Singing Rivers (Private) Limited

Distance: 147 km | Travel Time: 3.5 hours

Dambulla is home to the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple (Golden Temple), a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and stunning ceiling frescoes dating back to the 1st century BC. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the Cultural Triangle. Visit the nearby Golden Temple with its giant golden Buddha statue, explore local spice gardens, and experience authentic Sri Lankan village life. The area is surrounded by lush greenery and offers insights into the island’s ancient Buddhist heritage.

Distance: 19 km | Travel Time: 30 minutes

Sigiriya, the iconic Lion Rock, is one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient rock fortress rises 200 meters above the surrounding jungle and features the ruins of a 5th-century palace built by King Kashyapa. Climb the 1,200 steps to reach the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, admire the famous Sigiriya frescoes (ancient paintings of celestial maidens), the Mirror Wall with ancient graffiti, and the massive lion paws that guard the final ascent. The surrounding gardens are among the oldest landscaped gardens in the world.

Distance: 69 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hours

Polonnaruwa is an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as Sri Lanka’s medieval capital from the 11th to 13th centuries. The archaeological park showcases remarkably well-preserved ruins including the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihara (featuring four magnificent Buddha statues carved from a single granite wall), numerous temples, and the circular Vatadage shrine. Explore the ruins by bicycle to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of this ancient civilization. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lankan history and Buddhist art.

Distance: 110 km | Travel Time: 3 hours

Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nestled among misty hills and is considered the cultural heart of the island. The city’s centerpiece is the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a tooth of the Buddha and is one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites. Stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in nearby Peradeniya (one of the world’s finest tropical gardens), and explore the bustling local markets. Kandy’s colonial architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination.

Distance: 77 km | Travel Time: 2.5 hoursNuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” is a charming hill station situated at 1,868 meters above sea level. The town retains a distinctly British colonial character with its Tudor-style hotels, golf courses, and cool climate. Surrounded by emerald tea plantations, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea industry. Visit a tea factory to learn about tea production and enjoy tastings, explore the beautiful Victoria Park, see the picturesque Gregory Lake, and admire the colonial architecture. The area offers stunning mountain scenery and is perfect for nature walks through tea estates

Distance: 50 km | Travel Time: 2 hours by road or 3 hours by scenic trainElla is a small mountain village that has become one of Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations for its stunning natural beauty and relaxed vibe. Surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and jungle, Ella offers numerous hiking opportunities. Must-do activities include climbing Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise views, hiking to Ella Rock for panoramic vistas, visiting the Nine Arch Bridge (an architectural marvel set in the jungle), and exploring Ravana Falls. The village has a thriving cafe culture and offers spectacular views of Ella Gap. The train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Distance: 64 km | Travel Time: 2 hours
Yala National Park (accessed via Tissamaharama town) is Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve and one of the best places in the world to see leopards in their natural habitat. The park is home to diverse wildlife including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and over 200 bird species. Take an early morning or late afternoon safari jeep tour through varied landscapes of scrub jungle, grasslands, lagoons, and beaches. Tissamaharama itself is a historic town with ancient Buddhist stupas and a large tank (reservoir) where you can watch spectacular sunsets.

Distance: 91 km | Travel Time: 2.5 hours

Mirissa is a beautiful crescent-shaped beach town famous for its golden sand, swaying palm trees, and excellent surfing conditions. It’s one of the best places in Sri Lanka for whale and dolphin watching (November to April), with frequent sightings of blue whales, sperm whales, and spinner dolphins. The beach offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying fresh seafood. Nearby Weligama is known for its wide bay, stilt fishermen (a traditional fishing method), and beginner-friendly surf breaks. The area is ideal for water sports and coastal relaxation.

Distance: 43 km | Travel Time: 1 hourGalle is a beautifully preserved colonial city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its 17th-century Dutch Fort. Walk along the fort walls for ocean views, explore narrow streets lined with Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries. Visit the Galle Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, and historic churches. The fort area seamlessly blends European architecture with South Asian traditions. Galle is also known for its gemstone industry, and you can visit gem museums and workshops. The old town has a sophisticated, cosmopolitan atmosphere with excellent restaurants and accommodation

Distance: 60-80 km | Travel Time: 1.5 hoursBentota is a premier beach resort town known for its pristine golden beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. The Bentota River is perfect for boat safaris through mangroves where you can spot monitor lizards, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Visit the Brief Garden (former home of landscape architect Bevis Bawa) and nearby Lunuganga Estate (Geoffrey Bawa’s country home). Hikkaduwa, slightly further north, is famous for its coral reefs, snorkeling, diving, and vibrant beach scene. The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary offers excellent underwater exploration opportunities with colorful tropical fish and sea turtles

Distance: 85 km | Travel Time: 2 hours

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant mix of modern and colonial architecture, shopping districts, and cultural sites. Explore the historic Fort area with colonial buildings, visit the Gangaramaya Temple (a fascinating Buddhist temple complex), stroll through Galle Face Green (a popular oceanfront promenade), and shop at Pettah Market for authentic local experiences. Visit the National Museum to learn about Sri Lankan history, explore the upscale Cinnamon Gardens neighborhood, and enjoy diverse dining options ranging from street food to fine dining. Colombo offers excellent shopping opportunities for souvenirs, tea, gems, and handicrafts.

Distance: 35 km | Travel Time: 1 hour Final day for any last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Colombo before heading to the airport. Depending on your flight time, you might visit local markets, pick up final souvenirs, or simply relax before departure. The drive to the airport takes you back through the western coastal area, completing your circular journey around Sri Lanka.