trip bus sri lanka

Online Seat Reservation

• Travel Date 18
• Return Date

Welcome to eToursLanka Online Bus Ticket Booking Service

The Sri Lanka's Pioneer and Number One Online Bus Ticket Booking Platform.

Download BusticketLK Mobile App.

We, sltb.eseat.lk is Sri Lanka’s largest online bus/coach reservation platform that has transformed the way millions of Sri Lankans travel and purchase seats to travel across the country.

Sltb.eseats.lk is a collaboration between Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and Hands Global Holdings (Private) Limited (HGHL). SLTB is the state owned transportation service in Sri Lanka and is the largest and most reliable service provider in the country. It has a large fleet of buses covering the entire country from highway buses to buses operating in the remotest part of the country. HGHL is part of a group of companies which includes Ohmygosh.lk , Duro Pipe Industrial Ltd, St. Joseph’s Exports (Pvt) Ltd and Duro Capital (Pvt) Ltd.

Sltb.eseats.lk is a collaboration between Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and Hands Global Holdings (Private) Limited (HGHL). SLTB is the state owned transportation service in Sri Lanka and is the largest and most reliable service provider in the country. It has a large fleet of buses covering the entire country from highway buses to buses operating in the remotest part of the country. HGHL is a company under the Mutual Holdings Limited umbrella and our sister companies include, Kanrich Finance Ltd, Ohmygosh.lk, Duro Pipe Industrial Ltd, Mutual Insurance Brokers Ltd, St. Joseph’s Exports (pvt) Ltd and Duro Capital (pvt) Ltd.

Lorem, ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipisicing elit. Ipsam aut natus possimus, quibusdam tempore exercitationem ipsum cumque, consequuntur quas perferendis aperiam ad labore, incidunt fugit reiciendis vitae nulla saepe quis!

We offer Online bus ticket booking services, reservations through our 24 X 7 hotline 1315, bus tracking facilities and fleet management services. Our payment gateways are secured and we have partnered with Peoples Bank PLC.

Once you reserve a seat with us you can change/modify subject to our seat cancellation policy. Furthermore, you will be promptly notified if a bus that you have booked has been changed or time schedules change. Everyone booking through us and using our mobile App can track the bus online and passengers can reserve their seats one month ahead of the journey.

We offer Online bus ticket booking services, reservations through our 24 X 7 hotline 1315, bus tracking facilities and fleet management for SLTB. Our payment gateways are secured and we have partnered with Peoples Bank.

Once you reserve a seat with us you can change/modify subject to our seat cancellation policy. Furthermore, you will be promptly notified if a bus that you have booked has been changed or time schedules change. Everyone booking through us and using our mobile App can track the bus online while the system will also show you the closest bus station from your location.

All Travel Partners in one platform

100% Successful Live Booking

Payment Security

Bus Tracking System

24Hrs Customer Care

Boarding Monitoring Team Service

Grawing Numbers

Bus per day, bus tickets sold.

Bus Operators

Offers & Promotions

Call 1315 to Transfer your Ticket Thank you

• Booking Cancel
• Trincomalee
• Anuradhapura
• Polannaruwa
• Mullaiththivu
• Nuwara Eliya
• Kuruenegala

The simplest way to book your bus tickets in Sri Lanka

Bus booking made easy and efficient in sri lanka, plan journey, reserve bus seats, reach destination..

We provide full fledged online bus booking platform to buy and sell bus seats. The passenger can purchase bus tickets online and in return to confirm the seat reservation, a text message with the details of travel will be be sent.

With the efficient bus reservation system from BusSeat.lk, plan your journey early, save your valuable time in buying bus tickets, avoid waiting in long queues, find to your boarding place easily and enjoy your happy journey with comfort.

Partnered Bus Service Providers

Multiple Payment Options

Credit / Debit Card

Dialog / Mobitel / Etisalat

Bank Transfer

444 Services

Why Book with BusSeat?

More Choices

We give you maximum choices across all the routes to choose your bus.

Customer Support

We help you to make your journey better.

We always offer best bus ticket price in the market.

Google Map Location

We send you the boarding place and destination place link in google map.

We are growing

100+ schedules, 234+ places, 1,000,000+ seats, top bus routes.

• Jaffna - Colombo
• Point Pedro - Colombo
• Kilinochchi - Colombo
• Vavuniya - Colombo
• Anuradhapura - Colombo
• Batticaloa - Colombo
• Akkaraipattu - Colombo
• Ampara - Colombo
• Dambulla - Colombo
• Polannaruwa - Colombo
• Hatton - Colombo
• Matale - Colombo
• Nuwara Eliya - Colombo
• Welimada - Colombo
• Kandy - Colombo
• Kataragama - Colombo
• Matara - Colombo
• Kamburupitiya - Colombo
• Panandura - Matara
• Badulla - Colombo

• Search Search Search …
• Search Search …

Buses in Sri Lanka [Best Bus Routes + What to Expect]

While Sri Lankan trains are what you’ll see photos of the most, buses in Sri Lanka are the main staple of transport around the country, certainly for Sri Lankans.  In a lot of cases, they are the only transport on some routes.  With Sri Lanka’s new Expressways, they’re also a lot quicker on some routes than the trains and while you won’t get the comfort levels that you get on a private transfer, there are some decent bus routes out there. Here’s our guide to buses in Sri Lanka, what you can expect, particular bus routes of note, and some guidance on using Sri Lankan Buses.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

There are two types of buses in Sri Lanka.  There are Sri Lankan Government buses, also known as SLTB (Sri Lankan Transport Board) Buses, they’re also known as the Central Transport Board (CTB), and secondly private buses.  SLTB/CTB buses are cheaper, often by a long way than private buses.  SLTB/CTB buses tend to be painted red (or they were at one point, they may be faded and peeling now) and they’re often old TATA brand buses.  They’re old and slow and rattly.  Privately owned buses might not look much different but are usually a different color.

What to Expect on Buses in Sri Lanka

The buses feel fast. Although that’s just a sense you get. Because none of the gauges seem to actually work. Mind you, anything feels fast when you’re hurtling towards stationary traffic, or you’re on the wrong side of the road overtaking another bus and there’s a mirror-image situation coming towards you at similar gauge-less speeds.

EASY BUS BOOKING

Easiest Way to Book Buses in Sri Lanka

Use 12goAsia as the easiest way to book buses in Sri Lanka. Most routes, best options, great prices, guaranteed seats

Buses in Sri Lanka are Noisy

There are always horn blasts. Always. And this isn’t like your regular two-lane highway. Sri Lankan roads aren’t really hopping unless your bus is being overtaken by another bus while you’re overtaking a tuk-tuk. All three of you blasting on the horn. 

On the buses in Sri Lanka, the driver gets to pick the music. And there is always music. There is also always a representation of Buddha on board. Often several. Usually brightly lit.  On our bus from Anuradhapura to Kandy, we screeched to a stop not long after we’d set off so that the conductor could take a little money from the driver and make an offering at a roadside shrine before the journey could commence.

Buses in Sri Lanka are both frustratingly slow.  And frantically fast.

And despite this seemingly frantic speed, buses are frustratingly slow. They stop everywhere and in between. Our 75 LKR bus from Dalhousie (where we climbed Adam’s Peak ) back to Hatton Train station might have been cheap, but we sat on it for an hour before it left, despite us being ahead of schedule for the 11:00 bus. Then it took two and a half hours to travel the route that had taken an hour less on the way UP the hill!

Boarding and disembarking from buses is a skill in itself.  Many buses don’t really actually stop for intermittent stops.  They crawl along, or jerk along as the gears crunch, and you’re expected to get on and off while the bus is still moving. With your bags.  Traveling on buses in Sri Lanka with any decent-sized luggage is always an experience.

Buses in Sri Lanka aren’t usually comfortable

Buses are bumpy. Very very bumpy. And they’re a tight squeeze. There are usually two seats on one side of the aisle and three on the other. Even the Sri Lankans struggle to fit into these spaces.  The cheapest buses especially the private ones, where they’ll cram as many people as they can on, are very crowded.

Buses in Sri Lanka are usually crowded

Most public transport in Sri Lanka is crowded. Very crowded. The first time we took the bus from Kandy to the Pallakelle Cricket Stadium to watch one of the One Day Internationals, I stood on the steps as I couldn’t get any further into the bus. Another time, the conductor made Nigel sit on top of the engine as he was too big and getting in the way.  Mind you, the train we took from Colombo to Galle the day before Christmas Eve was jam-packed.  And no, we hadn’t pre-booked tickets.  It was an experience, and while we laugh about it now, I don’t think I had space to laugh then!

Buses in Sri Lanka can be quite old and short on maintenance

We’ve been on buses in Sri Lanka that have broken down.  On one, we were sat at the front and you could hear there was something wrong with the gears. We coasted to a stop and the engine covering was pulled off. The tool kit – a wrench and a rag – were pulled out. And something was replaced with a piece of twine. Yes, there are some things that you really don’t want to know the answer to.

We’ve driven past landslides, we’ve had a tire blowout, and we’ve had the gearbox fixed with twine on Sri Lankan buses. Mind you, when we were in  Myanmar , we actually lost the back half of the train (it fell apart).

On the second Sri Lankan bus that broke down we’d been sat in the middle of the bus, we’d been sat opposite the door but moved after we almost launched ourselves out of the open rear door into the gorge by Ella Gap.  And while seeing Ella Gap from the top of Little Adam’s Peak is one of the  amazing things to do in Ella , I didn’t fancy seeing it from the actual road.   As we drove along you could hear something was wrong. It sounded serious. It sounded like something was about to break off. Worse, it sounded underneath us. In the end the tyre burst.

We just pulled into a garage and they changed the blown tire for the bald spare as we all sat watching. And 10 minutes later we were on our way again.

Buses in Sri Lanka are cheap

Our cheapest bus was from Ella in Hill Country to Matara. We’d originally planned to get off a Tissamaharama and head to Yala National Park, but when it continued to rain we decided to stay on to Matara on the south coast and run for the beach resort of Mirissa.

That bus cost 160 LKR each. The conductor never asked for more money, when we asked to stay on. We traveled 170 kilometers.  An entire day’s entertainment and lower leg edema for just over one US dollar.  We finally made it to Yala – when we returned to Sri Lanka 8 years later. You can  read about our Yala National Park Safari here.

There are Food, Drinks, and Other Vendors on Sri Lankan Buses

There are vendors on trains and buses. For food – especially short eats (the term that Sri Lankans use for snacks, usually deep fried), for games, for toys, for lottery tickets. There are often beggars. There are men who will sing you a song and then ask for money.

9 Tips for Riding Sri Lankan Buses

Here are our 9 best tips for how to enjoy your Sri Lankan bus ride.  They’re just one of the Sri Lankan modes of transport that you should build into your trip to Sri Lanka.  Read about the others here.

• Try and get on early, and dump your big backpack on top of the engine cover. Wedge it in, or tie it on.
• Don’t sit in a “reserved for Clergy” seat. Because if a monk gets on, you’ll be standing in the aisle.
• Don’t sit on the front row, especially on the left-hand side. There might look like a lot of legroom, but this is standing space for about 8 people. You’ll get squeezed past here constantly.
• Don’t sit in the back seat. There are six seats across the back. There’s probably room for four normal-sized human beings.
• Don’t sit opposite the rear door. There are no armrests. Buses corner quickly, and seats are slippery. This is actually the “launch yourself down a mountain gorge seat”
• At least once stand on the steps and enjoy the ride.
• Get used to the idea that it’s going to be full and squeezing past is just what happens. Keep your elbows sharpened for inappropriate squeezing.
• Try sitting somewhere in the middle for the least bumpy ride, especially if you’re going all the way to the final stop.
• No matter how far ahead you plan, you will never have enough time to get from the middle of the bus, pick up your bag, and get off (if you’re not at the final stop), so TRY and plan ahead.

Travel Tips for Exploring Sri Lanka

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Get online immediately with an eSIM for Sri Lanka
• Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Sri Lanka > discount coupon here
• Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups
• Read about transport in Sri Lanka in our guide here
• Our guide to booking trains in Sri Lanka
• You will 99% likely need a power adapter for Sri Lanka – there’s more here.
• Book the best Sri Lanka tours and guides on Get Your Guide
• Save money in Sri Lanka with a Wise debit card
• Book Trains in Sri Lanka with 12goAsia
• Book accommodation in Sri Lanka with Booking

Final Words on Buses in Sri Lanka

I love Sri Lanka and I love traveling around the country, whether that’s on a Sri Lankan bus or a Sri Lankan train.  Buses in Sri Lanka are cheap, they’re both fast and slow at the same time and they’re really a huge part of the experience that you’ll have traveling around Sri Lanka – we love them.  You might try one once and hate it.  Or love it.  But unless you try you’ll never know!

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Sarah Carter

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Find cheap bus tickets in Sri Lanka

Easily compare and book your next trip with Busbud

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud.com makes it easy for you to find, compare and book city-to-city bus tickets, all over the world. We save you the extra trip to the bus station. Use Busbud to book your trip online, in your own language and currency, wherever you are. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.

Interested in more? Receive travel deals, trip reminders and other updates by email!

Travel with ease, book with us.

Get Your Ticket Online - Easy and Safe

We accept all the major cards and payment methods.

It's never been easier to book your journey online! Reserve your tickets in 3 steps.

Search your transit.

Choose your pickup, destination, journey date to see available means of transportation either direct or even indirect.

Reserve Your Seat

Choose the best transportation method and a ticket to instantly reserve your booking with the comfort of your home.

Complete The Payment

Pay for your tickets using any major card or even any major cryptocurrency right away and print your tickets with ease.

Expanding Rapidly

Magiya in numbers.

We may use cookies or any other tracking technologies when you visit our website, including any other media form, mobile website, or mobile application related or connected to help customize the site and improve your experience.

Near By Bus

On the way track and pickup your favorite seat on your favorite bus.

Parent Track

Awesome Feeling Always Close to You.

Get information on rest stops along the way.

Live Tracking

Now moniter your favorite bus and know the exact location with arrival time lively.

Book your favorite seat

We take care of your travel beyond ticketing by providing you with innovative and unique benefits.

Stop Waiting, Start Tracking...

Track your bus with our Near By Bus feature and know the exact location in real time. Family members and friends can also check the bus location to coordinate pick-ups and rest assured about your safety.

Experience with QBus

Hi! I'm planning to go to sri lanka this August. I have received an email from this agency too. Have you had a good experience with them? There are few reviews online. Thank you!

