Sri Lanka is widely recognized for its pristine, palm-fringed beaches; however, it has much more to offer. Sri Lanka is a tropical country comprised of precipitous mountain ranges, rainforests that have stood for millions of years, wildlife reserves teeming with wild creatures, medieval towns that appear to have remained unaltered over time, and fairytale castles. There is much to pique your interest in this country, including ancient cities that are awe-inspiring, folk museums that showcase the country’s traditional culture, and rustic villages and walking trails that lead to the discovery of Sri Lanka’s natural habitats and wildlife.
After meticulously reviewing the annals of Sri Lankan travel, we have compiled the fourteen most recommended Sri Lanka travel routes for holiday excursions in Sri Lanka in this blog post. If one is contemplating a tour of Sri Lanka, one or more of the subsequent alternatives may serve as potential routes for the journey.
Tourism Infrastructure in Sri Lanka
While certain tourists opt to explore Sri Lanka by renting scooters or motorcycles, the most practical option is to higher a car and a driver and covers the entire Sri Lanka. A significant proportion of motorists possess impeccable English proficiency and are well-informed about every aspect of driving in the nation, such as the most recommended roadside inns serving spicy curry and rice. It is not unexpected if, prior to the conclusion of your sojourn, the chauffeur extends an invitation to their residence for a meal if you have hired them for an extended journey. The following are a selection of recommended driving routes in Sri Lanka to provide you with a starting point.
The primary mode of transportation in Sri Lanka is a road network, which is concentrated in Colombo, the nation’s commercial hub. A rail network in Sri Lanka serves a portion of the country’s transportation needs. Waterways, harbors, and three international airports are located in Jaffna, Katunayake, which is 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Colombo, Hambantota, and Hambantota.
Approximately 93% of Sri Lanka’s land transport happenss via the road the network. The road network in Sri Lanka spans an approximate distance of 12,000 kilometers (7,500 mi), with 151.8 kilometers (94.3 mi) of expressways and A and B-class roads. Motorcycles, buses, and passenger vehicles constitute the primary modes of transportation in Sri Lanka.
| Grade | Description | Speed limit |
| E | High-speed, high-traffic expressways duplicating heavily travelled A-Grade routes | 100 km/h (62 mph) |
| A | The national highway network | 70 km/h (43 mph) |
| B | Major provincial roads used as feeders for A- and E-Grade roads | 60 km/h (37 mph) |
| C | Local residential roads | 50 km/h (31 mph) |
Expressways
| Number | Name | Start | End | Length (km) | Lanes | Cost (USD) | Cost/km (USD) |
| E01 | Colombo–Matara Expressway | Kottawa | Matara | 126 | 4 (provision for 6) | 765.4 million | 6.07 million |
| E02 | Outer Circular Expressway | Kottawa | Kerawalapitiya | 29 | 6 | 1.12 billion | 38.6 million |
| E03 | Colombo–Katunayake Expressway | New Kelani Bridge | Katunayake | 25.8 | 6,4 (provision for 6) | 291 million | 11.28 million |
| E04 | Colombo–Kandy Expressway | Kadawatha | Katugastota | 98.9 | 4,6 | 4.5 Billion | Under construction |
Sri Lanka’s national highways are graded A or B. A-Grade roads are subdivided as AA, AB or AC.
| Road grade | Length |
| A | 4,221.37 kilometres (2,623.04 mi) |
| AA | 3,724.26 kilometres (2,314.15 mi) |
| AB | 466.92 kilometres (290.13 mi) |
| AC | 30.19 kilometres (18.76 mi) |
| B | 7,943.65 kilometres (4,935.96 mi) |
| Total of A- and B-grade roads | 12,165.02 kilometres (7,558.99 mi) |
Road network in Sri Lanka
The road density is greatest in the southwest, specifically in the area surrounding Colombo. Despite the presence of well-constructed highways in Sri Lanka that feature street markings and a smooth bitumen surface, a few provincial streets remain dilapidated. Sri Lankan roads are repaving and enhancing streets that are frequently traveled. Public transportation provides access to the majority of the island.
How do I determine best Sri Lanka travel routes for my trip?
