Journey examples - Private driver Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an island of contrasts: from ancient temples and lush tea plantations to tropical beaches and thrilling safaris. The route you choose depends on the experiences you’re looking for. Will you explore the classic highlights of the south and inland, discover the untouched east coast, or venture into the cultural north and scenic highlands?
Below, you’ll find a selection of routes for inspiration.

Example roundtrip 1: Most popular

Day 1–2: Negombo – Arrival by plane, beach & time to acclimatize
Day 3: Wilpattu National Park – Safari adventure
Day 4: Anuradhapura – Ancient city exploration
Day 5–6: Habarana / Sigiriya – Lion Rock & Dambulla Cave Temples
Day 7–8: Kandy – Temple of the Tooth & cultural show
Day 9: Train to Nuwara Eliya – Scenic ride through tea plantations
Day 10–11: Ella – Train journey, Nine Arches Bridge & hikes
Day 12–13: Yala – Safari experience
Day 14–16: Galle / South Coast – Galle Fort, relaxation & journey’s end

Example roundtrip 2: More beach oriented

Day 1–2: Negombo – Beach & time to settle in
Day 3–4: Sigiriya / Dambulla – Lion Rock & Cave Temples
Day 5–6: Kandy – Temple of the Tooth & cultural highlights
Day 7–8: Arugam Bay – Surfing & relaxation
Day 9–10: Ella – Mountain village, hikes & Nine Arches Bridge
Day 11: Udawalawe – Safari adventure
Day 12–14: Mirissa / Unawatuna – Beaches, whale watching & trip finale

Example roundtrip 3: Discovering the north

Day 1–2: Negombo – Arrival, beach & time to settle in
Day 3–4: Anuradhapura – Ancient capital & temples
Day 5–6: Jaffna – Culture, islands & unique cuisine
Day 7–8: Trincomalee – Snorkeling & beaches
Day 9–11: Kandy / Nuwara Eliya / Ella – Nature, tea country & scenic train journey
Day 12–13: Yala – Safari adventure
Day 14–15: South Coast – Relaxation by the beach & trip finale