The Complete East Coast & Highlands
Kalpitiya dolphins, ancient ruins, east coast beaches, Arugam Bay surf, and Yala safari.
About This Sri Lanka Tuk Tuk Tour
This is the definitive east coast circuit for travellers with 20 or more days. Starting in Negombo, head north to Kalpitiya for dolphin watching and kite surfing, then sweep through the ancient kingdom of Anuradhapura. Cross to Trincomalee's pristine beaches, work south through Passekudah's calm bay and Arugam Bay's world-class surf breaks, and descend to Yala for leopard safaris. The final stretch winds through the scenic highlands of Ella, Nuwara Eliya's tea country, and Kandy's cultural heart before climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress on the return to Negombo.
Best For
Travellers with 20+ days who want the full east coast experience — wildlife, surf, beaches, and highlands
Route Map
12 stops · click a pin for details
Route Overview
Negombo
Start Point
Relax on golden beaches, enjoy lagoon rides, seafood dining, and tropical sunsets.
145 KM · 4 Hrs drive to Kalpitiya
Kalpitiya
Experience kite surfing, dolphin watching, snorkeling, and peaceful beach escapes.
120 KM · 3 Hrs drive to Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura
Explore sacred stupas, monasteries, and Sri Lanka's first ancient kingdom.
110 KM · 3 Hrs drive to Trincomalee
Trincomalee
Experience snorkelling, Nilaveli Beach, and historic seaside temples.
110 KM · 3 Hrs drive to Passekudah
Passekudah
Relax on calm turquoise beaches ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and beachside leisure.
150 KM · 4 Hrs drive to Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay
Surf world-famous waves, explore lagoons, beach cafés, and laid-back coastal culture.
110 KM · 3 Hrs drive to Yala National Park
Yala National Park
Enjoy thrilling jeep safaris with chances to spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles.
60 KM · 2 Hrs drive to Ella
Ella
Scenic train rides, waterfalls, hiking trails, tea plantations, and Nine Arches Bridge.
60 KM · 2.5 Hrs drive to Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya
Discover tea plantations, waterfalls, cool climate scenery, and colonial architecture.
95 KM · 3.5 Hrs drive to Kandy
Kandy
Visit the Temple of the Tooth, botanical gardens, cultural shows, and hill-country charm.
90 KM · 3 Hrs drive to Sigiriya
Sigiriya
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, enjoy safaris, village tours, and cave temples.
150 KM · 4 Hrs drive to Negombo
Negombo
End Point
Relax on golden beaches, enjoy lagoon rides, seafood dining, and tropical sunsets.
Sri Lanka Tour Highlights
- Kalpitiya — dolphin watching, kite surfing & snorkelling
- Anuradhapura — Sri Lanka's ancient first capital & sacred ruins
- Trincomalee — Nilaveli Beach & Koneswaram Temple
- Arugam Bay — world-famous surfing & beach culture
- Yala National Park — leopard & elephant safaris
Destination Travel Guides
In-depth guides for the places on this route — what to see, where to stay, and how long to spend.
This plan
The Complete East Coast & Highlands
20+ Days