Sri Lanka route guide · Cultural Triangle to Southern Province
Unawatuna, known for a sheltered swimming beach near Galle, is 6 to 7 hours from Polonnaruwa by car. Many travellers break the drive in Dambulla.
This is a long day in the car. Leave early and take breaks every two hours or so.
1Habarana
Witness the spectacular 'Gathering' of hundreds of wild elephants!
2Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion’s Rock, is a breathtaking ancient fortress perched atop a massive rock.
3Sigiriya
Prepare for your Sigiriya Rock climb by exploring this fascinating museum!
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!
6Pinnawala
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a heart-warming place where you can see elephants up close in a natural…
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About 325 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 1.5 to 2 hours from Polonnaruwa.
