Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Roadtrip
Overview
Sri Lanka is an island that captivates through its contrasts. From lush tropical forests and endless beaches to imposing ancient monuments and cities pulsing with life, this destination has it all. History unfolds at your feet at Sigiriya, in Kandy, and among the sacred temples, while nature calls you to adventure on the safaris of Yala or on train rides through tea fields and waterfalls in Nuwara Eliya. The beaches of Mirissa promise pure relaxation, while the legendary whales that cross its waters leave every visitor in awe.
With Altervan, you travel beyond the obvious. Experience Sri Lanka in all its dimensions, on a journey full of adventure, nature, and authentic encounters.
Live it differently. Travel with Altervan.
Included
Round-trip flights from Athens with Etihad Airways
30 kg checked suitcase and a backpack
Airport taxes
Public liability insurance
Local taxes
Fuel
All transfers by a modern mini bus
Accommodation in 3–4 star hotels in Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala and Mirissa, with breakfast
All dinners (except the last day)
Guided tour of Colombo
Visit to Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Temple, including entrance fees
Safari in Yala National Park
Scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Visit to tea plantations and a processing factory in Nuwara Eliya
Visit to Galle Fort
Visit to a gemstone workshop
Not included
Personal expenses
Visa payable on arrival ~€50
Tips for the local guides
Rafting ~€30, difficulty level 2/5
Itinerary · day by day
01Sigiriya
After landing at the airport, we head straight for Sigiriya, one of the country's most iconic sites. Once we arrive, we'll settle into the hotel and hold our first get-together to talk through the plan for the days ahead.
02Sigiriya
We start the day early with the climb up the spectacular Rock of Sigiriya, one of Asia's most important archaeological monuments and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The view from the top is mesmerizing, with dense jungle stretching out below us and the sounds of nature following every step. Afterward, we dive into local life with a traditional village experience: a boat ride, a tuk-tuk, and an ox-cart. We taste authentic local food and talk with people who live in complete harmony with nature. In the afternoon we climb Pidurangala Rock, Sigiriya's little brother. From up there we'll soak in a magical sunset with Sigiriya Rock itself glowing in the fading light.
03Kandy
We say goodbye to Sigiriya and head for the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy, a city set among lush green hills around a central lake. On the way, we stop at the imposing Dambulla Cave Temple, with its striking Buddha statues and murals that tell centuries of history. We continue with a visit to a spice village, where we'll get to know the aromas and healing properties of the famous Ceylon spices, from cinnamon to cardamom. Arriving in Kandy, we visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the country's most important religious site. In the afternoon there's time to discover the art of traditional handicrafts and the batik technique. We close the day with a traditional cultural show, full of dance, music, and color.
04Nuwara Eliya
We start the day early with breakfast and head for Kitulgala, a region rich in greenery and rivers, known for its water activities. There we'll have the chance to choose between rafting, forest hikes, or simply soaking up the nature around us. Once we're full of images and adrenaline, we continue on toward Nuwara Eliya, known as the "Little England" of Sri Lanka. The drive is enchanting, with waterfalls, lush green slopes, and tea plantations. In the afternoon, we take a relaxed walk through Gregory Park and enjoy the sunset beside the lake. We also visit a tea factory to see up close how the famous Ceylon tea is made.
05Ella
We leave Nuwara Eliya behind and get ready for one of the most magical experiences of the trip: the train ride from the village of Nanu Oya to Ella, one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world. The train winds through tea plantations, over little bridges, past waterfalls and through the mist. Arriving in Ella, we immediately feel the calm and the easy pace of this mountain town. We walk to the famous Nine Arches Bridge and enjoy the view as the train passes by. Then we climb Little Adam's Peak, a moderately challenging but stunning trail running through tea plantations.
06Yala
After breakfast in Ella, we get ready for one of the most thrilling experiences of the trip, the safari in Yala National Park, the best-known wildlife park in Sri Lanka. The drive there takes about two hours. In the afternoon, we board specially adapted vehicles and set off on a 3-4 hour safari, hoping to spot leopards, elephants, bears, and crocodiles, along with dozens of bird species that live in the park. Yala is famous for its high concentration of leopards. The park's landscapes are as striking as its wildlife: lush green forests, rocky hills, and open savannas.
07Mirissa
After breakfast in Yala, we set off for Sri Lanka's southern coast and the seaside town of Mirissa, a destination famous for its exotic beaches and crystal-clear waters. The drive takes us from wild jungle to the sandy shores of the Indian Ocean. In the afternoon we relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and wander Mirissa's coastal paths, stopping for fresh juices and local treats. The atmosphere is laid-back and perfect for closing the day with a magical sunset beside the waves.
08Colombo
We say goodbye to Mirissa and begin the day with a short stop of about an hour at the historic Galle Fort. We'll walk along the ramparts overlooking the Indian Ocean, see the old lighthouse, and lose ourselves for a while in the narrow lanes lined with colonial architecture. Right after, we head for the capital, Colombo, where we'll have free time for a stroll, a meal, or some relaxed shopping. We can wander Galle Face Green, visit local markets like Pettah, or sip our last coffee with a view over the city. Late in the evening, we transfer to the airport for our return flight.
The route
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