14-Day Sri Lanka Adventure: A Road and Rail Trip Across the Island

Day 1: Explore Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Arrival & Breakfast

Begin your Sri Lankan adventure with a hearty breakfast at 'The Gallery Café', known for its beautiful ambiance and local dishes.
Travel from the airport to your hotel via taxi.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the National Museum

Dive into Sri Lankan history at the National Museum of Colombo, which holds a collection of artefacts from the country's past.
Drive to National Museum, approximately 15 minutes from the café.
LKR 1000, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Maharaja Bhawan

Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at Maharaja Bhawan, famous for its mixed curry plates.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
LKR 1500, 1 hour

3:30PM

Galle Face Green

Stroll along Galle Face Green, relaxing by the beach and watching kites and locals at play.
A short 10-minute drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Ministry of Crab

Savour some of the best crab in the country at this award-winning restaurant that blends tradition and innovation.
A 20-minute drive from Galle Face.
LKR 3000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Kandy

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel offering local flavours.
Morning drive to Kandy takes about 3.5 hours.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

10:30AM

Temple of the Tooth

Visit one of the most sacred places for Buddhists, the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the relic of Buddha's tooth.
Parking is available nearby.
LKR 1500, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Kandy House

Enjoy a meal at The Kandy House, where you can taste some local dishes in a heritage setting.
10-minute drive from the temple.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Royal Botanic Gardens

Wander through the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens, renowned for its collection of orchids and spices.
A short 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
LKR 1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cultural Show at the Kandy Cultural Centre

Experience traditional Sri Lankan dance and music in a vibrant cultural performance.
Drive back to Kandy town, about 20 minutes.
LKR 1000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Helga's Folly

Dine in an eccentric yet charming atmosphere at Helga's Folly, which serves fusion cuisine.
A 15-minute drive from the cultural centre.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore Kandy

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Kandy House

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before venturing out.
Start your day at The Kandy House's restaurant.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Udawattekele Sanctuary

Explore this serene forest reserve right next to Kandy, known for its diverse flora and fauna.
10-minute drive to the sanctuary.
LKR 500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Divine Street

Indulge in local coffee and pastries at a charming café in Kandy.
Return to town, about 15 minutes.
LKR 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Kandy Lake Boat Ride

Relax with a scenic boat ride on Kandy Lake, surrounded by greenery and temples.
Walk from the café, around 10 minutes.
LKR 600, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Climb to see the impressive Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Kandy.
A 15-minute walk up the hill.
LKR 300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Olde Empire

Experience local Sri Lankan cuisine in a vintage colonial setting for dinner.
15-minute drive to the restaurant.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

A final breakfast in Kandy before departing.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Nuwara Eliya

Board the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya, taking in the breathtaking views of the tea plantations.
Walk to Kandy Station, around 15 minutes.
LKR 700, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Grand Hotel

Relish a delightful lunch at the iconic Grand Hotel, set in a beautiful colonial building.
Short taxi ride from the station.
LKR 2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Tea Plantation

Explore a local tea plantation, learning about tea production and sampling fresh brews.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
LKR 1000, 2 hours

5:30PM

Explore Nuwara Eliya Town

Wander through Nuwara Eliya's charming town centre, visiting little shops and enjoying the cool climate.
A short drive into town, around 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Hill Club

Enjoy a colonial-style dinner experience at the famous Hill Club.
A 10-minute drive from the town centre.
LKR 3000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Adventure in Ella

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with a breakfast at your Nuwara Eliya hotel before today's adventures.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Ella

Set off on a short drive to Ella, passing through beautiful hills and tea estates.
Approximately a 1 hour drive.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hike to Ella Rock

Engage in a thrilling hike to Ella Rock, offering stunning views of the valley.
Start the hike from Ella town, taking the main trail.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Chill Cafe

Grab a satisfying meal at Chill Cafe, well-known for its healthy options and smoothie bowls.
Return to Ella town, about 30 minutes.
LKR 1500, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Nine Arches Bridge

Enjoy the magnificent Nine Arches Bridge, an impressive piece of colonial architecture nestled in the hills.
10-minute drive to the bridge.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The View Ella

Savour a delightful dinner at The View with stunning sunset views over the mountains.
15-minute drive from the bridge.
LKR 2500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Beach Life in Galle

Galle, Sri Lanka

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before heading to the coast.
Included in the hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Galle

Enjoy the scenic drive to Galle, as you make your way south to the coastal town.
Approximately a 2.5 hour drive.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Galle Fort

Wander through the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkable architecture.
Paid parking is available at the entrance.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Fort Printers

Savour tasty local cuisine at The Fort Printers, positioned within the fort.
Just a short walk within the fort.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Maritime Museum

Learn about Galle's maritime history at the Galle Maritime Museum.
About a 10-minute walk from lunch.
LKR 1000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Closenberg Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing dinner by the beach at The Closenberg Hotel.
Short drive from the museum around 15 minutes.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Beach Day at Mirissa

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at your Galle hotel this morning.
Included in the hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Mirissa

Head to the beautiful beach town of Mirissa, a popular destination for sun, sand, and surf.
About a 30-minute drive.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Beach Time

Relax on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach, swimming and sunbathing.
A short walk to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Paragon

Taste fresh seafood at Paragon, a beachside gem serving delicious dishes.
A short walk from the beach.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Join an exciting whale watching tour in the waters off Mirissa.
Tours typically depart from the beach area.
LKR 5000, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Doctors House

End your day with a relaxing dinner at The Doctors House, overlooking the ocean.
A 10-minute drive from the tour return point.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
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Day 8: Adventure at Yala National Park

