Tea Country & Ancient Cities

Overview

What Makes This Route Work

Sri Lanka's classic route, and with good reason. Begin among the ancient kingdoms of the north, climb into the cool hill country on one of Asia's loveliest train rides, look for leopards and elephants in the south and finish behind the ramparts of Galle.

Highlights

• Climbing Sigiriya early in the morning
• The hill country train towards Ella
• A safari in Yala National Park
• Galle Fort at sunset

1. Days 1–3

   Sigiriya

   Travel from the airport to the Cultural Triangle. Climb Sigiriya rock, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and go on an elephant safari, depending on the season.

2. Days 4–5

   Kandy

   Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, walk around the lake and spend time in the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya.

3. Days 6–8

   Ella

   Take the scenic train through the tea estates. Visit a working tea factory, walk up Little Adam's Peak and see the Nine Arch Bridge.

4. Days 9–10

   Yala

   Descend to the dry southern plains for morning and afternoon game drives in search of leopard, elephant and birdlife.

5. Days 11–12

   Galle

   Finish on the south coast, wandering the walled town of Galle before transferring back for your flight home.