Funds Raised
Join the Movement to Preserve Sri Lanka’s Premier Hiking Trail
Trailblazing for a Cause: Support The Pekoe Trail
The Pekoe Trail Organization (TPTO), the nonprofit steward of Sri Lanka’s premier long-distance hiking trail, is thrilled to announce a record-setting hike to raise funds and awareness for The Pekoe Trail.
This incredible journey was co-created by expert guide Ayesh Buddhika and adventurous hiker Michelle Pinkowski, completed all 22 stages of the 300km + trail in record time in 10 days
- Fundraising Hike to Support TPTO (Tuesday, 10th Dec 2024)
- Stage 5 rerouted between 11.6 and 12.6 km.
Congratulations
The Pekoe Trail Fundraising Hike - Mission Accomplished!
We are excited and proud to announce that our 10-day, 22-stage fundraising hike to support The Pekoe Trail has officially concluded! After completing an awe-inspiring journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea country, our team successfully conquered the entire 300km trail, raising vital funds and awareness for the preservation of this incredible national gem.
Starting on December 7th, 2024, expert guide Ayesh Buddhika and adventurous hiker Michelle Pinkowski pushed their limits and completed the trail on December 16th, 2024, in record time. Together, they trekked over 322.79 km (200.37 miles) and ascended an astounding 11,268 meters (36,876 feet) through some of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes.
This feat is not just a personal achievement, but a collective success made possible through the incredible support of our donors, sponsors, and the passionate community that rallied behind the cause. Your support has ensured that The Pekoe Trail remains a safe, accessible, and sustainable destination for adventurers from around the world.
Ensuring safety, accessibility, and ecological preservation
Empowering TPTO to continue managing and promoting the trail as a top-tier tourism product.
Building capacity for MSMEs and helping local communities harness the benefits of sustainable tourism.
Meet the Hikers
Michelle Pinkowski
Michelle is an accomplished adventurer who has sought out trails less travelled on four continents, including Mt. Kenya and the Peaks of the Balkans. As a Pekoe Trail Conqueror, she brings unparalleled enthusiasm and determination to this record-breaking challenge.
“The Pekoe Trail was a transformative experience for me, and I’m passionate about maintaining it for future generations.”
Ayesh Buddhika
A two-time conqueror of The Pekoe Trail, Ayesh is a licensed guide and passionate advocate for nature. With over seven years of experience in the travel industry, Ayesh has dedicated himself to showcasing Sri Lanka’s natural beauty to hikers from around the globe.
“I genuinely love the Trail and am dedicated to ensuring that every hiker leaves with unforgettable memories of their time in Sri Lanka.”
Pre-hike Video Blog (vlog)
Video #1 - Introduction
Video #2 - Founders Message
Video #3 - Pre-hike Trailblazers
Our Journey in Numbers
Over the 10 days, our team faced both physical and mental challenges, all while showcasing the beauty and significance of the Pekoe Trail. Here’s a breakdown of our hike:
| Day | Stages | Time (hrs) | Distance (km) | Distance (mi) | Elevation Gain (m) | Elevation Gain (ft) | Accommodation Partner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 0 Dec 6th 2024 | Pre-Hike Preparation | – | – | – | – | – | Theva Residencies |
| Day 1 Dec 7th 2024 | 1, 2, 3 (most) | 14.5 | 46.5 | 28.9 | 2133 | 7000 | Floating Mountain |
| Day 2 Dec 8th 2024 | Rest 3, 4, 5 | 9.5 | 32.65 | 20.29 | 1251 | 4107 | Medakumbura Bungalow |
| Day 3 Dec 9th 2024 | 6, 7 | 8.5 | 30 | 18.64 | 758 | 2500 | Royal Majesty Bungalow |
| Day 4 Dec 10th 2024 | 8,9 | 9 | 33 | 20.5 | 1250 | 4100 | Iona Villa |
| Day 5 Dec 11th 2024 | 10, 11, part 12 | 11 | 42.5 | 26.2 | 1150 | 3659 | Idal Villa |
| Day 6 Dec 12th 2024 | Part 12, 13, 14 | 10 | 30 | 18.6 | 941 | 3088 | Nine Skies |
| Day 7 Dec 13th 2024 | 15 & 16 | 5.3 | 20.4 | 12.7 | 351 | 1152 | Eddies Bungalow |
| Day 8 Dec 14th 2024 | 17, 18 & part 19 | 10 | 32.6 | 20.24 | 1130 | 3707 | 6th Mile Post Tea Bungalow |
| Day 9 Dec 15th 2024 | Rest 19 & 20 | 7 | 24.14 | 15 | 1097 | 3600 | Heritance Tea Factory |
| Day 10 Dec 16th 2024 | 21 & 22 | 8.5 | 31 | 19.3 | 1207 | 3963 | Ferncliff |
| TOTAL | 93.3hrs | 322.79km | 200.37mi | 11,268m | 36,876ft |
Watch Daily Video Updates from Hikers
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors
This journey was only made possible thanks to the generosity and commitment of our sponsors, donors, and accommodation partners. Your support has helped ensure the Pekoe Trail’s preservation, allowing future generations to experience its natural beauty. The funds raised will go towards ensuring TPTO’s continued work in managing and preserving the trail, as well as supporting local communities along the route.
- Logistical Sponsor: Aitken Spence Travels
- Accommodation Partners: Theva Residencies, Floating Mountain (managed by Secrets of Ceylon), Medakumbura Bungalow (By Elpitiya Plantations), Royal Majesty Bungalow, Iona Villa (Managed by Elevate Hospitality), Idal Villa (Managed by Secrets of Ceylon), Nine Skies (A Teardrop Hotel), Eddie’s Bungalow, Heritance Tea Factory, Ferncliff (Managed by Secrets of Ceylon), 6th Mile Post Tea Bungalow
Your contributions directly impact the future of sustainable tourism in Sri Lanka, and we are incredibly grateful.
GET INVOLVED
Support the Trail
Stretching 300 kilometers across diverse and breathtaking landscapes, The Pekoe Trail requires constant care to preserve its beauty, accessibility, and impact.
Currently, TPTO operates entirely on self-funding, relying heavily on community support through memberships and donations to sustain its mission.
Whether it’s through a donation, a membership purchase, corporate sponsorship, volunteering on the trail or donations, we invite you to join us in preserving one of Asia’s best-kept secrets and help leave a natural legacy for future generations.
Ways to Contribute
Whether it’s through a donation, a membership purchase, corporate sponsorship, volunteering on the trail or donations, we invite you to join us in preserving one of Asia’s best-kept secrets and help leave a natural legacy for future generations.
Contact us for corporate partnerships and volunteering opportunities with the Pekoe Trail
Funds Raised
Funds Raised since 1st Dec 2024 (Updated As of 17th Dec 2024):
The Pekoe Trail Sri Lanka, Serendipity on Foot.
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