When most people think of a honeymoon, they picture champagne on a beach lounger or an all-inclusive resort. But we wanted something a little different, something that felt like us. So, instead of booking a 5-star resort in Fiji (don’t get me wrong, that’s amazing too!), we rented a tuk-tuk and set off on a two-week road trip across Sri Lanka.
Yep, that’s right, we spent part of our around-the-world honeymoon zipping through misty mountains, quiet beaches and lush jungles in a three-wheeled motorbike and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of our lives!
In this post, I’m sharing our exact 2-week tuk-tuk honeymoon itinerary for Sri Lanka, a country that we deeply fell in love with. I’ll share the exact route we took, the places we stayed and the experiences that made this honeymoon unforgettable. So whether you’re planning your own adventurous honeymoon or just want a unique way to explore Sri Lanka, this guide has everything you need to know.
Our 14-Day Sri Lanka Route
I actually stumbled across the idea of driving around Sri Lanka by accident, but I’m so glad I did. It turned out to be one of the most fun and flexible ways to explore the island, and it’s honestly perfect for adventurous couples. We’ve road-tripped through Iceland, Portugal, and Australia without much of a plan and I’ve done my fair share of solo scooter adventures through Northern Thailand, so this kind of self-drive freedom is totally my thing!
Tip: I recommend driving max 3–5 hours/day to keep the trip relaxed and romantic. Most roads are scenic, but you will be slow-going!
Here’s the exact route we took on our 2-week honeymoon across Sri Lanka, including where we stayed, what we did, and some optional detours we would’ve taken if we had more time. Spoiler: there’s no wrong turn when you’re on three wheels and living on island time.
Where to Book Your Tuk-Tuk
We highly recommend booking with TukTuk Rental Sri Lanka, they made the entire process effortless for us! They provide initial driving lessons, assist with permits, insurance and offer detailed maps.
What made them especially great for our honeymoon was their friendly, reliable service and flexibility, which gave us full confidence to enjoy our trip stress-free.
Days 1-2: Colombo
Since we were flying in from Australia and landed late at night, we chose to spend two nights in Colombo to acclimatise and give ourselves time to actually feel like we’d arrived. It was the perfect way to ease into the trip before hitting the road.
While you can pick up your tuk-tuk directly from TukTuk Rental Sri Lanka in nearby Negombo and head off straight away, we took a different route to start our adventure.
We booked a scenic flight with Cinnamon Air from Colombo to Sigiriya, a short 45-minute and absolutely stunning journey that carried both us and our luggage. It also saved us the long 160km drive (about 3.5–4 hours by car and even longer by tuk-tuk), giving us more time to enjoy the destination instead of just the journey.
You can read all about our experience with Cinnamon Air here.
Things to Do in Colombo
Colombo is chaotic in the best way and a colourful, energetic introduction to Sri Lanka. Spend some time wandering its lively streets, soaking in the mix of old and new architecture and, of course, diving headfirst into the local food scene. Make sure to try kottu, a sizzling street food dish that quickly became one of our favourites.
A couple of things I recommend you don’t miss:
- Pettah Market: A maze of stalls selling everything from spices to electronics
- Galle Face Green: Enjoy a seaside sunset stroll while you try street snacks
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque): A striking red-and-white candy-striped mosque you’ve probably seen on Instagram, definitely one of Colombo’s most iconic and photogenic landmarks
- Gangaramaya Temple: One of Colombo’s most famous temples
- Old Dutch Hospital: Which is now a trendy shopping and dining precinct with cool cafés and boutiques
- Lotus Tower: A lotus-shaped tower that is dominating the skyline, great for panoramic views over Colombo (best at sunset)
If you’re picking up your tuk-tuk from Negombo, you’ll kick things off with a short driving lesson before being thrown into some pretty hectic traffic — consider it a fast-track immersion! Don’t worry though, once you make it out into the countryside, driving becomes much more relaxed and enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Colombo
We loved staying at Grandbell Hotel Colombo.
I personally loved staying near Galle Face Green and can highly recommend this area! It offers stunning ocean views, a relaxed vibe right by the water and easy access to the rest of the city.
Granbell Hotel Colombo (we stayed here): A stylish boutique option right on Marine Drive with ocean views, rooftop pool, minimalist design and modern amenities. It was perfect for a romantic start to our trip!
Shangri‑La Colombo: A luxurious 5-star hotel in the One Galle Face complex, with multiple restaurants, spa and all around upscale seaside elegance.
Marino Beach Hotel: A relaxed mid-range choice on Galle Face Green offering direct beach access, comfortable rooms and a casual atmosphere ideal for honeymooners.
Days 3-4: Sigiriya
Café overlooking Sigiriya Rock – iconic! 
Views from the top of Sigiriya Lion Rock
Sigiriya was one of the highlights of our entire honeymoon. Surrounded by peaceful jungle and ancient ruins, this area feels like another world. It’s laid-back, lush and full of natural beauty and by all means a complete contrast to the hustle bustle of Colombo city. We had the most dreamy escape here.
