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Colombo, Sri Lanka
Arrive late on Jul 12 and rest up. On Jul 13 morning, grab a quick breakfast at the Pettah Market area and explore the colourful streets before hitting the road south to Galle. Don't miss a short stop at Gangaramaya Temple if time allows.
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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Rock Fortress is Sri Lanka's most iconic landmark — a 5th-century royal citadel rising 200m from the jungle with ancient frescoes and mirror walls. Start the climb at 7am to beat the heat and crowds. On day two, visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple with its 150+ Buddha statues and ancient murals, just 20km away.
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Kandy, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's cultural capital is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site visited by Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. Spend an evening watching a traditional Kandyan dance performance and explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. Day two is perfect for a cooking class or exploring the vibrant Kandy Market.
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Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Known as 'Little England', Nuwara Eliya sits at 1,868m with cool misty air and rolling tea estates. Visit the Pedro Tea Estate for a factory tour and sample Ceylon tea fresh from the source. The scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya is considered one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world — book tickets in advance.
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Ella, Sri Lanka
Ella is a stunning highland village surrounded by tea plantations and misty mountains. Hike Little Adam's Peak at sunrise and walk across the iconic Nine Arch Bridge — best seen when a train passes through. Spend day two hiking Ella Rock and exploring local tea factories with free tastings.
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Udawalawe, Sri Lanka
Home to Udawalawe National Park, one of the best places in Asia to spot wild elephants in their natural habitat. Book an early morning jeep safari for the best sightings — herds of 50+ elephants are common here. Also visit the Elephant Transit Home where orphaned baby elephants are rehabilitated.
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Tangalle, Sri Lanka
Tangalle is a quieter, wilder stretch of coastline with beautiful lagoons and sea turtle nesting sites. Visit Rekawa Beach at night between May and October to spot nesting turtles with a local guide. The calm Tangalle Lagoon is perfect for an evening kayak.
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Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Mirissa is Sri Lanka's top surf spot — rent a board and catch waves at the main beach or take a surfing lesson as a beginner. Don't miss the iconic Parrot Rock viewpoint at sunset. Fresh tuna and prawn curry at beachside shacks is a must-try.
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Galle, Sri Lanka
Walk the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with Dutch colonial architecture, boutique cafés and ocean views. Stroll Pedlar Street for local art and grab a hoppers breakfast at a local spot. The fort walls at sunset are absolutely stunning.
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Colombo, Sri Lanka
Return the tuk-tuk and spend your final days exploring Colombo properly. Visit the hip Colombo 7 neighbourhood, the National Museum, and the buzzing Pettah street market. On Jul 25, treat yourself to a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Colombo 3 with views over the Indian Ocean before your Jul 26 departure.