“What is the best travel route in Sri Lanka?” and “What is the best trip in Sri Lanka?” are examples of inquiries that have been increasing steadily. We considered devoting this article to elucidating on a number of must-see Sri Lankan travel routes that should occur atleast once in a lifetime. There are currently fourteen travel routes detailed in this article; more will be added in the future. This article is extremely useful, in my opinion, not only for domestic but also for international travelers. If you are organizing a brief excursion to Sri Lanka, say a Sri lanka one-day trip, selecting the most efficient travel route becomes pivotal to the overall success of your trip. This is due to the fact that you must optimize the time spent on the road while allowing for full exploration of the attractions.
Advantages of selecting the best Sri Lanka travel routes
Selecting the optimal travel route is crucial to the success of your Sri Lanka tour. It is particularly critical, particularly for brief excursions like one-day or two-day Sri Lanka tours. We are all in pursuit of reducing our travel duration in order to free up more time for recreational pursuits and excursions.
A short trips leaves little time for travelers to spend at tourist places, and it is critical to maximize travel time efficiency. Reducing the duration of travel time on a multi-day Sri Lanka trip, such as a one-week Sri Lanka trip or a five-day Sri Lanka tour, enables the inclusion of numerous additional noteworthy locations that may have been overlooked.
What are the most popular Sri Lanka travel routes?
We had previously composed an extensive blog post pertaining to our travels to Sri Lanka. After conducting an extensive review of past Sri Lankan travel experiences, we have compiled the fourteen most recommended Sri Lanka travel routes for vacation excursions in this blog post. Should you be considering embarking on a journey to Sri Lanka, you are at liberty to select one or more of the routes that are provided below. The majority of these routes offer convenient access to numerous well-liked one-day excursions in Sri Lanka.
Here is a list of Best travel routre in Sri Lanka
1. The Sri Lankan itinerary from Colombo to Kataragama.
2. Travel from Colombo to the Matara Expressway in Sri Lanka.
3. The route from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya via Kitulgala
a The route from Colombo to Arugam Bay via Kandy.
5. The route from Colombo to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, via Puttalam.
6. Dambulla is on the Sri Lankan route from Colombo to Trincomalee.
7. The Sri Lankan itinerary from Colombo to Kandy includes Kegalle.
8. The Sri Lankan itinerary from Colombo to Rathnapura.
9. The route from Colombo to Bandarawela, Sri Lanka, via Haputale.
10. The route from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota, Sri Lanka, via Kithulagla.
11. The route from Colombo to Sigiriya via Kurunagala
12. The Sri Lanka Beach Lovers Route from Colombo to Mirissa.
13. The Sri Lankan travel route from Colombo to Badulla traverses the tea-loving hill country
14. The Sri Lankan itinerary from Anuradhapura to Kandy is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts.
15. The wildlife-lover’s route from Mirissa to Aru Gam Bay in Sri Lanka.
16. A seven-day itinerary for a tour of Sri Lanka via the southern route.
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
The most frequented route for a one-week excursion in Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan travel itineraries listed above are optimal for brief excursions departing from Colombo, such as a one-day or two-day trip. Should one be organizing a Sri Lanka excursion lasting longer than two days, such as a one-week or 10-day tour, it is possible to augment the circuit by combining several of the aforementioned travel itineraries.
We would like to recommend the below-mentioned travel route for one- to two-week Sri Lanka excursions, as it is one of the most popular Sri Lanka travel routes for seven- to fourteen-day journeys. This itinerary encompasses the foremost tourist destinations, including the cultural triangle’s historical sites, the hill country of Sri Lanka, the southern region of the country, and the beaches along the west coast.
This itinerary commences in Colombo and proceeds northwards along the west coast to reach the cultural triangle before deviating into the hill country of Sri Lanka, specifically Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. Following that, proceed to the south coast of Sri Lanka, where the excursion then proceeds along the coastline to Colombo and the west coast.
- Day: 1 Colombo-Anurahdapura-Sigiriya
- Day: 2: Sigiriya-Polonnaruwa
- Day: 3: Polonnaruwa-Kandy
- Day: 4: Kandy-Nuwara Eliya
- Day: 5 Nuwara Eliya-Yala
- Day: 6: Yala-Galle-Bentota
- Day: 7: Bentota-Colombo
1. Sri Lanka travel route Colombo to Kataragama:
The maritime route connecting Colombo and Kataragama is beyond description in its aesthetic appeal. A cruise along the pristine coastlines of western and southern Sri Lanka would undoubtedly be enjoyable.
This is among the most traveled-by routes throughout the island. The route is extremely popular with both domestic and international tourists, as it passes through numerous intriguing locations. The south coast of Sri Lanka is a highly sought-after destination, and tourists who reserve south coast excursions follow this route.
