Duration
13 days / 12 nights
Price Per Person
Destinations

Feel the sun on your shoulders and the wind in your hair as you travel down Sri Lanka’s stunning East Coast. This 14-day Sri Lanka East Coast Exploration itinerary takes you through the sunshine towns of Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Passekudah, Arugam Bay, Haputale, Kandy and Colombo. Enjoy touring ancient ruins one day and relaxing on the pristine shore the next! There’s plenty of sunshine and adventure as you make your way down the coast. 

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Surf's Up: The beginner breaks at Arugam Bay are ideal for those looking to pick up a surfboard for the first time.
  • Sri Lanka's Way of Tea: Head to the Highlands to discover the history of Ceylon tea. Pick tea leaves at the picturesque Kelburne Tea Plantation, then learn how to prepare the perfect brew.
  • Buddhist Heritage: Pay a visit to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy (said to house a tooth relic of the Buddha), then see how monks live and worship in the present day at Bahirawakanda Monastery.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Kotugoda

After arriving in Colombo, you will be transferred by private vehicle to nearby Kotugoda, where you will find your charming colonial-style bungalow at The Wallawwa. Indulge in a much-deserved rejuvenating massage after your long trip into Sri Lanka. This deluxe boutique hotel is the perfect place to relax and explore Sri Lanka’s lush natural landscape.

Hotel Options
About

Situated just 15 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, The Wallawwa is an old colonial home that has been restored and converted into 17 guestrooms and suites-- The Mountbatten Suite, two Family Suites, two Wallawwa Bedrooms, and twelve Garden Suites. The property offers well-manicured, lush gardens, a library, a study with computer and complimentary internet access, a swimming pool, and a spa.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Sigiriya

Rise early and make the scenic 4-hour trip to Dambulla, in the center of the northern region of the island. Visit the area’s magnificent ancient Buddhist cave temples, then pay a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress; both sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are must-see's in this "Cultural Triangle" central area. Spend the night at a hotel in Sigiriya. 

Hotel Options
About

Nestled amongst reed beds and paddy fields on top of a man-made lake lies Jetwing Vil Uyana, a premier luxury eco resort in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Hailed by Harper's Bazaar as the "best eco luxury hotel in Sri Lanka," this one-of-a-kind resort comprises 36 dwellings that merge sophisticated modern comforts with ecological rural simplicity.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Located just six kilometers away from the historic Sigiriya Rock, Water Garden Sigiriya resort provides visitors to Sri Lanka with world-class comfort and second to none service. With one and two bedroom options, the resort's 30 villas are chicly designed, spacious, and imbued with an air of mystique thanks to their secret gardens and private plunge pools.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Sigiriya
Sigiriya

Day 3

Passekudah

Take the northeast coast road for a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Passekudah. Along the way, we suggest stopping in Polonnaruwa. This ancient kingdom was Sri Lanka’s reigning capital during Medieval times. For a history of the city, stop by the museum. Continue on to tour the actual ruins themselves for a full understanding of the once bustling city. Reach the postcard-perfect coastal town of Paseduka. Rest your head at Uga Bay.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: The Uga Bay Passekudah is situated along some of the longest stretches of beach in Sri Lanka and near stunning coral reefs.

Activities: Besides lounging on the beach and enjoying spa treatments, there are also a number of watersport activities for guests to engage in.

Comfort: Accommodations start at a generous 520 square feet of space and offer stunning views of the tropical surroundings.

See Hotel
Uga Bay by Uga Escapes Preferred Hotel

Day 4

Passekudah

Spend the day enjoying what the area is famous for - the idyllic, pristine beaches met by sparkling, turquoise waters. Explore the quaint local fishing village and observe a quiet way of life. Find the freshest fish you’ve ever tasted as you explore the coastal area.

Day 5

Passekudah

Once, if ever, you’ve had enough of lounging on Passedudah’s spectacular shores, travel the short distance to the town’s sister beach - Kalkudah. You can decide for yourself which area has the most beautiful beaches. Return to Uga Bay for a final restful night.

Passekudah
Passekudah

Day 6

Arugam Bay

Take the southern road for 3 hours, following along the eastern shoreline as you travel to Arugam Bay. The area is considered one of the top ten surf spots in the entire world. Indeed, this place feels like its own separate little world with its isolated beaches and laid-back vibes. We recommend staying at the Kottukal Beach House just north of Arugam Bay, which sits directly on the beach.

Hotel Options
About

This boutique beachfront property rests in a peaceful village on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, offering guests a touch of luxury, quiet, and convenient access to both Pottuvil’s and nearby Arugam bay’s famous surfing waves. Every room has a private balcony with seaviews and are smartly furnished with modern amenities including an ensuite bathroom with rain shower, complimentary wireless internet access, and air-conditioning.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 7

Arugam Bay

If you’re feeling adventurous, give the area’s famous sport a try! Pick up a surfboard and join in the never-ending summer. The beach break in front of the Stardust Hotel is perfect for beginners, and those just looking to body board. Other recommended spots include; the Point, Pottuvil Point and Crocodile Rock.

