Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip Itinerary
The Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip is an exciting journey through the country's beautiful landscape. The trip starts in Colombo and covers a distance of about 1154km, taking approximately 14 days to complete. The best time of the year to drive is from December to April when the weather is warm and dry.
Along the route, you will come across many historical sites, landscapes, and UNESCO Heritage Monuments. Sightseeing spots include Pinnawala, Trincomalee, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, and Kataragama. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts can be narrow and curvy.
This road trip offers an unforgettable experience and a chance to make wonderful memories. It is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed with a reasonable budget.
14
number of days
1,146 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the left
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Colombo
Distance 1,146 km
Driving time 28.9 h
Pace: slow
263.7 kWh
Airports
CMB
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RML
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Colombo, the charming capital of Sri Lanka, is the ideal starting point for the "Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip". Located in the western part of the country, Colombo is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions.
To start your journey, visit the iconic Viharamahadevi Park, a lush green park in the city center. Here you can wander through the gardens, enjoy the serenity of the lake, or view the ruins of the ancient Buddhist temple. The National Museum of Colombo is also worth a visit; it houses a collection of artifacts from the country’s long history.
For the beach lovers, there are plenty of options to choose from. The beaches of Kalutara, Mt. Lavinia, and Negombo are all close by. Be sure to explore the nearby Dutch fort of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The closest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport (IATA: CMB), located just 30 kilometers north of the city. Car rentals are available at the airport and are a great way to explore the surrounding area.
So, get ready to embark on your two-week Sri Lanka road trip and start in Colombo. With its lively atmosphere and many attractions, it is sure to be a memorable journey!
1
Colombo
- Pinnawala
Distance 87 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: slow
20.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a magical road trip starting from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Pinnawala, a journey of only 94 km and less than 3 hours of driving. As you hit the road, you’ll find yourself winding through the lush green countryside, admiring the breathtaking views of the hills and the distant ocean. Stop at the historical sites along the way and take in the beauty of the local culture and architecture. You'll find the road narrow in some sections, so please pay attention and drive with care. On the way, you can also take a break and enjoy the local cuisine, visit some of the waterfalls and take in the sights of the wildlife at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. All these attractions, and more, await you on this road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Colombo to Pinnawala road trip today!
Pinnawala - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Pinnawala
- Anuradhapura
Distance 138 km
Driving time 3.1 h
Pace: modest
35.9 kWh
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Embark on a fantastic road trip from Pinnawala to Anuradhapura and take in some of the most interesting places in Sri Lanka! This 138km journey will take you just under three hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to admire the beautiful scenery. Keep an eye out for the majestic Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You’ll also pass through some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning landscapes, so be sure to take your camera! The roads may be narrow in sections, but you’ll be rewarded with a great view. For the ultimate road trip experience, you can find more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route in the Itinerary section of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for a thrilling journey!
Anuradhapura - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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3
Anuradhapura
- Trincomalee
Distance 110 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
28.5 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Anuradhapura to Trincomalee? This 110 km drive usually takes less than 3 hours and will take you through some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Sri Lanka. Along the way, you will be able to see some of the UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Anuradhapura, Sri Maha Bodhi, and Thuparama Dagoba. You'll enjoy the narrow roads that wind through the beautiful and lush countryside, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning views. Don't forget to stop at some of the local attractions, such as the cultural center in Anuradhapura, and the hot springs in Trincomalee. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Let's hit the road and explore!
Trincomalee - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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4
Trincomalee
- Polonnaruwa
Distance 109 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: modest
28.4 kWh
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Embark on a thrilling road trip from Trincomalee to Polonnaruwa, a 109 km journey that should take no more than three hours. Along the way, you will get to witness some of the most beautiful landscapes in Sri Lanka and explore some of its most treasured UNESCO Heritage Sites. The road is quite narrow in sections, so be sure to keep your eyes open for any oncoming traffic. You'll get to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire its many ruins. As you drive, you'll be able to see the cultural and religious sites of Trincomalee, including the Koneswaram Temple and the Thirukoneswaram Shiva Temple. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the 'Itinerary' of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you explore the best of Sri Lanka!
Polonnaruwa - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Polonnaruwa
- Sigiriya
Distance 55 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
14.2 kWh
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Embark on a road trip adventure from Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya! This journey takes less than two hours to travel 55 km, and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and interesting historical sites.
