Terms & Conditions

Terms and conditions of the Pekoe Trail, App and TPTO Membership

Last Updated on 31st August 2024

THE PEKOE TRAIL TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The Pekoe Trail (or “Trail”) is a 300 kilometer long-distance walking trail located in the Central and Uva Provinces of Sri Lanka which is divided into 22 stages. The Pekoe Trail is designed to offer hikers an opportunity to intimately connect with Sri Lanka’s tea tradition, nature, biodiversity, ecosystems, communities, and hill country landscape. 

The Pekoe Trail is managed by The Pekoe Trail Company (Guarantee) Limited (“The Pekoe Trail Organisation” or "TPTO" or “we”).

1. Scope 

These Terms and Conditions (the “Terms”) set out below are applicable to all Trail Users (hereinafter referred to as “you” or “User”) and set forth the standards, terms and conditions, and guidelines which the Users of the Pekoe Trail are required to familiarize, understand and adhere to at all times.

2. Use of the Pekoe Trail App

Trail passes are required to use The Pekoe Trail. Users can obtain trail passes by downloading The Pekoe Trail Application to their electronic devices, including mobile phones or tablets.

Users may download The Pekoe Trail App here: 

The Pekoe Trail App will be your ultimate companion when traversing along the Pekoe Trail and provides the following benefits:

§ Trail Pass: Allows the purchase of a trail pass to access The Pekoe Trail. Land owners along the trail may require that Users display their trail passes, so it’s important that Users comply with this requirement. 

§ Detailed Trail Descriptions: Discover a treasure trove of hiking trails with detailed descriptions, including difficulty levels, distances, and highlights.

§ Interactive Maps: Navigate with ease using our interactive maps, complete with GPS tracking and exclusive access to offline maps.

§ Real Time Updates: Provides real time updates of all developments along The Pekoe Trail, including instructions and notices necessary to enjoy a signature experience and ensure safety in case of any emergencies.

§ Transportation and Emergency Information: Find details on how to get to the trailhead from your current location and also provide information on emergency contacts and procedures.

§ Photo Galleries: Get a sneak peek of what awaits you on the trail through stunning photo galleries.

§ Trail Reviews: Read real hikers' experiences and leave your own reviews to help the hiking community.

§ Challenges and Rewards: Complete challenges and earn rewards for your hiking accomplishments.

By using our application, you consent to The Pekoe Trail Terms and Conditions, and we reserve the right to terminate or suspend accounts for violations or breaches.

We may periodically update the terms and conditions, and it is your responsibility to review and accept any changes. In the event of disputes, we provide procedures for resolution, including mediation, arbitration, or legal proceedings.

By using our application, you agree to abide by certain responsibilities, including adhering to local laws and regulations, respecting private property, and following safety guidelines while hiking.

We prioritize the privacy and security of your data, and we take measures to protect your personal information in compliance with relevant data protection laws and our Privacy Policy. Our application may integrate third-party services or provide links to external websites, but we are not responsible for the content or actions of those third-party entities.

3. Trail Pass

3.1. Purchase of the Trail Pass

Purchasing a trail pass will ensure that you are an authorized user of The Pekoe Trail. Those persons who do not purchase trail passes may be stopped by landowners and entry to The Pekoe Trail could be restricted.

The proceeds from the sale of the trail passes will be used to maintain The Pekoe Trail, provide essential visitor support systems, support the communities living along and near the trail, and conserve the environment surrounding it. These efforts will help ensure that The Pekoe Trail remains a community-based and nature-friendly destination that adheres to sustainable tourism principles.

3.2. Characteristics of the Trail Pass

Each trail pass will be valid for a specific stage of The Pekoe Trail on the specific date for which it was booked.

Trail passes are non-transferable. However, a User may purchase a trail pass on behalf of another person or group of persons, including children, provided such other persons also are aware of and agree to these Terms and Conditions.

3.3. Entry to Nature Reserves and Wildlife Parks

Certain sections of The Pekoe Trail pass through nature reserves and wildlife parks (for example, Horton Plains National Park). Prior to entering such nature reserves and wildlife parks, you will be required to purchase a separate entry ticket for an additional fee. Please be advised that these separate entry fees are charged by third parties and the TPTO does not control the amount of the ticket or whether entry is allowed. 