There are numerous locations along this route that demand your attention. Therefore, allocate several extra hours for the sites on your itinerary. This route is extremely popular with international tourists because it leads to many of the island’s finest coastal resorts in southern Sri Lanka, including Bentota, Kalutara, Galle, and Hikkaduwa.
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Prominent Sri Lankan excursions along this route
Utilizing the A-2 along this route
From Colombo, the A-2 primary road is accessible along this section. The road from Colombo to Kataragama provides access to a number of intriguing tourist destinations in southern Sri Lanka, such as Hambantota, Unawatuna, Matara, and Tangalle. However, by bypassing Colombo city and traveling south to southern beach resorts via the southern expressway, passengers can reach these destinations from the Colombo International Airport in a substantial amount of time.
Using the southern expressway along this path
The inauguration of the southern expressway has roughly reduced travel time between Colombo and the south coast beaches by three hours. By roadways in Colombo, passengers can significantly reach beaches within three hours of their journey to the southern coast. To travel from Colombo to Kataragama in order to visit tourist attractions, one must utilize the standard coastal road.
Road Trip Conditions: The distance between Colombo and Kataragama is 284 kilometers, the route is situated in close proximity to the sea, and the average elevation throughout the journey is between one and three meters above sea level.
Although the route from Colombo to Kataragama passes through numerous points of interest, the beaches remain the epitome of this road journey from start to finish. Furthermore, the road remains accessible year-round and is in excellent condition. The trip takes approximately two days, including activities and sightseeing visits. November through April are the most favorable time to visit.
Places to stop on the travels route from Colombo to Kataragama:
- Gamgatilaka temple and Kalido seashore in Kalutara
- Beruwala: Kuchchimale
- Bentota: water sports center and Bentota beach
- Balapitiya: A sea turtle farm and Madu river safari
- Hikkaduwa: Hikkaduwa Beach, Marine Sanctuary,Mask Museum and Moonstones mines
- Galle: Galle Fortress
- Unawatuna: stilt fishermen at Unawatuna shore
- Weligama: Kustarajagala temple and Weligama shore
- Matara: Polhena beach, the star fort, whale and dolphin watching, and the blowhole
- Kataragama: the Kataragama temple and the Yala wildlife reserve
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
2. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Matara Expressway:
This is an exceptionally practical weekend entry point from Colombo. The majority of the local populace enjoys driving from Sri Lanka to Matara, which offers the ideal setting for a tranquil beach tour of the country. Observe whales and dolphins while beach-hopping along the coastline of Mirissa. The picturesque palm-lined beaches and rough, shallow waters of the Indian Ocean calm anxious nerves.
While taking in a coastal restaurant’s delectable seafood specialties, one can gaze upon the most enchanting sunset of the day. Therefore, individuals residing in close proximity to Colombo or any location along the west coast should prepare their belongings and embark on this indelible expedition.
Road Trip Condiment: The distance between Colombo and Matara via the expressway is 158 kilometers, and the total travel time is two hours (excluding the time needed to reach the entrance to the expressway). Two-wheeled vehicles are strictly prohibited on the expressway, which also imposes a speed limit of 100 kilometers per hour. November through April are the most favorable time to visit.
The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lankan travel route:
- Matara: Star Fort, the Hummany natural fountain, and Mirissa whale viewing
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
3. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya via Kitulgala:
An ideal itinerary for a three-day excursion in Sri Lanka’s tea country. In Nuwara Eliya, the graceful fusion of a meticulously landscaped tea garden in the hill country of Sri Lanka and cascading waterfalls of perennial waterways is a site to behold.
The sheer grandeur of the city astounds visitors. The awe-inspiring landscape en route from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy utterly enthralls the visitors.
It is an unforgettable road trip through Sri Lanka that will leave an indelible mark on your heart due to the winding roads, high elevation, and relaxing climate of the highlands.
It is a difficult ride that demands your utmost concentration as you traverse the mountainous terrain, but the allure of this Sri Lanka excursion obscures the unpredictability of the landscape. When traveling from Colombo or the airport to Nuwara Eliya, this is the most expedient mode of transportation. The journey is lengthy, but it is exceedingly pleasant as you traverse the verdant landscape.
