Classic Sri Lanka Highlights

Drive to Kandy through the scenic hill country (3.5–4 hours), then visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's holiest shrines, followed by an easy walk around Kandy Lake. An optional traditional cultural dance performance rounds off the evening before checking into a boutique hill-country hotel. Overnight in Kandy.

Continue through fragrant tea country to Nuwara Eliya (2.5–3 hours), stopping en route for a guided visit to a tea plantation and factory to see how Ceylon tea is grown and processed. In town, unwind with a relaxed stroll or boat ride on Gregory Lake before settling in for the night. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station and board one of the world's most scenic train journeys, winding through tea estates, tunnels, waterfalls and mountain views on the way to Ella (2.5–3 hours). On arrival, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and the nearby cascades of Ravana Falls. Overnight in Ella.

Travel south along the expressway toward Bentota (5–6 hours with scenic breaks), pausing at historic Galle Fort to wander its ramparts, colonial lighthouse and boutique-lined streets steeped in Dutch and Portuguese history. Continue on to the coast and settle into your beachfront accommodation as the afternoon winds down. Overnight in Bentota.

Enjoy a leisurely morning, with the option of a Madu River boat safari through mangrove channels or a visit to a nearby turtle hatchery. Travel to Colombo (2–2.5 hours) for last-minute shopping at One Galle Face Mall, local markets, and tea boutiques, then transfer to the airport for departure.