Pekoe Trail Stage One Hike from Kandy
Location : Kandy
Duration :
Half Day
Discover the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s central highlands on a guided hike along Stage 1 of the famous Pekoe Trail, from Hanthana to Galaha, near Kandy. Your adventure begins at the historic Ceylon Tea Museum, housed in a former tea factory in the Hanthana hills. Follow scenic estate roads, winding paths and forest trails through lush tea plantations while enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Itinerary
- Includes
- Excludes
- Conditions
- Know before you go
Itinerary
07:00
Meet your driver at your hotel and travel to Hanthana, enjoying the scenic surroundings of Kandy's central highlands.
07:30
Reach the official starting point of Pekoe Trail Stage 1. Learn about the region's tea-growing heritage before beginning the hike.
08:00
Walk along tea-estate roads and forest paths through the beautiful Hanthana hills. Enjoy the fresh mountain air and views across the surrounding countryside.
09:00
Pass notable locations along the route, including Upper Hanthana Church and Sandagiri Maha Stupa. Enjoy panoramic views towards Kandy, the surrounding mountain ranges and Victoria Reservoir when visibility permits.
10:30
Continue along the descending trail through forest sections and rural settlements. Experience the peaceful atmosphere of the hill country and learn about life in the communities surrounding the tea estates.
11:30
Complete your hike near Galaha Post Office. Meet your driver at the agreed pickup point and begin the return journey to Kandy.
Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Kandy, if specified in the selected package.
- Transportation to the trail starting point and from the endpoint, according to the confirmed booking.
- Services of an English-speaking hiking guide.
- Guided hike along Pekoe Trail Stage 1
- Drinking water and refreshments, where included in the package.
- Basic first-aid assistance during the excursion.
- Trail access pass.
Excludes
- Meals
- Personal expenses and purchases.
- Additional food and beverages not listed under inclusions.
- Personal hiking equipment, including specialist footwear and trekking poles.
- Tips and gratuities for the guide and driver.
- Additional activities or visits not included in the confirmed itinerary.
- Any permits, entrance fees or other charges not explicitly included in the package.
Conditions
- Advance booking is recommended. All bookings are subject to availability and confirmation.
- Participants should follow the guide's instructions and remain on the designated trail.
- Suitable walking shoes, drinking water and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.
- The itinerary and timings may change due to weather, trail conditions or operational requirements.
- The hike may be modified or cancelled if conditions become unsafe.
- Trail passes must be arranged according to the latest official requirements.
- Guests should respect local communities, religious sites, tea estates and the natural environment.
- Guests are responsible for their personal belongings and any expenses not specified in the inclusions.
- Cancellation and refund conditions are governed by the policy displayed at the time of booking.
Know before you go
- Distance: Approximately 13 km.
- Duration: Around 3–4 hours of walking; allow approximately 6–8 hours for the complete excursion from Kandy, including transfers and breaks.
- Difficulty: Easy according to the official Pekoe Trail rating, although some sections can be slippery.
- Starting point: Ceylon Tea Museum, Hanthana.
- Ending point: Galaha Post Office.
- Fitness: Basic to moderate fitness is recommended for walking several kilometres on uneven terrain.
- What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, breathable clothing, drinking water, sunscreen, a hat and a light rain jacket.
- Weather: Trail conditions can change quickly in the central highlands. Exercise caution during rain.
- Trail pass: A Pekoe Trail pass is mandatory for this stage unless the participant qualifies for an official exemption. Confirm the latest requirements before departure.
- Safety: The latest official update dated 17 October 2026 reports that the stage is open, with overgrowth near a viewpoint and a slippery final pine-forest section. Take care, particularly in wet weather.
- Responsible hiking: Follow your guide's instructions, respect local communities and religious sites, and carry all rubbish out with you.
Starting From
USD
40.00
40.00
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