Severe weather conditions across the central highlands have led to the temporary closure of Stages 10 , 11 & 12 of The Pekoe Trail until further notice. Heavy rainfall, landslides, and rapidly changing weather patterns have created unsafe conditions for hikers along these sections.
In line with national safety protocols, several access roads leading to these stages have also been closed by the authorities, limiting both entry and emergency access. We strongly advise all hikers to postpone any plans involving these stages until official clearance is issued.
Horton Plains National Park Closure
A significant portion of Stages 10 and 11 overlaps with the buffer zone and access areas around Horton Plains National Park. Due to the ongoing extreme weather, the Department of Wildlife Conservation has temporarily closed Horton Plains National Park as a safety measure. This closure directly affects connectivity and navigation across both trail stages.
Safety Advisory for All Hikers
For your safety and the well-being of local communities:
- Avoid hiking on Stages 10 , 11 & 12 until the advisory is lifted.
- Follow all instructions and warnings issued by the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), Department of Wildlife Conservation, and local authorities.
- Be aware that road closures may delay emergency response and access to these areas.
- Stay updated through official Pekoe Trail channels for reopening notices.
- If you witness urgent incidents or require immediate support, please use the emergency contacts listed below.
- The Pekoe Trail Organization strongly advises all hikers to avoid the entire Pekoe Trail network until further notice.
Emergency Contact Numbers for Hikers
In any emergency weather-related, medical, or safety, please reach out to the relevant authorities immediately:
General & Disaster-Related Emergencies
- Sri Lanka Police – General Emergencies: 119 / 118
- 24-hour Emergency Hotline (National): 117
- Disaster Management Coordinating Unit: 011 213 6136
- Sri Lanka Police – Emergency & Disaster Support Hotlines: 011 242 1820
- Other Emergency Lines:
- 011 243 9212
- 011 201 3036
- 011 201 3039
Medical Emergencies
- Suwasariya Ambulance Service (1990 Ambulance): 1990
We greatly appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize the safety of hikers and trail-side communities. The Pekoe Trail Organization will continue to monitor conditions closely and share updates once these areas are deemed safe again.
Stay safe,
The Pekoe Trail Organization
