Road Trip at Sri Lanka
Embark on a mesmerizing road trip through Sri Lanka, where scenic wonders unfold at every turn. Drive along lush tea plantations, explore ancient ruins in Anuradhapura, and relax on pristine beaches. Encounter diverse cultures, visit historic sites like Sigiriya, and savor local cuisine. Sri Lanka's roads weave tales of adventure and discovery, promising an unforgettable journey.
Colombo to Matara
This easy excursion south from Colombo follows the path of the coastal railway, linking historic cities with some of Sri Lanka’s most famous beach resorts. You won’t find too much peace and quiet in peak season, but you will find plenty of sun-smooched sand and good places to stay, eat and catch a wave.
Location: Colombo–Matara; 133 km (83 miles)
Colombo to Badulla
It’s not all about beaches in Sri Lanka. The trip inland from Colombo to the Hill Country is one of Sri Lanka’s most evocative rail journeys, and it’s just as impressive by road. Starting from the capital and taking regular stops to look out over the scenery, trace the A1 highway inland to higher ground and the sacred city of Kandy, home to Sri Lanka’s most revered temple.
Location: Colombo–Ella; 240km (145 miles)
Negombo to Jaffna
Travelling from Negombo to Jaffna via this scenic route offers a diverse array of attractions along the way. Explore the Dutch ruins in Negombo (Western Province), stroll along the Dutch canal, and then move on to the historic city of Anuradhapura.
Location: Negombo-Anuradhapura-Wilpattu-Mannar-Jaffna
Colombo to Kandy
Drive from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, and in four hours, you'll move from tropical heat to sweatshirt weather. Make a stop at the tea plantations and visit a tea factory en route to Nuwara Eliya for a taste of Sri Lanka’s tea country.
Location: Colombo-Nuwara Eliya-Horton Plains-Ella-Kandy
Udawalawe to Wasgamuwa
The world is well aware of Sri Lanka's exotic wildlife. The southern Sri Lankan wildlife hotspots are a popular destination for safaris. Udawalawe National Park is a place you shouldn't miss if you have a fondness for elephants. One can see herds of elephants in their natural habitat here. Furthermore, one can witness several rare bird species, including the Indian Short-toed Snake Eagle.
Location: Udawalawe-Sinharaja-Yala-Bundala
Anuradhapura to Kandy
This route offers a remarkable journey through the island’s rich cultural and historical legacy. Start at the ancient city of Anuradhapura, where daily prayers are still held at two-millennia-old brick stupas the size of aeroplane hangars. This ancient capital has several stupas and temples, such as the Ruwanwelisaya and Thuparamaya. The sacred Maha Bodhi tree, the location of the entry of Buddhism into Sri Lanka, can also be found here.
Location: Anuradhapura-Polonnaruwa-Sigiriya-Kandy
