How to Plan Your 3-Day Trip to Sigiriya Kandy Ella Udawalawe with Train Ride

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming as there are so many beautiful places to visit. The trip from Colombo to Sigiriya Kandy Ella Udawalawe is a popular and breathtaking route that covers some of the island’s most iconic and must-see destinations. With this 3-day trip, you’ll experience stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and wildlife spotting, all while traveling via train. Here’s how you can plan your perfect getaway.

Day 1: Colombo-Sigiriya-Kandy

Your journey will begin in Colombo, where you’ll be picked up from your hotel at around 6:00 a.m. It’s worth noting that you’ll be on a fully-guided tour, so you don’t need to worry about transportation arrangements or tickets. You’ll head north to Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and fascinating sites. You’ll tour the ancient rock fortress and marvel at the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.

After Sigiriya, you’ll proceed to the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cave temple is a massive rock that houses various Buddha statues and historical paintings. You’ll then continue onward to Kandy, home to the famous Temple of the Tooth.

Day 2: Kandy-Ella

On your second day, you’ll leave Kandy and head further inland to Ella via the scenic and spectacular train ride. Your train journey will take you through the lush green tea plantations that have made Sri Lanka world-renowned for tea. Do not forget to bring your camera for this journey as the views are awe-inspiring.

After you arrive at the picturesque hill station of Ella, you’ll take an easy hike up to Little Adam’s Peak, where you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys and lush green tea fields. The rest of the evening is yours to spend at leisure, enjoying the peacefulness of the town.

Day 3: Ella-Udawalawe-Colombo

Your final day will take you to another of Sri Lanka’s must-visit destination, the Udawalawe National Park. It is home to over 500 elephants, as well as other wildlife, such as leopards, water buffalo, and many bird species. You’ll explore the park on a safari jeep ride in the middle of the park’s stunning savannah landscape.

After the safari, you’ll briefly stop by a gem factory, where you will encounter how precious stones are manufactured, cut, and polished in Sri Lanka. You’ll then return to Colombo, ending the trip at around 7:00 p.m.

Experience Highlights

– Climbing the Sigiriya rock and marvel at the stunning views from the top
– Learning about the history of Sigiriya and its cultural significance
– Visiting the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
– Train ride through the lush green tea plantations
– Walking up Little Adam’s Peak for a panoramic view of the surrounding valleys
– Exploring Udawalawe National Park and spotting elephants and other wildlife
– Seeing how precious stones are manufactured, cut, and polished at a gem factory

Booking Information

This 3-day trip to Sigiriya Kandy Ella Udawalawe with Train Ride is offered by a third-party company and can be booked at https://www.getyourguide.com/activity/-t408051?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. Be sure to check for availability and book early to avoid disappointment.

In conclusion, Sri Lanka is a country full of wonder, beauty, and history, and the Sigiriya Kandy Ella Udawalawe tour is an unforgettable way to explore some of its most impressive places. We hope this guide has given you helpful insights and inspiration to plan your perfect vacation – happy travels!

Insider’s Guide to a 3-Day Trip to Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and Udawalawe with Train Ride

Are you planning a trip to Sri Lanka but unsure of where to go? Look no further than Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and Udawalawe. This itinerary will cover these must-visit destinations by train ride, making it an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Sigiriya

Sigiriya is a small village located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Here are some of the must-visit spots on your first day:

Sigiriya Rock Fortress – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the highlight of Sigiriya, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a massive rock formation situated in the middle of the forest. With stunning views from the top and intricate frescoes, it’s easy to see why it’s known as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

Dambulla Cave Temple – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dambulla Cave Temple is a series of cave temples that house beautiful religious statues, sculptures, and murals. It’s a peaceful location where you can take in some history and culture.

Minneriya National Park – A safari through Minneriya National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spot some of Sri Lanka’s wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and sambar deer.

Day 2: Kandy

Kandy is a sacred city in Sri Lanka that’s home to numerous temples and shrines. Here are some places to visit:

Temple of the Tooth – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka, the Temple of the Tooth houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide.

Kandy Lake – Take a stroll around Kandy Lake and enjoy the calm serenity of the surroundings. There are plenty of photo opportunities and paths to explore the area.

Udawattakele Forest Reserve – A nearby forest reserve perfect for nature lovers. There are over 400 species of flora and fauna to explore in this reserve.

Day 3: Ella and Udawalawe

On day three, take a train ride to Ella and enjoy the stunning views of the hill country. Once you reach Ella, here are some places to visit:

Nine Arches Bridge – This iconic bridge stands tall above nine arches and provides a picturesque frame for any photo.

Little Adam’s Peak – A relatively easy hike, Little Adam’s Peak provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

After Ella, you’ll take another train ride to Udawalawe National Park, a sanctuary for Sri Lanka’s wild animals.

Udawalawe National Park – A safari through Udawalawe National Park is a real treat for animal lovers. Elephants and crocodiles can typically be seen near the river, and birdwatching is also prevalent in this area.

Dining

When in Sri Lanka, be sure to try some of the local specialties, including:

Rice and curry – A plate of rice and curry typically includes rice, different varieties of curries, and sometimes papadam, chutney, and sambol.

Kottu – A dish made up of roti that is chopped up and mixed with vegetables and meat.

Hoppers – A type of pancake made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk and cooked in a small wok-shaped pan.

Local Culture and History

Sri Lanka has a rich history with a strong Buddhist influence. Temples, shrines, and ancient structures can be found throughout the country. It’s worth noting that Sri Lanka has a conservative culture, and visitors should be respectful of local customs.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have extra time in Sri Lanka, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Pidurangala Rock – A nearby rock formation that’s less crowded than Sigiriya and offers stunning views of the area.

Galle – A quaint coastal town with colonial history and beautiful beaches.

Yala National Park – Another wildlife sanctuary where you can spot a variety of species, including leopards.

In conclusion, a 3-day trip to Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and Udawalawe with train rides provides a perfect mix of culture, history, nature, and adventure. Don’t hesitate to plan your visit now and discover Sri Lanka’s beauty!