Sri Lanka route guide · Uva Province to Eastern Province
Trincomalee, known for calm east coast beaches and Pigeon Island, is 8 to 10 hours from Haputale by car. Many travellers break the drive in Polonnaruwa.
The first part of the drive descends from the hills around Haputale on winding roads before the land flattens out.
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.
1Ella
Go organic in beautiful Ella! This sustainable tea garden shows how tea can be grown without chemicals while…
2Ella
Ella Rock is a popular hiking spot offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, tea…
3Nuwara Eliya
Step into the aromatic world of Ceylon tea at this historic factory in the misty highlands!
4Nuwara Eliya
Stroll through this charming colonial-era garden in the heart of 'Little England'!
5Kandy
Marvel at the towering 88-foot white Buddha statue watching over Kandy!
6Kandy
The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a vibrant, must-see performance in historic Kandy that celebrates…
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…
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About 290 km by road.
8 to 10 hours by private car, depending on traffic and stops.
It is possible but tiring, with 16.5 to 19.5 hours of driving in total. Staying at least one night is better.
Polonnaruwa is the most natural place to break the journey, about 5 to 6.5 hours from Haputale.
