ABOUT

The Pekoe Trail Organisation

The Pekoe Trail Organization (TPTO) is the official steward of the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s premier long-distance hiking route, spanning 300 kilometers through the island’s breathtaking tea country. 

Our Purpose

The Pekoe Trail is more than just a hiking route—it is a journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant communities. As a registered non-profit organization (The Pekoe Trail Company Guarantee Limited, Registration No. GL00298657), our mission is to ensure that this trail remains accessible, safe, and beneficial for all—hikers, local communities, and future generations.
 
We are committed to sustainable tourism and responsible trail management, working closely with local stakeholders to maintain the trail’s integrity, preserve its natural and cultural heritage, and create meaningful opportunities for communities along the route.
 
Through partnerships, memberships, and donations, we continue to enhance the Pekoe Trail experience while safeguarding its future as a world-class hiking destination in Sri Lanka.
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Trail Stewardship & Maintenance

Keeping the trail well-marked, clean, and safe for hikers through active monitoring, signage updates, and responsible maintenance.

Sustainable Tourism Development

Partnering with local communities, businesses, and tourism operators to ensure the trail contributes to economic growth while preserving the environment.

Community Engagement & Capacity Building

Empowering tea estate communities through training, guiding programs, and small-business opportunities that align with responsible tourism.

Conservation & Heritage Protection

Working to safeguard the landscapes, forests, and cultural heritage along the trail, ensuring minimal impact while maximizing appreciation.

Respecting Land & Traditions

Acknowledging the deep history, ancient pathways, and cultural significance of the lands the trail traverses. We honor the tea pluckers, plantation communities, and the generations of people who have shaped these landscapes.

Trail Access & Advocacy

Collaborating with government bodies, plantation companies, and landowners to maintain access to the trail and promote responsible hiking practices.

Our Governance & Leadership

The Pekoe Trail Organization is overseen by a multidisciplinary Board of Directors that brings together expertise from tea, tourism, conservation, and communities—ensuring a balanced approach to trail management, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration. Our governance model is designed to foster transparency, accountability, and long-term stewardship of the trail.

The daily operations of The Pekoe Trail is managed by a small team of like minded individuals including The Pekoe Trail’s founder himself along  with the help of local area coordinators, guides, hikers and a big trail community that is well wishing the trail. 

Meet the team

Our Work

Our efforts are made possible through partnerships with local and international stakeholders, private sector collaborations, and the generosity of donors and supporters who believe in the trail’s potential. We manage and oversee:

TPTO as a Catalyst for Impact Projects – The Pekoe Trail Organization serves as a catalystfor impact-driven projects that improve the lives of tea estate communities. Through partnerships, we facilitate initiatives in economic empowerment, women’s rights, youth engagement, health and nutrition, and environmental conservation—ensuring that sustainable tourism delivers tangible benefits to the communities along the trail.
 
Strategic partnerships with key government agencies, including the Department of Wildlife Conservation, Forest Department, Sri Lanka Railways, Ministry of Environment, Sri Lanka Tourism, and the Presidential Secretariat, to ensure proper management, conservation, and access to the trail.
 
Collaboration with all tea companies represented under the Sri Lanka Tea Board, as well as private agreements with landowners to secure access and maintain the integrity of the route.
 
Engagement with national and provincial guide associations, as well as the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism & Hotel Management (SLITHM), The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL), and other key industry organizations to enhance the quality of guiding, promote responsible tourism, and strengthen industry partnerships.
 
A network of area coordinators who act as the eyes and ears of the trail.
 
Regular trail maintenance and wayfinding improvements to ensure a high-quality experience.
 
The implementation of a hiking pass system, supporting conservation and community initiatives.
 
Programs that train and employ local guides offer hikers an enriching experience while creating meaningful livelihoods.
 
Educational initiatives to promote responsible trekking, nature conservation, and the appreciation of Sri Lanka’s tea country.

Walking the Pekoe Trail

The Pekoe Trail is a walking trail, with permission granted exclusively for walking. In select areas, biking is permitted as an exception, following designated guidelines. All trail users must adhere to our policies, which outline responsible use, landowner agreements, and conservation principles. For full details, please visit our Policies Page.

Hiking with Purpose

The Pekoe Trail is designed for those who seek more than just adventure—it is a way to connect with nature, discover authentic Sri Lankan culture, and contribute to local communities. Every step taken on the trail supports rural livelihoods, conservation, and the continued development of this world-class hiking route.
 
We invite hikers, businesses, and organizations to join us in shaping the future of the Pekoe Trail. Whether through membership, sponsorship, or donations, your support ensures that the trail remains an inspiring and sustainable journey for years to come.

Join Us

The Pekoe Trail belongs to all who walk it. Whether you are a hiker, a volunteer, or a supporter, we welcome you to be a part of our growing community.

Click here to learn how to get involved


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