You'll be travelling through the countryside, where you'll have the opportunity to observe the local culture and stunning landscapes. Along the way, you will pass some of Sri Lanka's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sacred City of Polonnaruwa and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The road is narrow in some sections, so be sure to take extra care when driving.
This journey is part of a larger tour, and more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route can be found in the Itinerary of this stage. So strap yourself in and enjoy the ride!
Sigiriya - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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6
Sigiriya
- Kandy
Distance 89 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: slow
20.4 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Sigiriya to Kandy, Sri Lanka. In just under three hours, you can cover the 89 km distance and witness some of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Along the way, you'll see the historical Sigiriya rock fortress, the breathtakingly beautiful Dambulla Cave Temple, the majestic Matale Hindu Temple, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree in Anuradhapura. The winding roads will take you to the serene Victoria Reservoir, and you'll also pass by quaint villages, lush forests, and picturesque landscapes that will take your breath away. Don't forget to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy to complete your journey. Enjoy the journey as you take in the sights, sounds, and smells of Sri Lanka, and don't forget to take lots of pictures! For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Kandy - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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7
Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
Distance 81 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: slow
18.6 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya! This 81km journey, taking no more than three hours to complete, will take you through lush green tea plantations, rolling hills, and some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful landscapes. Along the route, you’ll find many historical sites, including the Royal Palace of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The roads are winding and sometimes narrow, so pay attention and keep your eyes peeled for stunning views. Be sure to stop at one of the many tea plantations for a cup of the delicious local brew. On your way, take a break at the breathtaking Ramboda Falls, or the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club, built in 1889. For the more adventurous, there are plenty of trails to explore. Before you reach Nuwara Eliya, don’t miss out on the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Gardens. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready to explore the breathtaking sights of Sri Lanka!
Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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8
Nuwara Eliya
- Yala N.P.
Distance 154 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: slow
35.5 kWh
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Are you looking for a spectacular road trip journey? Look no further! Starting in Nuwara Eliya and ending in Yala National Park, this 154 km drive will take you less than 4 hours. Along the way, you will be able to appreciate the stunning mountain views, the lush green tea plantations, and the winding roads. Be aware that there might be steep ramps and narrow sections, so pay extra attention when driving. The journey will let you experience some of the most spectacular sights of Sri Lanka. Make sure to stop at the Gregory Lake, where you can enjoy a boat ride and the Hakgala Botanical Garden, where you can admire the beautiful blooming flowers. You can also take a break at the Ramboda Waterfall, where you can appreciate the mesmerizing view. For a unique experience, explore the Yala National Park, where you can spot wild animals and admire the breathtaking landscapes. More information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Start packing and get ready for this amazing road trip journey!
Yala N.P. - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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9
Yala N.P.
- Kataragama
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: slow
3.6 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip journey from Yala National Park to Kataragama! This short 16 km route will take you less than an hour to drive, and you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Sri Lanka's beautiful scenery. As you drive, be sure to take in the picturesque views of the narrow sections of the road. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit some of the most interesting places, such as the sacred Kirivehera Temple, the impressive Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, and the ancient Magul Maha Vihara. When you get to Kataragama, don't miss the chance to visit the famous Kataragama Temple and explore the surrounding area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along your route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Yala National Park to Kataragama!
Kataragama - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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10
Kataragama
- Hambantota
Distance 47 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
12.2 kWh
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Embark on a wonderful road trip from Kataragama to Hambantota and experience stunning scenery on the way! This 47km drive will take you less than two hours, so you can fit in some sightseeing along the way. Make sure to take in the picturesque landscapes, and the scenic road. As you drive, you'll pass through lush vegetation and vast paddy fields, as well as through the sacred city of Kataragama. Keep an eye out for the magnificent Yoda Ella Waterfall, which is a must-see! You'll also get to explore the town of Hambantota, which is full of interesting attractions, such as the Hambantota fort and the historical cemetery. If you want to learn more about the local culture, visit the beach for some traditional dance performances. For more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please take a look at the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!
Hambantota - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - pixabay
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11
Hambantota
- Dondra
Distance 80 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: slow
18.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Hambantota to Dondra, an 80 km drive that will take you less than 2 hours. Enjoy picturesque landscapes and scenic roads as you make your way to the beautiful coastal town of Dondra. Along the way, pause for a few minutes to take in the view of the Pigeon Island National Park, a beautiful paradise for snorkelers and beach-lovers alike. Then, make sure to visit the Kataragama Temple, a sacred place of worship that houses Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic faiths. Finally, stop at the star-shaped Fort Fredrick, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Don't forget to also check out the beautiful beaches of Mirissa and Tangalle, where you can enjoy some of the best sunsets in Sri Lanka. With so much to explore, this road trip from Hambantota to Dondra is sure to be an unforgettable experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Dondra - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - Pixabay
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12
Dondra
- Galle
Distance 52 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
12.0 kWh
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Embark on a road trip of discovery from Dondra to Galle, in Sri Lanka. This 52km stretch of road can be completed in less than two hours, and offers a wealth of experiences for the intrepid explorer. Along the way, take in some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, such as the Dutch Fort in Galle. For those looking for a picturesque view, the landscape will not disappoint. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the scenery, and the road is lined with lush trees and rolling hills. However, be aware that some sections of the road are quite narrow, so caution is advised. As you travel, don’t forget to keep an eye out for any hidden historical gems, as well as any local restaurants or accommodation options. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Galle - Sri Lanka - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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13
Galle
- Colombo
Distance 130 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
39.1 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Galle to Colombo, an exciting 130 km journey that will take you less than 3 hours! As you move along the route, don't miss the chance to visit some of Sri Lanka's most iconic destinations. In Galle, take a stroll through the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you head up north, make sure you visit the stunning Hiyare Reservoir, a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the serene views of the lake. Don’t forget to also explore the beautiful Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, where you can see endangered turtles and learn more about their conservation. As you reach Colombo, take some time to explore the vibrant city and visit some of its most famous sites such as the Galle Face Green, the National Museum, and the Gangaramaya Temple. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Colombo
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The final destination of the "Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip" is Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. This bustling city is a perfect end to an amazing two week journey.
Colombo has plenty to offer to travelers. The iconic Galle Face Green is a must-see for tourists. This vast urban park spans across a large stretch of shoreline, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The Old Dutch Hospital is also a great place to visit, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past. History buffs should also check out the National Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient and modern history of Sri Lanka.
For those looking for a place to relax, the Viharamahadevi Park is a perfect spot. This lush green park is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are also plenty of shopping opportunities in Colombo. The Pettah Market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, while the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct is also a great spot to find some unique items.
Those traveling by air can fly to the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). From there, you can experience the rest of Colombo's attractions.
No matter what you're looking for, Colombo is sure to have something to offer. With its fascinating history, stunning views, and plenty of shopping opportunities, Colombo is the perfect end to the "Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip".
Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Colombo
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End:
Colombo
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Distance:
1,146 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Bandaranaike International Colombo Airport (CMB),
Colombo Ratmalana Airport (RML)
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When to drive:
January, February, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip, a breathtaking 1154km sojourn that weaves through the nation's mesmerizing landscapes and millennia-old cultural heritage. Starting in the bustling city of Colombo, you'll spend 14 days immersing yourself in a diverse array of environments—from humid rainforests to cool highlands—each with its own story.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Pinnawala: Visit the renowned Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe these gentle giants and learn about conservation efforts.
- Trincomalee: Relax on sublime beaches and discover the Koneswaram Temple, dramatically perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean.
- Sigiriya: Climb to the ancient rock fortress, a testament to Sri Lanka's sophisticated ancient urban planning, and marvel at the surrounding landscapes from the summit.
- Nuwara Eliya: Nicknamed 'Little England', this region is famed for its lush tea plantations and British-style gardens, with a cool climate resembling a spring day in Europe.
- Kataragama: Experience the spiritual ambiance of this sacred town, which attracts devotees from various religions to its revered temple complex.
Best Time to Go:
Opt for travel between December and April when Sri Lanka's weather is most favorable—warm and dry—creating perfect conditions for both sightseeing and Road travel.
Potential Risks:
Be prepared for narrow, winding Roads, particularly in the hill country. Exercise caution and be vigilant for pedestrians and wildlife crossings.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Sri Lanka's Roads are lined with charming Roadside stalls selling local delicacies, refreshing King Coconuts, and vibrant handicrafts.
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas, facilitating communication.
- The island is relatively compact, meaning drives between destinations are short, allowing for more exploration time.
A good choice for:
The Two Weeks Sri Lanka Road Trip is not just a journey through a land of bewitching beauty and profound history; it's an invitation to delve deep into the heart of an island that seamlessly blends the allure of its coastline with the mystery of its ancient ruins. This Road Trip promises a tapestry of experiences that cater to the adventurous spirit and cultural enthusiasts alike.
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