Rush Sri Lanka’s Scenic Splendor: A 2-Day Journey through Kandy, Nuwara Eliya & Ella

5-Day Sri Lankan Odyssey: Culture, Coastline & Captivating Landscapes from Kandy to Galle

5 Days 5 Destinations

Type tour
Group
Language
English

Overview

This 5-day tour takes you through Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations, blending culture, history, nature, and coastal charm. Starting in the cultural heart of Kandy, you’ll explore the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, enjoy the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya, hike in Ella, and unwind in the colonial coastal town of Galle. Perfect for travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and coastal relaxation.

Tour Summary

This 5-day tour offers the perfect balance of Sri Lanka’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and coastal relaxation. Whether you're exploring ancient sites, hiking in scenic hills, or enjoying the sea breeze at Galle, this itinerary ensures a memorable and enriching experience.

Tour Highlights at a Glance

Day 1:
- Arrival and scenic drive to Kandy
- Visit Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake
- Kandyan dance performance in the evening
- Overnight in Kandy
Day 2:
- Drive to Sigiriya
- Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Overnight in Sigiriya
Day 3:
- Drive to Nuwara Eliya
- Visit Gregory Lake and explore the colonial town
- Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Day 4:
- Drive to Ella
- Hike Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak
- Overnight in Ella
Day 5:
- Drive to Galle
- Explore Galle Fort and Galle Lighthouse
- Relax at Galle Beach
- Overnight in Galle

Itinerary

Highlights:

Arrival and scenic drive to Kandy
Visit Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake
Kandyan dance performance in the evening
Overnight in Kandy

Morning: Arrival and Scenic Drive to Kandy
Your adventure begins with a pick-up from Colombo Airport or your Colombo hotel. From there, enjoy a scenic 3-4 hour drive to Kandy, nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Along the way, take in views of lush landscapes, tea plantations, and rural villages—setting the stage for your Sri Lankan exploration.

Afternoon: Explore Kandy

Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa): Upon arrival, visit the Temple of the Tooth, one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites, where the Tooth Relic of Buddha is enshrined. Explore the sacred temple and its tranquil surroundings.
Kandy Lake: Stroll around Kandy Lake, which is right next to the temple. The peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by hills, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the serenity of the city.

Evening: Kandyan Dance Performance

Traditional Cultural Show: In the evening, enjoy an exciting Kandyan dance performance showcasing Sri Lankan music, dance, and fire-eating acts. This vibrant cultural display will give you an immersive experience into the rich heritage of Kandy.

Overnight in Kandy
Stay in Kandy, with accommodations offering views of the city and hills, perfect for a restful night.

Highlights:

Drive to Sigiriya
Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Overnight in Sigiriya

Morning: Drive to Sigiriya
After breakfast, head to Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, with a 2.5-hour scenic drive. Along the way, enjoy views of small towns, rice fields, and lush greenery.

Afternoon: Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Climbing Sigiriya Rock: Sigiriya’s famous Lion’s Rock is a must-see, an ancient royal palace and fortress. The climb to the summit takes you through the Lion’s Gate and past stunning frescoes, offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Gardens and Moats: Explore the beautifully landscaped water gardens, moats, and pathways leading to the ancient palace ruins at the base of the rock.

Evening: Relax in Sigiriya

After exploring Sigiriya, check in to your hotel and unwind. Many hotels in the area offer stunning views of the Sigiriya Rock, perfect for a peaceful evening.

Highlights:

Drive to Nuwara Eliya
Visit Gregory Lake and explore Nuwara Eliya Town
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Morning: Drive to Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, enjoy a 3.5-4 hour drive to Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” for its cool climate and colonial architecture. The scenic journey offers views of tea plantations, misty hills, and picturesque valleys.

Afternoon: Explore Nuwara Eliya

Gregory Lake: Upon arrival, visit Gregory Lake, a beautiful colonial-era lake surrounded by mountains. Enjoy a boat ride or relax by the water with the cool mountain breeze.
Nuwara Eliya Town: Explore the charming town, with its British-style buildings such as the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club and Racecourse. You can also visit tea estates for tours and tastings.

Evening: Colonial Charm and Dinner

Stroll through the town or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with views of the lake or surrounded by colonial ambiance.

Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Stay in Nuwara Eliya, experiencing the crisp mountain air and colonial charm of this scenic town.

Highlights:

Drive to Ella
Hike Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak
Overnight in Ella

Morning: Drive to Ella
After breakfast, enjoy a 2.5-3 hour scenic drive to Ella, located in Sri Lanka’s southern highlands. The journey offers views of terraced tea plantations, waterfalls like Ravana Falls, and valleys that create a picturesque route.

Afternoon: Explore Ella

Ella Rock Hike: Upon arrival, embark on a hike to Ella Rock, offering panoramic views of valleys and hills. It’s a moderately challenging hike but well worth the stunning vistas.
Little Adam’s Peak: Alternatively, hike Little Adam’s Peak, a shorter and easier trek with equally stunning views.

Evening: Relax in Ella
After your hike, unwind in Ella town, where you can enjoy a meal at a local café or restaurant, offering fresh local ingredients and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.

Overnight in Ella
Stay overnight in Ella, enjoying a peaceful night in one of the town’s cozy guesthouses or boutique hotels with panoramic views of the valley.

Highlights:

Drive to Galle
Explore Galle Fort and Galle Lighthouse
Relax at Galle Beach
Overnight in Galle

Morning: Drive to Galle
After breakfast, head to Galle, with a 4-5 hour drive from Ella. The route gradually transitions from rolling hills to coastal landscapes, offering a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s southern shore.

Afternoon: Explore Galle

Galle Fort: Upon arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a colonial fortress built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch. Wander through its cobbled streets, visit art galleries, and admire the historic architecture.
Galle Lighthouse: Visit the Galle Lighthouse for sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the fort below.

Evening: Relax by the Sea
End your day with a relaxing stroll along Galle Beach or enjoy a refreshing drink at a café overlooking the coast. Galle combines colonial history with coastal charm, offering the perfect setting to unwind.

Overnight in Galle
Stay overnight in Galle, choosing from boutique hotels or beachside resorts for a restful end to your Sri Lankan adventure.