The Pekoe Trail: Walking Through Tea Plantations and Enjoying Scenic Views
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The Pekoe Trail is a 300+ km hiking route through Sri Lanka’s central highlands. It offers a chance to explore the region’s tea-covered hills, remote villages, and breathtaking viewpoints. The trail is divided into 22 stages, and you can choose to complete them individually or as part of a longer adventure.
We decided to combine stages 16 and 17 into a single day hike, covering a total of 22km. The route is not too challenging, making it ideal for most walkers, though you can split it into two days if you prefer a more relaxed pace. This trail is also accessible for children; you can split the trail or limit yourself to just one stage.
Stage 16 begins in Ella, a popular destination for travelers drawn to its beautiful nature and laid-back vibe. The trail leads through the Ella Forest Reserve and past the famous Nine Arches Bridge. Along the way, there are several viewpoints where you can enjoy stunning views of the bridge and the surrounding area.
Stage 17 starts at Demodara train station, known for its fascinating looped railway track that tunnels beneath itself. This stage takes you along quiet roads, through tea estates, and over small bridges. The route’s highest point offers panoramic views of the lush valleys below, making it a highlight of the journey.
For navigation and details about the trail, you can download the official Pekoe Trail app. Their website also provides all the information you need to plan your walk. In my opinion, I saw the most beautiful landscapes here during my trip around Sri Lanka. It’s very peaceful on this trail. We didn’t encounter any other tourists, just tea pickers, some goats and locals.
