Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Dambulla Cave Temple
Tea estate in Nuwara Eliya
5 nights / 6 daysCultureHillsBeaches

Beaches and Mountains

Sigiriya · Kandy · Nuwara Eliya · Bentota · Colombo

Sigiriya 1N, Kandy 1N, Nuwara Eliya 1N, Bentota 1N, Colombo 1N

  • Hotels
  • Private vehicle
  • Sightseeing
  • Meals

Overview

One night in each region gives you Sri Lanka's best contrasts: ancient rock, cool hills and warm sea. It is a good first trip.

Best time to visit

January to March

Best overall for the whole route. December to April works for most of it.

What to wear

  • Swimwear, quick-dry tees and shorts, light cotton, sandals or flip-flops, a hat and a light cover-up.
  • Temples: clothes that cover shoulders and knees, light cotton or linen, and shoes that slip off easily.
  • Carry socks for hot stone floors. Light or white colours are respectful at the Temple of the Tooth.
  • Hill country (Nuwara Eliya, Ella): a hoodie or sweater and a light jacket for evenings, long pants and closed shoes. Nights can be around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius.
  • Kandy and Colombo: light layers and comfortable walking shoes.
  • Sigiriya climb: breathable clothes and sturdy shoes with grip. The climb has many steps.

What to carry

  • Government photo ID
  • Passport (for Sri Lanka; keep copies)
  • Printed Sri Lanka ETA (for Sri Lanka)
  • Sunglasses
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Power bank
  • Universal plug adapter (Sri Lanka)
  • Personal medicines
  • Motion sickness tablets (hill roads, ferries and cruises)
  • A small day bag
  • Beaches: sunscreen (reef-safe where possible), after-sun lotion, a dry bag or waterproof phone pouch, a quick-dry towel.
  • Hill country: a light waterproof jacket, warm socks, lip balm.
  • Temples: socks, a scarf or shawl.
  • Walking tours and Sigiriya: comfortable walking shoes, a small towel.
  • South and west coast, May to September: rain jacket or poncho and a waterproof bag cover.
  • October and November: afternoon thunderstorms anywhere in Sri Lanka, so carry a compact umbrella or poncho.
  • December to March: light rain gear only, for the hills.

Notes

  • Temples ask for covered shoulders and knees. Shoes come off at the entrance.
  • The Sigiriya climb has many steps. Start early to avoid the heat.
  • Visits to parks, sites, adventure activities, elephant rides and other tour places are at the client's own risk.
  • Itineraries may change with weather, tides, local conditions and availability. Hotels are same or similar.
  • Advance paid to confirm a booking is not refunded. See Cancellation and payment terms.

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