Day 8

Arugam Bay

If you’ve had enough surfing or are simply looking for a change of pace, the area is nearby several ancient ruins. The Lahugala National Park is a spectacular location to see Elephants roaming free in the wilderness. 

Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay

Day 9

Haputale

Leave the coast behind as you head 3 hours inland to visit the lush southern highlands. Along the way, you will see stunning peaks, picturesque waterfalls and sprawling tea plantations. Reach Haputale and enjoy incredible views of the southern plains from the town’s ridge location. Spend the evening at the Kelburne Mountain View Cottages. The cozy cottages offer unrivalled views of the vistas below.

Hotel Options
About

Waking up to the natural melody of tweeting birds and breathtaking views, Kelburne Mountain View Cottages are located at approximate 3000 feet at the top of the historic Haputale Pass. Looking over infinite valleys running in every direction, all five Sri Lankan provinces can be seen from the comfort of your own balcony, including Eastern, Southern, Western, Sabaragamuwa and Uva province.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 10

Haputale

Meander through the Kelburne Tea plantation, feel free to pick some leaves to weigh at the station located at the front entrance. Tour the tea factory and learn about the different processes. You will be able to discern the different grades of Ceylon tea by the end of the day. Finish the day by paying a visit to the monastery or one of the nearby waterfalls.

Day 11

Kandy

The next leg of your trip will take you to the lush green city of Kandy (3 hours away), the island nation’s cultural capital. This was the last kingdom of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. If you wish, take a walk around the serene lake in the city center. 

Hotel Options
About

Located in the centre of Kandy, just a short drive from the railway station and the famous Temple of the Tooth, Earl's Regency Hotel is a luxurious property with splendid views of the mountains around Kandy. All its rooms are air-conditioned and come with a minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a TV with satellite channels.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

This historic dwelling was once the ancestral home of a Kandyan family and was restored to its former splendor in 2005 by Channa Daswatte, Geoffrey Bawa’s protege. The two-story main house is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, which have avocado, jackwood, papaya, Sri Lankan orange and Kithul trees - the perfect setting for afternoon tea complete with Kandy House’s desserts made with treacle from Kithul blossoms.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

About

Tucked away in green in the heart of the city, Kings Pavilion offers an urban retreat in a prime Kandy location. Guest rooms are decorated in a cozy and modern style, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light and balconies with mountain views.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Kandy
Kandy

Day 12

Kandy

Take a tour of the Bahirawakanda Monastery, and see how Sri Lankan monks live and worship. See the Temple of the Tooth lit up at night by thousands of tiny white lights: a magical sight to behold. The temple contains the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Spend your final evening of pampering at your hotel.

Day 13

Departure

Travel 3 hours from Kandy to the country’s capital - Colombo to connect onward. Time permitting before the flight, explore the town, reveling in the gorgeous colonial architecture. Tour the National Museum and pay a visit to the Fort.

Suggested Hotel For Day 1

The Wallawwa

The Wallawwa

Situated just 15 minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport, The Wallawwa is an old colonial home that has been restored and converted into 17 guestrooms and suites-- The Mountbatten Suite, two Family Suites, two Wallawwa Bedrooms, and twelve Garden Suites. The property offers well-manicured, lush gardens, a library, a study with computer and complimentary internet access, a swimming pool, and a spa. The Verandah offers Asian Fusion cuisine and is set overlooking the property's beautiful gardens.

Suggested Hotels For Day 2

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Jetwing Vil Uyana

Nestled amongst reed beds and paddy fields on top of a man-made lake lies Jetwing Vil Uyana, a premier luxury eco resort in Sigiriya, Sri Lanka. Hailed by Harper's Bazaar as the "best eco luxury hotel in Sri Lanka," this one-of-a-kind resort comprises 36 dwellings that merge sophisticated modern comforts with ecological rural simplicity. Located on a property that spans 28 acres, the resort's structures have been carefully placed to best allow the surrounding nature to thrive, inducing 36 species of butterfly, 120 species of bird, and 20 species of mammal that regard the resortas home. Guests can attempt to identify all the species from the comfort of their dwellings or participate in any of the various wildlife observation tours organized by the resort’s staff. Magnificent views of Sigiriya rock are also offered from the resort's fine dining restaurant serving Eastern and Western dishes alike. There is also a café for light bites and a fully stocked bar.  Strategically located, getaways to elephant gatherings at Minneriya National Park, a wildlife safari at Wilpattu National Park, and other tours of nearby natural wonders and cultural relics are easily accessible. The resort itself is equipped with a spa, yoga treatments, gymnasium, coffee makers, Wi-Fi, and more.

