Nestled amid the lush, rolling hills, Kandy in Sri Lanka is a vibrant cultural hub with incredible history. This historic city, the country’s last royal capital, beckons travellers with its rich tapestry of history and spirituality, most notably encapsulated in the sacred Temple of the Tooth.
For those drawn by the call of nature and adventure travel in Sri Lanka, hiking in Kandy is an unparalleled starting point to explore the rugged beauty of Sri Lankan highlands. Through The Pekoe Trail, you’ll have the unique opportunity to explore a network of hiking paths that promise enchanting vistas and intimate encounters with diverse ecosystems.
Before setting off on the surrounding trails, an essential first stop on the list of attractions in Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred site is believed to house the revered tooth relic of the Buddha, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike with its rich ornamentation and daily rituals. Situated within the royal palace complex built just above the rippling waters of the Kandy Lake and with the Udawattakele forest sanctuary setting a dramatic backdrop, The Temple of The Tooth is the crowning jewel of Kandy and the heart of Buddhist spirituality on the island.
Just a short distance from the temple, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya invites you to explore its vast collection of over 4,000 plant species. The lush landscapes offer a glimpse into the island’s rich biodiversity.
For a panoramic view of the city, make your way to the Kandy View Point. It’s an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photos of the urban landscape nestled among hills. One of the more unique things to do in Kandy is a visit to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, where well-marked trails lead to encounters with endemic birds and lush greenery.
As the urban landscape gives way to the countryside, Kandy reveals its true allure with some of the best hikes in Sri Lanka at your doorstep. The trails around Kandy vary in difficulty, making it an ideal base for both novice hikers and seasoned trekkers.
The Pekoe Trail introduces hikers to its first stage that stretches from Hanthana to Galaha, weaving through vibrant tea plantations. This initial leg of the journey offers an insightful glimpse into the traditional tea-making processes that are integral to Sri Lankan culture.
From Galaha, the trail progresses to Loolkandura in Stage 2, where the lush landscapes extend into deeper, more remote areas, providing hikers with a pristine view of rural life and untouched nature. The subsequent stages—Stage 3 from Loolkandura to Tawalantenne, and Stage 4 from Tawalantenne to Pundaluoya—offer continued exploration into the heart of the countryside. These sections of the trail are dotted with small village temples and local markets, offering authentic experiences that reflect the spirit and resilience of the local communities.
The hiking trails around Kandy are more than just routes through stunning landscapes; they are pathways into the heart of Sri Lankan wilderness and the culture of Sri Lanka. As hikers venture deeper into the rural areas, they encounter traditional villages, where you’ll be treated to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local customs and way of life.
The Pekoe Trail, a magnificent journey threading through the heart of Sri Lanka, perfectly encapsulates a blend of nature and culture. Stretching from the tea-laden hills of Kandy, this trail offers a rich, immersive long-distance hiking experience that unveils the full splendour of the island’s diverse landscapes and heritage sites.
Hikers on this trail will wander through lush tea plantations, dense forests, and awe-inspiring waterfalls near Kandy, like the Ravana Falls and Gartmore Falls, offering scenic spots to enjoy the serene beauty that characterises this less-travelled path. The trail not only showcases the island’s natural wonders but also its rich historical tapestry with landmarks scattered along the route, each telling a story of Sri Lanka’s past.
It’s a journey through the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka, making it an essential experience for any adventurer seeking to explore the depths of this beautiful island. Whether you seek the serenity of sacred sites or the adrenaline of ascending mountain summits, Kandy offers a unique blend of experiences that prepare the spirit for the physical and metaphorical peaks to come. Join the adventure, and discover the essence of Sri Lanka through The Pekoe Trail.
