. Many hikers choose just one or two scenic stages to fit their schedule or interest.
Yes. Several Sri Lankan and international travel companies, as well as community groups, offer guided hikes ranging from single-day experiences to multi-day adventures. Check social media — there are several active Facebook pages where hikes are posted.
Public buses, tuk-tuks, and trains serve many trailheads. For more remote sections, private transport or transfers arranged through hotels, guides, or tour operators are recommended.
The Pekoe Trail is a 300+ km long-distance walking trail that winds through Sri Lanka s central highlands, traversing tea plantations, cloud forests, villages, waterfalls, and heritage estates. It's divided into 22 curated stages designed for independent or guided hiking.
Yes, the trail is open all year. However, weather conditions vary by region. The best time to walk most of the trail is December to April and July to September.
Most stages have directional signs and trailhead information boards. We recommend using GPS files or mobile apps as a backup.
Mobile coverage varies. In towns and along roads, signal is generally good. In remote areas and valleys, coverage may drop out. Download maps in advance.
Call emergency services (1990 in Sri Lanka) if needed. Every stage guide includes local emergency contact numbers. Where possible, notify nearby villagers or accommodation providers for support.
Stay calm. Retrace your steps to the last known point and check your offline map or GPS file. If you are truly lost, try to reach higher ground for signal and call for assistance.
Yes: Watch for leeches during wet months. Avoid hiking alone in remote forested sections. Wear sturdy footwear and carry water. Be cautious on wet rocks and steep descents. Avoid hiking in thunderstorms.
Yes, water can often be sourced from local homes, shops, or streams. However, ALWAYS treat or filter water before drinking. Carry 1.5–2 liters per person.
Some stages pass through towns or villages where you can buy snacks and drinks. Others are more remote, so bring food with you. Trail descriptions indicate where supplies are available.
Yes. You'll find a range of options along or near most stages of the trail, including: Estate bungalows, Guesthouses and homestays, Boutique hotels, Eco-lodges. Each stage page on our website includes a list of nearby accommodation options.
Camping is not currently permitted or encouraged, as much of the trail passes through private or plantation land. Be sure to check the Accommodation Directory for updated information as new options become available.
Contributing towards a Trail Pass is voluntary and helps support the ongoing maintenance and management of The Pekoe Trail, community programmes and visitor safety. Your contribution helps protect the trail, support the communities along its route and ensure its long-term sustainability.
You can contribute towards your pass via our website, app, authorized resellers or through participating travel companies (DMCs).
We’re excited to introduce a new membership to experience The Pekoe Trail: the 7-Day Membership. This membership is designed for hikers who want more flexibility and more time on the trail. When you contribute towards a 7-Day Membership, it becomes active from the date of contribution. The membership is valid for the full period (7 days), but please note: at the moment, you cannot select a future start date. You will still need to get your trail pass for the relevant stage on the relevant day through the official Pekoe Trail App or the online portal. On the day of your hike, your pass also unlocks access to the offline map to be downloaded for that stage (only available on that day).
We’re excited to introduce a new membership to experience The Pekoe Trail: the 3-Month Membership. This membership is designed for hikers who want more flexibility and more time on the trail. When you contribute towards a 3-Month Membership, it becomes active from the date of your contribution. The membership is valid for the full period (3 months), but please note: at the moment, you cannot select a future start date. You will still need to get your trail pass for the relevant stage on the relevant day through the official Pekoe Trail App or the online portal.
Hiring a local guide is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Guides enrich your experience with stories, cultural context, navigation assistance, and insight into local life — especially in more remote or complex sections of the trail.
You can refer to the directory of certified local guides on our website. Many guides can also be arranged through hotels, guesthouses, or travel companies near the trail.
The trail is cared for by a dedicated network of local area coordinators, contractors, volunteers, and The Pekoe Trail team — with support from the communities along the route. Every trail pass directly contributes to maintenance, safety, and community development.
While generosity is appreciated, giving money directly can create dependency, disrupt local dynamics, and discourage school attendance.
The trail can be hiked year-round, but the best months are generally December to April and July to September, depending on the region and stage. Weather conditions can vary significantly across the trail due to changing elevations and microclimates.
