PEKOE TRAIL & BEYOND

13 Nights / 14 Days

Overview

Pekoe Trail & Beyond – 14 Days is an active journey through Sri Lanka combining tea country, heritage, wildlife, rainforest and coast. Beginning in Negombo, the journey travels through the Cultural Triangle and Kandy before heading into the central highlands for two sections of the Pekoe Trail, a Ceylon tea experience and one of Sri Lanka’s celebrated scenic train journeys. It then continues through Beragala and Sinharaja before finishing with Galle and time along the southern coast.

Highlights

Land Only – International flights are not included. If you require assistance with flight arrangements, please contact us for available options.

Enjoy 11 nights in handpicked premium accommodation across Negombo, the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala and the South Coast. The selection combines beachfront retreats, hill-country hotels, wildlife stays and relaxing coastal resorts, with daily breakfast and dinner included.

Daily breakfast and dinner as specified in the itinerary, with selected local experiences along the journey, including a traditional Sri Lankan village lunch and opportunities to experience Ceylon tea in the highlands. 

The journey combines guided sightseeing, walking and hiking experiences, wildlife encounters and cultural experiences. Key activities include two sections of the Pekoe Trail, Pidurangala, Sigiriya, a 4WD wildlife safari, a guided Sinharaja rainforest walk, Galle Fort and a river safari. Some experiences involve extended walking and uneven terrain.

Air-conditioned transportation throughout the journey, connecting Negombo, the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Beragala, Sinharaja and the southern coast, together with the scenic hill-country train journey from Nanu Oya towards Demodara.

Arrival and departure airport transfers, together with transfers between hotels, sightseeing locations, trail starting and finishing points and other experiences included within the planned itinerary. The journey concludes with a transfer from the Bentota area to Bandaranaike International Airport.

Make the journey your own with optional experiences and additional arrangements, available upon request and subject to availability. The itinerary already identifies the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy as an optional experience, while other personalized arrangements can be considered according to your travel preferences. 

Day 01 – Arrival in Sri Lanka | Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. Check in and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing after your journey and enjoying the coastal surroundings.

Day 02 – Negombo to Habarana | Sigiriya Rock Fortress

After breakfast, visit a traditional fishing village and Negombo Lagoon to experience the local fishing industry and gain an insight into the daily lives of Sri Lanka’s fishing communities.

Leave the coast and travel inland towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. The journey passes through rural villages, coconut plantations and paddy fields before reaching Habarana. Along the way, stop to enjoy a refreshing king coconut, a favourite local drink in Sri Lanka.

Later, visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the 5th-century royal citadel built around a dramatic rock rising approximately 200 metres above the surrounding landscape. Walk through the ancient water gardens and boulder gardens before ascending past the frescoes and Mirror Wall towards the summit, where the remains of the royal palace overlook the surrounding countryside.

Enjoy a refreshing break along the way with a selection of fresh Sri Lankan tropical fruits

Day 03 – Pidurangala Rock | Sunrise Hike

Begin the early morning with a hike to Pidurangala Rock, following a trail through forested surroundings and past the historic Pidurangala Cave Temple before continuing over rocky terrain towards the summit. Reach the top to enjoy panoramic views across Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, with Sigiriya Rock Fortress rising prominently above the surrounding forests and countryside. After taking in the views, descend and return to the hotel for breakfast.

Explore the local village on foot, walking through the rural surroundings and experiencing everyday village life. Along the way, gain an insight into local traditions, farming practices and the lifestyle of the community.

Complete the experience with a traditional Sri Lankan village lunch, prepared using local ingredients and home-style cooking methods.

Later afternoon experience Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for a 4WD jeep safari, with the park selected based on seasonal wildlife movements.

Day 04 – Sigiriya to Kandy | Dambulla & Matale

Travel towards Kandy, stopping en route at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Explore the historic cave complex, home to centuries-old Buddhist murals, sculptures and more than 150 statues.

Continue through Matale and visit a spice garden to discover cinnamon, pepper, cardamom and other spices traditionally used in Sri Lankan cuisine and Ayurveda.

Arrive in Kandy and relax in the hotel. 

Later in the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake and through the city and visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic can be offered as an optional experience.

Day 05 – Pekoe Trail Stage 1 | Hanthana to Galaha

After breakfast, travel to the Hanthana mountain range to begin Stage 1 of the Pekoe Trail, one of Sri Lanka’s signature walking experiences. The trail begins near the Ceylon Tea Museum and takes you into the historic tea-growing landscapes surrounding Kandy.

