Sri Lanka itinerary advice

[RNP]

I’m planning to visit Sr Lanka in January and am looking for advice on which places to visit from anyone who’s previously been there.

Probably be there for 2 weeks but would like a beach break at the end included in that for around 4/5 nights.
Is it better to go with an organised tour? I am a bit reluctant after going on tours in other countries and getting templed out! Hard to see which are the ‘not to be missed’ parts of the island.
Which beach would be nice for the stay at the end? Or best to jump over to Maldives for that part?

Looking to get there on a 2-4-1 to Chennai, then short flight to Colombo. Anyone had experience of doing this? As the flights would be separate I know it would mean getting evisa for India, but this sees straight forward these days?

Thanks for any advice

[strickers]

https://www.headforpoints.com/forums/topic/sl-maldives-india-trip-report/

[vetjames]

Amazing place. A few tips:

AMust stay https://www.resplendentceylon.com/teatrails/

And their sister hotel on the sea: https://www.resplendentceylon.com/capeweligama/

We stayed here in Kandy, which served its purpose well: https://www.queenshotel.lk/

I think you have to stay here, but the food was the worst we had on our trip: https://www.heritancehotels.com/kandalama/

Galle is nice, with some boutique hotels.

Take the train from Colombo to Kandy, and pre-book the viewing cartridge at the back.

Book a driver to take you around the cultural triangle.