Smart Boarding

Whether you are running late or early, use the app to know which boarding point is the closest to you and check the estimated time of arrival of the bus at that stop. You'll see your favorite bus live location with bus details.

• Jaffna - Colombo
• Point Pedro - Colombo
• Kilinochchi - Colombo
• Vavuniya - Colombo
• Colombo - Jaffna
• Colombo - Point Pedro
• Colombo - Kilinochchi
• Colombo - Vavuniya

OTP Verification

Forgot Password

Official Ticket Reservation partner of National Transport Commission

• Travel Date 18
• Return Date

Call 1316 to Transfer your Ticket Thank you

THE 10 BEST Sri Lanka Bus Tours

Bus tours in sri lanka.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Day tour to Sigiriya & Dambulla from Kandy by Aaliya Tours

2. Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari from Negombo / Waikkal (All Inclusive)

3. City Tour in Colombo

4. 8 Days Sri Lanka round tours with privet driver, vehicle and H/B accommodations

5. Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo

6. Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour from Kandy with Lunch

7. Shore Excursion From Colombo port to Ingiriya Tea Plantation & back for 2 People

8. Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy

9. Private Day Trip to Sigiriya, cave and National park Safari Tour

10. Galle Day Trip with River Safari, Sea Turtle & Stilt Fishermen

11. Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour from Kandy with friendly chauffeur

12. 03 Days Highlights Of Sigiriya,Kandy,Nuwara Eliya ,Ella & Udawalawe

13. From Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Unawatuna/Galle & Yala/Udawalawe Safari Day Trip

14. Ella Day Trip with Train Ride & Tea Factory - All Inclusive

15. Yala Safari Day Trip from Bentota/ Kalutara/ Ahungalla/ Hikkaduwa

16. Sinharaja Rainforest Tour

17. Sigiriya-Dambulla Day Trip From Bentota/Kalutara/Wadduwa/Ahungalla-All Inclusive

18. Best of Colombo - Private Guided City Tour

19. Full-Day Colombo City Tour (Private Car)

20. Kandy Day Tour From Colombo

21. Udawalawe Safari DayTrip frm Bentota/Kalutara/Ahungalla/Hikkaduwa

22. Udawalawe Safari

23. Sinharaja Rainforest Private Half Day Tour with Licensed Guide

24. From Ella :- All-Inclusive Ella 5 Icons Day Tour...

25. Galle City Tour And Shopping

26. Udawalawe National Park Private 4 Hours Safari Tour

27. Galle Full-Day Tour

28. Day tour to Sigiriya & Dambulla from Kandy

29. Yala Safari Day Trip from Galle/ Unawatuna/ Ahangama/ Weligama

30. Udawalawe Safari Day Trip from Galle/Unawatuna/Ahangama/Weligama

What travellers are saying.

The Ultimate Africa Travel Bucket List

• A Brief History
• Sri Lankan Culture
• Climate and Weather
• Best Tourist Destinations
• The Best Time To Visit
• What to Take
• What to Wear
• What to Eat
• What to Drink
• Health Facilities
• Vaccinations for Sri Lanka
• Geography of Sri Lanka
• Religions in Sri Lanka
• Driving in Sri Lanka
• Travel by Car / Rent a Car
• Travel by Bus
• Travel by Train
• Travel by Trishaw (Tuk-Tuk)
• Taxi Hire in Sri Lanka
• Guided Tours in Sri Lanka
• Customs Regulations
• Sri Lankan Visa – Tourist
• Banking & Business Hours
• Sri Lanka Holidays – 2019
• Sri Lankan Currency
• Exchange Rates
• Sri Lanka Currency & Banks
• Antiques & Furniture Export
• Colombo District
• Galle District
• Kandy District
• Nuwara Eliya District
• Ratnapura District
• Anuradhapura District
• Polonnaruwa District
• Sri Lankan Nature
• Arugam Bay Beach
• Bentota Beach
• Beruwala Beach
• Galle Beach
• Hikkaduwa Beach
• Jaffna Beach
• Kalkudah Beach & Passekudah Bay
• Kalpitiya Beach
• Koggala Beach
• Mount Lavinia Beach
• Negombo Beach
• Nilaveli Beach
• Tangalle Beach
• Trincomalee Beach
• Unawatuna Beach
• Weligama Beach
• Sacred Sites and Religious Attractions
• Ancient Cities
• Parks and Gardens
• Camping Holidays
• Rock Climbing
• Wildlife Tours & Safaris
• Boat Safaris
• Water Sports
• Hiking and Trekking
• Cycling Vacations
• Playing Golf
• Ayurveda & Spa Resorts
• What to Buy
• Shopping Tips
• Sri Lanka Duty Free
• Submit an Article
• Advertise With Us

Travel by Bus in Sri Lanka

Travel by bus in Sri Lanka offers you the cheapest way to move around the country because for every six kilometres, you’ll need to part with just nine rupees. Several bus stops exist, and are often marked with white lined blocks on the road sides. In case you cannot identify them, it is always best to ask a local resident because most of them are very sociable. Note that the bus might not stop for you when you don’t stand at the designated stop points. Also, you may have to flag the bus down. It is always advisable to ask a Sri Lankan to help you. In many cases, buses can be really crowded. Make sure that you breathe properly and you are calm. Also, make sure that your wallet is near. Someone will move around asking everyone for fare whereas the amount needed for travelling by bus in Sri Lanka will be determined by the distance. Note that is you are a woman, you must not get the seat that is close to a Buddha priests. In case you want to move around Colombo, make sure that you have 20 rupees ready. Many foreigners often get lost but this comes with its own advantages as they get to know the places better. Most certainly the conductor of your bus won’t give any alert when you reach where you are going, particularly when the bus is full. Most locals are very sociable so make sure that you ask the person next to you to alert you once you reach your destination. In case you pass your destination, you may have to walk. Also you’ll need to get close to the exit before you reach the stop as buses often do not stop for long.

Pellentesque et felis ut nisi dapibus tempor. Curabitur tempor efficitur nisl nunc. Nunc feugiat mi tellus, a feugiat tempor consequat ac nisi dapibus tempor.

Quick Access

Enjoying my content.

Make this choice and from now on, you will forever be a part of every adventure!

THE 10 BEST Sri Lanka Bus Tours

Bus tours in sri lanka.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Private Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Day tour to Sigiriya & Dambulla from Kandy by Aaliya Tours

2. Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari from Negombo / Waikkal (All Inclusive)

3. City Tour in Colombo

4. 8 Days Sri Lanka round tours with privet driver, vehicle and H/B accommodations

5. Full Day Tour to Sigiriya and Dambulla from Colombo

6. Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour from Kandy with Lunch

7. Shore Excursion From Colombo port to Ingiriya Tea Plantation & back for 2 People

8. Private Day Trip to Sigiriya, cave and National park Safari Tour

9. Galle Day Trip with River Safari, Sea Turtle & Stilt Fishermen

10. Private Dambulla Sigiriya Tour from Kandy with friendly chauffeur

11. Kandy to Ella Shuttle & Nuwara Eliya Sightseeing Tour

12. 03 Days Highlights Of Sigiriya,Kandy,Nuwara Eliya ,Ella & Udawalawe

13. From Ella: Transfer to Mirissa/Unawatuna/Galle & Yala/Udawalawe Safari Day Trip

14. Ella Day Trip with Train Ride & Tea Factory - All Inclusive

15. Yala Safari Day Trip from Bentota/ Kalutara/ Ahungalla/ Hikkaduwa

16. Sinharaja Rainforest Tour

17. Sigiriya-Dambulla Day Trip From Bentota/Kalutara/Wadduwa/Ahungalla-All Inclusive

18. Private Full Day Tour Sigiriya and Dambulla From Kandy

19. Best of Colombo - Private Guided City Tour

20. Full-Day Colombo City Tour (Private Car)

21. Kandy Day Tour From Colombo

22. Udawalawe Safari DayTrip frm Bentota/Kalutara/Ahungalla/Hikkaduwa

23. Udawalawe Safari

24. From Ella :- All-Inclusive Ella 5 Icons Day Tour...

25. Galle City Tour And Shopping

26. Udawalawe National Park Private 4 Hours Safari Tour

27. Galle Full-Day Tour

28. Day tour to Sigiriya & Dambulla from Kandy

29. Yala Safari Day Trip from Galle/ Unawatuna/ Ahangama/ Weligama

30. Udawalawe Safari Day Trip from Galle/Unawatuna/Ahangama/Weligama

What travellers are saying.

• Sri Lanka Bus Service 🚌

Sri Lanka Bus Service

• Popular Routes
• Schedule and Timetable

About Sri Lanka Bus Service

Buses are the most affordable means of transport with a large number of terminals across the country and convenient timetables to help you plan your trip. Buses is a convenient option both for those who travel on a shoestring budget and those who do not want to compromise on comfort. Sri Lanka Bus Service offers bus service with an online reservation available. Before booking your ticket, read other travellers’ reviews to choose the best option.

What are the Main Stations of Sri Lanka Bus Service?

Sri Lanka Bus Service operates buses to and from the following stations:

• Makumbura Highway station
• Wellawatte 42Ln
• Hambantota Main Street
• Akkaraipattu SLTB Bus Stand
• Thanamalwila Bus Station
• Jaffna Bus Station
• Mirage Hotel Colombo
• Colombo 771 Maradana Rd
• Badulla Post Office Road
• Ella Bus Stop
• Trincomalee Town
• Jaffna Bus Stand
• Embillipitiya Bus Stand
• Wellawaya Ella Kumbalwela Hwy
• West East Bastian Mawatha
• Rattota Bus Stand
• Bandarawela Badulla Rd

What are the Most Popular Routes of Sri Lanka Bus Service?

The most popular destinations of Sri Lanka Bus Service are:

• Colombo - Jaffna
• Jaffna - Colombo
• Colombo - Kandy
• Colombo - Galle
• Galle - Colombo
• Colombo - Ella
• Ella - Colombo
• Colombo - Matara
• Colombo - Arugam Bay
• Trincomalee - Colombo
• Colombo - Kataragama
• Colombo - Trincomalee
• Kataragama - Colombo
• Colombo - Udawalawe Safari Park
• Colombo - Embilipitiya
• Ella - Mattala
• Moratuwa - Ella
• Moratuwa - Kataragama
• Weligama - Moratuwa
• Colombo - Badulla
• Moratuwa - Weligama
• Colombo - Tissamaharama
• Moratuwa - Galle
• Colombo - Ampara
• Moratuwa - Udawalawe Safari Park
• Badulla - Colombo
• Kataragama - Moratuwa
• Matale - Trincomalee
• Colombo - Hambantota
• Ampara - Moratuwa
• Udawalawe Safari Park - Moratuwa
• Hambantota - Moratuwa
• Matale - Colombo
• Ella - Badulla
• Moratuwa - Badulla
• Moratuwa - Ampara
• Moratuwa - Kandy
• Galle - Moratuwa
• Kataragama - Tissamaharama
• Colombo - Matale
• Matale - Moratuwa
• Demodara - Colombo
• Ella - Moratuwa
• Demodara - Badulla
• Moratuwa - Hambantota
• Embilipitiya - Colombo
• Ampara - Colombo
• Hambantota - Colombo
• Udawalawe Safari Park - Colombo
• Mattala - Monaragala
• Moratuwa - Tissamaharama
• Moratuwa - Matale
• Jaffna - Moratuwa
• Colombo - Monaragala
• Badulla - Moratuwa
• Moratuwa - Embilipitiya

What are the Bus Classes & Prices of Sri Lanka Bus Service?

The price of your bus trip will depend both on the destination and the class of your ticket. Note that not all ticket classes are available on certain routes yet for longer trips there is almost always a good choice of options. Opt for a sleeper coach for the most convenient overnight trip. Sleeper buses are usually equipped with berths or soft reclining seats, feature an onboard toilet and your ticket may also include other perks like snacks or even a lunch. Taking a night bus is also a good idea if you want to save on your hotel room. During the day an express service is often the best value for money as it makes less stops than an ordinary or standard class bus and travels faster. On some routes it may be crucial to choose the right class as, say, an ordinary or second class bus may need some 6 hours to cover the distance the first class or express bus travels in two hours!

Pros & Cons of Bus Travel

Pros of bus travel.

Buses usually boast the widest network of destinations covered. They travel to the places you cannot get to by plane or even by train

Travelling by bus is easy – there is no need to arrive to the bus terminal much in advance, and the check-in is usually a very fast formality opposite to air travel

Bus tickets are very affordable. Yes, there are costly first class or VIP options but is you are on a budget, bus is the first means of transportation you have to think about

At the same time, there are different classes of service to suit any budget. If you are after a higher level of comfort, buses get you covered, too.

Cons of Bus Travel

Intercity bus terminals can be located outside the city centre in the outskirts. It means you will need to calculate extra time and money to get there. In certain destinations getting from the bus terminal can cost you more than you would expect because only a limited number of transportation companies is allowed to serve the route – and prices may be inflated.

During busy weekends or high season buses serving some tourist destinations may run out of schedule and require advanced booking.

While buses are not as weather dependent as ferries, bus trips can also be delayed or cancelled due to bad weather or road conditions – keep it in mind if travelling during certain seasons or to certain destinations.

Sri Lanka Bus Service Popular Routes

Sri lanka bus service schedule & timetable, sri lanka bus service stations, sri lanka bus service company reviews.

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Coach / Bus Tours in Sri Lanka 2024/2025

Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Sri Lanka. There are 11 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 7 days up to 16 days. The most popular month for these tours is November.

Filters applied

11 coach / bus trips around sri lanka with 5 reviews.