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Conditions for a road trip: The route traverses 176 kilometers through mountainous terrain. The road ascends precipitously from Awissawella to Nuwara Eliya, reaching an elevation of 1800 meters above sea level. By including stops for sightseeing, the voyage will last approximately one day. November through April are the most favorable time to visit.
The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lanka travel route:
- Kitulgala: A hub for water rafting, trekking, bird watching, and other adventure activities
- Talawakele: St. Clares Falls and Devon Falls
- Nanuoya: Horton Plains National Park
- Nuwara Eliya: Ambewela farm, strawberry farm, Seetha Amman temple and Haggala garden
4. The route from Colombo to Arugam Bay via Kandy
At present, this road stands as one of the finest on the island, and I strongly advocate for your to embark on a journey along this magnificent road. Your voyage commences on the western coast and concludes at the widest point in Sri Lanka, on the eastern coast. Arugambay is a well-liked coastal resort in Sri Lanka, with its east coast location possibly contributing to its prominence. Arugam Bay features immaculate coastlines that are optimal for surfing and beachcombing. However, as a seasonal coastal resort, May, June, July, and October are the most favorable months to visit Aru Gam Bay. July is a favorable season to visit Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka, owing to the region’s arid and sunny climate.
The non-stop voyage will take approximately eight hours; therefore, factor in the duration of the tour, including all sightseeing stops and other intermissions. Journeying from Colombo to Arugambe is a highly regarded excursion among ardent road travelers in Sri Lanka. With a visit to significant tourist attractions, it is possible to reach Arugam Bay in two days if one possesses a considerable amount of driving endurance.
This journey to Sri Lanka by road will be both picturesque and jam-packed with unforgettable experiences. Mountains, escapements, sections of forest, beaches, and every other geographical feature present on the island will be encountered.
This Bibile route from Kandy to Arugambe is among the most picturesque forest excursions you will ever experience in Sri Lanka. Make arrangements for your road trip journey to traverse this verdant region in order to take in the clean, invigorating air.
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Conditions of the road trip: The road traverses 329 kilometers through the central mountain range. The expedition commences at lower-lying regions along the western coast and concludes at the beaches of the eastern coast. At the midpoint of the route, you will alight at a location that is 500 meters above mean sea level.
The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lanka travel route:
- Kandy: tooth relic temple, Peradeniya botanical garden
- Kegalle: Pinnawala elephant orphanage
- Arugam Bay: beach hopping
Significance of Visiting the Tooth Relic Temple:
In order to preserve their religious beliefs, all visitors to these hallowed locations are expected to dress in a specific way. When visiting Sri Lanka’s holy sites, visitors are expected to abide by a set of regulations. Check out this article, “13 RULES TO OBSERVE WHILE VISITING SRI LANKA BUDDHIST TEMPLE, SRI LANKA TEMPLE DRESS CODE TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH DRES’ CODE,” to find out what these regulations are.
5. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Anuradhapura via Puttalam
An extraordinary road journey of this nature through untamed wilderness and along pristine coastlines is beyond the comprehension of most tourists. As a result of the captivating blend of wildlife, coastal, cultural, and historical experiences, this road trip will be unforgettable. Everything in a single road trip! Prepare accordingly, then hit the road.
We advise, nevertheless, that you combine this route with a cultural triangle excursion in order to see Sigiriya and the other fascinating cities comprising Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.
This is a picturesque Sri Lankan travel route that traverses some of the central province’s least populated regions. Wild elephants are a distinct possibility of witness during the portion of your journey from Puttalam to Saliya wewa that you drive through the wildlife reserve.
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Conditions for a road trip: The road winds for 207 kilometers through northwest Sri Lanka before abruptly turning inside at Puttalam. The trip takes approximately four hours. Between Colombo and Puttalam, one may encounter moderate traffic; beyond that point, the road becomes deserted. After Puttalam, you will be required to traverse forested regions; therefore, exercise caution. Due to the presence of untamed elephants along this Sri Lanka travel route, nocturnal travel is not advised.
The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lanka travel route:
- Wilpattu: For a safari tour at the national park
- Negombo: For beach hopping
- Puttalam: Munneswarama and Manawari temple
- Anuradhapura: Historical monuments
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To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
6. Sri Lanka excursion from Colombo to Trincomalee via Dambulla
This is an additional well-traveled route from Colombo to the eastern coast of the nation of Sri Lanka. This is the most practical route for those traveling from the western and southern coastal communities of Sri Lanka to reach Trincomalee. The travelers forego traversing the central mountain range during this road journey, as their final destination is situated in the northeastern region of Sri Lanka.