Walk through rolling tea estates, eucalyptus and pine forests, estate villages and open mountain ridgelines, with scenic views across the surrounding valleys and plantations. Along the way, gain an insight into the history of Ceylon tea, the development of Sri Lanka’s plantation industry and the communities who have lived and worked within these estates for generations.

The walk also provides an opportunity to experience a quieter side of the hill country, passing through working tea landscapes and small local communities away from the main tourist routes.

Continue towards Galaha, where the trail concludes before transferring back to your hotel in Kandy.

Trail: Pekoe Trail – Stage 1
Route: Hanthana to Galaha
Walking distance: Approximately 13 km
Walking time: Approximately 4 hours
Experience: Tea estates • plantation communities • forest trails • mountain scenery • Ceylon tea heritage

Day 06 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya | Ceylon Tea Experience

Travel into Sri Lanka’s central highlands, where the scenery gradually changes to mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls and rolling tea plantations. En route, stop at Ramboda Falls, one of the picturesque waterfalls of the hill country, before continuing through the surrounding tea-growing region.

Visit a working tea estate and walk through the plantations to learn about Sri Lanka’s world-renowned Ceylon tea. Try your hand at tea plucking alongside local tea pluckers and discover how the traditional “two leaves and a bud” are carefully selected. Continue with an introduction to the tea-making process before completing the experience with a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea, surrounded by the landscapes of Sri Lanka’s tea country.

Day 07 – Pekoe Trail | Kandapola to Pedro Estate

Begin another scenic section of the Pekoe Trail, starting from Kandapola, in the heart of Sri Lanka’s renowned tea country.

Follow trails and estate roads through rolling tea plantations, forested landscapes and remote highland communities, surrounded by views of mist-covered mountains and tea-filled valleys. Along the way, experience everyday life within the working estates and gain an insight into the communities and traditions that have shaped Sri Lanka’s tea country for generations.

The route continues through changing highland scenery, with opportunities to pause and take in panoramic views across the plantations and surrounding hills.

Finish the walk around Pedro Tea Estate, one of the best-known tea-growing areas near Nuwara Eliya. Complete the experience with a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea overlooking the surrounding plantations.

Route: Kandapola to Pedro Estate
Walking distance: Approx. 11.3 km
Walking time: Approx. 4.5 hours
Experience: Tea estates • estate communities • forest trails • mountain scenery • Ceylon tea heritage

Day 08 – Nuwara Eliya to Beragala | Scenic Train Journey

After breakfast, travel to Nanu Oya Railway Station and board one of Sri Lanka’s celebrated hill-country train journeys. Travel through the heart of the central highlands, passing rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, forested valleys, waterfalls and small hillside communities along one of the island’s most scenic railway routes.

 

Continue towards Demodara, enjoying the changing landscapes and views along the way. On arrival, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, an impressive colonial-era railway landmark surrounded by dense greenery and tea country.

 

Journey through small towns, rural villages, rubber plantations and increasingly mountainous countryside, with scenic views opening across the surrounding valleys as you approach Beragala. Located along the edge of the hill country, Beragala is known for its cooler climate, mountain scenery and panoramic views across Sri Lanka’s southern plains.

Day 09 – Beragala - Trails, Waterfalls & Highland Landscapes

Begin the morning with a walk along the Hirikatu Oya and Pahanthudawa Trail, exploring the scenic natural landscapes of the region. Follow trails through lush forest, streams, rocky terrain and peaceful countryside, surrounded by the cooler landscapes of Sri Lanka’s southern highlands.

Continue towards Pahanthudawa Waterfall, passing through the natural surroundings before reaching the distinctive waterfall and its dramatic rock formations. Spend time enjoying the scenery before continuing the walk through the surrounding forest and rural landscapes.

Day 10 – Beragala to Deniyaya | From Highlands to Rainforest

After breakfast, leave Beragala and travel south towards Deniyaya, journeying from the cooler landscapes of Sri Lanka’s southern highlands into the lush tropical surroundings of the rainforest region.

Travel along scenic roads through mountain valleys, rural villages, tea and agricultural landscapes, watching the scenery gradually change as you descend towards the low country. Along the way, experience a quieter side of Sri Lanka, passing small communities and stretches of countryside away from the main tourist routes.

Continue towards Sinharaja, where dense tropical vegetation and forest-covered hills begin to dominate the landscape. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings in preparation for the following day’s rainforest experience.