Yala, Sri Lanka

6:00AM

Early Breakfast

Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel before heading out early to Yala.
Pack light and enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

7:00AM

Travel to Yala National Park

Depart for Yala, known for its incredible wildlife and nature.
A 2.5 hour drive from Mirissa.
Free, 2.5 hours

9:30AM

Safari at Yala

Embark on an exhilarating morning safari, searching for leopards, elephants, and various birds.
Join a safari tour operator upon arrival.
LKR 5000, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yala Safari Camp

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Yala Safari Camp after your morning adventure.
On-site dining at the safari camp.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Afternoon Safari at Yala

Continue exploring Yala National Park on an afternoon safari.
Same tour operator as the morning safari.
Included in safari package., 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Yala Safari Camp

A casual dinner at the camp after an adventurous day.
Enjoy dinner at the same location.
Included in package, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relaxing in Tangalle

Tangalle, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yala Safari Camp

Enjoy breakfast as you take a moment to reflect on yesterday's adventures.
Breakfast served at the camp.
Included in package, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Tangalle

Set off towards Tangalle for some beach relaxation.
A 1 hour drive from Yala.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive in Tangalle, check in at your hotel and settle in.
Directly to the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Beach Time at Tangalle Beach

Enjoy the pristine beach at Tangalle, swimming and basking in the sun.
A short walk from the hotel.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Tangalle Beach Resort

Enjoy some local coastal dishes at this beachside restaurant.
On-site dining at the resort.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Mulkirigala Rock Monastery

Explore the historic rock monastery with stunning views over the coastline.
A 30-minute drive from Tangalle.
LKR 500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Nature Hotel

Savour dinner at this eco-friendly hotel with delightful local dishes.
Return back to Tangalle, approximately 30 minutes.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Historical Sigiriya

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have breakfast at your Tangalle hotel before the journey to Sigiriya.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Sigiriya

Drive to Sigiriya, making your way towards the ancient fortress.
Approximately a 2.5 hour drive.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Embark on a climb up to Sigiriya Rock Fortress for breathtaking views and insight into ancient history.
Parking available at the base.
LKR 5000, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Sigiriya Village Hotel

Refuel with a delicious buffet lunch at the Sigiriya Village Hotel.
Short drive from Sigiriya rock.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Dambulla Cave Temple

Explore the stunning cave temple complex with impressive Buddha statues and murals.
About a 30-minute drive.
LKR 1500, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Hotel Sigiriya

Delight in dinner at The Hotel Sigiriya, known for its serene atmosphere and good food.
A 15-minute drive from Dambulla.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Ancient Wonders of Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before setting off to Anuradhapura.
Included in hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Anuradhapura

Drive north to explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, filled with ancient temples and stupas.
Approximately a 2.5 hour drive.
Free, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Ancient Ruins

Wander around the impressive ruins, including the Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a significant pilgrimage site.
On-site parking available.
Free, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Heritage Hotel

Enjoy a delicious local buffet at The Heritage Hotel, conveniently located.
Short drive from the ruins.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Isurumuniya Vihara

See the ancient rock temple with delightful carvings and a peaceful setting.
About 10-minute drive.
LKR 500, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore the Archaeological Museum

Discover artifacts and exhibits detailing the ancient civilization of Anuradhapura.
A short drive from Isurumuniya.
LKR 1000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Palm Garden Village

Savour a delicious dinner in a tranquil setting, rounding off an insightful day.
About a 15-minute drive.
LKR 2000, 2 hours
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Day 12: Explore Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your Anuradhapura hotel.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Polonnaruwa

Drive to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Approximately a 2 hour drive.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Ancient Ruins

Visit the impressive ruins of Polonnaruwa, including the Gal Vihara rock temple.
On-site parking available.
LKR 2500, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at the Polonnaruwa Rest House

Refuel with a delicious lunch at the Rest House.
Short drive from the ruins.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit Parakrama Samudra

See the massive ancient reservoir known as Parakrama Samudra, a marvel of engineering.
About 5-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Lake View Restaurant

End your day with a scenic dinner at The Lake View Restaurant, overlooking the reservoir.
A short 10-minute drive.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Dambulla Cave Temples

Dambulla, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before taking a short journey to the Dambulla Cave Temples.
Included in hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Dambulla

Drive to Dambulla, visiting the Cave Temples that feature impressive Buddha statues.
Only 20-minute drive.
Free, 20 minutes

9:30AM

Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples

Explore the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Parking is available at the cave entrance.
LKR 1500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Paradise Garden Restaurant

Have a delightful lunch surrounded by beautiful gardens.
A short drive from the temples.
LKR 1500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the town of Dambulla

Wander the town of Dambulla, taking in local culture and life.
A 15-minute walk into town.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Sigiriya

Travel back to Sigiriya for your final night in Sri Lanka.
Approximately a 30-minute drive.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Hotel Sigiriya

Savour your final dinner in Sri Lanka amidst the stunning views of Sigiriya Rock.
A 15-minute drive from town.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Departure and Last Views of Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Sigiriya

Everything starts with a fulfilling breakfast before the journey back.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
Included in hotel, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel Back to Colombo

Make your way back to Colombo for your departure.
Approximately a 4-hour drive.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mango Tree

Savour a final meal at The Mango Tree, serving authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
A 15-minute drive from your hotel.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Last Minute Shopping at Pettah Market

Enjoy your last hours shopping at Pettah Market, bustling with energy.
A 20-minute drive to Pettah.
Free (cost dependent on purchases), 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure from Colombo

Reflect on your amazing journey as you head to the airport for your flight home.
A 30-minute drive to the airport.
Free, 30 minutes
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