9 days in Kandy & Nuwara Eliya Itinerary

Nestled between mountains in inland Sri Lanka, Kandy proudly bears its World Heritage Site designation while remaining culturally independent and colorfully picturesque.

Visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Udawattekele Sanctuary will get you outdoors. Venture out of the city with trips to Knuckles Mountain Range (in Etanwela), Millennium Elephant Foundation (in Kegalle) and Victoria Golf & Country Resort (in Rajawella). Next up on the itinerary: admire the natural beauty at Royal Botanical Gardens, make a trip to Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, appreciate the history behind Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue, and contemplate the waterfront views at Kandy Lake.

To see maps, ratings, more things to do, and more tourist information, you can read our Kandy trip planner.

Colombo to Kandy is an approximately 3-hour combination of taxi and flight. You can also take a train; or drive. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 4th (Tue) so you can go by car to Nuwara Eliya.

Sitting high up in the hills, the green and pleasant Nuwara Eliya offers both a rich history and proximity to pristine natural areas.

Get in touch with nature at Horton Plains National Park and Thotupola Kanda Nature Trail. Explore Nuwara Eliya's surroundings by going to Ella (Ravana Ella Falls & Little Adam's Peak). There's more to do: contemplate the waterfront views at Gregory Lake and explore the wealth of natural beauty at Galway's Land National Park.

To find maps, more things to do, reviews, and other tourist information, refer to the Nuwara Eliya holiday maker site.

Traveling by car from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya takes 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 8th (Sat) early enough to travel back home.