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14-Day Tuktuk Adventure: Exploring Sri Lanka’s East Coast and Hill Country with a Safari in May

Explore on a 14-day self-drive tuktuk adventure through Sri Lanka’s beautiful east coast and hill country in May. Start your journey at the tuktukrental.com office in Katunayaka and make unforgettable memories at iconic sites like Yapahuwa Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temples, Sigiriya Lions Rock, and more. Avoid the south coast, where the weather is not favourable, and the sea is rough in May. Instead, focus on the scenic east coast, lush hill country, and an unforgettable safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

Day 1: Katunayaka to Yapahuwa Fortress, Maho (3.5 hours, 123 km)

  • Pick up your tuktuk at tuktukrental.com office in Katunayaka
  • Drive to Yapahuwa Fortress in Maho
  • Explore the ancient fortress and surrounding ruins

Day 2: Yapahuwa Fortress to Namal Uyana Rose Quartz Mountain and Dambulla Cave Temples (3 hours, 93 km)

  • Travel to Namal Uyana Rose Quartz Mountain
  • Discover the unique pink rose quartz deposits and rare ironwood forest
  • 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)

  • Continue to Sigiriya Lions Rock, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Climb the rock fortress and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
  • Visit the nearby Pidurangala Rock for an alternative view of Sigiriya
  • Wander through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and its well-preserved ruins

Day 5: Sigiriya to Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park (1 hour, 40 km)

  • Head to either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for a morning safari
  • Embark on a thrilling safari to spot wild elephants, birds, and other wildlife
  • More information on National Parks and Safari’s can be found here

Day 5 second half: Minneriya/Kaudulla National Park to Trincomalee (2.5 hours, 140 km)

  • Journey to the east coast city of Trincomalee
  • Relax on the pristine beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli
  • Visit the Koneswaram Temple, a famous Hindu pilgrimage site

Day 6 and 7: Discover Trincomalee

  • Go whale watching or snorkeling at Pigeon Island National Park
  • Explore the historic Fort Frederick and its panoramic views

Day 8: Trincomalee to Arugam Bay (5 hours, 270 km)

  • Drive to the surfers’ paradise of Arugam Bay
  • Unwind on the beach and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere

Day 9 and 10: Arugam Bay and Kudumbigala Monastery

  • Visit the serene Kudumbigala Monastery, nestled within a forest reserve
  • Discover the nearby Kumana National Park for wildlife sightings
  • More information on Arugam Bay and the surrounding area can be found here.

Day 11: Arugam Bay to Ella (4 hours, 139 km)

  • Make your way to the charming hill country town of Ella
  • Explore the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak

Day 12: Discover Ella

  • Hike to the summit of Ella Rock or Little Adams Peak for stunning panoramic views
  • Visit the picturesque Ravana Falls

Day 13: 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

Day 14: Hatton to tuktukrental.com office (4 hours, 123 km)

  • Return your tuktuk to the tuktukrental.com office and say goodbye to your unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure

In conclusion, this comprehensive 14-day self-drive tuktuk rental itinerary will take you on an unforgettable adventure through Sri Lanka’s picturesque east coast and hill country in May. Steer clear of the south coast, where the weather is unfavourable, and the sea is rough. Instead, focus on the stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique wildlife encounters, including an exhilarating safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park. Book your tuktuk today and start planning the trip of a lifetime.

Day Self-Drive Tuktuk Adventure: Exploring Sri Lanka's East Coast and Hill Country with a Safari in May

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