Due to the high volume of visitors to the beaches of Trincomalee during the months of July, August, September, and October each year, this is a popular travel route among foreigners. Along the route of this extensively traveled road in Sri Lanka, one passes by numerous densely populated cities, including Dambulla and Kurunegala.
This route takes you to the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, a brief detour that grants you access to a number of significant structures within the triangle. This travel route is utilized by two popular tours for exploring Sri Lanka’s historical sites: the Sigiriya Dambulla tour from Colombo and the Cultural Triangle mini-tour.
As a consequence, this route will require roughly six hours to travel from Colombo to the east coast of Sri Lanka. You will pass through the densely forested region of Gal Oya National Park following your arrival in Habarana. As one navigates through the forest, the likelihood of encountering a family of untamed elephants is significantly increased. This road journey to Sri Lanka will be approximately six hours long and cover a total distance of 268 kilometers.
The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lanka travel route:
- Dambulla: Golden cave temple
- Kegalle: Pinnawala elephant orphanage
- Habarana: Minneriya safari
- Sigiriya: Visit Sigiriya rock fortress
- Sigiriya paintings
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
7. The Sri Lanka itinerary is Colombo to Kandy via Kegalle.
This is without a doubt the busiest travel route in Sri Lanka and one of the most popular road journeys, primarily because of its conclusion in Kandy. Kandy is widely recognized as a prominent UNESCO World Heritage Site within the country, while Landy itself boasts an abundance of intriguing attractions. Kandy is widely recognized as a prominent mountain travel destination owing to its abundance of visitor attractions. Every Sri Lankan tour program is reportedly required to include a visit to Kandy.
Kandy serves as the cultural epicenter and preeminent tourist destination of Sri Lanka. Kandy serves as the principal transportation hub of the central province, facilitating connections between pivotal cities and every corner of the nation. Thus, the majority of the roads leading to Kandy are extremely congested, particularly the road that connects Colombo and Kandy.
The road journey must be planned in consideration of the time lost in traffic. This Sri Lanka road trip to Kandy is a must-do for all tourists, and it provides a simple entry point from the majority of the nation. The journey is predominantly traversed through picturesque, verdant vegetation, rendering it an optimal locale for recuperating and relaxing.
Conditions for the road trip: You must travel 115 kilometers. Mountainous terrain causes this Sri Lanka road excursion to take approximately four hours to complete from Colombo to Kandy, which is a bit longer than usual. While embarking on one of the most photographic road journeys in Sri Lanka, keep in mind that your camera’s battery may die sooner than you expect.
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The following are some of the stops along this Sri Lanka travel route:
- Kegalle: To visit the Pinnawala elephant orphanage
- Mawanella: to visit Embekke Devala, Gadaladeniya
- Pilimathalawa: Tea factory
- Kelaniya: Kelaniya temple
- Peradeniya: Royal botanical garden
- Kandy: Temple of the Tooth Relic
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
8. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Rathnapura
This main road, which connects Colombo and Ratnapura and is scenic in nature, is among the most popular among nature enthusiasts in Sri Lanka and can rival most road excursions in the western province. Ratnapura, situated within a forested region, asserts its status as a constituent of the Sinharaja Rain Forest, which is regarded as the most valuable forest area in the nation. Those embarking on a Sinharja rainforest excursion package departing from Colombo may find this route to be the most advantageous.
As one approaches Ratnapura, the vegetation becomes more dense, and the enormous trees that line both sides of the road create a canopy. Because Ratnapura is a significant city on the island that receives a great deal of precipitation, it frequently submerges during the monsoon.
Examine the forecast prior to embarking on this road journey. In addition, allocate a minimum of two days for sightseeing in the vicinity; waterfalls, rainforests, trekking sites, museums, and much more can be found there.
Conditions for a road trip: This 75-kilometer segment will be completed in approximately two hours, which is ideal for an enjoyable journey. Early in the journey, there will be significant traffic congestion; however, this progressively dissipates as you approach Ratnapura; by the time the first half of the journey concludes, the road will be deserted.
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Several points of interest along this route include:
Rathnapura: Bopath Ella waterfall, saman Devala temple, Sinhraja, Sri Pada
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
9. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Bandarawela
This itinerary is suitable for a two- or three-day excursion in Sri Lanka. The name “Bandarawela” is widely recognized among Sri Lankan citizens and is also a popular destination for foreign travelers who are drawn to the region’s pleasant climate and breathtaking mountains. Nevertheless, Bandarawela is considered to be a tainted tourist destination in Sri Lanka by the majority of international visitors.
