The Pekoe Trail

Walk among emerald hills at Ceylon Tea Trails, where restored tea-planters’ bungalows, bespoke service and rich plantation heritage invite you to slow down, savour exquisite teas and live the timeless rhythm of Sri Lanka’s Central Highlands.

Santani is Sri Lanka's first dedicated spa resort which has brought luxury wellness to Sri Lanka. Set in the tranquil hills just over an hour from Kandy, Santani provides a relaxing and rejuvenating environment, and a variety of spa and wellness packages.

98 Acres is located on a scenic tea estate in the hillside town of Ella. A eco-friendly retreat, it has been built almost entirely out of recycled materials. With chalets nestled into its lush green surroundings, enjoy views out over the southern plains.

Adigar's Manor is a restored ancestral home set in the hills on the edge on the historical city. Spend the days sightseeing in and around Kandy, or simply lazing in the tropical gardens by the infinity pool.

Thotalagala is a former 19th century plantation bungalow which has been lovingly converted into a luxurious boutique hotel in the east of the hill country.

Built in 1926, Roysth Estate is an old colonial planter’s bungalow set on a 62-acre private working tea and rubber estate. This charming property offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of rural Sri Lanka.

This intimate retreat comprises just six suites in a lovingly restored 1912 colonial planter’s bungalow. With sweeping views over tea terraces and the Castlereagh Reservoir, it combines historical charm, modern luxury, and immersive highland hospitality.

Recapture the nostalgia of the plantation era at this colonial bungalow set amid the tea plantations and lush green forests of the Hanthana Hills, enjoying the timeless elegance of the décor, butler service, pool, tennis court and drinks on the veranda.

Goatfell is a beautiful and intimate 4 bedroom bungalow retreat located in the heart of the hill country on a working tea estate. Recently opened, this is a hugely exciting addition to the Hill Country and a great base from which to explore.

The 2 hour train journey to Hatton is a glorious way to see the rolling countryside from your observation car, as you climb into the hills and tea plantations.

Visit the colourful market in Kandy for textiles, as well as a lively atmosphere.

During your stay in the Hill Country, explore the tea plantations where you can see the tea pluckers at work, visit a tea factory, or go for a walk through the rolling green hills.

Experience a unique journey in Sri Lanka's Central Province, where a women-led business blends wellness, sustainability and luxury allowing you to explore the art of soap-making, enjoy fresh estate produce, and create lasting memories.

Today head to the centre of Kandy, once known as the Kingdom of Kandy. Take some time to visit the famous UNESCO protected Temple of the Tooth. Next wander around the colourful market followed by some tea at the historic Queen's Hotel.

Travel through Kandy's unique landscape of hills and rivers, exploring its colonial history and religious sites, riding a tuk tuk to scenic hills and markets, and concluding with delicious treats and Ceylon tea with breathtaking city views.

Head a little more off the beaten track to explore some of Sri Lanka's more historically and architecturally interesting temples. Gadaladeniya, Embekke and Lankathilaka are set away from the main tourist trail but are still easily accessible from Kandy.

This is a must for trekking enthusiasts, who will love the striking landscapes and ever-changing fauna on this 4-5 hour trek from Illukkumbura to Riverston. Expect sweeping panoramas and waterfalls in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This evening you will visit The Temple of the Tooth. The stunning 17th-century Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself.