Enjoy a short and popular 8.74km hike on Stage 16 of the Pekoe Trail, traversing from the vibrant town of Ella to the scenic Demodara. This stage offers a delightful walk through iconic landscapes, including the renowned Nine Arches Bridge and the unique Demodara Loop.
Your trek begins in Ella, a popular hill country destination known for its scenic walks, natural beauty, and relaxed atmosphere.
Highlights of Stage 16:
- Ella Forest Reserve: Hike through the tranquil Ella Forest Reserve.
- Nine Arches Bridge: Witness this iconic bridge, a marvel of engineering and a popular photo spot. Enjoy different perspectives of the bridge from various vantage points along the trail.
- Village Roads: Experience the charm of walking along quiet village roads.
- Newburgh Tea Factory: Pass by the Newburgh Tea Factory, offering insights into tea processing.
- Demodara Tea Estate: Admire the picturesque Demodara Tea Estate, surrounded by rolling tea trails.
- Demodara Railway Station and Loop: Conclude your hike at the Demodara Railway Station, famous for its unique “Demodara Loop,” a spiral rail line that passes under itself, emerging from a tunnel directly beneath the station.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 8.74 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 393 m
- Elevation Loss: 524 m
- Maximum Elevation: 1,066 m
The trail leads you through the Ella Forest Reserve, where you’ll encounter the famous Nine Arches Bridge. This iconic structure is a must-see for visitors, and you’re sure to meet fellow hikers and sightseers capturing its beauty. The path then meanders along village roads, providing different perspectives of the bridge. You’ll continue towards the Newburgh Tea Factory, offering a glimpse into tea production. The route then zig-zags through chena cultivations, tea estates, and alongside railway tracks, eventually leading to a small lake. A highlight of this stage is the Demodara Tea Estate, a beautiful expanse of tea fields. The stage ends at the Demodara Railway Station, a scenic gem in the hill country. The station is particularly notable for its “Demodara Loop,” a fascinating piece of railway engineering.