Trekking From Kandy to Ella

Trekking from Kandy to Ella is an exhilarating journey that takes adventurers on a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes. Winding through lush tea plantations, dense forests, and breathtaking mountain vistas, this seven-day trek immerses trekkers in the rich culture and natural wonders of the region. With experienced guides leading the way, trekkers can expect comfortable accommodations, delectable local cuisine, and the opportunity to witness the vibrant wildlife that calls these stunning highlands home. As the trek progresses, the anticipation builds, leaving travelers eager to uncover the hidden gems that await along the Pekoe Trail.

Good To Know

1. The Pekoe Trail trek offers a 7-day adventure from Kandy to Ella, covering tea plantations, national parks, and towns along the way.
2. Accommodations range from simple guest houses and tea plantation bungalows to local homestays, with meals, transportation, and entrance fees included.
3. Experienced local guides provide insights into the history, culture, and wildlife of the region, enhancing the trekking experience.
4. The trek includes highlights such as Horton Plains National Park, Ella Rock, and the opportunity to observe Ceylon tea processing.
5. Flexible pickup options are available, with the Kandy Railway Station serving as a convenient starting point for the trekking journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trekking Overview

With a duration of 7 days and a price starting from K₨33,874 per person, the trekking journey from Kandy to Ella offers an immersive experience through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes.

The route, known as the Pekoe Trail, takes trekkers through tea plantations, national parks, and charming towns. Accommodation is provided in simple guest houses, tea plantation bungalows, and home stays along the way.

The package includes transportation, a local trekking guide, meals, and all necessary entrance fees. Travelers can opt for the private group option or join a guided tour in English or French.

The trek can be booked with a reserve now and pay later option and features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Trekking Itinerary

The 7-day trekking journey from Kandy to Ella follows the renowned Pekoe Trail, which takes adventurers through a diverse tapestry of landscapes.

Day 1 begins with a simple guest house stay after trekking from Hanthana to Galaha.

On Day 2, the trek continues from Deltota to Loolecondera, again staying at a simple guest house.

Day 3 sees the trail leading from Loolecondera to Thawalamthena, with a hotel or guest house in Nuwara Eliya.

The journey through Horton Plains National Park and on to Udaweriya’s tea plantation bungalow occupies Day 4.

The trek then heads to Haputale and Bandarawela before the final stretch to Ella via Ella Rock on Day 7.

Included Services

The trekking package includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Travelers will benefit from:

• Convenient transportation via car and tuk-tuk throughout the 7-day trek.
• An experienced local guide to lead the way and provide insights.
• 6 nights of accommodation in guest houses, bungalows, and a homestay.
• Delicious meals, including dinner, breakfast, picnic lunches, and water.
• Entrance fees for attractions like the Horton Plains National Park.

These inclusive services take the hassle out of planning, allowing trekkers to focus on the breathtaking scenery and immersive cultural experiences along the Kandy to Ella route.

Guided Experience

Seasoned tour guides accompany each trekking group, providing a wealth of local knowledge in both English and French. They share insights into the region’s history, culture, and wildlife, enhancing the overall trekking experience.

Whether you prefer a private group or a larger shared adventure, the guides tailor their approach to suit your needs. They’re experts at navigating the trails, ensuring a safe and memorable journey from Kandy to Ella.

With their guidance, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the stunning landscapes, tea plantations, and vibrant local communities along the way. The guided experience offers a truly immersive and enriching adventure.

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Meeting Point

Pickup is available from the Railway Station in Kandy or your hotel around the city, providing convenient access to the start of the trekking journey.

The trekking experience can begin from several locations, offering flexibility to suit your preferences:

• Railway Station in Kandy: A central departure point, allowing you to embark on the adventure directly from the train station.

• Hotels around Kandy: If you’re already staying in the area, your hotel can be the starting point, seamlessly integrating the trek into your travel plans.

• Customized pickup: The tour operator can arrange a pickup from any location in Kandy, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your trekking expedition.

• Availability check: It’s advisable to check the availability of starting times to ensure your chosen pickup location and time align with the trekking schedule.

• Flexibility: The meeting point options provide the flexibility to tailor the experience to your needs, making the trekking journey from Kandy to Ella even more convenient.

Pekoe Trail Stage 1

After securing your transportation from the convenient pickup locations in Kandy, the trekking journey truly begins with the first stage of the Pekoe Trail.

This stage leads you from Hanthana to Galaha, offering a gentle introduction to the scenic landscapes of the region. You’ll traverse through lush tea plantations, passing by small villages and encountering local wildlife along the way.

The route’s moderate difficulty level makes it an accessible and enjoyable start to your trekking adventure.

At the end of the day, you’ll settle into the simple comforts of the Guest House in Galaha, rejuvenating for the next day’s journey.

Pekoe Trail Stage 2

On the second day, trekkers depart Galaha and head towards Loolecondera, the next stage of the Pekoe Trail. The route winds through lush tea plantations, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and distant mountains.

Trekkers may encounter:

• Meticulously pruned tea bushes, their vibrant green leaves glistening in the sun
• Friendly local workers harvesting the delicate leaves by hand
• Quaint tea factories, where the prized Ceylon tea is processed and packaged
• Picturesque villages, with colorful homes and friendly residents
• Stunning natural vistas, including cascading waterfalls and serene streams

As they reach Loolecondera, trekkers will have the opportunity to rest and refuel at a simple guest house, preparing for the next day’s adventure.

Pekoe Trail Stage 3

The following day, trekkers depart Loolecondera and embark on the third stage of the Pekoe Trail, en route to Thawalamthena. This segment covers a distance of approximately 14 kilometers and is expected to take around 5-6 hours to complete. Along the way, hikers will encounter a mix of rolling hills, lush tea plantations, and small villages, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local communities.

Terrain	Duration
Rolling Hills	2-3 hours
Tea Plantations	2 hours
Village Trails	1-2 hours

The day concludes with an overnight stay at a hotel or guest house in Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque town known for its colonial-era architecture and temperate climate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Daily Trekking Distance?

The average daily trekking distance is approximately 15-20 kilometers. The itinerary covers different stages of the Pekoe Trail, allowing trekkers to explore the scenic landscapes and tea plantations along the way at a comfortable pace.

Can I Hire a Porter to Carry My Luggage?

Yes, you can hire a porter to carry your luggage on the trek. The trekking company provides this service for an additional fee, allowing you to hike more comfortably without the burden of your heavy pack.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Trek?

There are generally no age restrictions for this trek, though children under 12 may require special arrangements. The trek is suitable for most able-bodied adults, with a moderate level of fitness recommended to complete the 7-day itinerary comfortably.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Supplies?

Participants can bring their own food and supplies for the trek. However, the package includes meals, so it’s generally more convenient to let the tour operator handle the logistics. Bringing extras is allowed, but not required.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The trekking package offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, so travelers can easily reschedule if needed. This flexible policy allows for stress-free planning and accommodates last-minute changes in plans.

The Sum Up

Trekking from Kandy to Ella offers an unforgettable adventure through Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes. Traversing lush tea plantations, national parks, and charming villages, this seven-day journey allows travelers to enjoy the local culture and wildlife. With comfortable accommodations, experienced guides, and breathtaking vistas, this trek is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking a unique exploration of the region.

You can check availability for your dates here: