Hanthana to
Galaha.
Walk through history on The Pekoe Trail (Stage 01). Experience lush tea estates, historic line houses, and panoramic valley views.
Hanthana Hike Distance & Key Facts
Our guided Hanthana hike follows Stage 01 of the Pekoe Trail, from the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hanthana down to Galaha. These are the numbers most hikers ask about before they book.
- Distance
- 12.8–13 km
- Walking Time
- 4–5 hours
- Elevation Gain
- +458 m
- Highest Point
- ~1,000 m
- Difficulty
- Grade 1 (Easy)
- Start
- Ceylon Tea Museum, Hanthana
- Finish
- Galaha
- Back to Kandy
- ~45 min transfer
Entrance fees, where applicable, are included in the guided hike, so there are no tickets to buy on the day. Private transport, an English-speaking trekking guide, snacks, water and backup vehicle support are included too.
The Tea Trail
Ceylon Tea Museum • Tea Estates • Pine Forests
Pickup at Tea Museum
07:30 AMMeet at the historic Ceylon Tea Museum in Hanthana. Briefing on the history of James Taylor and the first tea planting.
Begin the Trek
08:00 AMWalk through the lush green tea bushes of the Hanthana Estate. Pass historic 'Line Houses' and see tea pluckers in action.
The Pass & Views
10:00 AMReach the highest point of the trail. Enjoy a snack break with panoramic views of the Victoria Reservoir and Knuckles Range.
Descent to Galaha
12:30 PMA gentle walk down toward the town of Galaha. The path winds through quiet village roads.
Finish & Transfer
01:00 PMEnd of the trek in Galaha. Private transfer back to your hotel in Kandy (45 mins).
Included in Price
- Private transportation from Kandy/Tea Museum
- English speaking trekking guide
- Entrance fees if applicable
- Snacks and Refreshments
- Water Service
- Backup vehicle support
Essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes recommended
- Sun hat and sunscreen (Open trail)
- Camera is a must for views
- Light rain jacket (Just in case)
Hanthana Hike FAQ
How long is the Hanthana hike?
Our guided Hanthana hike covers 12.8–13 km and takes 4–5 hours of walking. It follows Stage 01 of the Pekoe Trail from the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hanthana to Galaha, with about 458 m of elevation gain and a highest point of around 1,000 m.
Is the Hanthana hike suitable for beginners?
Yes. The route is graded easy (Grade 1) and follows tea estate trails, pine forest and quiet village roads, so it suits families, beginners and solo travellers. Much of the trail is open, so bring a sun hat and sunscreen along with comfortable walking shoes.
Where does the Hanthana hike start and finish?
We meet at the Ceylon Tea Museum in Hanthana around 7:30 AM and start walking at 8:00 AM. The trek ends in Galaha around 1:00 PM, and a private vehicle takes you back to your hotel in Kandy, about 45 minutes away.
What is included in the guided Hanthana hike?
Private transport from Kandy or the Tea Museum, an English-speaking trekking guide, entrance fees where applicable, snacks and refreshments, water, and backup vehicle support for the whole route.
Do I need a ticket for the Hanthana hike?
You don't need to arrange anything yourself. Any entrance fees that apply to the route are included in our guided hike and handled by your guide on the day.
What will I see on the Hanthana hike?
Lush tea estates, historic line houses and tea pluckers at work, followed by pine forest. At the highest point you get panoramic views over the Victoria Reservoir and the Knuckles Range before the gentle descent to Galaha.
Ready to Level Up?
Our Advanced Stages (02-05) are designed for those who seek isolation, elevation, and the raw beauty of the high country.
Request Advanced Itinerary