We picked up our tuk-tuk in Sigiriya, which meant we could skip the long 4+ hour drive from Colombo or Negombo and dive straight into the more relaxed, scenic part of the trip. If you’re considering renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, starting in Sigiriya is a great option, the roads are quiet, the pace is slower and it’s an easy place to ease into driving while still feeling like you’re on an epic adventure.
Things to Do in Sigiriya
- Hike Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise: Climb the iconic rock and take in sweeping views over the jungle. Get there early to beat the crowds and the heat!
- Explore the countryside: Rent bikes or simply cruise around in your tuk-tuk through quiet backroads, rice paddies and rural villages, so stunning!
- Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples (optional stop, 30 mins away): These ancient cave temples are filled with Buddha statues and murals, and make for a great cultural detour if you have the time.
Where to Stay in Sigiriya
Sigiriya offers plenty of charming eco-lodges and homestays that immerse you in nature. Expect peaceful mornings filled with birdsong and the feeling of being truly wild and remote. It’s the perfect setting for honeymooners who want to unplug and reconnect.
Jetwing Vil Uyana: An epic luxury option with private pools and stunning wetlands, ideal for honeymooners.
Sigiriya King’s Resort: Comfortable stay with easy access to Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Royal Rock: A popular mid-range hotel known for its peaceful atmosphere and views of Sigiriya Rock.
Days 5-6: Kandy
The famous Temple of the Tooth, a must-visit 
Kandy Lake views
After the lush landscapes of Sigiriya, we took a scenic 2.5-hour drive in our tuk-tuk to Kandy.
This city is surrounded by so much greenery and represents the cultural capital of the country with a mix of history, nature and plenty of peaceful lake views.
Things to Do in Kandy
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth: One of Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist sites
- Stroll around the tranquil Kandy Lake: A beautiful little oasis
- Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens: Located in Peradeniya, which is so unexpected and filled with exotic plants and orchids
Honeymoon Tip: Book a couples massage at one of Kandy’s serene spas or take a traditional Sri Lankan cooking class together.
Where to Stay in Kandy
We chose a hillside guesthouse with a balcony that overlooked the surrounding hills. Morning coffees here were magical, watching the mist lift over the valley, pure honeymoon bliss.
The Radh Hotel: A luxury boutique hotel situated near the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, offering elegant rooms and exceptional service.
Grand Serendib Hotel: Located on Mahamaya Mawatha, this hotel provides panoramic views of Kandy’s hills and is close to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Blue Pillars Kandy: A 3-star hotel amidst the lush greenery of Kandy, featuring comfortable rooms and a peaceful setting.
Day 7: Train to Ella
Ella to Kandy train ride
We left our tuk-tuk safely with TukTuk Rental Sri Lanka in Kandy and opted for the train ride to experience this iconic journey without stress. Riding the famous Kandy-to-Ella train was definitely one of the highlights of our trip.
Note that you’ll be on the train for the entire day as the train is about 7 hours long and will take you through lush hills, cascading waterfalls and endless tea plantations. The views from the train are nothing short of breathtaking!
Days 7-10: Ella
View from our accommodation at the Nine Arch Bridge 
Photospot underneath Nine Arch Bridge
Ella stole our hearts. This small mountain town is a dreamy retreat for couples and honeymooners, filled with chill cafés, yoga studios and incredible hiking spots.
Why We Stayed 3 Nights in Ella
Ella’s peaceful vibe and stunning scenery made it impossible to leave quickly. It’s an ideal spot for honeymooners wanting to slow down and soak in the romance, I highly recommend you add an extra day to whatever you have planned here!
Things to Do in Ella
- Hike Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views
- Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and snap some photos
- Take a refreshing dip at Ravana Falls
- Relax at local cafés and enjoy yoga sessions to unwind
Where to stay in Ella
We stayed in a cozy mountain-view guesthouse with a private balcony and hammock, the perfect spot for lazy mornings and starry nights.
98 Acres Resort & Spa: A stunning eco-luxury resort set on a tea estate with panoramic views of Ella Gap and Mini Adam’s Peak.
EKHO Ella: A stylish hillside hotel offering modern comforts and breathtaking views over Ella Valley.
Ella Nine Arch Lodge: A cozy lodge just steps from the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, perfect for a scenic and peaceful stay.
Side Note: The Road Not Taken
We skipped Nuwara Eliya, but locals told us that nearby towns like Hatton and Maskeliya are full of waterfalls and breathtaking scenery. These quieter, off-the-beaten-path spots are perfect detours for honeymooners looking for something more private and nature-filled and perfect to be explored by tuk-tuk.
Day 11: Yala National Park
Driving the Elephant Road with our tuk-tuk 
Accommodation we stayed in Yala National Park
The drive: ~3 hours from Ella
Things to Do in Yala
- Go on safari! Spot elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, and if you’re lucky, a leopard!