• Coach / Bus

Highlights of Sri Lanka

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Sri Lanka with North East and Authentic Sri Lankan Food Experience

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Intl. Flights Included

Sri Lanka Highlights

• Flights included

Sri Lanka East Coast Highlights

• In-depth Cultural

Classical Sri Lanka (2019)

Sri Lanka Classic Explore - Unread Recto & Verso

I have some observations about my tour that will probably help the future company clients . First of all organizations and contact of the agent responsible in Sri Lanka, all my doubts have been answered fast and my doubts solved . Guide/driver, Sarath was extremely kind, educated from the beginning to the end of my tour. He always worried about my comfort and he want my tour to be perfect. My sincere thanks to Sarath, professional 10. Programming: My suggestion is that the reconsidered the tour for future company clients in Yala. I made a safari before I arrived Yala and I can say that it was better than Yala, the city of Yala is horrible, dirty, I felt extremely uncomfortable in this village. I believe that this village may be perfectly taken out from the tour because the Safari can be done in another region. I'd like to give a feedback on the polonnaruwa tour, nothing extraordinary, the very badly cared region I think could be replaced by some other region. About the hotels: Negombo: Hush Lagoon- simple hotel , the service was good Anuradhapura- Subaseth villa, this place is amazing, the service was perfect, this place I really want to recommend to everyone who want a beautiful, calm place. It is the perfect place for who is traveling with kids. Congrats Raji ( the hotel manager) your place is amazing and your service perfect. Sigiriya-EKHO Sigiriya, simple hotel, I have some issues with the toilet but they solved the problem immediately.The food also was very nice. Kandy- Orchid Villa- is a nice and good hotel, good service, I will recommend this hotel. Ella- Ella view hotel- this place only has a nice view but the place is very bad, I need asked to change my room because the place has a very bad smell, ugly decoration, not clean, when take shower the whole place became wet. Everything looks as not finish .one attachment I will show some fotos.Also need mention that this place do t have car parking, you need walk a long way of small steps until the hotel . Yala- Senora hotel- dirty , disgusting,ugly,not good feeling ,bad decoration. Outside look ok but inside is terrible. Galle- Sun set fort- simple hotel, good service,amazing location.

Sri Lankan Site

Affordable Luxury Travel in Sri Lanka (9N/10D)

Sri Lanka: The Art of Simple Living

Splendours of Sri Lanka Negombo to Colombo (2024)

Travel styles.

• 10 Best Coach & Bus Companies (with Reviews)
• Sri Lanka Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Weeks Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Day Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025

The best ways to get around in Sri Lanka

Nov 4, 2023 • 6 min read

Plan your travels around Sri Lanka with this guide to the country's network of trains, buses and roads © Max shen / Getty Images

Sri Lanka's landscape is impressively varied. Grand national parks are home to safari adventures, otherworldly coastlines circle the perimeter, and hilly tea country is at its heart.

With such versatility, there are many different transport options. It’s nearly impossible to define a singular "best" way to move around Sri Lanka . Rather, it depends on where you are, where you're headed and what you enjoy.

Domestic flight options are quite limited, which means the main contenders for transportation are trains, buses, tuk-tuks and private cars. We break down what you need to know about each.

Take a scenic train journey between major towns and cities

Sri Lanka's major cities and towns are extremely well-connected by train . Overall, it’s an easy, convenient and sustainable way to travel. Of course, sometimes the trains can be delayed – but isn’t that a risk almost everywhere? We suggest not giving in to cautionary calls on travel forums to avoid train travel due to delays, as you’ll absolutely be missing out. Trains offer some of the most efficient, relaxing and spectacular ways to get to a destination in Sri Lanka, plus they avoid pesky city traffic.

As the financial capital, Colombo is a transport hub from which trains spring off across the whole country. They travel east to the city of Kandy and down into Nuwara Eliya – a town in tea country. Northbound trains reach the cities of Anuradhapura and Jaffna .

Some train trips are so scenic, they’re an activity in themselves. The six-hour ride from Kandy to Ella , which weaves through seemingly endless tea fields, is right up there among the world’s best train routes . A recently renovated route from Colombo to the historical city of Galle conversely runs on the edge of the west coast, offering mesmeric views of the Indian Ocean.

There are three classes in Sri Lanka’s train system. First-class tickets might offer beds, otherwise, expect roomy seats with large windows that are perfect for gazing out of. You can reserve these seats, but don’t leave booking too late as they’re likely to sell out.

If you struggle with the heat, it’s worth knowing that first-class cabins are air-conditioned and second-class cabins usually have fans. First and second-class tickets are generally bookable from train station counters up to 30 days in advance. If you need a little more assistance, you can purchase these through a local travel agent. Third-class seats are not bookable, but first come, first served and those who do not get a seat will need to stand.

Where trains aren’t an option, look towards the buses

In Sri Lanka, buses fill the gaps train infrastructure can’t, connecting much of the country. There are both public and private buses to choose from.

If you have time to spare, are on a budget and do not experience motion sickness, public buses – that includes government-run Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB) and Central Transport Board (CTB) buses – are a good option. They are the most affordable transport option in Sri Lanka and, as such, there are no frills. They can be a wild ride – bumpy, often playing blaring music, with no air-con and the windows open.

If you experience motion sickness and are willing to pay a little more, opt for a private bus. They do vary in condition and age, however, they’re generally comfortable coaches or minibuses with air conditioning. Private buses provide more direct routes to attractions that are a little further away.

Tip for buying bus tickets:  Knowing where to find your bus and buy your tickets can sometimes be a scavenger hunt. At bus stations, there will most likely be an information office or desk where staff can guide you to the right departure point. If not, ask a local for help or check the destination signs on the fronts of the buses.

For both public and private buses, you usually pay the fare on board, either to the driver or the conductor. Some smaller private bus companies may sell tickets just outside the bus.

Take a tuk-tuk for short journeys

Tuk-tuks – motorized rickshaws – are a quintessential mode of transport, perfect for short distances. From major cities to small towns, you'll find tuk-tuks all over Sri Lanka. Discuss and agree the fare with the driver before you start your journey, then sit back to enjoy the open-air energy of your surroundings – especially the sounds and smells – unrivaled by any other form of transport.

Consider hiring a private car with a driver

The most convenient way of getting around Sri Lanka is by hiring a private driver. It allows you to have more control over designing a customized road trip itinerary .

The bonus with private drivers is the local knowledge they hold. You’ll be able to learn about Sri Lanka in a way you can’t necessarily on a larger tour. Some drivers will also recommend things to see , eat and do and perhaps take you to more hidden or local spots.

If you’re looking to hire a driver in advance, contact your accommodation for their local recommendations. Travel agencies will also be able to connect you with someone to suit your needs.

Self-driving is not recommended

You can hire a car or a motorbike in Sri Lanka if you have an International Driving Permit, however it’s not a common choice for travelers. High traffic in cities and poor road quality in regional and rural areas mean it is safer for travelers to rely on public transport and local drivers, unless they are extremely confident and capable. If you are considering driving or hiring a motorbike, we’d recommend you do this in less traffic-dense areas.

Weather conditions can slow road travel

One thing to be mindful of is Sri Lanka’s two monsoon seasons . The northeast monsoon season is from September to March, while the southwest is from May to August. Heavy rain can slow down all kinds of travel, but especially road travel – posing a particular challenge to dirt roads, which might become full of puddles, washed out and unsafe to drive on. You’re better off relying on the trains during the monsoon seasons. The only trade-off is that some train windows are stubborn to close, so there’s a chance you might get a little wet.

It's also well worth researching whether your visit coincides with any festivals or days of significance. Certain places can see a major influx of visitors, increasing traffic on the roads and causing public transportation tickets to be in much more demand.

Accessible transport in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka continues to improve its accessibility, but the number of under-maintained roads and sidewalks without ramps pose challenges to travelers with reduced mobility. For wheelchair users, private cars and vans are the most suitable form of transport, given buses do not have wheelchair access – and only a very limited number of trains do. For additional information download Lonely Planet’s free Accessible Travel Guide .

This article was first published April 2021 and updated November 2023

Explore related stories

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

We asked a pair of passionate writers to make the case for two of Asia’s most fabulous destinations.

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

Nov 9, 2023 • 9 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 8 min read

Oct 15, 2023 • 3 min read

Oct 14, 2023 • 11 min read

Jun 2, 2023 • 8 min read

May 26, 2022 • 18 min read

The Ultimate Guide to Transportation in Sri Lanka

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Do you know how you will get from one destination to another? Check out this information to make travel around Sri Lanka a breeze (or at least easier). In this post, we share all the details about traveling in Sri Lanka including the four main methods of transportation + how to get to some of the more popular destinations!

Is it easy to travel around Sri Lanka?

Yes! Traveling around Sri Lanka is relatively easy due to the well-connected bus system and private drivers available, but it can take time. Also, it can take a bit of patience. For such a small country, it can still take many hours to reach your next destination. For example, Ella to Tangalle by bus is 145 km and took us about 4 hours to reach.

At first, it may seem a little daunting to hop on the packed bus of local travelers, but once you adjust to the wild driving, there’s something to almost love about it. Sri Lankans are also super friendly (most of the time) and many are happy to help you figure out where you need to go!

Is traveling around Sri Lanka expensive?

NO! Traveling around Sri Lanka is super affordable, especially if you’re a budget backpacker like us. Using public transportation to travel around Sri Lanka is cheap and easy to do. Traveling the country by train, bus, and tuktuk definitely won’t break the bank.

However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable ride around, you should expect to pay more for your ride. BUT, this is quite cheap as well, comparing prices to western prices. It is super common in Sri Lanka to hire a private driver for a day or even the duration of your trip. We met many travelers who were guided around the country by their own drivers. Although we wouldn’t classify this into “budget travel” it is still reasonable for those with more money to spend on their trip!

Can you drive a car around Sri Lanka?

Technically….yes. But it’s just easier to leave it to the locals. To drive a car or tuktuk in Sri Lanka you must first have an international driver’s permit and then get a Sri Lankan license to drive around the country. If you are renting a tuktuk or car to explore the island, your rental company should handle this for you. However, because of the well-connected public transportation systems and numerous private drivers, we suggest using them instead of driving yourself!

If you do want to drive in Sri Lanka, here are some things to keep in mind. Coming from the US it was very different to be driving on the left-hand side of the road, but you will get used to it. Also, in order to drive a car you must get a Sri Lankan driver’s license and car rentals can be very expensive!

Also, be warned, the roads are a bit crazy. With buses flying up the winding mountain roads, scooters alongside them, and tuktuks trailing the shoulder, the roads can be a bit daunting to drive on. If you do get behind the wheel, please be careful and make sure you are comfortable driving the vehicle!

Does Sri Lanka have Uber?

You can use Uber in Sri Lanka, however, it really only works well in the capital, Colombo, and the second largest city, Kandy. If you’re in other touristy destinations, we recommend using a combination of Uber and Pick Me. Although the apps don’t always work and hailing a tuktuk from the street is most likely your best bet, Pick Me is great for places like Colombo, Kandy, and even parts of Ella and the south coast.

Pick Me is our recommended transportation app for Sri Lanka. However, we also used Uber when we couldn’t find a ride through Pick Me. You will most likely not find drivers for longer rides and recommend using taxi services or Sri Lanka’s public transportation system when traveling long distances.

Grab is a common transportation app used in South East Asia and if you’ve traveled to countries like Thailand, Vietnam, or Cambodia you may have used it. Currently, Grab does not work in Sri Lanka, only Uber or Pick Me. These apps work very similarly to Grab.

Also, note that Uber and Pick Me also have a tuktuk option. This is easier to get than a car, however, car services are still available in the cities. If you are waiting longer for a car and don’t have a large group, we recommend the tuktuk option as its cheaper, and riding in a tuktuk is a must-have experience in Sri Lanka.

What is the best way to get around Sri Lanka?

A combination of it all. In our eyes, to get the full Sri Lankan experience, you need to experience the buses, the trains, and the tuktuks. We also suggest renting a scooter for some days and exploring that way! Navigating Sri Lanka is such a unique experience and we treasure all of the memories we have from it, even the hot and sweaty bus rides.

Hop on a bus, ride the train, and zoom away in a tuktuk. Getting around is easy and affordable using the various methods of transportation in Sri Lanka.

Public Transportation in Sri Lanka Today

We traveled around Sri Lanka for two months in 2022 and found that although their transportation systems may not always be super updated and comfortable, we got where we needed to go! The people were always so kind in helping us get off at the right stop on the bus or navigating a busy train station.

There are three main transportation methods in Sri Lanka: Bus, Train, Taxi/Tuktuk. Many people hire private drivers to get around Sri Lanka and compared to western prices, this is often affordable in a holiday budget. However, we recommend taking advantage of Sri Lanka’s other transportation systems. Hop on a bus, ride a train, and rush through town in a tuktuk. Transportation in Sri Lanka is one of our top things to do and experience in the country alone, no matter where you’re going.

Transportation Methods in Sri Lanka

Traveling by bus in sri lanka:.

The cheapest method of transportation in Sri Lanka is by bus. Sri Lanka’s buses can be very interesting and definitely have their own character!

How it works:

There are 2 main types: Red and Blue. The red buses are government buses, a little cheaper but don’t run as often. The blue buses are privately operated but not much more expensive. They are a bit louder though, with music blaring, lights flashing, and walls lined with images ranging from “Rio” (the bird movie) to religious deities.

Instead of paying beforehand or paying the bus driver as you climb aboard, buses in Sri Lanka have a separate “conductor”. Get on the bus heading to your destination and when he’s ready, the bus conductor will come to collect the payment from you.

To pay, the conductor will have a small machine that prints out a ticket with the price. You can only pay in cash and will receive the correct change.

There are some coach buses that take more direct routes and some are even air-conditioned. These buses will connect you from one major city to another like Colombo to Kandy or Kandy to Anuradhapura. They are much less frequent and more expensive. We personally did not use these buses but they are available to and from some major destinations.

Scams to Watch For

We read a lot about scams on buses before traveling to Sri Lanka but in the two months we were there, we didn’t have these issues. This doesn’t mean that they don’t happen though.

You shouldn’t ever have to pay extra for your bags and it should always be relatively cheap. We haven’t experienced this but saw in some Facebook groups that some travelers had been overcharged. This is rare! However, just to have an idea here are some prices we paid so you know what to expect:

• Wilpattu to Colombo: 880 rupees (per person)
• Tangalle to Ella: 320 rupees (per person)
• Kandy to Digana: 40 rupees (per person)

Pros of Bus Travel in Sri Lanka:

• Cheap, you won’t beat the bus prices. From Wilpattu to Colombo (a 5-hour ride) we paid roughly $4 USD
• Frequency. Depending on where you are going, there will probably be multiple buses passing by a day (ask your accommodation to be sure!)
• There are many stops, and you don’t have to get off at a regular bus station, there are plenty of stops and you may even find one closer to your final destination.
• Helpful bus drivers/conductors, we were always helped in getting off at the right stop (however, we always checked Google Maps to make sure we were aware of our location)

Cons of Bus Travel in Sri Lanka:

• Rough driving (especially if you get motion sickness)
• Can take longer than other options (depending on the route)
• Can be PACKED with people, and there is little room for luggage.

Traveling by Train in Sri Lanka:

A visit to Sri Lanka isn’t complete without a ride on one of the many trains in the country. This is definitely the most beautiful method of transportation in Sri Lanka as it always comes with some stunning views.

