Mountains to Beaches: Sri Lanka's Beauty in two Weeks

This tour starts in Colombo, Sri Lanka

You will likely arrive at Bandaranaike International (CMB) in Colombo, located about 33 km away from Colombo. From the airport you can take a bus, train, taxi or rental car to Colombo.

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1 night

day 1 — day 2

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Colombo

City History

Colombo is an eccentric gateway into the small, beautiful, South Asian country of Sri Lanka. With a striking blend of lustrous skyscrapers, bustling street markets, and traditional, colonial-style buildings, Colombo is a vibrant hub for both culture and modern amenities. Visitors will find an abundance of shopping either at the markets or the high-end malls, as well as a lively street food scene. As for activities, there are many galleries, temples, and golden sand beaches to explore while in Sri Lanka’s capital city.

1

day 2

3 hrs · 120 km

Colombo

Kandy

transport.Train

Take the train from Colombo to Kandy

3 hrs · 120 km · $13.00

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1 night

day 2 — day 3

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Kandy

City History UNESCO

The second-largest city in Sri Lanka, Kandy, is the last capital of the ancient kings' dynasty in the country, which helps to explain the vast amount of historical, cultural, and religious sites which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. Visiting Kandy will surely leave you spoilt for choice as you decide whether to trek through the gorgeous green mountains, go back in time by visiting one of the museums, or take a relaxing stroll through the many parks and gardens that this lively city has to offer.

Experience the Sanctity of the Sacred Tooth Relic

Located in Kandy’s magnificent Royal Palace Complex, which is historically known to be the former Kingdom of Kandy and home to the Sinhalese Kings, this sacred temple is home to the most precious Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka – Buddha’s tooth, which is believed to have been brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century and is kept hidden away in a golden casket. Overlooking the silky-smooth Kandy Lake, the temple is beautifully designed with a gold roof and stunning interior bringing a sense of tranquility to Kandy.

Dance the Night Away at a Kandyan Dance Show

Kandyan dancing plays an important role in Sri Lankan culture and traditional dances are usually passed down from generation to generation. The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a popular Sri Lankan Arts, Dance & Cultural Heritage show. Witness remarkable performances that bring together all Sri Lankan dance types which are unique to each area on the island. Traditional Kandyan dances are performed using drums and decorative costumes. Become fascinated by the dancers’ mysterious movements of the cobra, colorful performance of the peacock and the impressive fire dance.

Take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya or Ella

Travelling by train is a great way to experience Sri Lanka and the scenic route between Kandy and Ella (via Nuwara Eliya) is rated as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world! You will pass charming villages and have sweeping views of the lush green tea plantations nestled against the steep hills of the region. There are several trains running each day and you can usually buy your tickets at the station office the same day. If you want to make sure you get your preferred seat (especially on weekends and holidays) we recommend booking online. Tip: For the best view, choose a seat on the right side of the train.

Train to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Station) ^{Partner link}

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2

1 night

day 3 — day 4

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Adam's Peak

Hiking Instagram Spot

Rising tall above the rolling emerald-green hills in Southwestern Sri Lanka stands one of the country’s most famous natural landmarks, Adam’s Peak. This conical mountain holds enchanting tales which ancient traditions amongst Buddhists, Muslims and Christians believe to be true about how the Sacred Footprint (Sri Pada) came into being at the very peak of the mountain. Should you take the challenge to climb the 5,500 steps and reach the top of the holy prominence in time for the rising sun, expect to be blown away by the beauty that awaits you.

3

2 nights

day 4 — day 6

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Ella

Hiking Instagram Spot Waterfall

This quaint little village rests on the side of a mountain in south-central Sri Lanka and is the perfect pit stop on your Sri Lanka itinerary. Although the town itself is small, you’ll still need a few days in order to explore the main attraction of Ella: the gorgeous surrounding landscape. You can hike to famous sights, do some exhilarating zip-lining, and get some great tours in, all using the small village of Ella as a basecamp.

4

day 6

4.5 hrs · 136 km

Ella

Udawalawe National Park

Bus

Travel from Ella to Udawalawe National Park using a combination of two bus transfers.

4.5 hrs · 136 km · $3.00

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1 night

day 6 — day 7

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Udawalawe National Park

Animals National park

Despite being a relatively small island, Sri Lanka is home to a remarkable 22 national parks and a visit to this beautiful island isn’t complete without taking a trip to Udawalawe National Park. The park was established in 1972 to provide a sanctuary for wild animals. As you are driven through the park you'll be completely blown away by its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. The park flaunts open plains, scrublands, wetlands, and mountainous areas. Catch elephants grazing on flat grasslands and taking a drink from the Udawalawe Reservoir.

5

day 7

2.5 hrs · 73 km

Udawalawe National Park

Yala National Park

Bus

Travel from Udawalawe National Park to Yala National Park using a combination of three bus transfers.

2.5 hrs · 73 km · $1.00

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1 night

day 7 — day 8

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Yala National Park

Animals National park

Immerse yourself in Yala’s beautiful surroundings of deep green forests, golden sandy beaches, and extensive lagoons by visiting Yala National Park in Sri Lanka. This popular nature reserve boasts an impressive variety of wildlife that’s hard to match. With so much to see and do in the park, you’ll be spoilt for choice. You may decide to indulge in some bird watching or leopard spotting, go glamping in the park, or visit one of the nearby beaches and temples.

6

day 8

5 hrs · 166 km

Yala National Park

Galle

Bus

Travel from Yala National Park to Galle by bus directly.

5 hrs · 166 km · $3.00

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1 night

day 8 — day 9

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Galle

Beach City History UNESCO

This charming old-style city in Sri Lanka is surrounded on all sides by a wall that locks in the city’s character and charm. It’s a great day visit but can also be done in a couple of days if you want to soak up the magic of this adorable place. The streets are lined with Dutch architecture and there’s a colorful scene around every corner. At dusk, the whole city stops and enjoys the sunset from the wall surrounding the town.

7

day 9

2 hrs · 54 km

Galle

Bentota

Bus

Travel from Galle to Bentota by bus directly.

2 hrs · 54 km · $1.00

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3 nights

day 9 — day 12

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Bentota

Beach

A stunning coastal town lined with luxurious hotels and resorts, let Bentota be a stop for rest and relaxation during your time in Sri Lanka. This popular beach resort area offers watersports, remarkable aquatic life, and splendid scenery all wrapped together with an easy-going, local ambiance. You can also find an abundance of nearby hikes and walks among gardens as well as a turtle conservation site where you can release newly hatched turtles into the sea.

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This tour ends in Bentota, Sri Lanka

You will likely depart from Bandaranaike International (CMB) in Colombo, located about 110 km away from Bentota. To get to the airport, you can take a taxi or rental car, bus or train.

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Sri Lanka 12 days Itinerary