Sri Lanka is compact, but roads are slow. In a week you can see its three faces, the ancient cities, the tea hills and the coast, if you choose your bases well.
Days 1–2: the cultural triangle
Fly into Colombo and drive about four hours to Sigiriya & Dambulla. Climb the rock fortress early on day two, then visit the Dambulla cave temples. If it is the right season, take an evening jeep safari at Minneriya to see elephants.
Day 3: Kandy
Drive to Kandy, about two and a half hours, stopping at a spice garden. Visit the Temple of the Tooth for the evening puja and walk around Kandy Lake.
Day 4: the scenic train to the hills
Take the train from Kandy through tea country to Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) or continue to Ella. Book reserved seats early; they sell out. Visit a tea factory in the afternoon.
Day 5: Ella
Walk to Little Adam's Peak and see the Nine Arches Bridge. Time your visit to watch a train cross.
Days 6–7: the south coast
Drive down to Galle (about four to five hours) or a beach base such as Mirissa or Unawatuna. Walk Galle Fort's ramparts at sunset. From November to April, consider a whale-watching trip from Mirissa. Return to Colombo by expressway for your flight.
Simpler alternative for families
Skip the train and Ella. Spend two nights in Kandy and three on the beach at Bentota. Driving distances are shorter and the pace is easier.
Tips
- Season: December to April for this route. See Best time to visit Sri Lanka: two monsoons, always a dry coast.
- Temples: cover shoulders and knees and remove hats and shoes.
- Money: carry cash for small shops and tuk-tuks.
See ready-made routes on our Sri Lanka page.
When to go
When to go
When to go
When to go