How it Works:

Arrive at the station to purchase your ticket. For some of the more popular rides, like the popular Kandy to Ella train ride, you may want to book this in advance. However, for most tickets, you can purchase them the day of. You will find that some trains have 1st, 2nd, and 3rd class tickets.

1st Class Train Tickets

Air Conditioned cabins with assigned seats. Sometimes they have TVs playing a silent movie or nature film. The doors between cabins may still be open to the outside but cannot guarantee as they were closed during one of our rides.

2nd Class Reserved Train Tickets

Reserved seats in cabins without AC, but you can often open the windows. Having a reserved seat means you won’t be searching for space but you will also have some room to move about and access to open doors between cabins.

2nd Class Unreserved Train Tickets

Unreserved seats and often many travelers booked, but this can lead to an exciting ride. Although the cabins can be packed, you’ll have access to open doors between them. You just also might have to sit in front of the bathrooms on your backpacks as we did.

3rd Class Train Tickets

Unreserved cabins that often have benches instead of seats, can be crowded.

At the station, there will be numbered counters for either the route you are purchasing or the class of ticket you are buying. There is normally a sign above each to direct you to the right counter. But, if you end up at the wrong one, the staff will guide you to where you need to go.

Pros of Train Travel:

• Slow travel, you really get the opportunity to see some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning landscapes.
• 1st Class Air Con, this option is still cheap and very comfortable!
• Sitting in the doorways, if you’re traveling to Sri Lanka you’ve probably seen the Ella train pictures but this is an option on every ride!
• Snack vendors, at many stops on the ride snack vendors will come aboard selling cheap shorts and snacks to eat!

Cons of Train Travel:

• Slower travel, although this is a pro, it can also be a con if you are short on time during your trip.
• Restrictive directions, the train system doesn’t run everywhere and connect every city so it can only be used to reach certain destinations
• Not enough seats! (seats may run out if you are booking an unreserved seat)

Ella to Kandy Train Tips:

• Purchase your ticket AT LEAST two days in advance for 1st class or 2nd class reserved. 2nd class reserved sells out the quickest.
• You can book your ticket at the counter or ask your accommodation to help (sometimes they offer to send someone to purchase the tickets for you).
• If you book online through 12goasia it will be a lot more expensive, this is unnecessary.

Traveling by TukTuk in Sri Lanka:

Another must-do experience in Sri Lanka. Using tuktuks is extremely common to travel short distances in each destination.

Technically there are two ways of getting around by tuktuk. The first is to use tuk-tuks like taxis for short distances in a town or even from one town to the next. However, you can also RENT your own tuk-tuk and drive it around all of Sri Lanka!

Pros of TukTuk Travel:

• Cheaper than a taxi car since you are in a smaller vehicle
• Plenty of them around, you can’t walk far without seeing a tuktuk in Sri Lanka
• Great for shorter distances, this is the perfect way to reach a guesthouse after arriving to the town by train or reaching some of the things to do in that area.

Cons of TukTuk Travel:

• May not fit all your luggage, if you’re traveling with more than a backpack, tuktuks can be a bit tight for room.
• Really only 3 people “comfortably” in the back, and even that can be a stretch depending on the people you are traveling with.
• Some drivers may try to take you to a gem museum, herb garden, or some other place they recommend that is a scam to make money.

Traveling by Taxi/Driver:

A popular way to get around Sri Lanka is with a private driver. There are many different ways to book drivers and it is the most “comfortable” in our list of methods of transportation in Sri Lanka.

Most of the time, your guesthouse accommodation will have connections with drivers they recommend. We booked a driver or two this way and it worked out very well for us. You can also book drivers through websites like Ella Budget Taxi or find a private driver through Sri Lanka travel Facebook groups.

To find a taxi in cities like Kandy or Colombo, you can use apps like Pick Me and Uber. Keep in mind that most of the time the taxi services from these apps are tuktuks.

Pros of Taxi Travel:

• Air Conditioning, most of Sri Lanka is hot and before you adjust to the tropical temperatures an air-conditioned ride is always nice!
• Comfort, if you’re traveling long distances, a car is much more comfortable than a squished bus or tuktuk.
• Room, there should be plenty of room for your guests and luggage in a private taxi.
• Making stops, often if you are driving a route with popular tourist stops, your driver will be willing to park and wait for you to visit for an extra tip. Make sure this is negotiated! We did this with our driver from Sigiriya to Kandy and got to stop at the Dambulla Cave Temples!

Cons of Taxi Travel:

• Expensive, although the price is not expensive compared to western terms, it is the most expensive way to travel in Sri Lanka compared to the budget bus and train options.

Traveling by Scooter/Motorbike in Sri Lanka:

Pretty much just like the section says, getting around Sri Lanka by scooter or motorbike is possible. There are places to rent them all over, especially in tourist destinations like the south coast and Sigiriya. Often your accommodation can help you find a rental or you find signs outside shops yourself.

Unless you are very experienced driving a scooter in countries like Vietnam or Thailand, we don’t recommend it for full-time travel. As mentioned before, driving in Sri Lanka can be a bit wild with the busses, tuktuks, cars, and scooters. However, renting a scooter to get around is one of our favorite ways to spend the day and explore different places in Sri Lanka. Renting a scooter or motorbike is great to reach different things to do from your accommodation in town.

Pros of Scooter Travel:

• Freedom, driving your own scooter or motorbike gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want to. You don’t have to pay the driver extra for their wait time, you can just go!
• Good price, the scooter rentals in Sri Lanka are normally pretty cheap and for a full day of adventure, the price is right!

Cons of Scooter Travel:

• Experience, if you don’t have experience driving a scooter, we don’t recommend that you drive in busy areas. However, learning to drive in more rural areas like outside Sigiriya is a great way to build your driving confidence.
• Sometimes petrol/gas can be hard to find. When we rented our bike in Sigiriya, we had to stop at various little shops hoping to find gas when a man filled our tank with what looked like watered-down gas from an actual water bottle! But hey, it ran!

How to Reach Popular Destinations in Sri Lanka

Now that we’ve covered the different methods of transportation in Sri Lanka, here are a few notes on how to get to popular destinations. If you have a private driver, these tips are not necessarily for you. However, if you’re traveling with a mix of methods and looking for the best recommendations, we’ve provided some insight from our experiences below.

• Train : After landing in Sri Lanka, to reach Colombo you can take a train from the Negombo area to Colombo. You can also catch a train from Kandy and the coast to reach Colombo.
• Bus : There are public buses that run from Negombo and the rest of the country to Colombo.
• Taxi : Book a taxi from your current location using apps like Uber or Pick Me, Sri Lanka travel Facebook groups, and most guesthouses are well-connected to drivers! We stayed our first night near the airport and used a driver from our accommodation to get to the next place.

Beach Towns (From Bentota to Mirissa):

• Train : There is a train that runs from Colombo to the south coast with stops at many of the beach town destinations along the southwest and southern coast like Galle and Mirissa.
• Bus : There are buses that leave each beach town, Colombo, and inland cities that head to the coast every day.
• Taxi : Book a taxi from your current location using apps like Uber or Pick Me, Sri Lanka travel Facebook groups, and most guesthouses are well-connected to drivers!

Heading to the coast? We’ve written posts about where to find the best vegan eats in Mirissa here

• Train : There is a train to Kandy from Ella or Colombo, which has stunning views. Kandy is also connected to the north by train as well.
• Bus : With a centralized location, there are many public buses that run to Kandy from cities and towns all over Sri Lanka. Your accommodation should be able to help guide you to the station and what bus to get on.

Looking for places to eat around Kandy? Check out this guide

• Bus : You can catch a bus from Colombo or Kandy to Dambulla. Then, you must board a second bus from Dambulla to Sigiriya. There is no straight bus from either destination to Sigiriya
• Taxi : Book a taxi from your current guesthouse since most are well-connected to drivers!
• Train : The Kandy to Ella train is THE famous train ride in Sri Lanka. You can make a stop in Nuwara Eliya to shorten the ride as well and it’s worth it!
• Bus : As mentioned above, Sri Lanka is well-connected and affordable. For example, the bus from Tangalle to Ella is 3.5-4 hours and costs 320 rupees.
• Taxi : Similar to others you can book using your accommodation or use a site like Ella Budget Taxi . We used them once and everything went great.

Need some more tips for visiting Ella? Read this post for veg-friendly food recommendations and some tips for visiting Ella, Sri Lanka

• Bus : You can catch a bus from places like Ella to Tangalle for 320 rupees. There are also buses that run along the south coast to and from Tangalle and Dickwella, Mirissa, etc.
• Tuktuk : If you aren’t far from Tangalle, another coastal town, you may be able to find a good deal with a tuktuk driver to drive you!

Final Thoughts: Transporation in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a stunning country that we recommend everyone to visit one day. Hopefully, with this guide, we’ve made your trip planning a bit easier. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way of getting around Sri Lanka. we highly recommend sticking to public transportation.

Traveling around Sri Lanka is surprisingly easy once you get used to the busy buses and trains. And if you’re not interested in those, there are plenty of private drivers with air-conditioned cars to hire for your holiday! Private drivers are super popular for tourists seeking more comfort, especially those with families and those looking to shorten their time on the road.

• Attractive Holiday Offers
• Serene Sri Lanka
• North & East Coast Explorer
• Turquoise Seas
• Classic Cultural
• Royal Heritage
• Sri Lanka Highlights
• Hill Comfort
• Wedded Bliss
• Customised Incentives Tours
• Animal Instinct
• Wildlife Paradise
• The Wanderer
• Bespoke Tours
• Things to do in Colombo
• Hot Air Ballooning
• Whale Watching
• Catamaran Ride
• Conserve Turtles
• Explore Ella
• Live Like A Local
• Tea in The Mountains
• The Last Kingdom of Sri Lanka
• The Legend of Saradiel
• Village lifestyle
• Seat in Coach
• Luxury Boutique Hotels
• Luxury Star Class Hotels
• Luxury Camping
• Special Events
• Explore Sri Lanka
• Maldives Tours
• Sustainability
• Travelbites
• Inquire Now

• Walkers Tours
• Sri Lanka Tours

Sri Lanka Tours, Reserve your seat

Our Seat-in Coach Tours give you the ability to book an authentic travel experience of Sri Lanka without having to go through the hassle of arranging transport, accommodation or creating an itinerary. Ranging from 5 days to 7 days, simply choose from our exciting Seat-in Coach Tours, book your seat on our luxury bus, be picked up from your hotel in Colombo and visit the most popular attractions of Sri Lanka while enjoying the hospitality of some of the best hotels in the country. Visit the major cultural and historical sites of the country, the untouched beaches around the coast, and the panoramic mountains of the hill country. Experience the local way of life with unique activities and excursions. All this and more, hassle free with the expert care and guidance of one of our professional guides. Book today to secure your seat!

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Sri Lanka » Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

So you’re planning an itinerary for Sri Lanka? That almost feels self-defeating. Both a part of South Asia and an island paradise, time has a certain way of taking its own flow here—locals lovingly refer to it as  ‘Sri Lanka Time’.

But perhaps you’re visiting Sri Lanka for a quick-blast holiday? Or maybe you just want to explore it fully before you kick off to the next grand destination? Either way, it’s good to know exactly where to go in Sri Lanka before you arrive.

Though not as big or as difficult to travel as its bigger brothers further up the subcontinent, you’re still looking at slow transit times and unpredictable occurrences of deeply-structured chaos. That’s why it’s important to be clued in on the ins-and-outs of executing a Sri Lanka itinerary seamlessly.

And that’s exactly why I present to thee a seamless itinerary for Sri Lanka… Two in fact!

Using these travel routes for Sri Lanka (as marked by the varying monsoon seasons), you’re going to see  a lot  of the country! All the best parts in fact, plus some sneaky bonus stops you’re probably not going to find out about anywhere else. I’ll be covering the coolest destinations in Sri Lanka, what to do there, and, of course, the best and brightest places to stay.

In one seamless guide.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

2-week sri lanka itinerary: the south in-season, 3-week sri lanka itinerary: culture hotspots and backpacker sticky places, sri lanka itinerary – travel guide tips and pointers, faq on sri lanka itinerary.

Sri Lanka is an all-year-round destination… in that it’s always raining and always sunny simultaneously somewhere on the island. The pesky alternating monsoon seasons make planning a trip to Sri Lanka a wee bit more complicated. In that sense, Sri Lanka is also a year-round monsoon destination!

• Northeast “Maha” Monsoon (December to February): Over the Christmas holiday period, the north and east take a refreshing shower, Arugam Bay all but shuts down, and the south coast of Sri Lanka is in full tourist swing.
• Inter-Season “Dryboi” Monsoon #1 (March-April): You’ll catch some rains in the southwest quadrant of the island during this period while everywhere else stays mostly dry.
• Southwest “Yala” Monsoon (May-September): This is when Sri Lanka’s south and west coast highlights really start to get soaked. The Yala monsoon period is easily when to go to Sri Lanka’s east coast—spending a surf season “stuck” in Arugam Bay in particular.
• Inter-Season “Sadboi” Monsoon #2 (October-November): It kinda just rains everywhere during this period… a lot. Have fun with that!

Right, so that may look way too complicated, but it’s not so bad. Except for when it really pours, the rains in Sri Lanka are pretty typical Asian-style monsoons: they rarely hang around for more than a couple of hours max. You can still expect frequent catchups with Mr Blue Sky even during the rains.

Realistically, the best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you want to go . Keep in mind the rough timing of seasons (and my even rougher attempt to break them down), and you’ll find that crafting a primarily dry itinerary for touring Sri Lanka will be easy. Just avoid the ‘Sadboi’ season; that shit sucks.

Weather in Sri Lanka

Monsoons aside, the climate in Sri Lanka is a much more straightforward ordeal. Expect serious thigh chafing conditions—hot and humid. Sometimes it may be just hot, and sometimes it may just be humid, but it’s probably always going to be at least one of the two.

The exception is in the hill country (central highlands). Up here, things cool off considerably and even get properly cold in the right places. I’d actually go so far as to say it’s my sweet spot; blissful sunny mornings cooled off by drizzles of afternoon mist leading into a full night’s rest snuggled betwixt the blankets.

Check out the table below for some average temperatures in Sri Lanka. I’ve chosen Colombo (Sri Lanka’s west coast capital) and Nuwara Eliya (the balmy capital of the mountainous tea country) to contrast the two distinct climates.

