Sri Lankan Tourist Map overview
Capital Coast and Hill Country
Begin your journey in Colombo, where you can explore bustling markets and vibrant Buddhist temples. From here, take the Southern Expressway south to Galle, reaching the historic 17th-century Dutch Fort in no time. Wander through the fort’s charming streets and soak in its colonial history.
From Galle, head to the beaches for some relaxation. Tangalle boasts a serene and uncrowded stretch of sand with a growing selection of stylish beachside accommodations.
Next, venture inland to Udawalawe National Park, where herds of elephants and a variety of wildlife await. From there, take a scenic drive into the heart of the Hill Country and spend a few days in Ella, a traveler’s haven with cool mountain air and breathtaking views. Explore nearby waterfalls and mountain peaks before embarking on one of the world’s most scenic train rides to Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England.” Discover tea plantations, colonial charm, and the iconic city of Kandy with its sacred temples and botanical gardens.
Conclude your journey by heading back to Colombo or the airport, with unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes.
Hilltops and Beaches
Start your adventure in Colombo, immersing yourself in the city’s energetic atmosphere. Then, head to Kitulgala, a gateway for white-water rafting, jungle hikes, and birdwatching along the Kelani River.
From Kitulgala, travel to the misty towns of Hatton, Dikoya, and Maskeliya in the Hill Country. Indulge in single-estate teas and stay in luxurious, colonial-era bungalows surrounded by scenic tea plantations.
Make your way east to Ella for hiking, breathtaking views, and delicious home-cooked Sri Lankan meals at cozy guesthouses. Travel southeast to Monaragala, a low-key gateway to Sri Lanka’s eastern treasures. Visit the ancient Buddhist site of Yudaganawa and the towering 11-meter-tall Buddha statue at Maligawila.
Continue to Arugam Bay, a laid-back surfers’ paradise with excellent seafood and fewer crowds than the southern beaches. After a few days at the beach, head inland via Monaragala to Wellawaya, where you can marvel at Buduruwagala, home to Sri Lanka’s tallest standing Buddha statue.
Descend to Kataragama, a sacred pilgrimage site, and visit Tissamaharama, home to one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and most revered stupas. From here, explore Yala National Park, known for its leopards, elephants, and other iconic wildlife. End your journey by beach-hopping along the south coast, stopping at Tangalle and Mirissa, the latter being a prime spot for whale-watching.
Emerging Sri Lanka (North)
The once-isolated northern regions of Sri Lanka are now open to visitors, offering a warm welcome and unique experiences.
Begin your trip at Kalpitiya, known for its pristine beaches, spectacular kitesurfing, and reef diving. Then, head to Wilpattu National Park, a serene and less-visited treasure home to Sri Lanka’s iconic wildlife.
Next, explore Mannar, a tranquil island-like peninsula with white sandy beaches and stunning natural beauty. From Mannar, travel to Jaffna, a city bearing the scars of war but also radiating rich Tamil culture and charm. Wander the shady backstreets to find temples like Naguleswaram Shiva Kovil, which dates back to the 6th century BCE, and visit Keerimalai Spring, a sacred site with legendary bathing pools.
Make your way to Point Pedro, a quiet coastal town with colonial relics and a stretch of incredibly white sand beaches. From Jaffna, explore nearby islands such as Nainativu, accessible by ferry, where Buddhist and Hindu temples draw pilgrims. Another ferry ride will take you to Neduntivu (Delft), a windswept island at the end of the road, home to wild ponies and unspoiled beauty.
The north offers a unique blend of history, culture, and serene landscapes, making it an unforgettable part of your Sri Lankan journey.
