Area
Kandy and the Hill Country
Type
Active
Wildlife & Nature
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Challenging
Duration
Half Day
The Pekoe Trail is Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike, stretching from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya and divided into 22 stages that showcase stunning tea plantations and iconic sites like the Nine Arch Bridge. Guided by local a local expert, you'll explore diverse landscapes while learning about the rich flora and fauna of the region. Each stage promises a peaceful, immersive experience in nature, often without encountering another soul. Engage with local communities along the trail for a deeper connection to this enchanting part of Sri Lanka.
The trail is managed by The Pekoe Trail Organization (TPTO), a nonprofit dedicated to the preservation and sustainability of local biodiversity and culture.
Guests are connected with previously hard to reach areas, bringing new economic opportunity to rural communities. TPTO supports local communities along the trail with tourism and business development training, celebrating the knowledge and skills of local people and elevating their livelihoods.
TPTO are also dedicated to protecting local biodiversity and minimising the footprint of tourism, with the trail following existing historic footpaths and revenue supporting local conservation projects.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationW15 Hanthana Estate Kandy
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.
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View AccommodationStone House Kandy
Originally owned by a Kandyan family, the Stone House was fully refurbished in 2014 by its new owners and is now a five-bedroom boutique villa offering luxurious accommodation, a private setting and a personalised service.
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View AccommodationElephant Stables
From its hilltop position, Elephant Stables boasts breathtaking views over Kandy and the Knuckles mountain range. This ancestral home turned boutique hotel offers guests a tranquil stay from which they can explore Kandy's cultural heritage.
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View AccommodationCeylon Tea Trails
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.
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View Accommodation
Nine Skies
Clinging to a tea covered hill, with beautiful views over the hill country Nine Skies offers an intimate stay in a newly refurbished tea bungalow.
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View AccommodationAdigar's Manor
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.
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View AccommodationKings Pavilion Kandy
Kings Pavilion is based just 15 minutes outside the centre of Kandy, a bustling town which is home to the Temple of the Tooth. Situated on a hill side this boutique hotel gives great views down over the valley and town below.
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View AccommodationAarunya Nature Resort & Spa Kandy
Capture the peace and serenity of Sri Lanka with a stay at award-winning Aarunya, an exclusive collection of private pool villas overlooking the UNESCO-listed Knuckles Mountain Range, enjoying world class hospitality, superb cuisine, and dreamy spa.
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View AccommodationCamellia Hills
Camellia Hills is a luxurious five-bedroom bungalow nestled in Sri Lanka's tea plantations. It has a dining room, two lounge areas, and a swimming pool. The bungalow boasts breathtaking views across the Castlereagh Reservoir.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceTrekking in the Knuckles Range
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.
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View ExperienceExplore the Tea Plantations
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.
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View ExperienceGuided Tour of Kandy: Gods, Kings & Men
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.
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View ExperienceKandy Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, is renowned for its wide variety of plant species
and beautiful flowers. Of particular note is the collection of a variety of orchids.
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View ExperienceKandy Market
Visit the colourful market in Kandy for textiles, as well as a lively atmosphere.
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View ExperienceWalking in Horton Plains
Horton Plains is a beautiful national park in the Southern Hill Country with some wonderful hikes and breath-taking views.
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View ExperienceTrain from Kandy to Hatton
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.
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View ExperienceTemple of the Tooth
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.
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View Experience
Soap-Making Experience
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.
Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning