Sri Lanka route guide · Eastern Province to North Central Province
Anuradhapura, known for giant stupas and the sacred Bodhi tree, is 7 to 8 hours from Arugam Bay by car. Many travellers break the drive in Dambulla.
The route crosses the island between the east coast and the interior; watch for elephants crossing in the dry zone, especially at dusk.
This is a long day in the car. Leave early and take breaks every two hours or so.
1Batticaloa
Welcome to paradise! Passikudah is famous for its incredibly shallow, crystal-clear waters that stretch for…
2Polonnaruwa
Marvel at four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock face!
3Polonnaruwa
The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is a fascinating place to explore Sri Lanka’s royal past.
4Dambulla
The Golden Temple of Dambulla is a sacred and impressive cave temple complex set on a rocky hill.
5Dambulla
Explore five magnificent cave temples filled with ancient Buddhist art!
This charming rock temple is famous for its exquisite ancient stone carvings, especially the romantic…
Welcome to one of the most sacred places on Earth! This ancient fig tree is over 2,300 years old and is…
This sacred temple complex surrounds the legendary Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree the oldest documented tree in the…
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About 310 km by road.
7 to 8 hours by private car, depending on traffic and stops.
It is possible but tiring, with 13.5 to 16 hours of driving in total. Staying at least one night is better.
Dambulla is the most natural place to break the journey, about 5.5 to 6.5 hours from Arugam Bay.
