Central Sri lanka

One of the most famous historical landmarks in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya is an ancient fortress built on a massive rock formation. The fortress was built in approximately 477 AD and provides a stunning view of the surrounding landscapes. Be prepared for a long uphill hike to the top.
Be sure to also check out the towns of Dambulla and Habarana which are approximately 30m from Sigiriya.
From Colombo:
- Private transport (bus/van/taxi) - allow up to 4 - 6 hours for travel.
- Public train from Colombo Fort Station to Habarana Station - allow 5-6 hours for travel. From Habarana Station you will need to take a taxi/three-wheeler to the rock - allow up to 30mins of travel.

Ella has become a popular location if you are looking to spend some time in mountains. Visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adams Peak, Ella Rock and countless waterfalls in this mountain town.
From Colombo:
Take the train from Colombo Fort Station to Ella. Allow up to 6-8 hours for travel.
This train ride is very popular for its scenic views.
Book in advance, and book the Blue train.
Second Class tickets will give you the best experience (at the expense of aircon)

Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. It was the last capital of the Sinhalese monarchy from 1469 to 1818, under the Kingdom of Kandy.
Explore the city, lake and the surrounding tea plantations and visit the famous Temple of the Tooth (temple and castle of the last king of Sri Lanka).
From Colombo: Take the train from Colombo Fort Station to Kandy Station. Allow up to 3-4 hours of travel and expect some scenic views along the way.

Sri Lanka is well known for its tea. Check out countless tea plantations across Central Sri Lanka.
Don’t forget to book in a Plantation Tour and Tea Tasting! You can even stay a night in a Tea Estate to really immerse yourself in the colonialist lifestyle.
Ishanka’s Note: My favourite tea regions are Hatton and Uva, but you can never stay mad at a Nuwara Eliya tea for long.
From Colombo:
- Private transport (bus/van/taxi) - allow up to 4 - 6 hours for travel.
- Public train from Colombo Fort Station to Kandy or Nuwara Eliya and take a three-wheeler to your desired tea plantation.

Dambulla Cave Temple is a Buddhist Temple Complex that is focused around a series of five cave shrines.
Inhabited by forest-dwelling Buddhist monks as early as 300 BCE, these natural caves have been transformed continuously throughout the historical period into one of the largest and most outstanding Buddhist complexes in the Southern and South Eastern Asian region
Recommendation: Visit Sigirya and Dambulla on the same day as they’re nearby.
From Colombo:
- Private transport (bus/van/taxi) - allow up to 4 - 6 hours for travel.
- Public train from Colombo Fort Station to Kalawewa Station- allow 5-6 hours for travel. From Kalawewa Station you will need to take a taxi/three-wheeler to the temple - allow up to 30/45mins of travel.

Colombo

The Lotus Tower stands as the tallest building in South Asia. Built only a few years ago it gives an excellent view of Colombo with plenty of activities to do inside.
P.S. going up to the top may be pricey.
The Tower is located in the city, you can walk for take a three-wheeler if you prefer.

The biggest and busiest market in Colombo with vendors and stalls selling everything from electronics to fresh fruit. Be prepared as this area will be very busy and hectic.
Be sure to also check out the famous ‘Red Mosque’ and the floating market which are also located in the market.
The market is located within walking distance of Colombo Fort train station.

Galle Face Green stretches along the east coast and is a popular spot for walks and flying kites. You will find street food vendors and plenty of places to relax while looking out over the ocean. Be sure to catch the sunset on a clear day.
Galle Face Green can be reached by walking or three-wheeler from the city centre.

Cruise along the Negombo Lagoon, Dutch Canal and Muthurajawela Wetland to see some of Sri Lanka’s native birdlife. Take a tour along the waterways of Negombo to see the wildlife and even a crocodile or two.
Its a short walk from Negambo Station along Main St. You can immerse yourself in the local hustle and bustle along the way.
Ishanka’s Note: This is one of my favourite walks in Negambo, I love the chaos and the cool vertical signs a street photographers dream.

Explore the beautiful and historical churches and temples around Negombo.
Churches: St Sebastian’s Church, St Mary’s Church, St. Stephens (Ishanka’s Achchis Favourite Church)
Temples: Abhayasekarararma Temple, Angurukaramulla Temple
All of the Churches and Temples are walking distance from Negambo Station. Feel free to take a three-wheeler if the heat gets too much.

Explore Negombo beaches and experience the hectic life of Srilankan fishermen at the Negombo fish market.
The Negombo fish market is famous due to its size and the variety of fresh and dried seafood that can be found there. Even if you are not buying, walking through the market is an experience itself.
Catch the sunset or go for a swim at the beaches you will find around Negombo.
Ishanka’s Note: hire a three-wheeler and ride across the bridges at the Negambo Lagoon mouth, the view off Pitipana Bridge is quite unique.
A short three-wheel ride from Negambo Station