With its mountains, valleys, tea plantations, and forest sections, Bandarawela is among the most picturesque locations on the island. Bandarawela conceals an abundance of cascading waterfalls, some of which, like the Diyaluma Falls, are simply impossible to overlook.
The healing climate of Bandarawela, in which nighttime temperatures occasionally plummet to freezing, is the city’s most intriguing characteristic.The average daily temperature is approximately 25 degrees Celsius.
By far, this route from Ratnapura to Bandarawela entails the least amount of effort to traverse. This lesser-traveled Sri Lankan route is distinguished from the other popular Sri Lankan route (Colombo-Kandy-Ella-Bandarawela), which terminates at Bandarawela, by its conspicuous absence of traffic. You may accelerate, but exercise caution around the curves, as the road is in excellent condition.
The road primarily winds through rural regions, offering glimpses of a limited number of vibrant urban centers. Along the way, you also traverse picturesque valleys and mountains in order to take in the awe-inspiring scenery. For a significant portion of the drive, the verdant vegetation is dominated by tea plantations. However, in comparison to the majority of Sri Lanka’s most prominent travel routes, this upcountry road is quite narrow and becomes substantially steeper after Ratnapura.
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Conditions for the road trip: the distance is 190 kilometers. Due to the lack of traffic, the traffic moves swiftly in the beginning of the journey, but it becomes increasingly congested as you approach your destination. In order to avoid the sharp curves, you must sustain your speed. The journey will take approximately five hours. Coconut plantations, forest sections, rubber plantations, mountains, waterfalls, streams, and rivers line the extremely photogenic route.
Several points of interest along this route include:
- Ratnapura: Sman Devala temple and a gem museum
- Haputale: Adisham bungalow, Tangamale forest reserve, Haputale
- Bandarawela: cascades and tea plantations
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
10. Sri Lanka travel route from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota
This route from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota traverses the upcountry region of Sri Lanka and is among the most scenic travel routes in the country. It is extremely popular with both domestic and international tourists. This concludes a multi-day journey to Sri Lanka that typically encompasses the triangle, Kandy, tea country, and West Coast Beach, among other cultural destinations. This route leads to beaches on the southern or western coasts; tea country signifies Nuwara Eliya without exception.
The journey from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota is scenic, and the entire way is filled with verdant vegetation. Make your way westward from Nuwara Eliya to Hatton and Thalawakele. Both regions are renowned for their production of high-quality tea and feature breathtaking vistas, such as verdant hills, tranquil communities, cascades, streams, and expansive tea plantations. Sri Lanka’s Hatton and Talawakelle regions remain predominantly untamed, rendering them exceptionally favorable destinations for nature and trekking excursions. Along this route, you will also encounter Kitulgala, the adventure playground of Sri Lanka. Numerous exhilarating activities are available at this location, including waterfall abseiling, whitewater rafting, kayaking, rainforest trekking, and more.
This route from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota will take you 215 kilometers and take approximately 5 hours and 3 minutes to complete.
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Key points of interest along this route include:
- Hatton: St. Claires Tea Centre, St. Claires Fall, and Devon Fall
- Kitulgala: rainforest trekking, whitewater rafting, and additional adventure activities
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
11. Sri Lanka travel route from Colombo to Sigiriya
Sigiriya is without a doubt the most frequented historical structure on the island. On an average day, hundreds of thousands of individuals visit this UNESCO world heritage site, with holiday seasons in Sri Lanka being particularly hectic.
Daily trips to Sigiriya are provided by local tour operators, including Seerendipity Tours, and a significant number of international tourists schedule day trips from Colombo to Sigiriya. Travelers consider this to be one of the most sought-after routes in Sri Lanka on account of the historical significance of Sigiriya. This excursion can be extended to Polonnaruwa or continued to Kalkuda and Pasikudah in the east. Commencing from Colombo, the Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa Tour is a well-liked one-day excursion.
By far the most efficient method to travel from Colombo to Sigiriya, along the Colombo-Polonnaruwa main highway, is through Kurunegala. With the exception of significant metropolitan areas, the road is practically devoid of traffic congestion. This 175-kilometer Sri Lankan travel route traverses the northern arid zone of the
country for the most part.