So, before we start the 14-day Sri Lanka itinerary extravaganza, I wanna talk about arrival and Day 0. For any and all backpacking routes in Sri Lanka, you’ll be landing at Sri Lanka’s international airport— Bandaranaike —which is near Colombo but not in Colombo. This is a blessing in disguise.

Colombo is beautiful on the inside… probably. It’s hard to tell because it’s so ugly on the outside. I spent a week here: the only redeemable thing I found was UberEats so I could just stay in my hostel in Colombo .

Instead, I present to you… Negombo!

Negombo is a fine alternative to staying in Colombo’s gridlocked mayhem. It even sounds similar!

Negombo is a whole lot more chill, the beaches are nicer, and it’s closer to the airport. Maybe I sound like a vacuum salesman pitching the newest model, but suck it up, princess! Any and all times you can skip Colombo, do it.

Colombo is yesterday’s soggy street roti disappointing my mouth.

Where to Stay in Negombo:  YoYo Beach Hostel

There are actually two YoYo sister hostels in Negombo—this one and the airport hostel. The YoYo Beach Hostel is aimed more at a party vibe; you can expect to crack open the arrack by night and sleep off the migraine on the beach by day.

The  YoYo Airport Hostel  (which is closer to the airport than the beach) is more setup for one-night stayovers when flying in and out of Sri Lanka. You’ll get quiet vibes and a soundproof room with the option to transfer to the Beach Hostel if you wanna partake in family dinner. Truth be told, they’re both pretty mint places to stay, and you can’t really go wrong with either!

Sri Lanka in Two Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Kandy 5. Ella 6. Yala National Park 7. Mirissa (South Coast Beaches) 8. Galle Fort

December to January is the peak; March and April is a comfortable shoulder season.

1. Looking at Sigiriya Rock 2. The train ride to Ella 3. The hill country

Stop 1: Sigiriya (Days 1-3)

Next up is Sigiriya. You’d be hard-pressed to find a single suggested itinerary for Sri Lanka that didn’t include the majestic wonder of Sigiriya: the ancient rock fortress.

Set in the central, dry, and hot lowlands region, Sigiriya sits inside the Cultural Triangle area (which I’ll cover more in the ‘3-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary’ ). Beneath the hulking behemoth of Lion’s Rock  (AKA Sigiriya), is a relatively sleepy and tourist-lite village (comparatively to Sri Lanka’s other famous places to visit). I actually really dig the town; tourists float in, but it’s not overdone. Plus there are some endearing strange ones kicking around town.

The rock fortress of Sigiriya is the main draw to this area (not to mention one of the most famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka).  If you’re only in Sri Lanka for 14 days, it’s a must-see thing. Powerful yet humbling, the supposed tomb of the God-King Ravana himself, it’s also mega-touristic and a tough price to swallow for those travelling Sri Lanka on a budget.

There are, however, other options…

You can potentially find a direct bus, but the train runs from either of the  ‘-ombos’  to nearby  Habarana . It’s an easy bus ride or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya from there.

The choice is as follows:

• Pay  $25 , climb Lion’s Rock with a horde of tourists and locals (it’s a very sacred site), and experience the admittedly very impressive ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Or… climb the nearby Pidurangala rock for about  $3  with a smaller swarm of tourists and locals, and watch the sunset (or sunrise) set the hues of Sigiriya ablaze.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, however, I do recommend the latter. And at sunset. Alternatively, just do both!

• Shenadi Restaurant –  Yummy local food at cheap prices—it’s just that simple.
• Rastarant Sigiriya –  The juices are bangin’ and the slackline’s a’ hangin’!

Where to Stay in Sigiriya:  Jungle Vista

The family who runs the hostel are also mega-lovely, can easily organise safaris and tours, and cook up a mean Sri Lankan feed every night. It’s a bit out of Sigiriya town (about 10 km) but absolutely worth the tuk-tuk fare (the family can organise you transport anyway).

Stop 2: Kandy (Days 3-5)

Ok, ok, Kandy… most tourists I meet travelling Sri Lanka are pretty unenthused by Kandy. I can’t necessarily blame them. It’s, admittedly, a bit like chewing bubble gum—fun for a brief period, but the magic quickly wears off.

Yet, still, I like Blandy. It’s a normal but pretty city where normal people do normal boring things. There’s a mall with an ice-cream parlour, a lake for moonlit romantic strolls, and heaps of cheap food around.

If you’re a backpacker, Kandy is similar to Colombo (albeit way more chill and lacking in a proper nightlife); there’s not much reason to go there except to start the unbelievable train journey to Ella. If you’re visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, or on a whirlwind 5 to 7-day itinerary, you can just book a hostel in Kandy , stay a night, rest up, and catch the train right on out the following morning.

Unless you’re lucky enough to score a direct bus, chances are it will be one bus to  Dambulla  (30 mins approx.) followed by another bus to Kandy (hopefully < 3 hours).

Honestly, I scoped a few attractions out, and it really is the kind of city where you’re better off just wandering and seeing what secrets you find. That said…

• Temple of the Tooth –  Easily the most famous thing to see in Kandy, this temple holds a very sacred artefact: the alleged tooth of Lord Buddha himself. Personally, I’d say it’s not really worth the price of entry since you don’t even get to see the tooth, but it’s a mention for the temple-nutters.
• To the Batcave –  This is something special. I’m not sure if it’s seasonal (I visited Kandy in September) but at twilight, the sky fills with a myriad of bats—truly innumerable. Find a high spot in the hills, roll up, and enjoy the show.
• Licenced to Grill –  Delicious puns aside, you get wraps and burgers at mean prices with chips that are really more like wedges (which makes them better).

Where to Stay in Kandy:  Hipsters Hideout Lounge

You know when something is not particularly special, but it just kinda appeals to you. That’s how I feel about Hipster’s Hideout Lounge.

It’s cheap and the walls have got some cool art going on, but it was also pretty quiet every time I visited Kandy. The dorms are basic too—no lockers. That said, I like the vibes, and it’s always my go-to place every time I stay in Kandy.

Inter-Stops: The Kandy to Ella Train

This is why you have to at least pass through Kandy: the train to Ella. The Kandy to Ella train is a must-do thing on any and all Sri Lanka itineraries. It’s not a journey to be missed.

Chances are you’ve already heard of the train ride from Kandy to Ella. If not, you’ve at least seen pictures, even if you don’t know it. Winding train tracks elegantly slice paths through the jungles, tea plantations, and misty slopes of the hill country. It’s one of those types of train journeys where you get to do this:

You don’t have to actually board the train at Kandy. There are stops before and after, and you can even board the train at Colombo. That is a bloody long ride though.

Kandy is about the right distance to Ella (roughly an 8-hour train ride plus the margin-of-error for the Asia effect), and there are a few extra spots you can stop along the way in Sri Lanka’s hill country if you can smush it all into your travel itinerary route. Since we’re already smushing a lot in, I’ll cover the extra places to go in the 3-week itinerary: check the hill country section .

Stop 3: Ella (Days 5-8)

Man, cutting only 4-days from your Sri Lanka itinerary for Ella hardly even seems like enough! Ella is easily my favourite place to go in Sri Lanka: I collectively spent around 2 months there staying it what used to be one of the best hostels in Sri Lanka (R.I.P. and bless).

I wouldn’t suggest staying in Ella town itself. There’s some good food in town, and some souvenir/Goa-lite shopping, but, otherwise, it’s an over-capacity tourist bubble. The real draw of Ella is everything around the bubble.

Smack-bang right in the middle of the emerald sea of the hill country, Ella is surrounded by gorgeous tea plantations, stunning valley panoramas, and plenty of aimless wandering opportunities. If you’re not staying outside town in the fairytale fields of cloud forests and shifting mists, you’re missing out.

From Kandy, I’m only going to tell you to catch the train every time.

• Little Adam’s Peak –  An easy walk with a grand payoff. For people that like eating the cake but don’t wanna bake it.
• Ella Rock –  A more challenging and dynamic hike with, arguably, less viewing payoff. There are heaps of backtracks here making it a fave for anyone that likes exploring. For those that like baking the cake but don’t want to eat it because the calories will ruin their trim walking figure.
• Nine Arches Bridge –  It’s a pretty bridge that the trains runs across with people selling drinking coconuts nearby. I don’t really get it, but it’s mega-touristy and a super popular attraction in Sri Lanka, so I thought I’d be remiss not to mention it.

In Ella itself:

• Matey Hut –  There are some blessed dank eateries in town (shoutout to the nameless roti shop on the south edge of town), however,  Matey Hut serves up high-quality Sri Lankan cuisine in a tourist restaurant setting.
• Cafe Chill –  It’s not really my jam—a proper tourist joint through and through. The prices are high, the food top-notch, and the music is usually on-point too! Along with  Cafe One Love , it’s one of the two main watering holes in town.
• MozarElla –  No matter where you go in the world, you will always find three things: pigeons, pizza, and Australians.

Where to Stay in Ella:  Ella Escapade Hostel by Nomadic

As I said, it’s better to stay  outside  of Ella, and this is a sweet spot. Getting into town itself will take some forethought, however, in the surrounding area of the property, there is heaps to explore.

You’ve also got free breakfast here saving you the trek into town (although walking the train tracks into town is always a blast). Ella Rock is also super close and easy to access. Once you get to Ella town itself and feel how touristy and packed it is, you’ll be glad you booked this peaceful place outta town in the mountains.

Stop 4: Yala National Park (Days 8-10)

We’re heading south towards the beach, but first, stop 4 and a disclaimer! Listen, there are three things nearly all backpackers travelling Sri Lanka will do:

• Go on a safari
• Get an elephant tattoo (probably shortly after the safari)

On point two, Yala is arguably the best place to visit in Sri Lanka in your 14 days of adventuring for a safari; it’s Sri Lanka’s biggest national park . Personally, though, I wouldn’t recommend it.

The animal tourism in Sri Lanka has a less than sterling reputation . Even on my own personal backpacking trip to Sri Lanka, I saw multiple instances of animal abuse both inside and outside the tourism industry.

Many safaris in Sri Lanka are not at all in line with responsible and ethical wildlife tourism , and nearly all are contributing to the greater issue. In Yala alone, safaris are overbooked, traffic is frequent, drivers are reckless and endanger the wildlife, and wild animals are (and have been) killed as a result.

Chances are, if you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, you’re already considering booking a safari. Ultimately, you do you. Just consider this the counter-perspective.

Unles you want to organise a driver or shared tourist taxi (which is easy from Ella), you’ll need to catch the bus. There are a few options for where you can go close to the national park, but Ella to Kataragama is a standard route and base for exploration.

A safari or not—s’up to you. Fair warning though, you’re not really permitted to explore the national park at your own duress like other places in the world. I’d really just suggest outright skipping Yala and the moral bankruptcy to go just soak up the beach for longer.

Where to Stay in Yala:  Leopard Trails

When I say luxury, I do really mean luxury: it’s an expensive, high-end tent accommodation with all the trimmings of a modern-day resort. And, of course, they’ll set you up for all your safari shenanigans.

An Ethically-Sound Alternative to a Sri Lankan Safari: Millennium Elephant Foundation

That’s right – you can get up-close-and-personal with some of the most majestic beasts in Sri Lanka and not even feel a drop of moral anxiety about it!  Millennium Elephant Foundation  is  ethical elephant tourism.

These guys don’t even let you ride the elephants. They used to let you ride them bareback, but now they’ve exchanged that program for their much more whimsical and respectable  Elephant Walk Experience . It’s kinda like a first date: you get to hang out, go for a romantic stroll with your partner elephant, and even help them bathe at the end if you’re lucky. ?

Was the first date divine? Then it’s time to commit because the  Elephant Foundation accepts volunteers too!  Not only will you get to hang out, care for, and bathe with the lovelies, but you’ll help out around the property too with farming, veterinary work, and teaching!

Honestly, there’s zero reason not to drop the cash you were going to spend on booking a safari on this instead. It’s  1000 times more  of an authentic experience,  1000 times less  morally reprehensible, and  100,000 times better  than sitting in a jeep staring slackjawed at wild animals that really just wish you’d piss off…

Stop 5: South Beaches (Days 10-13)

And it’s time for the beach! We’ve spent nearly 14 days in Sri Lanka already, and we still haven’t hit the beach—shameful.

Instead of sending you along Sri Lanka’s south coast, however, I’m going to lay out the beach destinations here for you (southeast to southwest direction) and who they’re good for:

You’ll find a bus from Kataragama no sweat. Once you’re on the south coast, the train runs from Colombo as far east as  Matara  (between Mirissa and Tangalle), and the buses run straight along the coast from town to town. Getting around Sri Lanka’s south coast is super easy!

Pretty much anything associated with beaches and tourists:

• Diving/Snorkelling
• Drugs, backpackers, and parties

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s South (Mirissa):  Colours Hostels

A good atmosphere and a pumping little piece of backpacker accommodation in Sri Lanka’s south. To be fair, there are heaps of cool areas stay (just see above), but Mirissa is pretty central, close to lots of good beaches, and has a neato tourist-friendly scene going on.

Good people generally float in, the family feeling is high, and breakfast is a killer. Expect good vibes.

Galle and the Fort (Days 13-14)

Galle Fort—so pretty yet so strange. It is the perfect spot, however, to round off your southern Sri Lanka tour. Inside the fort proper—Galle’s main tourist hub—there’s an almost timeless bubble quality (even if the tuk-tuk bois are too thirsty); it’s easy to decompress here before heading back towards the madness of Colombo (or, ideally, straight to the airport).

Galle is an oddball. Outside the fort in Galle city things make sense in that they make no sense: the typical South Asia craziness ensues. It’s a Sri Lankan city through and through.

Once you step inside the fort though, the game changes—rice and curry goes out the bathroom window and barista coffee and cake come right on in. It’s like a little slice of Europe in Sri Lanka (right down to the narrow alleyways lined with Volkswagens and Portuguese/Dutch-era colonial architecture).

Personally, I’m not a big fan of staying in Galle Fort. The lack of street food and vendors peddling single cigarettes feels too inauthentic. But if you’re wondering where to stay in Sri Lanka for 2-3 days after a whirlwind highlight itinerary route, it’s a very beautiful place to tie it all up with some fine-dining and a romantic moonlit stroll.

Both the main bus station and the train station are situated right out front of the fort—easy peasy!