Day 11– Sinharaja Rainforest Experience

After breakfast, set out on a guided nature walk through Sinharaja Forest Reserve, accompanied by an experienced naturalist. Explore the dense tropical rainforest, following forest trails surrounded by towering trees, streams and rich vegetation.

Along the way, discover the remarkable biodiversity of Sinharaja, with opportunities to spot endemic birds, butterflies, reptiles, amphibians and other wildlife, while learning about the native plants and ecosystems found within the rainforest.

Your naturalist will also introduce you to the importance of rainforest conservation and the connection between Sinharaja and the communities living around the reserve.

Return to the hotel after the walk and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure, surrounded by the peaceful rainforest environment.

Day 12 – Deniyaya to Galle & Beruwala

Leave Deniyaya after breakfast and travel towards Sri Lanka’s southern coast, leaving the rainforest landscape behind as you make your way towards Galle.

Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, one of Sri Lanka’s most important historic landmarks. Walk through its atmospheric streets, passing colonial-era buildings, historic churches, old merchant houses, the lighthouse and impressive fort ramparts overlooking the Indian Ocean. Discover how centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence have shaped the architecture, culture and character of this historic coastal city.

Take time to explore the charming streets within the Fort before continuing north along the coast towards Beruwala, one of Sri Lanka’s best-known beach destinations.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure by the coast.

Day 13 – Beruwala | Madampa River Experience

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Beruwala, with time to enjoy the beach, resort facilities and the surrounding coastal setting.

Later, set out on a scenic Madampa River Safari excursion, travelling through tranquil waterways lined with mangroves, coconut palms and tropical vegetation. Pass local fishing communities and observe everyday life along the riverbanks while looking out for birdlife and other wildlife found within the surrounding ecosystem.

Return to the hotel after the excursion and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 14 – Bentota to Colombo Airport | Departure

After breakfast, enjoy the final morning in Bentota before transferring to Bandaranaike International Airport according to the departure flight schedule.

Important info

Booking Info

 

After booking, you will receive a payment receipt and booking confirmation, together with a link to complete the Passenger Information Form. The form must be completed within 72 hours of booking. Please include any special requests, dietary requirements, preferences, roommate-matching requirements or optional extras when completing the form. Requests are subject to availability and any applicable additional charges.

  • An initial deposit of AUD 150 per person is required upon booking confirmation.
  • The remaining balance can be paid in three instalments.
  • The final instalment must be paid 60 days prior to the date of arrival.
  • More than 60 days prior to arrival: Full refund
  • 31–60 days prior to arrival: 50% cancellation charge
  • 15–30 days prior to arrival: 75% cancellation charge
  • 14 days or less prior to arrival: 100% cancellation charge
  • No-show: 100% cancellation charge

Additional wellness experiences, excursions, accommodation upgrades, private experiences and personalised arrangements can be arranged upon request at an additional cost, subject to availability.

  • Women-only small-group experience
  • Dedicated female National Guide
  • Roommate matching for solo travellers
  • Yoga experience in a village setting
  • Ayurvedic treatment
  • Meeting with a resident Buddhist monk
  • Authentic experiences with local Sri Lankan women
  • Kala Wewa kayaking experience
  • Traditional Kamatha lunch
  • Tea-plucking experience and interaction with women working in the tea estates
  • High tea at The Grand Hotel
  • Scenic Nanu Oya–Ella train journey
  • Privately guided Yala 4WD wildlife safari
  • Traditional lace-making experience with women artisans
  • South Coast beach stay Sri Lanka Her Way
  • International flights
  • Tourist visa
  • Optional tours and activities not specifically included in the itinerary
  • Additional meals, snacks and beverages not specified in the tour plan
  • Early check-in and late check-out
  • Single-room supplement where applicable
  • Tips and expenses of a personal nature

Visas are not included in the package cost. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the required visa and ensuring that their passports and other travel documents meet the applicable entry requirements prior to travel.

Stay Period – 01 November 2026 to 19 December 2026
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 2,300 2,025 1,895 1,800
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 890 890 890 890
Stay Period – 10 January 2027 to 31 March 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 2,500 2,215 2,100 1,999
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,100 1,100 1,100 1,100
Stay Period – 01 April 2027 to 30 April 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 2,335 2,030 1,925 1,835
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 925 925 925 925
Stay Period – 01 May to 30 June 2027 & 01 September to 30 October 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 2,125 1,835 1,725 1,625
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 765 765 765 765
Stay Period – 01 July 2027 to 31 August 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 2,200 1,925 1,800 1,699
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 825 825 825 825

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