Water Garden Sigiriya

Water Garden Sigiriya

Located just six kilometers away from the historic Sigiriya Rock, Water Garden Sigiriya resort provides visitors to Sri Lanka with world-class comfort and second to none service. With one and two bedroom options, the resort's 30 villas are chicly designed, spacious, and imbued with an air of mystique thanks to their secret gardens and private plunge pools. Havens of relaxation and excellently positioned to observe the lush outdoors and roaming wildlife, the villas are also equipped with such modern comforts as flat-screen televisions, Wi-Fi, and coffeemakers. The expansive resort property can be traversed via a traditional buggy, swimming across the outdoor pool, or aboard a helicopter from the resort’s helipad that provides aerial tours of the adjacent countryside. Master chefs cater to diverse appetites with dishes from around the world at the outdoor dining sites and traditional indoor venue. Quality is ensured with an emphasis on organic produce and imports from top quality suppliers.  At the resort's spa, various treatments can be enjoyed including renowned Balinese massages. On-site, there is plenty to keep guests entertained with activities as diverse as billiards, biking, and archery while travel off the premises to explore such nearby attractions as the ancient cities of Dambulla, Anuradhapura, and Polonnaruwa is easy and convenient.

Suggested Hotel For Days 3–5

Uga Bay by Uga Escapes
Preferred Hotel

Uga Bay by Uga Escapes

Passekudah Bay is home to some of the longest stretches of soft, golden sand that Sri Lanka has to offer, and it is best enjoyed from the Uga Bay Passekudah. This elegant resort is situated close enough to the pristine beach line that guests can hear the waves rolling from the comfort of their luxurious accommodations. Housing a gourmet restaurant and world-class spa, Uga Bay guarantees a lap of luxury experience devoid of worry. A tireless staff works to ensure vacations go smoothly, whether that means jet skiing under the tropical sun or lazing around the resort's stunning infinity pool.

Suggested Hotel For Days 6–8

Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing

Kottukal Beach House by Jetwing

This boutique beachfront property rests in a peaceful village on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka, offering guests a touch of luxury, quiet, and convenient access to both Pottuvil’s and nearby Arugam bay’s famous surfing waves. Every room has a private balcony with seaviews and are smartly furnished with modern amenities including an ensuite bathroom with rain shower, complimentary wireless internet access, and air-conditioning. Other on-site facilities and amenities include pool, laundry service, spa service, and restaurant.

Suggested Hotel For Days 9–10

Kelburne Mountain View Cottages

Kelburne Mountain View Cottages


Waking up to the natural melody of tweeting birds and breathtaking views, Kelburne Mountain View Cottages are located at approximate 3000 feet at the top of the historic Haputale Pass. Looking over infinite valleys running in every direction, all five Sri Lankan provinces can be seen from the comfort of your own balcony, including Eastern, Southern, Western, Sabaragamuwa and Uva province. On a clear day, it’s possible to see the waves breaking along the Southern beaches, amidst the impeccable gardens and nearby Hindu temples that are located within the 50-acre tea estate. Liven up your taste buds with traditional Sri Lankan meals served in the comfort of your own cottage. If you’re feeling energetic, enjoy a game of badminton, basketball or the local favorite cricket with some other guests or local people. Alternatively, take a relaxing stroll around the estate where you are likely to encounter one of many chipmunks scurrying around. The three cottages at Kelburne - Aerie, Rose and Wallflower, will take you back to British colonial times, as you sip on tea, observe roving barefoot tea-pluckers dressed in flamboyant colored saris, along the steep tea estate against a backdrop of rolling hills, verdant valleys, swirling clouds and mist.


Suggested Hotels For Days 11–12

Kings Pavilion

Kings Pavilion

Tucked away in green in the heart of the city, Kings Pavilion offers an urban retreat in a prime Kandy location. Guest rooms are decorated in a cozy and modern style, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows flooding the space with natural light and balconies with mountain views. Suites also offer living areas and whirlpool tubs. Hotel facilities include a restaurant with a terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, lush gardens and a spa with a sauna.
Earl's Regency Hotel

Earl's Regency Hotel

Located in the centre of Kandy, just a short drive from the railway station and the famous Temple of the Tooth, Earl's Regency Hotel is a luxurious property with splendid views of the mountains around Kandy. All its rooms are air-conditioned and come with a minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities and a TV with satellite channels. Free WiFi is available in the public areas. The hotel also has a 24-hour coffee shop, as well as the sumptuous Far Pavilions restaurant, which offers local and international cuisine. The spa has massage rooms, a sauna and steam room, and there are also tennis and badminton courts.
Kandy House

Kandy House

This historic dwelling was once the ancestral home of a Kandyan family and was restored to its former splendor in 2005 by Channa Daswatte, Geoffrey Bawa’s protege. The two-story main house is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens, which have avocado, jackwood, papaya, Sri Lankan orange and Kithul trees - the perfect setting for afternoon tea complete with Kandy House’s desserts made with treacle from Kithul blossoms. Each of the nine guest rooms is furnished with stunning Dutch antique furniture, many with a four-poster bed. The modern en-suite bathrooms provide a washed concrete-style double vanity area and shower area, and a stately Victorian bath. The Verandah rooms - Peacock Royal and Red Spot Duke - are the hotel’s most spacious rooms which open onto a wide wrap-around verandah, dotted with cane chaises lounges, reading chairs and antiques. Although there is no Internet connection and cell phone service is patchy, guests will find plenty to do here with yoga classes, Ayurvedic treatments and hikes through Kandy’s flora and fauna. The restaurant serves Western and Sri Lankan fare, all prepared with seasonal produce fresh from the Kandy market, and homemade cakes and cookies are available at teatime.

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