Sri Lanka route guide · Safari, east coast and north
Trincomalee has some of the calmest beaches in Sri Lanka from May to September. A private driver is the easiest way to cross the island from Colombo, with a stop in the Cultural Triangle on the way.
The road heads north through Kurunegala and Dambulla, then north-east through Habarana to the coast. The last stretch through the dry zone is straight and quiet.
1Negombo
The Negombo Fish Market is one of the most vibrant and authentic experiences on Sri Lanka’s west coast.
2Negombo
Negombo Beach is a popular coastal spot with golden sands, swimming, and relaxed seaside atmosphere It…
3Pinnawala
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a heart-warming place where you can see elephants up close in a natural…
4Kegalle
Get up close with gentle giants at this heartwarming elephant sanctuary!
5Dambulla
The Golden Temple of Dambulla is a sacred and impressive cave temple complex set on a rocky hill.
6Dambulla
Explore five magnificent cave temples filled with ancient Buddhist art!
Visit this ancient Hindu temple perched dramatically on a cliff 130 feet above the crashing Indian Ocean!
Dive into paradise at Sri Lanka's premier snorkeling destination!
Discover one of Asia's most pristine beaches! Nilaveli stretches for miles with powdery white sand and…
Best for: East coast beach holidays in the summer months. Compare verified drivers, send a free request and pay the driver directly.
About 6 to 7 hours for roughly 260 km, plus stops.
May to September, when the east coast has calm seas and sunny weather.
