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Negombo, Sri Lanka
Start your trip in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. Here you’ll discover a
unique mixture of modern and traditional, where towering skyscrapers and
luxurious rooftop bars sit next to stunning mosques, traditional houses, and
bustling street markets. After a busy day of sightseeing, head to one of the
beautiful parks to relax and see unique tropical plants, trees, and flowers.
Alternatively, take a wander down to the city beach, where you can watch locals
flying their kites in the coastal breeze or cheering as they score points
playing cricket. However, Colombo is not the closest city to the airport. For
more convenience, head to Negombo, a laidback town that’s right next to the
airport. It’s a great place to stay for cheaper accommodation with swimming
pools where you can relax and unwind after the flight. The beaches are also far
more picturesque in this city.
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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Lion Rock in Sigiriya is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The
enormous natural formation sticks out of the flat landscape, towering above
forests and grasslands filled with elephants. On top of the 200-meter
square-shaped rock, you’ll find the remains of an ancient palace and gardens and
many rock drawings along the way. Additionally, Lion Rock is one of the eight
UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, which is another reason to add it to
your Sri Lanka route!
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Kandy, Sri Lanka
Head back to Kandy to catch the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka. This
long train ride is one of the top things to do on any Sri Lanka route, taking
you through stunning rolling hilltops, rainforest, and luscious green tea
plantations. Hang out the door with the wind in your hair and feel the weather
get cooler as you move higher up into the mist and the clouds of the Sri Lanka
highlands. Get Kandy Train Tickets here.
- Royal Botanic Gardens
- Kandy View Point
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Ella, Sri Lanka
Visit one of the most blissful and natural places in Sri Lanka: Ella. The small
town has a laid-back hippy vibe, complemented by the great mountains and hills
that tower over the town. Stay in a hilltop guesthouse with incredible views,
and use it as a base to climb to Adams Peak, Ella Rock, or the mesmerizing Nine
Arch Bridge. When you’re done hiking, head for one of the many picturesque
waterfall pools for a refreshing dip. Ella is one of the most beautiful places
in the country and an absolute must-do in Sri Lanka!
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Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Head south to the paradise beach town of Mirissa. Take off your shoes and say
goodbye to regular life as you slow down, feel the sand between your toes and
the waves against your feet. Mirissa isn’t just about the beach, though; there
are beautiful coconut tree forests to explore, fascinating tidal islands, and
endless great restaurants.
- Parrot Rock Ridge
- Mirissa Coconut Tree Hill
- Raja and the Whales
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Colombo, Sri Lanka
Finish your trip and stay close to the airport in Colombo. If you have a little
extra time before your flight, visit Barefoot handicraft and its fantastic
restaurant or tick of some of the sights you may have missed at the beginning of
your trip.