How to Hike The Pekoe Trail (Hanthana) & Find Your Stay in Kandy

Sri Lanka is well known around the world as a perfect travel destination. This is because you can visit Sri Lanka at any time of the year. The island is often referred to as a paradise due to its abundance of natural resources and beauty. The weather and climate remain pleasant at all times of the year.

Many travellers to Sri Lanka come to experience the beaches, indulge in nature centric adventure sports, visit historical sites of interest, and explore the wild jungles. It also caters to travellers who need something a little different, as Sri Lanka is now home to The Pekoe Trail. Read on to learn more about the amazing The Pekoe Trail and how you can make it your next adventure in Sri Lanka.

Before attempting to hike The Pekoe Trail, there is some important general information that will help you suitably prepare for the journey.

The Pekoe Trail is 300 km long and is the first long-distance hiking trail in Sri Lanka. The trail begins in Kandy and winds through the central highlands of Sri Lanka, ultimately reaching Nuwara Eliya. It is segmented into 22 sections for ease of navigation, offering varying levels of difficulty and making it easier to conquer the entire trail by completing one section at a time.

As of now, only the first stage of The Pekoe Trail has been officially opened to the public. This means that although the other stages of The Pekoe Trail have been developed and mapped, only the first stage has the required signage in place and the trail conditions are actively monitored. Stage one comprises a 12.8 km long trail from Hanthana to Galaha.

Stage one provides the perfect introduction of this multisection trail to seasoned hikers and curious beginners alike. The route is moderately challenging, taking roughly 3–4 hours to complete. You will discover this to be a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty surrounding Kandy.

The concept behind The Pekoe Trail comes from a vision to provide a means to experience Sri Lanka on foot. The Pekoe Trail is currently one of the best hiking trails in Sri Lanka and is the first trail by Serendipity Trails. According to their goals, it is just one of many more trails to come. The trails aim to help visitors discover the diversity of Sri Lanka and also to support rural communities by providing them with economic opportunities. Overall, the experience is rooted in wellness and sustainability.

Here is a general overview of the basic things that you should prepare before attempting a hike. Choose breathable, quick-drying, comfortable clothing that allows free movement. While shorts and t-shirts are tempting, choosing long pants and sleeves can help protect you from the sun and insects.

Hiking around Kandy requires a pair of sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. This is crucial for navigating the uneven terrain, as one slip could mean you will be incapacitated for a number of days thereafter. Sri Lanka’s tropical climate can be dehydrating, so you will need an adequate means of hydration that can provide enough water to last throughout the hike.

Energising snacks like nuts, granola bars, and fresh fruits are great ways to keep your energy levels up. Foods that are oily and starchy can make you lethargic and bloated after a while, so avoid these to have a better experience. A few small items, like sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and sunglasses, can also prove invaluable out on the trail. Also, while not mandatory, a light rain jacket and a walking stick can provide added comfort.

Your adventure begins at the foot of the majestic Hanthana Mountain Range. We recommend taking a short detour to the Ceylon Tea Museum to delve into Sri Lanka’s rich tea history before setting off on your trek. The initial path winds through the lush greenery of the Hanthana Tea Estate, providing a serene start to the hike.

As you progress, the trail forks; choose the middle path to stay on course. The terrain will now become slightly steeper, but the gradual incline will give you an opportunity to take in the picturesque landscape. Soon, you’ll find your path merging onto a village road. Here you will meet some friendly locals who will give you a first-hand experience of Sri Lankan hospitality. Perhaps indulge in a refreshing Belimal (herbal drink) served with jaggery (palm sugar) from a local stall to relax and unwind for a while.

Continuing on, the path transitions into a scenic pine forest, offering a delightful change in scenery. Here, you have the option to stick to the main road or take a steeper uphill trek through the forest. Both routes eventually lead to Galaha Road. Your hike concludes at the Galaha Post Office, a charming landmark that marks the completion of stage one. If you have more time, visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Royal Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy a diverse collection of plants and flowers.

Now that you have immersed yourself in the peaceful and rugged surroundings of nature, it is time to find a place where you can relax in peace and comfort. Give yourself a truly unforgettable experience, and make a reservation at Jetwing Kandy Gallery. It is located just a short distance from the starting point of stage one, and it offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.

The spacious rooms provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hotel serves its guests delectable cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients from its award-winning restaurant. In the evenings, you can relax by the pool or revive yourself with a spa treatment, which can help your body to fully recover from your adventure.

If you want to explore The Pekoe Trail, Jetwing Kandy Galleryis a great place to start. We can help create a customised itinerary that blends adventure, cultural immersion, and luxurious, relaxing surroundings. Contact us today for more information and to reserve a spot to begin your next great adventure in Sri Lanka.