Sri Lanka route guide · Central Province to Eastern Province
Trincomalee, known for calm east coast beaches and Pigeon Island, is 7 to 8.5 hours from Nuwara Eliya by car. Many travellers break the drive in Dambulla.
The first part of the drive descends from the hills around Nuwara Eliya 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.
1Kandy
Marvel at the towering 88-foot white Buddha statue watching over Kandy!
2Kandy
The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a vibrant, must-see performance in historic Kandy that celebrates…
3Dambulla
The Golden Temple of Dambulla is a sacred and impressive cave temple complex set on a rocky hill.
4Dambulla
Explore five magnificent cave temples filled with ancient Buddhist art!
5Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion’s Rock, is a breathtaking ancient fortress perched atop a massive rock.
6Sigiriya
Prepare for your Sigiriya Rock climb by exploring this fascinating museum!
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 250 km by road.
7 to 8.5 hours by private car, depending on traffic and stops.
It is possible but tiring, with 14 to 17 hours of driving in total. Staying at least one night is better.
Dambulla is the most natural place to break the journey, about 4 to 5 hours from Nuwara Eliya.
