Ella
A laid-back village with famous views: the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock – and the world’s most beautiful train ride to get there.
Horton Plains
A high, misty plateau with cloud forest, sambar deer and the sheer 870 m drop of World’s End. Start early before the clouds roll in.
Adam’s Peak
Join pilgrims on a lantern-lit night climb of 5,500 steps to watch the sun rise and the peak cast its perfect triangular shadow.
Arugam Bay
A chilled surf town with point breaks for every level, lagoon safaris and rice-and-curry shacks. The east coast shines when the south is rainy.
Sinharaja Rainforest
A UNESCO rainforest alive with endemic birds, waterfalls and giant trees. Guided treks reveal a hidden world.
Sigiriya
A 5th-century palace on top of a 200-metre rock, guarded by giant lion paws and painted maidens. Climb at sunrise for misty views over the jungle and the Cultural Triangle.