Expect a mix of cool mornings, sunshine, and occasional rain showers. Highland areas — especially above 1,500m — can be misty, damp, and chilly in the evenings, so it is wise to carry a light rain jacket and warm layer.
Even in the hills, the sun can be intense — especially midday. Dehydration is one of the most common issues hikers face. Always carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person, wear a hat, and apply high-SPF sunscreen regularly.
Yes. The Pekoe Trail is a self-guided hiking experience, and while we provide waymarking, maps, and trail data, you are entirely responsible for your own safety, decisions, and wellbeing while on the trail.
No. The Pekoe Trail Company (Guarantee) Limited does not provide emergency response services and takes no responsibility for injuries, loss, delays, or accidents during your hike. In case of an emergency while on The Pekoe Trail, please contact the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) on 117 for assistance.
Yes — we strongly recommend that all hikers have appropriate travel and medical insurance, including coverage for hiking and outdoor activities. Your insurance should include emergency evacuation, medical care, and trip interruption.
Here are key hospitals along or near The Pekoe Trail in case of emergency: Kandy General Hospital (+94 81 2233338), Nuwara Eliya District General Hospital (+94 52 2222261), Hatton Base Hospital (+94 51 2222261), Badulla General Hospital (+94 55 2222261), Gampola Base Hospital (+94 81 2352261), Deltota Rural Hospital (+94 81 2497266). In case of serious emergencies, call Sri Lanka’s National Ambulance Service: 1990.
No. Biking or motorized vehicles are not permitted on The Pekoe Trail itself. The trail is designed exclusively for foot travel and passes through sensitive areas — including working tea plantations, villages, and forest paths.
Cycling or driving on estate roads is only allowed with prior permission from the respective tea estate. These are private working roads used by estate workers, trucks, and machinery. Unauthorized use can disrupt daily operations and cause accidents.
The tea companies of Sri Lanka have been remarkably generous in granting access to their land for hikers. We must uphold that trust by being respectful, responsible, and non-disruptive.
If your contribution attempt was unsuccessful, please carefully check the error code and message displayed at the time of the transaction. In some cases, this may be due to network issues, card restrictions, or failed authentication via the payment gateway. If the issue persists even after multiple attempts, please contact our support team with the details of the error you encountered.
Error 491 indicates that the payment aggregator has declined the transaction. This typically happens because the Cybersource payment gateway used by The Pekoe Trail Portal is 3D Secure-enabled, meaning all transactions require OTP (One-Time Password) or 2-Factor Authentication (2FA). If your card does not support 3D Secure or is not enrolled in 2FA, the transaction will be rejected. Please try using a different card with 3D Secure/OTP capabilities.
If the contribution was deducted from your account but you did not receive your hiking pass, it’s possible that the final confirmation step was interrupted. This can occasionally happen due to network interruptions when redirecting back from the Cybersource hosted checkout, or session timeouts during the final stage. Please email us with a screenshot or PDF of your payment confirmation, the email address used for the booking, and the approximate time and date of the payment attempt. We will verify the payment and issue the pass manually if the transaction was successful.
We accept major credit and debit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and some international cards that are enrolled in 3D Secure/OTP-based authentication. Please note: Cards without 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) may not work due to security restrictions.
If you are a foreign card holder, your transaction will be processed in USD and Sri Lankan card holders in LKR. Please select the correct billing country at the checkout.
Yes. Once your payment is successful and your pass is issued, a digital receipt along with the Pekoe Trail hiking pass will be sent to your registered email address. If you need further details you can contact us.
First, check your Spam or Promotions folder. If it’s still missing, contact us with your payment proof and registered email. We’ll help you retrieve your pass.
Yes, you can. However, the pass rescheduling has to be done minimum 12hrs before midnight of the hiking date.
Yes. All payments are processed through Cybersource, a globally recognized payment gateway owned by Visa. The system uses 3D Secure (3DS) and encrypted hosted checkout pages, ensuring that your data and transaction remain secure.
Ready to walk the Pekoe Trail?
Tell us your dates and fitness level — we'll design a stage itinerary that fits your pace, with private driver support between trailheads.