- Choose an afternoon or morning safari (you only need one)
- Enjoy the raw, wild beauty of the national park and surrounding area
Where to Stay
Cinnamon Wild Yala: Set on the edge of the park with a lake full of crocs (from a safe distance!), this is a solid choice with comfort and nature in mind.
Wild Coast Tented Lodge: Ultra-luxurious safari-style glamping with beachfront views and top-notch cuisine, ideal for a honeymoon splurge.
Jetwing Yala: Eco-luxury on the edge of the wilderness with a beautiful pool and direct beach access.
Tip: Just stay 1 night, it’s enough time for one safari and a wild night under the stars
Days 12–14: Sri Lanka’s South Coast
Sunset from Smoke & Bitters in Hiriketiya 
Beachfront café in Ahangama
We couldn’t choose just one beach town, so we didn’t! We split our final days between three coastal favourites:
Hiriketiya: Chill, surf and sip coconut lattes at boho cafés. Great for yoga, easy swims, and relaxed jungle vibes. We liked it here the most and would’ve loved to stay longer!
Mirissa: Perfect for whale watching (in season), beachfront cocktails and those golden-hour beach strolls. Cute, but a little bit too touristy for us.
Ahangama: More low-key than Weligama but still cool and surfy. Trendy beach bars, boutique stays and a creative crowd! We stayed here, but actually preferred Weligama more!
Where to Stay
You’ll find a mix of beachfront villas and tropical hideaways, all dreamy and honeymoon-worthy. Think private plunge pools, ocean views, and breezy palm-dotted gardens.
THE SLOW: A stylish vegan hotel in Mirissa, perfect for conscious travelers seeking a relaxed, eco-friendly vibe
Haven Beach: Located in Hiriketiya, this boutique stay offers boho charm just steps from the surf and jungle
Coast 67 Boutique Hotel: A trendy, modern boutique hotel in Ahangama, great for couples wanting privacy and laid-back luxury
Final Stop: Galle & Return to Colombo
Found the cutest little cafe in Galle, it’s called Coffee Brunch Galle Fort
Things to do in Galle
- Wander the charming colonial streets of Galle Fort, it’s all cobblestones, cute shops, and historic Dutch architecture
- Shop for souvenirs, explore art galleries, and sip cocktails on the ramparts at sunset
- Take the scenic coastal road back to Colombo
Where to Stay in Galle
Le Grand Galle: A luxury stay just outside the Fort walls with ocean views and a sleek, modern feel.
Galle Fort Hotel: A beautifully restored heritage property right in the heart of the Fort
Radisson Collection Resort Galle: A beachfront resort just minutes from the Fort, offering modern comforts and poolside vibes
Final night in Colombo:
My tip would be to stay near the airport, we booked a simple yet comfy hotel with a pool to unwind before our flight out early the next morning to the Maldives.
Tuk-Tuk Drop-off: Smooth and easy with TukTuk Rental Sri Lanka, they made the return process a breeze!
Quick FAQ: Tuk-Tuk Sri Lanka Honeymoon Adventure
Do you need a license?
Yes, an international driving permit (IDP) or Sri Lankan driving license is required to legally drive a tuk-tuk.
How hard is it to drive a tuk-tuk?
Driving a tuk-tuk takes a little getting used to but is surprisingly manageable, especially once you leave busy city traffic behind.
How do you rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka?
You can rent directly from TukTuk Rental Sri Lanka, who offer reliable vehicles and great support all throughout, we cannot fault them!
What budget do I need for a trip like this?
Renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka is very affordable, often cheaper than car rentals and private transfers, even with fuel costs, which makes it a budget-friendly way to explore the country. We spent around USD2500 for two weeks, which included eating out and lots of nice hotels, but you can certainly make this cheaper or more expensive with high end luxury hotels.
Would you recommend this for a couple on a honeymoon?
Absolutely! Driving a tuk-tuk added a fun and adventurous twist to our honeymoon, offering freedom and now we have some really unforgettable memories of this trip.
Additional Tips for Doing a Tuk-Tuk Honeymoon Right
- Keep daily drive times between 3 to 5 hours max to keep the trip relaxed and romantic
- Alternate drivers if both partners have a license sharing the driving adventure makes it even more fun
- Pack light! The tuk-tuk itself isn’t very large, and while it can fit luggage, space is tight with two full-sized luggages
- Use Google Maps offline to avoid connectivity issues in remote areas
- Download your favourite Spotify playlists or audiobooks for the perfect road trip soundtrack
- Don’t rush, leave plenty of room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries along the way
Final Thoughts: Should You Tuk-Tuk Your Honeymoon?
If you’re dreaming of an all-inclusive luxury resort experience, this might not be the trip for you. But for adventurous couples craving connection, freedom, and truly unforgettable memories, my answer is 100% yes.
Would we do it again? In a heartbeat.
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