Please note that when you enter into a nature reserve or a wildlife park your presence there is governed by the laws regulating that area, including such laws identified in Clause 4(9) below. 

4. Hiking Guidelines 

4.1 Trail Rules

Users agree to follow all trail rules:

  • The trail and its environments are protected. Do not disturb plants and wildlife. 

  • Do not litter. 

  • Do not pollute water bodies along the trails.

  • Lighting a fire outside of demarcated areas is prohibited. 

  • Cycling is allowed only on public roadways. 

  • Please be mindful of the communities you encounter and respect their privacy. 

  • Only work vehicles for tea estates, communities and businesses are allowed on the estate roads. 

  • Do not take pictures of people without their consent. 

  • Bathing in undesignated areas is prohibited. 

  • Do not hand out food to anyone. 

  • Do not hand out money to anyone. 

  • Camping is allowed only in designated campsites. 

  • Please stay on the trail. 

4.2 Signage

Trails are sign posted and marked with directional signs. However, Users are advised to also consult the navigational maps in the App to ensure that they are walking along the correct path. In some cases, signage could be removed or damaged or there could be a discrepancy between the app and physical trail markings. Users are advised to use their best discretion for way finding and to report any such discrepancy. 

4.3 Opening Times 

The trail pass and The Pekoe Trail App will state the opening and closing times of each stage. Adherence to the opening and closing times of The Pekoe Trail is expected for User safety and to protect local communities and wildlife. 

4.4 Timing

Every hiker hikes at their own pace. Trail stages have an estimated time to complete the stage, but actual User times could vary widely. 

4.5 Equipment 

Ensure that you wear clothing suitable for hiking, including sturdy shoes, hats/caps and sunglasses. We recommend that Users carry at least two liters of water per stage. Leech socks may also be helpful depending on the stage and the weather. Prepare for the rain by bringing a  suitable raincoat / poncho and watertight bag for electronics and valuables. Snacks, personal medication, a first aid kit, and insect repellent are also recommended. 

Using navigational apps, including The Pekoe Trail App, may drain your phone’s battery more quickly than normal and Users may wish to carry a powerbank. 

4.6 Waste 

Users of the trail follow the Leave No Trace principle to ensure that The Pekoe Trail is a clean and safe nature trail. Users should also be aware that local communities often do not have proper waste disposal capabilities. Therefore, Users should carry out all waste until reaching a designated waste disposal point in a larger community.

4.7 Photographs

Please be respectful of other participants, guides and local peoples along and around The Pekoe Trail and be mindful of their privacy. Photographs of people who are not in your party are discouraged and should not be taken without their permission. Please remember that people living and working in local communities are not tourist attractions and should not be made to feel like they are in a zoo. 

4.8 Adherence to local laws and customs

Users must strictly comply with all local laws including but not limited to the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance, Forest Ordinance, the National Environmental Act and Railways Ordinance, as may be amended from time to time, and regulations, directions and guidelines issued thereunder. Users are also encouraged to learn and respect local customs and culture to minimize any negative impacts of tourism to the communities along the trail. 

5. Limitation of Liability

Your safety and satisfaction are our utmost priority, and we hope our application enhances your hiking experience. We strive to provide accurate and reliable information, but we cannot be held liable for any damages or losses incurred during hiking activities.

Hiking on The Pekoe Trail comes with inherent risks, such as rough or slippery surfaces, sudden weather changes, extreme heat, and possible encounters with wildlife, which could lead to injury, illness, death, or property damage (collectively referred to as “Inherent Risks”). By choosing to hike on The Pekoe Trail, users accept these risks.

While we have taken every possible step to ensure the trail is safe and secure, due to the trail’s varied environments and the nature of these Inherent Risks, we cannot guarantee your safety. Therefore, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to minimize your exposure to risks. You accept full responsibility for any loss, damage, or injury you may experience due to the Inherent Risks while hiking on The Pekoe Trail.

Users are advised to obtain suitable travel/ medical/ hiking insurance.