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- Sigiriya frescos paintings
- Village Tour Sigiriya Sri Lanka
- Sigiriya rock fortress
- Observing Wild Elephants at Eco-park Sigiriya
Typically, this commences the journey of most tourists on multiday excursions of Sri Lanka, as they commence their journey by visiting historical monuments situated in the northern plain. approximate travel time between Colombo and Sigiriya is four to five hours.
The following are some sites along this route:
- Pinnawala elephant orphanage
- Kurunegala
- Dambulla golden cave temple
- Sigiriya rock fortress
- Ibbankatuwa historical site
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
12. Beach lovers’ route from Colombo to Mirissa on Sri Lankan travel itineraries
By embarking on this tranquil day journey from Colombo to the southern region of Sri Lanka, one traverses the coastal railway’s pathway. This railway system links renowned beach resorts with historic cities in Sri Lanka. There won’t be much tranquility during the height season, but there will be an abundance of sun-kissed sand and reasonable places to stay, dine, and surf.
Commence your expedition in Colombo, the historic capital of Sri Lanka, where you can dine at a five-star restaurant and explore the sanctuaries and markets. Then, proceed south to the shores of Bentota and Aluthgama, stopping en route to admire the breathtaking Brief Garden inland. This stretch of coastline is home to some of the most opulent Ayurvedic treatment resorts in all of Sri Lanka, for those with the financial resources. An additional day or two can be spent having fun in the water at Hikkaduwa, while an informative excursion to the island’s distinctive kolam customs can be had at Ambalangoda.
Galle, a World Heritage Site Galle was encircled by a fortification and a historic lighthouse, both of which were constructed by the Dutch colonizers. Following a sumptuous meal and a peaceful evening in the historic district, proceed to the beach resort of Unawatuna, the surfing meccas of Midigama and Weligama, and a stop at the Handunugoda Tea Estate en route to the distinctly Sri Lankan town of Matara.
Captivating locations discovered along the beach enthusiasts’ route
- Kalutara Beach
- Wadduwa Beach
- Bentota Beach
- Beruwala Beach
- Galle Fort
- Hikkaduwa Beach
- Mirissa Beach
- Herbal and spice gardens
- Madu estuary river
- Kande Vihara
- Project to conserve sea turtles
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
13. The tea-lover’s route from Colombo to Badulla through the hill country is one of the top Sri Lanka travel routes.
This route facilitates a road journey through the picturesque hill country of Sri Lanka. This is, in fact, the most frequently traversed rain-related route in Sri Lanka. This route features one of the most picturesque train journeys in the world.
This route provides sufficient evidence that Sri Lanka has much more to offer than its shores. The by-car journey from Colombo to the Hill Country, which includes one of the most picturesque train excursions in Sri Lanka, is equally breathtaking. Follow the A1 highway inland from the city center to reach Kandy, the location of the holiest temple in Sri Lanka. En route, make several photo stops.
Before proceeding to the true tea region, one may visit a number of picturesque temples and gardens on the outskirts of the city if they engage a driver and rent a car. As you travel along the mountain road to Nuwara Eliya, pass by estates such as Glenloch en route, which are adorned with jade-green tea fields. There is a vast selection of lodging options in Nuwara Eliya, spanning across a wide range of price tiers.
Proceed further along the awe-inspiring Horton Plains towards Haputale, the birthplace of tea magnate Sir Thomas Lipton, and make a detour to visit his factory located at Dambatenne en route. Continue winding past additional picturesque vistas until you reach Ella, where you can unwind at a guesthouse and dine on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. We’ll defer to your judgment regarding whether or not you wish to capture an Instagram photo of the Nine Arches Bridge on the periphery of the city.
Phenomenal locales visited along the Tea Lovers Route
- Pinnawala orphanage for elephants
- Kandy
- Peradeniya Garden
- Ella Hill Country Resort
- Hill Country Resort is located in Nuwara Eliya.
- The enamel of the tooth relic
- An idyllic cascade and a tea garden
- Horton Plains National Park
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
14. Sri Lanka travel route from Anuradhapura to Kandy is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts.
This intriguing itinerary leads to the most ancient structures within the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. If you are an adventurer with an interest in fauna, culture, history, religion, and rural life, then this is the ideal excursion for you.
Central Sri Lanka’s verdant lowlands stand in striking contrast to the island’s sunny reputation. In Sri Lanka, remnants of ancient Buddhist kingdoms dot the region, which is inhabited by hornbills and bee-eaters.
