Sri Lanka route guide · Eastern Province to Western Province
Colombo Airport, known for international arrivals at Katunayake, is 6 to 7 hours from Pasikudah 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.
1Polonnaruwa
Marvel at four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock face!
2Polonnaruwa
The Ancient City of Polonnaruwa is a fascinating place to explore Sri Lanka’s royal past.
3Habarana
Witness the spectacular 'Gathering' of hundreds of wild elephants!
4Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion’s Rock, is a breathtaking ancient fortress perched atop a massive rock.
5Sigiriya
Prepare for your Sigiriya Rock climb by exploring this fascinating museum!
6Dambulla
The Golden Temple of Dambulla is a sacred and impressive cave temple complex set on a rocky hill.
Cruise along this historic 120km waterway built by Dutch colonizers in the 1800s!
Negombo Lagoon is one of Sri Lanka’s most serene coastal wetlands, just a short drive from the airport.
The Negombo Fish Market is one of the most vibrant and authentic experiences on Sri Lanka’s west coast.
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About 270 km by road.
6 to 7 hours by private car, depending on traffic and stops.
It is possible but tiring, with 11.5 to 14 hours of driving in total. Staying at least one night is better.
Dambulla is the most natural place to break the journey, about 3 to 3.5 hours from Pasikudah.
