Sri Lanka extended north

Set on the west coast of Sri Lanka, Colombo is the capital city and by far the largest urban area on the island. A mix of historic architecture and contemporary living, this vibrant place is certainly worth including in your trip if you want to get to know modern Sri Lanka.

Set in the mountainous centre of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is the centre of the tea-producing region, a famous British colonial retreat which is commonly referred to as ‘Little England’, renowned for elegant homestay bungalows out amongst the various tea plantations.

Set in the east of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya National Park is a relatively small conservation area, best known for motorboat safari to view elephants swimming between the various islands in the huge reservoir.

Set on the east coast of Sri Lanka, Pasikuda is a relatively quiet and beautiful beach area, easily combined in road trips with Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy, as well as featuring a broad range of accommodation options.

Set in northcentral Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is an iconic hilltop fortress. Other attractions in this area include the rock temples of Dambulla and the ruins of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. It’s a fascinating area, which is home to some really good accommodation options.

Set in northcentral Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura is a relaxed town which is home to an enormous complex of historic ruins, with various sacred buildings including the renowned Bodhi Tree Temple, a place of great pilgrimage amongst Buddhists.

Set in the northwest of Sri Lanka, Wilpattu National Park is the largest conservation area in the country, home to a decent range of wildlife, notably including elephants, leopards and sloth bears. It also experiences far lower visitor numbers than the more popular Yala National Park.