Looking for a super unique and completely off-the-beaten-path experience in Sri Lanka? Explore the untouched east coast of Sri Lanka! Since the civil war ended many years ago, the full east coast has opened its door to tourism. Places like Trincomalee, Nilaveli, and Pasikuda have gone through some huge developments. Self-drive through Sri Lanka and have a whole new experience in the country.
Day 1: Sri Lanka Road Trip
Rent a Jeep and start your trip from Trincomalee. Driving on the East Coast of Sri Lanka is quite easy; the roads are good, enough gas stations, and traveling at a slow pace.
Take your time to pull over and see wild animals like monkeys, buffalos, and many more. Spend the night at Pasikudah Beach or Batticaloa. Click here to see all hotels in Pasikuda.
Day 2: Incredible ride to Arugam Bay
Day two is the most beautiful part of the trip. During this 4-hour drive, you will pass national parks, rice fields, beautiful palm landscapes, and untouched beaches. The route will end in Arugam Bay. This is the hotspot on the Sri Lankan east coast.
Read about: 9 Things To Do in Arugam Bay
Near Arugam Bay, there is a chance to spot wild elephants on the side of the road. Do leave them alone, drive, keep a distance, and admire their beauty.
During the two days of driving, there will be enough gas stations and supermarkets to recharge. Fuel prices are as low as the price of water :-)
Jeep Rental Sri Lanka
Rent a Jeep via Sri Lanka Jeep Tours for just $40 a day (minimum rental 7 days). Have all the freedom to stop whenever while driving by yourself.
The route can also be done by Tuk Tuk or rental car, but you canโt go offroad with them, and a Jeep is way cooler, right?
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- Find Hotels via Booking.com
- Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
- Find Flights to Sri Lanka via Skyscanner
- Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
- Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
- Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.
Hi, when did you go? Did you experience any trouble with getting fuel along thr route due to recent fuel shortages?
Hi Jodie, we were in Sri Lanka before the fuel shortages, so can’t give any insight there, sorry. However, weโve heard things are starting to get better in the last few months ๐ค