Depending on your style of travel, you’ll either find heaps to do or not much:

• Shopping –  And heaps of it! Tea, spices, souvenirs, art, gems (watch for scams) are all on ample display.
• Dining –  Much like shopping, there are heaps of restaurants functioning more on a Western schema.
• Early morning/late night strolls –  Galle is easily prettiest when the tuk-tuk mafioso and touts are sleeping off a hard day’s harassing. And, honestly, it’s kinda charmingly quaint.
• Galle Lighthouse –  I just think it’s super pretty.
• Abacate –  I simply CANNOT recommend this place enough. Genuinely authentic food inside the fort coming in at a fair price (which is also unheard of in the fort). I know the cook and his family personally, and there isn’t a single person in Sri Lanka I would rather send me into a blissful kottu-induced food coma on the whole damn island.
• Street eats –  For street food and hole-in-the-walls, you’ll have to leave the fort. Once you cross the big intersection back to the city main, you’ll find the good stuff again.

Where to Stay in Galle Fort:  Fort Sky House

Well, Galle Fort is  super  upper-class and when in Rome… rent a swanky apartment with an open-air kitchenette/lounge bar terrace! The whole apartment is most definitely continuing that whole Sri Lanka meets European village neighbourhood feel.

It’s in a sweet location in the fort—conveniently located but still in a private spot—with a very gracious host. Honestly, you’re about to leave Sri Lanka, so why not pimp out and just treat yo’self for the remaining nights!

Getting Home:  After Galle, getting to the airport is pretty simple. One option is to ride the train to Colombo and make your way from there, however, you’ll also find buses that go direct from Galle’s main bus station to the airport. Just ask around, and you’ll be fine.

Okely-dokely, you’ve got an extra week, and the rains are pissing down in the south. There are a few crossovers between this suggested Sri Lanka itinerary and the last, however, I’ll elaborate further on a few areas. Besides, Sigiriya, Ella, and the train are absolutely necessary things to do in Sri Lanka even in just seven days.

I’ve given you a few extra bonus stops too, but mostly I’ve bumped this up to a 3-week itinerary for Sri Lanka to give you extra time to spend in Arugam Bay. Arugam Bay is one of those places that people get stuck.

Sri Lanka in 3 Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Polonnaruwa 5. Anuradhapura 6. Wilpattu National Park 7. Jaffna 8. Trincomalee 9. Arugam Bay 10. Ella 11. Nuwara Eliya 12. Adam’s Peak  (Sri Pada) 13. Kandy 14. Meemure Village

March through to September with the summer months being the busiest.

1. Mad munchies in Arugam Bay 2. Still the hill country 3. An adventure to Meemure

Stop 1: Sigiriya and the Cultural Highlights (Days 1-4)

Well, we already talked about Sigiriya, so instead, I’m mentioning a few other notable places to travel to in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. I still recommend staying in Sigiriya and soaking that yumminess up though (potentially with some side-adventures to explore the local landscapes).

But, since you’re spending a few more days touring Sri Lanka, there are a few extra bonus day trips from Sigiriya you could consider:

• Polonnaruwa – The ancient city of kings. It’s a $25 entrance fee, but, honestly, if you were considering dropping that on Sigiriya Fortress, just visit Polonnaruwa instead. Think of Polonnaruwa as a historical theme park. Once, 800 years ago, it was a thriving city, a hub of culture and commerce, and the seat of power for one of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms . Now it’s a playground for lovers of archaeology, history, and ruins. It’s a large space—you’ll need to hire a tuk-tuk driver or a bike to explore it—but if you’re a sucker for old-world goodness, it’s worth the trip.
• Dambulla cave temple – It could be worth the trip if you’re really into temples. Dambulla town itself is a waste, but the cave interior temple (another extremely sacred site in Sri Lanka) is very impressive. It’s also extremely commercialised and carries that whole “God is dead” feeling… so… up to you!
• Jathika Namal Uyana (Rose Quartz Mountain) – Dude, I missed checking this out, and I hate myself so much for that. It’s exactly what it purports to be: five bucks and you’ll be standing on a mountain of pink rose quartz. Don’t be like me— go .

Where to Stay in Sigirya (again):  Nethmini Leege Cottage

It’s another place to stay in Sigiriya and a damn cool bit of accommodation in Sri Lanka—a treehouse! Nestled in the jungle, you’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous nature of Sri Lanka’s lowlands.

It’s very close to Sigiriya town and walking to Lion’s Rock is even an option. It’s still a homestay, however (treehouse or not), so expect some damn good home cooking! A mum-cooked meal when you’re so far away from home is always a blessing.

Stop 2: Anuradhapura (Days 4-6)

If you’re feeling the temple/history burnout, you can leave Anuradhapura off your itinerary in Sri Lanka. There’s not much else to see there except more of Sri Lanka’s historical attractions.

Well, that’s a lie—there is one thing that’s pretty dope: Sri Maha Bohdi . Thought to be the oldest-living human-planted tree in the world, the tree started as a cutting from the original tree that Lord Buddha gained enlightenment beneath. Planted as a sapling by one of the kings of old, now it’s an incredibly revered place to visit in Sri Lanka.

Past that, you’re looking at a similar concept to exploring Polonnaruwa, albeit slightly different in the execution. Another archaeological park with a $25 entrance fee and another archaic kingdom, however, this time it’s the cradle of Buddhism in ancient (Sinhala) Sri Lankan civilisation.

Enormous towering dagobas (brick stupas) and sprawling monastic complexes fill the area. Much like Polonnaruwa, it’ll be a matter of renting a bike or tuk-tuk driver to explore Anuradhapura to its fullest.

From Sigiriya, your options are:

• To travel to Dambulla and catch the direct bus from there.
• Or you should, theoretically, be able to catch a train from  Habarana  (or any other station) to Anuradhapura (since the train runs through it). I can’t properly confirm this through my sources, however.
• Abhayagiri Vihara –  One of the major monasteries in Anuradhapura and the biggest in Sri Lanka for a long while. Topped by a towering dagoba, there is some complex architecture on display here including the pools and intricately carved Moonstone.
• Isurumuniya Vihara –  Another monastic complex except this time, it’s carved out of rock!
• More of the same –  Yah, seriously, throw a rock in Anuradhapura and you’ll hit a ridiculously impressive dagoba or stupa (and probably a one-way ticket to Sri Lankan jail). A couple of other key players in Anuradhapura’s stupa scene include  Jetavanaramaya  and  Ruwanwelisaya .

Check out  Mango Mango  for some cheap local cuisine in a restaurant setting. Failing that, the shopping centre has some other snackeries.

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura:  Heaven Upon Rice Fields

Well, to start, there’s aircon, and in the mugginess of Sri Lanka’s central region, that really is a little slice of heaven (upon rice fields). Honestly, it’s just a nice place to stay in Anuradhapura.

A cute little Sri Lankan bed and breakfast with a darling outlook of—yup, you guessed it—rice fields! Yummy brekky, yummy dinner, bike rental (which is perfect for exploring Anuradhapura), and a damn nice room.

Booking a Tour in Sri Lanka

Usually, I’m not much of a tour guy, however, for some of these major historical sites in Sri Lanka— Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura in particular —you can see why booking a tour is smart. With such a complex and deep history locked behind such an esoteric culture and language, booking a tour is really the only way to fully comprehend these ancient wonders of Sri Lanka.

Organising a tour once your there is always easy; there’s always a bare minimum of 36 touts lurking in the bushes at any given time. However, if you want to pre-book, or want to ensure that you get a legitimately insightful and professional guide, I’d advise booking a less off-the-cuff tour through the links below.

Safari Stop-or-Not: Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is northwest Sri Lanka’s answer to Yala. The largest national park in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu is also potentially an even better choice than Yala for seeing leopards (they’re still mighty rare, however).

Pretty much everything I said about Yala National Park still holds true here. It’s not so much a matter of the park-to-park context as it is the wildlife tourism in Sri Lanka as a whole.

That said, with two different Sri Lanka itineraries, two different monsoon seasons, and two different routes, this your alternative place to go if your heart is really just that set on a safari.

Where to Stay in Wilpattu National Park:  Base Camp Wilpattu

More ethically questionable luxury glamping— woo!  This one is allegedly reported, however, to abide by a strict set of environmental policies and be run by some upstanding peeps. Whether that’s true or not I can’t say, but I can say that you’ll be comfortable!

Fancy beds, fancy meals, fancy trimmings, and they’ll probably even deck you out with you own emblazoned fancy pants. Jokes aside, the reports are in that this is a dope place to stay and start your safari from. Apparently the staff really do care.

One Last Note on the Ethics of Wildlife Tourism in Sri Lanka

You can find reasonable or even positive forms of animal tourism in Sri Lanka (and low-impact safaris too). This is more a callout to be  shrewd . Extremely shrewd.

You’re travelling in a region of the world with a historically poor (and earned) reputation for the mistreatment of animals. A lot of backpackers and tourists kinda just roll in and assume that because a man in khakis told them it’s ok, that’s it’s ok. That’s usually not the case.

So be critical; taking the hypothesis that it’s a case of unethical tourism until given proof to the contrary is a good method. It’s better to be safe than sorry on this topic.

Oh, and for the love of God, please,  do not ride the elephant s .

Bonus Stop: Jaffna (Days 6-8)

Now, this is certainly an uncommon place to visit off the standard Sri Lanka backpacking itinerary. I’m saying it’s a bonus stop because:

• It is going to add some distance to your travel route.
• It’s a bit more challenging to travel.
• You honestly may just be busting to hit the beach after spending a week in the hot, humid, booze-less cultural epicentre of the island.

It’s impossible to really understand Jaffna without knowledge of the history of Sri Lanka. The tl;dr is that there are actually two subgroups of Sri Lankan people—the Sinhala and the Tamils. In modern times, there was an ungodly civil war that ripped these two peoples lives apart for more than two decades, and in the primarily Tamil northern area of Sri Lanka, you’ll still see traces of the horrors that occurred.

It’s not all doom and gloom though… Jaffna is also super pretty! It’s a change in architecture to a more South Indian style and, if your spice palette has refined enough to notice the subtle differences, it’s a change in cuisine too.

You don’t need to spend too many days in Jaffna. Mostly, you’ll be concerned with checking out some (more) temples and finding a soulful spot in the ocean to cool off during the midday heat. The remaining eleven days on this Sri Lanka itinerary is going to leave the historical stuff alone mostly in exchange for the blissful beach days. But if you’re interested in rounding off your experience by meeting the other half of Sri Lanka’s people before getting lost the bikini-booty-bods, travel to Jaffna.

There’ll be a bus—there’s always a bus in Sri Lanka—but the train also runs all the way north to the Jaffna peninsula.

• Island tour –  From the tip of the Jaffna peninsula, there are a couple of choice islands to visit: there’s  Nainativu Island  with its gorgeous Tamil-Hindu temple while  Delft Island  has both colonial and natural delights.
• Off-beat travel –  There are plenty of official homages to the civil war in Jaffna, however, look hard enough and you’ll start to see darker examples of what transpired. Crumbling ruins, forts, and even old bullet holes are there for those willing to look.
• Malayan Cafe –  Cheap and proper local grub where they won’t even bother giving the whiteys cutlery. An absolute gem.
• Jaffna mangos –  Not to be confused with the restaurant in Jaffna  called  ‘Mangos’ (who serve killer dosa). The mangos in Sri Lanka’s north are rumoured to be the best on the island, and you’ll find plenty of street food ops to eat them with a seasoning of chilli, sugar, and salt.

Where to Stay in Jaffna:  Sky Park View Guesthouse

First up, I like the location; it’s right across from a park! There aren’t any dorms here, but the private rooms are cheap (the same prices as a dorm in a lot of other hostels around Sri Lanka).

You’ve got scooter rental, super friendly and helpful staff, and plenty of local food around. It’s not ultra-flash, but it is home and a good bit of budget accommodation in Jaffna.

Stop 3: Trincomalee (Days 9-12)

The warm-up to the inevitable time-sink of Arugam Bay. There’s no good swell in Trincomalee if you’re chasing the ultimate surfing holiday in Sri Lanka , however, everything else is on point!

You’ll find long sandy beaches lined with deckchairs and drinking holes. A Lion Strong, a round of beach volleyball, and an escape from the insane midday heat in the sparkling water is a guarantee. It’s also considerably quieter than Arugam Bay—like everybody left their mutual chaos behind along with their binge alcoholism.

That’s what Trinco feels like: Arugam Bay all grown up. Arugam Bay in its 30s when it started showering regularly and stopped sleeping with everything with a pulse. It’s cleaner, a bit more refined, a bit more expensive, and also a bit more boring. It’s either the warm-up to Arugam Bay or the place to come down afterwards.

From either Anuradhapura or Jaffna you can catch the train, but it will require a backtrack to the  Maho Junction . There are also direct buses from both cities which would be your better option.

The train actually alights closer to the centre of town where you almost definitely won’t want to stay considering all those beautiful Sri Lankan beaches hanging around.

• Uppuveli  is the main tourist hub ( Sarvodaya Road  specifically). It’s one long street filled with restaurants, shops, and various bits of accommodation with  plenty  of beach access.
• Nilaveli  to the north of Trinco is a much quieter area. There are still plenty of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach hotels and resorts, but the actual area (and beach) is way more local.

As I said though, Trincomalee is noticeably more expensive than a lot of other places in Sri Lanka that I visited. If you’re budget travelling in Sri Lanka, the best way to keep the costs down is to step outside the tourist bubble. One foot off of Sarvodaya Road back into the real Trinco and everything gets  a lot  cheaper.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee:  Wanderers Hostel

And it’s back to the hostel life! Dorms with aircon (boom, Buddha),  plenty of travellers to chill with, private rooms for sex after the beach! (Na, Trinco is  wayyy  too hot for banging.)

It’s a chill hostel although I do wish they would actually fill that plunge pool up. There’s free tea and coffee but no food served, and the WiFi is inexplicably good. Like, really damn good—I don’t get it either.

Stop 4: Arugam Bay (Days 12-?)

We maaaade it. Here’s a season in Arugam Bay in a nutshell:

• Sweet wonderful vacuous meaningless backpacker sex

Personally, it’s not my vibe (except the doobies-munchies). But any way you swing it,  this is undeniably a backpacker haven—anywhere the Israelis congregate en masse usually is. If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, and particularly a first-time visit, plan to lose track of your holiday itinerary for an indeterminate amount of time. Arugam Bay is the surf mecca of Sri Lanka as well as the backpacking mecca. Arugam Bay is one of those places.

It’s a sticky place.

You may want to consider a taxi if you’re not a fan of long stints on the bumpy bus. Otherwise, from Trincomalee, it’s a bus to Batticaloa and a change for Arugam Bay.

