Explore Sri Lanka’s beautiful east coast and hill country with a 14-day tuktuk adventure in May. To begin with, start your journey at the tuktukrental.com office in Katunayake and from there, create unforgettable memories at iconic sites like Yapahuwa Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temples, Sigiriya Lions Rock, and more. However, avoid the south coast, where the weather is not favorable and the sea is rough in May. Instead, head to the scenic east coast, then continue to explore the lush hill country, and afterwards, enjoy an exhilarating safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park. Overall, this route combines culture, nature, and adventure for an unforgettable experience.
1st Day: Katunayake to Yapahuwa Fortress, Maho (3.5 hours, 123 km)
- First, pick up your tuktuk at the tuktukrental.com office in Katunayake on day 1 of your 14-day tuktuk adventure in May
- Then drive to the Yapahuwa Fortress in Maho
- Explore the ancient fortress and surrounding ruins
2nd Day: Yapahuwa Fortress to Namal Uyana Rose Quartz Mountain and Dambulla Cave Temples (3 hours, 93 km)
- To begin with, travel to Namal Uyana Rose Quartz Mountain
- Discover the unique pink rose quartz deposits and rare ironwood forest
- From there, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dambulla Cave Temples
- Marvel at the impressive rock temple complex and its exquisite murals and statues
Day 3 and 4: Dambulla to Sigiriya Lions Rock (30 minutes, 17 km)
- First, head to Sigiriya Lions Rock, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Climb the rock fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
- From there, climb the nearby Pidurangala Rock for an alternative view of Sigiriya
- Wander through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and its well-preserved ruins
5th Day: Sigiriya to Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park (1 hour, 40 km)
- To begin with, head to either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for a morning safari
- Next, embark on a thrilling safari to spot wild elephants, birds, and other wildlife
- For more details, check out National Parks and Safaris, which can be found here
5th Day Second half: Minneriya/Kaudulla National Park to Trincomalee (2.5 hours, 140 km)
- After your safari, enjoy a Journey to the east coast city of Trincomalee
- Upon arrival, relax on the pristine beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli
- Finally, visit the Koneswaram Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site
Days 6 and 7: Discover Trincomalee
- To start, go whale watching or snorkeling at Pigeon Island National Park
- Afterwards, explore the historic Fort Frederick and its panoramic views
8th Day: Trincomalee to Arugam Bay (5 hours, 270 km)
- First, drive to the surfers’ paradise of Arugam Bay on day 8 of your 14-day tuktuk adventure in May
- Then, you can unwind on the beach and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere
Days 9 and 10: Arugam Bay and Kudumbigala Monastery
- To begin with, visit the serene Kudumbigala Monastery, nestled within a forest reserve
- Next, discover the nearby Kumana National Park for wildlife sightings
- For more details on Arugam Bay and the surrounding area, can visit here.
11th Day: Arugam Bay to Ella (4 hours, 139 km)
- Begin your journey to the charming hill country town of Ella
- Then, explore the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak
12th Day: Discover Ella
- First hike to the summit of Ella Rock or Little Adams Peak for stunning panoramic views.
- Next up is a visit to the picturesque Ravana Falls on day 12 of your 14-day tuktuk adventure in May
13th Day: Ella to Horton Plains National Park (2 hours, 63 km)
- Drive to Horton Plains National Park
- Trek through the cloud forests to World’s End, a breathtaking escarpment
Day 13 Second half: Horton Plains to Hatton (2.5 hours, 88 km)
- Continue to the scenic town of Hatton, nestled amidst lush tea plantations
- Explore the nearby Adam’s Peak, a revered pilgrimage site with stunning views
- Visit tea estates and factories to learn about the tea-making process
14th Day: Hatton to tuktukrental.com office (4 hours, 123 km)
- Finally, you can return your tuktuk to the tuktukrental.com office and say goodbye as you wrap up your 14-day tuktuk adventure in May.
In conclusion, this comprehensive itinerary thus ensures an unforgettable journey along Sri Lanka’s east coast and hill country. Rather than the south coast, which is rough and rainy in May, consider focusing on scenic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife encounters. Additionally, you can explore cultural sites, enjoy stunning vistas, and embark on thrilling safaris—all in one trip. Furthermore, this itinerary balances adventure with relaxation for the entire family. As a result, book your tuktuk today and start planning your 14-day tuktuk adventure in May, so that you can make the most of your Sri Lankan journey.