Two millennia after their construction, prayer continues in brick stupas the size of aircraft hangars in Anuradhapura, where your journey should commence. Visit the majestic monastic complex at Ritigala once you have paid your respects to Sri Maha Bodhi, a tree that sprouted from the seed of the tree beneath which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Take a break from the magnificent temples, statues, and antiquities that line Polonnaruwa by visiting the elephant-filled Minneriya National Park. Situated atop the rugged outcrop of Sigiriya, the derelict citadel residence of King Kassa sapa is reached via perilous stairs.
Travel south to Dambulla, where the dilapidated masonry has been replaced by vibrantly colored cave temples. In the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, where contemporary Sri Lankan Buddhism thrives, you should conclude your journey on a positive note.
Phenomenal locales encountered along the route for history and culture enthusiasts
- Anuradhapura Historic city
- Polonnaruwa, a historic city.
- Dambulla Golden temple
- Sigiriya rock fortress
- The enamel of the tooth relic
- Minenriya National Park
- Kaudulla Park National Park
- Eco-park
- Pidurangala temple
To make a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. Contact us via WhatsApp or phone at 0094774440977.
15. Wildlife enthusiast’s route from Mirissa to Aru Gam Bay in Sri Lanka
In addition to well-known and lesser-known national parks, this island-hopping excursion includes an offshore whale-watching expedition in pursuit of the largest wild mammal in Sri Lanka. In fact, that is the very first thing one does upon arrival at the Mirissa coastal resort. A native guide can lead you on foot through the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, where the avian inhabitants are the primary attraction inland.
Elephants can be observed in Uda Walawe National Park, which is less congested than Yala National Park, if you travel east. Return to the coast to observe birds at the dunes and lagoons of Bundala National Park. In order to reach Kumana National Park, an inland loop is necessary to enhance the likelihood of spotting a leopard. This undertaking becomes significantly more feasible with the assistance of a private vehicle and chauffeur, as opposed to depending on public transportation.
Spend the day surfing at Arugam Bay prior to retiring for the day.
Observations of interest along the wildlife enthusiast’s route
- Sinharaja Rianforest
- Udawalawe National Park.
- Yala National Park
- Bundala national Park
- Kumana National Park
- Kataragama temple
- Tissamaharama temple
16. Seven-day tour itinerary for Sri Lanka via southern route
The southern route of Sri Lanka is the most frequented by travelers. This travel route is also known as the “beaten path” of Sri Lanka. Over 75 percent of tourists who visit Sri Lanka utilize this route. From the south coast to the west coast beaches, and from Sri Lankan cultural triangles to hill country, this seven-day itinerary provides access to an abundance of diverse tourist destinations.
Typically, this route’s seven-day excursion begins in Colombo and commences with an en route stop at Anuradhapura, where visitors can explore a variety of ancient structures, including palaces, temples, gardens, and lakes. Subsequently, the tourists proceeded with their investigation of additional historical sites within the cultural triangle, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sigiriya rock citadel, Dambulla golden temple, and Polonnaruwa ancient city.
Tourists visit the tea country, waterfalls, gardens, and lakes in the hill country of Sri Lanka during the subsequent days of the seven-day excursion. They also have the opportunity to soak up the therapeutic atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya. Departing from Nuwara Eliya, the visitors descend to the southern coast beaches, ultimately arriving at Tissamaharama for the night and embarking on a safari at Yala National Park.
This seven-day excursion concludes with visits to beaches along the west coast, including Hikkaduwa, Bentota, and Kalutara, and an examination of the ancient colonial fort of Galle.
Sights of interest discovered along the southern route:
- Mihintale, Anuradhapura, and Aukana
- Polonnaruwa
- Sigiriya
- Dambulla
- Minneriya National Park
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Ella
- Yala
- Galle
- Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna and Bentota
When is the optimal moment to travel along the southern route by car?
The southern route of Sri Lanka is most favorable for travel from November to April. The majority of the nation remains arid and receives its daily measure of sunlight throughout these six months. The months of November through April have been favorable for beach vacationers, especially along the south and west coasts, due to the ebbs and flows. Numerous activities involving salt water, including boating, diving, snorkeling, and marine bathing, are all permitted in the ocean.
Should you be interested in making a reservation for a journey to Sri Lanka, kindly contact Seerendipity Tours via email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. or WhatsApp or call us at 0094774440977.