Sri Lanka is a land full of wonder, may it be the coastal line, the cultural triangle, the central highlands or right up in the north. We assure you, that the best way to explore Sri Lanka is to be driven around in a comfy vehicle and enjoy a truly unique and local experience of a Sri Lanka Road Trip. If you’ve been looking out for a Sri Lanka road trip itinerary; here are some ideas that could help you plan one of the best road trips in Sri Lanka:
Photo Credits: jasmine
1. For the mountain explorer
Sri Lanka is a land of endless mountains, beautiful views and breathtaking scenery and there’s no better place than the hill country to explore the beautiful mountains of Sri Lanka. Start your journey in the bustling city of Colombo and move to the calm and serene environment of Nuwara Eliya, also known as the “Little England of Sri Lanka”.
Enjoy the chilly weather of Nuwara Eliya before you get your hike on at the Horton Plains. The beautiful view from the World’s End is sure to make you want more of the breathtaking views Sri Lanka has to offer. Quench your longing for these views by making your way to Ella, and bewildered by the view from the Ella Rock and the endless greenery of Ella.
Photo Credits: peppytravelgirl
After this exploration, make your way to the Hill Capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy, and stay with us at Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, where nature meets comfort. The views of the green mountains and the Mahaveli River from the hotel are sure to mesmerize you and mark the perfect ending to your mountainous road trip in Sri Lanka.
2. For the history enthusiasts
Sri Lanka is known for its rich history and culture and there is no better place to experience these than in the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka consisting of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya and Kandy. You can start off at our five-star property, Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, and among others visit the famed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Embakke Devale before you make your way to the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. These cities are brimming with culturally and historically significant sites that are sure to excite the history lover in you.
Thereafter, you can make your way to one of the most visited places in Sri Lanka; The ancient Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, renowned to be the 8th wonder of the world. We assure that the climb up is worth the beautiful view from atop the rock fortress and is sure to leave you amazed at the beauties of this island. You can book your stay at our properties, Cinnamon Lodge Habarana and Habarana Village by Cinnamon, situated in close proximity to the rock and enjoy the comforts on offer before you make your way back to Kandy.
Photo Credits: rahulbgp
3. For the wildlife lover
Sri Lanka was named the “Best Wildlife Destination outside of Africa” by the Forbes magazine, and this road trip will show you exactly why! From Udawalawe, to Singharaja and all the way to Yala, make a road trip you will never forget and experience the vibrant wildlife that Sri Lanka has to offer. Witness the majestic Elephants in abundance, try your luck spotting the elusive leopard and catch a glimpse of the Sloth Bear while you travel the National Parks of Sri Lanka.
Photo Credits: Chandika Jayaratne
Book your stay at Cinnamon Wild Yala, for an exclusive treat in terms of plush and comfortable rooms, perfect atmosphere and nature at its best!
4. For the beach-goer
Here’s the one everyone’s been waiting for. Did you even visit this paradise island if you haven’t spent long hours at the sandy beaches of Sri Lanka? This could easily be the longest road trip you encounter here in Sri Lanka and you will love it.
Photo Credits: Travelgram
Start off your beach escapade in Colombo and visit the beaches in Kalutara, then move on to Hikkaduwa, where you will be able to experience the epitome of the beach life at Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon.
You can then make your way to Galle, where beautiful beaches meet history. Experience the beauty of Galle, Weligama and Matara, which you are sure to enjoy in its entirety; the beach, the sun and all the fun that follows! If you’re longing for some adventure, catch some waves at Arugam-Bay before you head back to Colombo.
5. For those wanting to travel the roads less traveled
Begin your road trip with a little bit of ocean in Negombo and travel up north to the Jaffna Peninsula. Jaffna and the north of Sri Lanka holds much to explore. Buddhist Temples, as well as Hindu Kovils colour the atmosphere in Jaffna and is a truly local taste of island living. Visit the beautiful beaches of the north, as well as Point Pedro, the northernmost point of this paradise island.
Thereafter, you can make your way down to Trincomalee for some of the most beautiful and unique beach experiences of the island at our property, Trinco Blu by Cinnamon, where you can enjoy the scrumptious food as well as the comfortable rooms we have on offer.
Dare yourself to make that journey up north and experience the beauty of the roads less traveled in Sri Lanka.
Author: Shenella Fonseka