Wednesdays are also a party night, but it’s a dumb party and no one goes:

• Blue Wave Hotel Pool Party (Thursdays) –  An Israeli pool party (legitimately) featuring Tel Avivian Ibiza vibes and next-level trash music. It’s easily the best place to get laid in Arugam Bay.
• Whiskey Point (Fridays) –  The traveller-fave of Arugam’s throwdowns. A beach bar a bit out of town featuring house and techno.
• Mambo’s (Saturdays) –  It’s another beach bar featuring techno and house except that this one is in town and there’s a slackline—yay!

My happy place:

• Mama’s Restaurant –  Welcome to Sri Lanka at it’s finest! All-you-can-eat rice and curry buffet, 6 types of curry, full-power papas, and no end or regrets in sight until you puke.
• Blue Vans/Trucks –  On the south side of town, there’s a row of them all serving up street eats, and they all kick ass!
• Bites –  Go here, get yourself a brookie It’s a brownie-cookie—eugenics done right.

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay:  The Long Hostel

The amenities are tight, and the dorms get the job done, but you’re more staying here for the vibe. It’s backpackery, young, 100% party-surf focused, and, honestly, kinda cliquey. Like I said, love it or hate it, it’s Arugam Bay to a tee.

Oh, and the iced coffees will blow your mind wide open.

A Final Note on Backpacking Arugam Bay

Jokes aside, Arugam Bay really is backpacker central and a place people “get stuck”. It’s like a little slice of Thailand backpacking with a South Asian twist. Whether you love that or not is ultimately up to you.

If you’re not so much on a backpacking Sri Lanka tour as vacationing there, it may not be your vibe. Despite the copious amounts of joints being rolled, it definitely doesn’t feel chill. With such a high concentration of travellers, there’s the level of madness that you’d expect from other similar bubbles in the world like Pai, Pokhara, or Goa (though nothing competes with Goa).

Even if you’re a backpacker through-and-through but, perhaps (for example), one who’s grown into quiet living and out of many elements of the Southeast Asia backpacking scene, it still may not be your vibe. Unless you’re like me and will go anywhere there’s cheap food and doobs. Then it’s kickass for a week.

…Or if you’re a surfer. Then you’ll definitely be fine.

Stops 5-6: Ella, Kandy, and the Hill Country (Days 16-21)

Yup, the same as the 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary except in reverse! I really cannot stress enough how much this part of the country and the train journey are a must-see in Sri Lanka in any itinerary.

Ella really is the ultimate detox to skip the bends leaving Arugam Bay. There is a tranquil majesty to Sri Lanka’s hill country ( outside of Ella town) that will make even the most crushing wipeout a gentle ride to shore. If you can take a few extra days to hike, explore the valleys, or even just smoke and watch the sky, definitely do it.

When you do catch the train to Kandy, there are a few extra stops you can consider to break up the trip, provided you have the time:

• Nuwara Eliya – One of several points of interest in Sri Lanka that still  heavily carries the colonial remnants. The racecourse, the architecture, the tea, and definitely the post office all feel like cracking open a city-sized time capsule the British colonialists left behind. You’re up high in the hills here though, so expect it to get cold and rainy.
• Haputale –  Speaking of tea, at Haputale you’ll find Lipton’s Seat (yes, of  that Lipton) which is really more like an imperialist’s throne overseeing the incredible sweeps of plantations, hills and even right down to the south coast on a clear day!
• Hatton –  I’m not so much suggesting that you stick Hatton on your Sri Lanka itinerary as what’s near it: the mighty and majestic Adam’s Peak (AKA Sri Pada AKA  Samanalakanda AKA  Bob’s Your Uncle AKA a million other things). One of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka, Adam’s Peak is an absolutely exquisite climb to venture above the sea of clouds. The climbing season for both pilgrims and tourists runs from December to May, however, it’s a much nicer climb in the shoulder season before it gets crazy.

When you do arrive in Kandy, and since you’ll be departing shortly, forget the dorms! Take a nice accommodation in Kandy out of the city or up in the hills, and soak up the last few days spent with Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

Idyll Homestay

The view is incredible, the bed is incredible, the visits from the local critter-cuties are incredible… the breakfast is  super  incredible! What ties it all together though is the host: he really goes above and beyond for his guests. Short of languishing within a hippy mountain palace, it’s undoubtedly one of the nicest places to stay in Ella.

Laughing Leopard Hostel

Truthfully though, the staff who run this place are warm and friendly to a fault; they really do create a space for people to relax in whatever capacity. If they also happen to enjoy some late night drinks and techno bangers, can you really blame them for that?

The Cliff Lodge

High up in the hills above Haputale is The Cliff Lodge: a place to retreat to, ditch the WiFi for a few days, and reset. Calling it a  “lodge”  is generous—you’re given a tent set up in an old tea picker’s hut, but that’s part of the charm. For nighttime fires, unreal starscapes, and a complete digital detox, this is where to stay in Sri Lanka.

Private Rooftop Villa with a Plunge Pool

Stop! You had me at skinny dipping!

I didn’t say skinny dipping…

Well… now you did!

It’s a private top floor villa outside of Kandy surrounded by lush greens and splatterings of colonial architectural charm. Breakfast is complimentary, the hosts are mega-chill, and, again, there’s a private plunge pool. Finish Sri Lanka with a bang…?

The Ultimate Boss: Meemure and the Knuckles Mountain Range

Mmm, yum. Mountains—my happy place (other than joints and buffets). This is about as off the beaten path in Sri Lanka as you can probably get. The unquenchable, untameable, and unabashed Knuckles Mountain Range hiding Sri Lanka’s most remote village—Meemure.

You’ll need to dedicate at least 3 days in Sri Lanka from your itinerary for the trip: one day there, one day to explore, and one day to return. If you can spare more time, then that’s even better.

Travelling to Meemure is one of those things where it’s about the journey. It may not be as hardcore as some other South Asian adventures (*cough* backpacking Pakistan *cough*) , but it’s still the most hardcore thing and hidden place I could unearth on my trip to Sri Lanka.

I really can’t break that down concisely here; you’ll have to read my  Meemure Village Cheeky Adventure Guide  for the deetz!

Again, check the guide. Even reaching and experiencing Meemure (and laying eyes on that absolutely magnificent Lakegala) is a feat and reward together. Outside of that, the Knuckles Mountain Range is so, so yummy and missing out on hiking them would be a damn shame. If you happen to see a leopard too, congrats! You’re a real traveller: stuff the safari up the industry’s left nostril.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Holy mother of box-ticking, Batman! Those are some blessed Sri Lanka travel itineraries.

Now, you’re probably going to have a cracker of a time no matter where you go; there are heaps of beautiful places in Sri Lanka . There are also heaps of beautiful feeds to feast upon in Sri Lanka! (I’ve failed to mention it thus far, but get yourself a kottu—Sri Lanka’s answer to greasy hangover food.)

However, before commencing on that ultimate holiday vacation to Sri Lanka, get yourself keyed on the insider knowledge. I didn’t live there for three months just so I could not share this stuff!

How many days should I spend in Sri Lanka?

Truthfully, I’d say anything less than a month just really isn’t doing it justice. There are just soooo many places to see in Sri Lanka . You could, however, potentially smush it all into a 3-week trip to Sri Lanka. My initial route backpacking around Sri Lanka was similar to the above-listed 3-week itinerary and weighed in somewhere between 3 and 4 weeks in execution.

If you’re not really the smoke, surf, and turf kinda human, the beaches may not slow you down as much as they would a typical backpacker. For everyone else though, Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach destinations—Arugam Bay in particular—will more than likely initiate “Actually, I’ll leave tomorrow,” syndrome.

When you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka, ease up on the allotted time in your itinerary for the historical and cultural sites, and free up more for the ‘fun’  stuff. The historical sites in Sri Lanka are dope, no doubt, but every traveller I met at the beach or in Ella expressed regret over not having gotten there sooner.

Besides, for the same cost as entry to Sigiriya Fortress or Polonnaruwa, you could rent a surfboard for 7-8 days. You do the math.

…Wait, nevermind, I just did it for you.

What kind of travel budget do I need for touring Sri Lanka on an itinerary?

Obviously, that’s a highly variable question dependent on the length of your itinerary and travel style. I was able to live pretty comfortably on a daily budget of $20 a day in Sri Lanka, however, this is The Broke Backpacker and so that should give you an idea of how cheaply I travel .

If you travel like a backpacker, but it’s more of a holiday itinerary for Sri Lanka (as opposed to that sweet, sweet slow travel life), upwards of $40 a day should be plenty. That’s an extra $20 of wiggle room a day on top of the necessities (sleeping, eating, smoking) for activities, partying, and whatever else.

BUT, if you’re more the quick vacation type, say a budget for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, $60 a day is a cool max. You can set yourself up in a few top hotels around Sri Lanka and leave the dorms behind.

Finally, if you want to scoot around the island quickly, maybe a whirlwind 5 or 7-day itinerary through Sri Lanka’s highlights, you’ll be relying on taxi services or even a private driver. Honestly, that could run you up to $100 a day or even more depending on how you eat and sleep.

Folks, slow travel is cheaper.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

Right, so I’ve mentioned a lot of buses and trains , and the truth is that they’re simply the cheapest way of getting around Sri Lanka. But they’re also slow. And uncomfortable. And prone to the South Asia effect (it once took me 11ish hours, 6 bus changes, and one after-dark breakdown to go the 200 km from Unawatuna to Ella).

That said, I still love the public transport in Sri Lanka! It’s chaotic and an adventure every time. And… it’s super cheap:

• Bus from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay (via Batticaloa): < $7
• Versus a private taxi: $85-$90 (contingent on you haggling ability)

Taxis are, otherwise, going to be the main form of tourist transport services in Sri Lanka to utilise. You can save money by hooking up with a crew and sharing transport to the next destination; it’s always easy to find peeps in the tourist bubbles. Taxis are faster, but they’re expensive; you’re going to need to haggle like a pro .

You could also consider renting a bike in Sri Lanka. Cost-wise, that’ll run you about $5-$10 a day (though you can definitely get it cheaper if you rent for an extended period), however, Sri Lanka is a phenomenal road trip country! Just make sure you dot your i’s and cross your t’s with licencing and legalities.

And wear a bloody helmet—dem buses will smoke ya!

Tuk-Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka

Aww, yeahhh —and now we’re talking about the best way to travel in Sri Lanka. Cross the whole damn thing in your own mighty three-wheeling steed!

Can you rent your own tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka? Damn, right you can, and it don’t get much better than this. Well… unless you pay the few extra bucks for the optional boombox!

It really isn’t as confronting to learn to drive a tuk-tuk as you may think. I started to get the hang of it within 5 or 10 minutes. Plus, the looks the other tuk-tuk drivers give you when you overtake them are just so damn delicious.

It’s definitely not the cheapest form of transport in Sri Lanka— $25-$30 a day including rental costs, food, etc. —but that’s not really the bloody point! You’re driving a goddamn tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka! No matter what happens, it’s gonna be a journey you remember for the rest of your life, guaranteed.

All I can say is that I did it (well, hitched a ride with some peeps who did it), it was hella fun, I made some blessed life-long friends along the way (love you guys to the moon), and it’s a top recommendation for travelling around Sri Lanka without a shadow of a doubt.

Check out tuktukrental.com for more info. Use the code  brokebackpacker at the checkout when you decide to take the plunge, and let the good times roll out!

What to Pack for Sri Lanka

Packing for Sri Lanka is pretty straightforward; take whatever your usual backpacking setup is. There aren’t too many other nuances speak of.

DEFINITELY DO, HOWEVER, take a high-quality rain jacket . Even if you’re doing your best to avoid the monsoon, chances are that you’ll get rained on at some point during your visit to Sri Lanka.

Oh, and the mosquitoes are assholes. Take something from home or, better yet, just buy some Odomos when you arrive. It’s cheap there, and the best damn mosquito repellent I’ve ever used!

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Still wondering what to take to Sri Lanka? Then check out our full backpacking packing list more more ideas on gears, gadgets, and goodies for the road!

Staying Safe in Sri Lanka

So… Is Sri Lanka safe ? Yup! I mean, it’s not perfectly safe, but you can also choke on your toothbrush if you’re not careful so…

It’s easiest to think of it as India-lite. The same travel rules you’d apply for backpacking in India, apply it here and then just dial it back a notch.

• If someone asks if you’d like to take a photo of them, or they’re behaving like a tourist attraction (eg. a stilt fisherman or tea picker), then they’re almost definitely going to ask for money if you do take that snap. Kids will too!
• Never trust a tuk-tuk driver—GPS out and money is exchanged only after you’ve confirmed you’ve arrived at the correct destination.
• Travellers of the feminine disposition won’t have nearly as hard a time as in India but should still be wary, smart, and be careful where they’re walking alone at night. And get used to being stared at—take it in stride.
• Don’t leave your valuables unguarded on the beach (or anywhere for that matter).
• Your shoulders and knees need to be covered at sacred sites. No iconography of Lord Buddha-san (tattoos, shirt logos, etc.) and no turning your back on the Buddha statues or taking selfies with them.
• Watch out for scams but also don’t spit the dummy every time someone overcharges you 20 rupees. Therein lies the road to insanity.

Honestly, it’s a standard South Asia affair. Sri Lanka is pretty chill, and out of the three major backpacking destinations of the Indian subcontinent (Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka), I’ve found Sri Lankans (the Sinhala people specifically—maybe it’s the Buddhism) to be the most scrupulous and sincere.

Getting Insured for Your Trip to Sri Lanka

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Sri Lanka itinerary.

How many days is enough to visit Sri Lanka?

14 days is a great amount of time to get around the country and take in the highlights.

Is 10 days enough in Sri Lanka?

It’s pushing it but you could see most of the main sights if you prioritise your time.

Is 3 weeks too long in Sri Lanka?

3 weeks is the perfect amount of time to really take in pretty much everything there is to see and have some down time too.

Is Sri Lanka cheap?

Yeah, Sri Lanka is a super affordable destination, it’s an ideal place to go backpacking!

Concluding Your Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Y’know, when I started writing this itinerary, I was all like “Man, itineraries are lame” .  And now…? Well, I still think itineraries are lame.

But it was also an absolute pleasure to write about travelling Sri Lanka again. I get a little blast of candy-nostalgia every time I return in my mind’s eye to that gorgeous island. Cloud forests rolling through plantations and emerald hills, the chaotic madness of any and all bus rides, dawn on sunkissed beaches watching lone fishermen drag their laden nets in.

