Prepare for a challenging yet rewarding trek on Stage 3 of the Pekoe Trail, a 18.11km journey from Loolkandura to Tawalantenne. This stage, the second longest on the trail, takes you through historically significant tea trails, dense forests, and offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Your adventure begins at a small bridge over the Ma Oya on the Loolkandura Estate, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest tea plantations, established by Sir James Taylor, the “father of Ceylon tea.” This hike immerses you in the very heart of Ceylon tea’s history.
Highlights of Stage 3:
- Loolkandura Estate: Explore this historic tea plantation and learn about its pivotal role in the story of Ceylon tea.
- Ma Oya: Cross the picturesque Ma Oya river.
- Ancient Bullock Cart Roads: Walk along remnants of the old Dimbula road, a trail built over 150 years ago by British engineers for horses and bullock carts, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Piduruthalagala Forest: Traverse through the verdant Piduruthalagala forest.
- Views of Kotmale Reservoir: Enjoy stunning vistas of the expansive Kotmale Reservoir.
- Distant Views: On a clear day, you might be able to see the sacred Adam’s Peak on the horizon.
- Ramboda Pass and Waterfall: As you descend towards Tawalantenne, admire the iconic Ramboda Pass and Waterfall.
Trail Details:
- Distance: 18.11 km
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Elevation Gain: 748 m
- Elevation Loss: 1,026 m
- Maximum Elevation: 1,586 m
The trail ascends through historically significant tea trails, gradually becoming more remote. Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the old Dimbula road, a testament to the ingenuity of early British engineers. The second part of the trail crosses a pass, revealing valleys towards Stellenberg Estate, offering southerly views across Kotmale and the distant Rilagala mountain range. The path continues through tea bushes and along estate roads, weaving between forest and tea fields. The Kotmale Reservoir provides a stunning backdrop throughout this section. As you descend towards Tawalantenne, the Ramboda Pass and Waterfall come into view, along with the winding Gampola-Nuwara Eliya road. The stage concludes in the bustling town of Tawalantenne.