Enjoy a moderate 12.58km hike on Stage 20 of the Pekoe Trail, traversing from Lunuwatte to Uda Pussellawa. This stage offers a peaceful journey through quiet countryside, featuring forests, tea plantations, and the intriguing Sthripura Caves.
Your trek begins in the small hill town of Lunuwatte.
Highlights of Stage 20:
- Village Scenery: Walk along village roads, passing a lake, paddy fields, and temples, offering a glimpse into rural life.
- Forest and Tea Plantations: Hike through a mix of tranquil forests and verdant tea plantations, dotted with towering eucalyptus and pine trees.
- Sthripura Caves: Explore the Sthripura Caves, a significant cave network steeped in myths and legends. The name “Sthripura” (Woman’s Town) refers to a legendary incident where King Walagamba is said to have sheltered 500 queens in these caves.
- Mana Ella: A point of interest along the way.
- Buffalo Park: A chance to observe local wildlife.
- Pahala Alagolla Lake: Enjoy the serenity of this lake.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 12.58 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 651 m
- Elevation Loss: 443 m
- Maximum Elevation: 1,613 m
The first part of the trail takes you through quiet countryside, showcasing the beauty of Sri Lanka’s rural landscapes. A significant highlight is the Sthripura Caves, a network of caves rich in history and folklore. The second part of the stage involves a walk along a mountain ridge covered in pine forest, providing stunning views. You’ll then continue through more eucalyptus forests and a maze of tea trails. The stage concludes in Uda Pussellawa, a small but lively town in the central highlands of Sri Lanka.