Easy Hikes to Start Your Pekoe Trail Journey
If you’re new to hiking, the Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka offers the perfect introduction with several beginner-friendly stages. Whether you’re easing into the world of trekking or simply seeking a scenic, low-stress adventure, these trails promise beauty and balance without overwhelming intensity.
- Stage 1 is an excellent starting point, guiding you from Hanthana to Galaha through lush tea estates and gently rolling hills. The trail is peaceful and well-marked, making it ideal for those new to hiking.
- Stage 22 from Kandapola to Pedro Estate offers a relatively easy route winding past quiet villages and misty tea plantations. Its shorter length and moderate elevation make it a relaxing yet immersive experience.
- Stage 6 from Watagoda to Kotagala brings together 14 km’s of cool mountain air with sweeping views of valleys, tea plantations and distant peaks. The terrain is steady and manageable, ideal for soaking in the scenery at a leisurely pace.
- Stage 8 from Norwood to Bogawantalawa is another gentle trail, taking you through charming rural landscapes and offering plenty of opportunities for photos and rest stops.
Together, these stages are a wonderful way to experience the magic of the Pekoe Trail without pushing your limits. Sri Lanka’s first long-distance hiking trail: the Pekoe Trail was featured in TIME magazine’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ list for 2025. The trail was also featured in BBC as a ‘hike for everyone’. Learn more about the Pekoe trail here, including information on what to pack and how to purchase the Pekoe trail pass.