Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding 13.12km trek on Stage 11 of the Pekoe Trail, taking you from the heights of Horton Plains to the Udaweriya Valley. This stage features the highest point of the entire Pekoe Trail, the iconic “Devil’s Staircase,” and breathtaking panoramic views.
Your journey begins at the Farr Inn, the former hunting lodge of British colonial officials, now serving as the visitor center for Horton Plains National Park.
Highlights of Stage 11:
- Highest Point of the Pekoe Trail: Stand at the highest elevation of the Pekoe Trail, reaching 2,170 meters.
- Devil’s Staircase: Experience the thrill of descending the “Devil’s Staircase,” the steepest downward section of the entire trail.
- Panoramic Views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Udaweriya Valley, and on a clear day, you can even see Udawalawe National Park and the coastline beyond.
- Hidden Valley: Discover this unique valley nestled on the edge of tea country, with its dramatic topography and rare south-facing tea growing slopes.
- Udaweriya Tea Factory: Pass by the abandoned Udaweriya Tea Factory, a skeletal reminder of the region’s tea-producing past.
- Ohiya Tea Factory: The stage ends at the abandoned Ohiya Tea Factory.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 13.12 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 324 m
- Elevation Loss: 674 m
- Maximum Elevation: 2,170 m
From the Farr Inn, the trail leads you along the road to Ohiya, towards the dramatic “Devil’s Staircase.” This steep descent offers an exhilarating experience. The path then traverses across villages and mountains, opening up to the stunning Udaweriya Valley. The dramatic topography of the “hidden valley,” with its unique south-facing slopes, makes for a memorable landscape. As you near the end of the trail, you’ll pass the abandoned Udaweriya Tea Factory, a testament to the area’s tea heritage. The stage concludes at the abandoned Ohiya Tea Factory.