Combined trip to Sri Lanka and the Maldives

From the jungles of Sri Lanka to the paradise beaches of the Maldives

Traveling through Sri Lanka and the Maldives is like experiencing two worlds in one trip. Here awaits lush jungles, historical temples, and wild animals, followed by crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, and tropical relaxation. A journey filled with contrasts - from deep forests and mountains to a paradise in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Flight to Sri Lanka - The start of an adventure

The journey begins with a flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Here you land at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), where you are met by the tropical heat and the sound of palm trees swaying in the wind. After arrival, the journey continues inland, where jungles, temples, and mountain peaks await.

Sigiriya - The Lion Rock and Sri Lanka's mighty history

The first stop is Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic places. Here the famous Lion Rock rises high above the tropical landscape, a place where history and nature meet in a spectacular way. The road up to the top is lined with ancient frescoes and ancient stairs, and once up, a breathtaking view of the jungle that stretches as far as the eye can see awaits.

Nearby are also the impressive cave temples in Dambulla, filled with Buddhist paintings and statues, which provide a fantastic insight into Sri Lanka's spiritual heritage.

How to get here: From Colombo it takes about 4-5 hours by car to Sigiriya.

Kandy - Culture, temples, and scenic surroundings

From Sigiriya, the journey continues to Kandy, a city surrounded by mountains and lush tea plantations. Kandy is the heart of Sri Lanka's culture and home to the sacred Tooth Temple, where one of Buddha's teeth is said to be preserved.

Here you can experience traditional Kandy dances, where colorful costumes and rhythmic drums create a hypnotic performance. A visit to the royal botanical garden in Peradeniya is also a must - a place filled with exotic plants and gigantic trees.

How to get here: From Sigiriya to Kandy it takes about 2.5-3 hours by car.

Ella - Hiking, waterfalls, and trains through the mountains

The next stop is Ella, a small mountain village that offers one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The journey here goes through lush tea plantations, fog-shrouded mountains, and small villages where time seems to stand still.

In Ella, hikes with panoramic views await - make your way up to Little Adam's Peak for a relatively easy but incredibly rewarding view, or hike to the spectacular Nine Arches Bridge, where you can see the trains winding through the jungle.

A refreshing dip at Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka's most famous waterfalls, is a perfect end to an active day.

How to get here: From Kandy to Ella you take the famous train through the mountains, a journey of about 6 hours, known for its fairy-tale views of tea plantations and jungle landscapes.

Yala - Safari and wild animals in Sri Lanka's largest national park

After the greenery of the mountains, it's time for Yala National Park, where you have the chance to see leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and lots of exotic birds in their natural environment.

Going on a jeep safari at sunrise is one of the highlights of the trip - when the animals wake up and the morning light colors the savannah in golden tones, it's an experience you'll never forget.

How to get here: From Ella it takes about 3 hours by car to Yala National Park.

Galle - Colonial charm and coastal life

On Sri Lanka's southwestern coast lies Galle, a city that bears traces of its colonial history. Here awaits a walk along the well-preserved city walls at Galle Fort, where you can gaze out over the sparkling sea and feel the presence of history in the narrow alleys.

Here are cozy cafes, small art galleries, and shops filled with crafts and antiques. Ending the Sri Lanka part of the trip here provides a nice transition from adventure and nature to more relaxed coastal life.

How to get here: From Yala to Galle it takes about 3.5-4 hours by car.

Flight to the Maldives - From jungle to paradise beaches

After exploring Sri Lanka, the journey continues to the Maldives, a short flight away.

Flight time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Airport:

Departure: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Colombo, Sri Lanka

Arrival: Velana International Airport (MLE), Malé, Maldives

Upon arrival in the Maldives, you continue to your final destination.

How to get to Maafushi:

From Malé, speedboats and ferries regularly go to Maafushi, with a travel time of about 30-45 minutes.

For more remote islands, you may need a domestic flight or seaplane.

Maldives - Turquoise blue water and total relaxation

After a rich round trip in Sri Lanka, it's time to completely change the landscape - from jungle and mountains to one of the world's most spectacular island paradises. In Maafushi, white sandy beaches, turquoise water, and a more local and genuine experience of the Maldives await.

Here you can snorkel among colorful coral reefs, swim with dolphins, or take a boat trip to an uninhabited island for a private beach day. The evenings are spent on the beach, where you can enjoy freshly grilled fish and the warm tropical breeze.

Return from the Maldives

After sunny days in the Maldives, it's time to go home. You fly back from Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, with memories of a trip filled with culture, wildlife, and paradise beaches.

Two worlds in one trip

This trip is a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. From hiking through tea plantations and deep jungles to snorkeling among corals and relaxing on paradise beaches, you get to experience both the wild and the tropical.

Are you ready to experience Sri Lanka and the Maldives?