6. Prohibited Activities

To protect and preserve the integrity of The Pekoe Trail and its surroundings, certain incompatible activities are prohibited. Such activities include the following:

  1. The use of vehicles, including bicycles. This is because the use of vehicles is not consistent with the intended or negotiated use of The Pekoe Trail as a walking trail.

  2. Damaging flora and fauna, including but not limited to, engaging in acts of bio-piracy, removing flora or forest products, petting, hunting or molesting any bird or animal.

  3. Entry into restricted areas or deviating from The Pekoe Trail. Certain sections of The Pekoe Trail pass through lands protected by a number of laws in Sri Lanka, including but not limited to laws identified under Clause 4.8 above. In particular, certain sections of The Pekoe Trail have been declared as Strict Natural Reserves under the Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance. Such protected areas offer sanctuary to endangered, threatened, rare, unique, or vanishing species of plants, animals, birds, or fish with fragile ecosystems that are vulnerable to even minor changes. Accordingly, it is strictly prohibited to enter restricted areas and you must at all times adhere to The Pekoe Trail’s route.

  4. To kindle or keep any kind of fire or engage in any activity which may cause fire.

  5. Consumption of  liquor.

  6. Disruption of the natural environment and ecosystem, the communities along The Pekoe Trail or the operations of regional plantation companies along and surrounding The Pekoe Trail.

7. Payments & Refunds

7.1 Membership Fees
  1. Membership fees are charged on an annual basis and are due at the time of registration.

  2. The fees for the Pekoe Trail Membership are non-refundable and non-transferable.

7.2 Payment Methods
  1. We accept payments via major credit cards, debit cards, and other payment methods as specified on our website.

  2. All payments must be made in the currency specified on the membership registration page.

7.3 Renewal
  1. Memberships are required to be renewed by the member, except for Founding Members and Lifetime Members.

  2. Members will be notified of the upcoming renewal information and any changes in membership fees at least 30 days before the renewal date.

7.4 Refund Policy
  1. No refunds will be issued for any membership fees paid, except as required by law.

  2. In the event of a cancellation of the membership by the member before the end of the membership term, no partial refunds will be issued for the remaining term of the membership.

7.5 Cancellation
  1. Members may cancel their membership at any time by contacting our customer service team or through the membership management portal on our website.

  2. Cancellation will be effective immediately, and no refunds will be issued for the remaining term of the membership.

7.6 Changes to Fees and Terms
  1. We reserve the right to change membership fees and terms at any time. Members will be notified of any changes at least 30 days before they take effect.

  2. Continued use of the membership after any changes to the fees or terms constitutes acceptance of the new terms.

7.7 Disputes
  • Any disputes regarding payments or refunds must be reported to our customer service team within 30 days of the transaction date.

  • Disputes will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and our decision on the matter will be final.

8. Donations

By making a donation to The Pekoe Trail Organization (TPTO), you agree to the following terms and conditions:

  1. Purpose of Donations: All donations made to TPTO are used to support our mission of maintaining and promoting The Pekoe Trail as a world-class long-distance hiking trail and a signature national tourism asset for Sri Lanka.

  2. Non-Refundable: Donations are non-refundable. Once a donation is made, it cannot be canceled or refunded.

  3. Tax Deductibility: Donations to TPTO may be tax-deductible. Donors are advised to consult with their tax advisor to determine the tax implications of their donation.

  4. Acknowledgment: TPTO will provide an acknowledgment of your donation, which may be used for tax purposes. This acknowledgment will include the amount of the donation and the date it was received.

  5. Use of Donations: TPTO reserves the right to use donations at its discretion for any purpose consistent with its mission. This may include, but is not limited to, trail maintenance, community engagement, infrastructure development, and administrative costs.

  6. Privacy: TPTO respects the privacy of its donors. Personal information collected during the donation process will be used solely for the purpose of processing the donation and providing acknowledgment. TPTO will not share or sell donor information to third parties.

9. Changes

In order to ensure greater safety and enhance the quality of your experience, we may periodically update these Terms and Conditions at our sole discretion. Accordingly, you must regularly read and familiarize yourself with the Terms and ensure strict compliance therewith.

10. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Sri Lanka.

11. Privacy Policy

Please Refer to our Privacy Policy page

12. Other Terms & Conditions

Please Refer to our Website terms & conditions page