Sri Lanka is both the gem of the Indian Ocean and subcontinent itself. Whether it’s one, two, or three weeks in Sri Lanka, every moment is a blessing. If you can give yourself 3 months, that’s even better!

Plan your trip with my perfectly crafted itineraries for Sri Lanka; there is a lot of love and care in them. See all there is to see, but also, remember to stop and smell the kottu. And to meet the peeps.

And to ride the trains, take a big slow breath, and, most of all, to appreciate the sky.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

Share or save this post

Hey Ziggy, we are older backpackers planning a 3 month trip to Sri Lanka early next year. I am excited by your information and will refer to it many times, I’m sure. We love travelling slowly, Sri Lanka will suit us well. Thank you!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Luxury Bus Hire Sri Lanka

Luxury bus hire in Sri Lanka offers a unique and comfortable way to explore the wonders of this island nation. With a focus on safety, comfort, and convenience, it’s no wonder that more travellers are choosing luxury buses for their adventures. Make your next trip to Sri Lanka an unforgettable one with luxury bus hire in Sri Lanka.

Detailed Exterior & Interior

Luxury buses have redefined the way we travel, offering a blend of comfort, style, and technology that is unparalleled. Whether you’re embarking on a scenic tour or a cross-country adventure, luxury buses provide an extraordinary journey.

Our Services

No matter how many people you need to cater for, luxury bus hire from Baywalk Tours is the perfect way to travel for any occasion.

Sightseeing Tours

Cruise transfers, destination wedding transfers, corporate events and team outings.

Save money - Stay happy

Hotel booking sri lanka.

As a travel agent in Sri Lanka, we have the capability to offer you the most competitive rates on hotel accommodations, along with our best price guarantee. Contact us for the best deals.

Happy Clients of Baywalk

People will soon forget what you said. they will never forget how you made them feel..

Navigate to Sub Page

Born to travel, why do you need a tour guide for your group tour.

The inclusion of a tour guide for your group tour is highly beneficial for various reasons. A tour guide serves as a knowledgeable and experienced companion who can enrich your travel experience in numerous ways.

Why Choose Luxury Bus Hire in Sri Lanka?

Unmatched comfort and amenities.

In this modern age of travel, convenience and comfort are at the forefront of every traveller’s mind. When exploring the beautiful landscapes and cultural richness of Sri Lanka, it’s essential to choose the right mode of transportation to ensure a memorable journey. Luxury bus hire in Sri Lanka is designed to provide travellers with the utmost comfort throughout their journey. These buses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to meet the needs and expectations of even the most discerning passengers as follows :

• Spacious reclining Seats with seat belts
• Ample legroom
• Luggage racks (for hand luggage)
• Luggage compartment (for heavy luggage)
• Well controllable Air conditioner
• Reading lights (mounted above each seat)
• LED interior lights
• Mini Refrigerator (cooler box)
• USB Charging Ports (upon request)
• Footrest (upon request)
• Wi-Fi internet (upon request)
• Air Suspension

These buses ensure a smooth and pleasant ride, even on long-distance trips. Moreover, they come with onboard amenities like Entertainment systems (LCD TV – Roof mount/Flip down, DVD player), adding an extra touch of luxury to the travel experience.

Panoramic Views

One of the highlights of luxury bus hire is the panoramic views that these vehicles provide. The oversized windows allow you to immerse yourself in the surrounding landscapes. Whether you’re winding through the lush central highlands or hugging the coastline, you’ll have uninterrupted access to the beauty of Sri Lanka.

Customization Options

In the world of travel, one size does not fit all. Whether you’re travelling with a small group of close friends or a large party celebrating a special occasion, the desire for a comfortable and personalized journey remains constant. That’s where luxury bus hire comes into play, offering a wide array of customization options that allow you to craft your travel experience to your exact specifications.

Reducing Environmental Impact

Luxury bus hire in Sri Lanka is becoming a popular and eco-friendly choice for travellers who want to reduce their environmental impact. These buses are equipped with low-emission engines and energy-efficient technologies, making them a sustainable option for exploring the beautiful island nation.

Safety and Reliability

Safety remains the utmost concern when embarking on any journey, and in Sri Lanka, luxury buses take that commitment very seriously. These buses are manned by skilled and well-trained drivers who meticulously follow stringent safety procedures, offering passengers a sense of security and tranquility throughout the journey. Their extensive familiarity with local roads and traffic dynamics guarantees a seamless and stress-free expedition.

Furthermore, these buses undergo routine maintenance, assuring their dependability on the road. Essential safety elements such as seat belts, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers are readily accessible to passengers, reinforcing the overall safety measures in place.

Cost-Effectiveness

One of the most significant advantages of luxury bus hire is the ability to share the cost among passengers. When the expenses are divided among a group of people, it can significantly reduce the financial burden on each individual. This makes luxury bus hire an affordable option for everyone.

Options for Different Events

Luxury bus hires are a remarkable solution for those looking to make a statement at any event. Whether it’s a corporate gathering, a group expedition, a family getaway, or a destination wedding, luxury buses offer an opportunity to travel in style and comfort.

Making Memories Together

Luxury bus hire goes beyond the ordinary, it creates an extraordinary journey filled with comfort and togetherness. As you embark on this remarkable adventure, you’ll not only explore new destinations but also forge unforgettable memories with your travel companions. The luxurious experience in a luxury bus hire is a catalyst for bonding and cherishing moments that last a lifetime.

Exploring Sri Lanka with Luxury Bus

Sri Lanka, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a land of breathtaking beauty and rich heritage. This tropical paradise boasts scenic hill country, stunning beaches, and ancient historical sites that leave every traveller in awe. Exploring these wonders is an adventure of a lifetime, and what makes it even more enjoyable is the convenience and comfort of luxury bus hire services.

Luxury buses have become an increasingly popular choice for couples looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their wedding day transportation. These extravagant vehicles offer a unique way to transport guests, ensuring everyone arrives at the venue on time and in style.

Cruise vacations offer incredible experiences on board, but the real adventure lies on the land waiting to be explored. Smooth transfers are the bridge between the two, ensuring you don’t miss out on the excitement. Imagine stepping off your ship and seamlessly transitioning to your on-land destination without any stress or delays.

When it comes to organizing corporate events, conferences, or team outings, one crucial aspect to consider is transportation. Providing a practical and comfortable transportation solution is essential to ensure the success of your event. Luxury bus hire is an excellent choice that not only facilitates seamless travel but also fosters team bonding by allowing participants to travel together conveniently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your questions answered, are luxury buses expensive to hire in sri lanka.

The cost of hiring a luxury bus in Sri Lanka depends on various factors, such as the duration of the trip, the number of passengers, and additional amenities required.

Do luxury buses have storage space for luggage?

Yes, luxury buses come with ample storage space for luggage, ensuring a clutter-free and comfortable journey for passengers.

Is it necessary to make reservations in advance?

Yes, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel season.

Are luxury buses safe for travel in Sri Lanka?

Yes, luxury buses in Sri Lanka must adhere to strict safety regulations, and reputable operators prioritize passenger safety.

Can I hire a luxury bus for a destination wedding in Sri Lanka?

Yes, luxury buses are a popular choice for destination weddings, offering comfort and elegance for all guests attending the celebration.

Can I book a luxury bus for a private group tour?

Yes, many luxury bus services offer the option to book private tours for groups, allowing you to customize your itinerary.

Are luxury buses suitable for large groups?

Yes, luxury buses are an excellent option for large groups as they offer ample space and comfort for everyone to travel together.

Start typing and press enter to search

City Bus Tour of Colombo, Sri Lanka

I t was our first day in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and my family and I spent about half of it in bed recovering from immense jet lag. Around noon, we finally dragged ourselves out of our beds at Mount Lavinia Hotel. Although we were all quite tired, we had to get up and get ready for our first day in Sri Lanka and our bus tour of Colombo.

Mount Lavinia Hotel

Our first order of business was to transition over to our official hotel room. We were temporarily stationed in a different room the night we got there, but that morning, our official room was ready. It had a queen bed and a balcony with a wonderful view of the coast. Mount Lavinia hotel is about 215 years old, but it has great views and a beautiful beach.

When we hurried off to lunch by the hotel pool, we were able to see a train running along the oceanside. The outdoor seating gave us an incredible view off the cliffside to the beach and the buildings of Colombo.

Buffet & Menu Options

At lunch, we ate from the buffet that mainly consisted of curry and rice, which are staple foods in Sri Lanka. This was only our first day in Sri Lanka, but we quickly learned that buffet-style restaurants are quite popular throughout the country. Fortunately, there was also a menu with more traditional Western foods. As we grew more comfortable and informed about the food throughout the trip, I ate a lot more from the buffet. I found some foods that I really enjoyed, although I couldn’t necessarily name them.

I also noticed early on that there’s a good amount of vegetarian and vegan options available at most buffets and hotels in Sri Lanka.

My main concern with food was my peanut allergy. With such an unclear idea of what was in the food, and a hard time communicating with some of the locals, I was a bit worried that I’d end up eating peanuts. The language spoken in Sri Lanka is Sinhala or Sinhalese, not Hindu as in India. Although not far from India, their customs and language are different or adapted in different ways. I had expected my allergy to be a problem on occasion, but it honestly wasn’t a problem at all in Sri Lanka. Rather than peanuts, cashews are much more commonly used in Sri Lanka, and they have a preference for canola oil.

Colombo Bus Tour

After a quick lunch, it was time to head out on a bus tour of Sri Lanka’s capital city, Colombo.  The streets were very busy and crowded in the city. I don’t think you could go more than a few moments without hearing a car horn or whistle. Like some other parts of Asia, there are lots of tuk-tuks to taxi people around.

In Sri Lanka, they drive on the left side of the road, but when it comes down to it, most drivers don’t seem to care too much for space between vehicles or driving into opposing traffic lanes.  I would definitely not recommend renting a car and driving around the country by yourself. The roads can get pretty chaotic, but the local drivers know what they’re doing.

On the tour bus, my family and I sat on the top deck. The sun was bright, and the temperature was nearly 90 degrees. It was definitely some of the most humidity I’ve ever experienced, but my hair still survived. On the top deck of the bus, the wind kept us from totally overheating, and we had a great overhead view of the active streets.

We saw more and more people as we approached some of the key buildings within the city, the old Parliament building, the foreign affairs facility, and many others. Eventually, my family and I couldn’t take the heat anymore and moved to the lower deck of the bus. Luckily, they provided water, juice, and a snack. On Main Street, there were more people than ever, and we got to drive past the Red Mosque. As we continued our tour around the city, the sun began to set. The sun turned a vibrant shade of red and sunk beneath the ocean on the horizon.

Dinner at Mount Lavinia Hotel

When we arrived back at the Mount Lavinia Hotel, we made use of the remaining rays of sunlight and went down to the gorgeous beach. The beach at Mount Lavinia Hotel is large and spacious. We walked across the sands, and I dipped my feet in the Indian Ocean for the first time in my life.

That night, we ate dinner by the pool. A wonderful little cover band was performing at the poolside, and we enjoyed dinner and desserts, mainly off the menu. At this point in the trip we honestly still didn’t know what we were doing in terms of local food. After getting a plateful of sweets from the buffet, we tiredly returned to our hotel room. The time change was still killing us, so it wasn’t hard for us to fall dead asleep once we got in bed.

Of course, we couldn’t get in bed just yet, well, not all of us. As aforementioned, our hotel room had a lovely queen size bed. That was nice for my mother and me. Unfortunately for my brother, we had to wait for the hotel staff to deliver a rollaway bed. For whatever reason, it took an incredible amount of time to be delivered. It was quite painful to keep ourselves awake at that point, so next time I’d call for a rollaway sooner. Much sooner.

Other than a few hiccups, general tiredness, and confusion, our first day in Sri Lanka went fantastically. I really enjoyed the warm weather and getting to tour Colombo. That night I went to bed with lots of excitement for the upcoming week in Sri Lanka. In the following days, we had incredible experiences and learned a lot, all of which will be detailed on my blog soon!

If you’re interested in other fun things to do in Sri Lanka, you can check out this  bucket list .

10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7 Things To Do In Sigiriya Sri Lanka

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner ! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo , another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO .

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator . If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar . They’ve got fantastic weekly deals.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit ! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars .

• Skip to content

The Cornell Lab of Ornithology builds the eBird global platform for communities and partners around the world to advance data-driven science, education, and conservation.

Change Region

• Recent Checklists
• Trip Reports
• Illustrated Checklist
• Hotspot Map
• Rare Bird Alerts
• Printable Checklist

Recent Trip Reports

Visit to deraniyagala-noori march 2024 9 mar 2024.

• Pavan Thilina Bopitiya Gamage

Sripada visit via Nallathanniya trail 2 Dec 2023

• Ravi Darshana

Horton Nuwaraeliya Hakgala 2 – 3 Dec 2023 (2 days)

• Prabath Gunasekara

Nuwaraeliya 2023 Dec 2 – 3 Dec 2023 (2 days)

• Iroshan Rupasinghe

Dassford Estate 13 – 16 Oct 2023 (4 days)

• Sampath Seneviratne

Personal Visit to Koththellena, Hatton 2023 23 – 25 Jun 2023 (3 days)

• Rumeth Jayasinghe

Ragala 2023 May 5 – 7 May 2023 (3 days)

• Nuwara Eliya

Horton Plains National Park 20 – 21 Aug 2022 (2 days)

• Dimuthu Wickramasinghe

Nurawa Eliya 26 – 27 Mar 2022 (2 days)

• Geraint Isitt

Trip to Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains 2021 18 – 21 Dec 2021 (4 days)

• Akila Abeyratne

Daily Archives: April 18, 2024

The consulate general of sri lanka in mumbai celebrates sinhala and tamil new year.

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai ceremonially celebrated the Sinhala and Tamil New Year on 08 April 2024 at the Mission premises. The invitees included members from the Sri Lankan Airlines in Mumbai, Sri L ...

Sri Lankans rescued from cyber scam trafficking in Myanmar safely repatriated to Sri Lanka

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with Sri Lanka Missions in Myanmar and Thailand successfully facilitated the repatriation of eight Sri Lankans who were trafficked for forced criminal activities in cybe ...

Sri Lankans in Israel celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Tel Aviv in collaboration with the Sri Lankan community groups namely Jerusalem Cricket Club and the Jerusalem Youth Organization organized Sinhala and Tamil new year festivities at the Sach ...