sri lanka tour itinerary

Sri Lanka Travel Guide: a 3-week travel itinerary

Sri Lanka has to be one of the greatest travel destinations of all time, a beautiful tropical island in the middle of the warm Indian ocean waters. Three weeks is an ideal length for a Sri Lanka route, as you cross through the jungle, mountains, tea plantations, and paradise coastline. Start in big metropolitan cities and end your time relaxing on beautiful beaches with a coconut in hand. Everything you could possibly dream of is in this beautiful country with the perfect Sri Lanka route. 

Sri Lanka Route Guide

This 3-week itinerary through Sri Lanka is a day-by-day Sri Lanka route. The island is easy to travel through and can be done by bus, tuk-tuk, motorbike, taxi, or private driver. One of the more popular options is to travel by traditional Sri Lankan train , gaining a wonderful insight into Sri Lankan culture as you fly through beautiful landscapes. 

Use this 3-week route to cover the top things to do in Sri Lanka, and if you have more time, we’ve added some additional options. 

Day 1 – 2: Relaxing in Negombo or Colombo

Start your trip in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. Here you’ll discover a unique mixture of modern and traditional, where towering skyscrapers and luxurious rooftop bars sit next to stunning mosques, traditional houses, and bustling street markets.

After a busy day of sightseeing, head to one of the beautiful parks to relax and see unique tropical plants, trees, and flowers. Alternatively, take a wander down to the city beach, where you can watch locals flying their kites in the coastal breeze or cheering as they score points playing cricket. 

However, Colombo is not the closest city to the airport. For more convenience, head to Negombo, a laid-back town that’s right next to the airport.

Where to Stay in Negombo

Negombo is a great place to stay for cheaper accommodation with swimming pools where you can relax and unwind after the flight.

Hotels in Negombo 😴

The beaches are also far more picturesque in this city, so if you’re looking to enjoy coastal relaxation, it’s a better choice to begin your trip.

Day 3: Sightseeing in Kandy

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second-largest city and one of the most beautiful you’ll find in all of Sri Lanka . Discover the old colonial buildings that line the edges of a vast lake in the center, keeping an eye out for exciting wildlife and unique plants. Plus, the buzzing streets filled with coconut sellers and stalls are just a stone’s throw away from this fantastic nature. 

To get from Colombo or Negombo to Kandy you have three options, the bus, train, or a taxi. Looking for a Sri Lankan driver? Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) .

Don’t forget to pay a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a fantastic tranquil wilderness in the city full of a diverse range of plants, trees, and flowers. As you look around, you’ll notice that the mountains and tropical rainforests are never far away! It’s this proximity that makes Kandy a great jumping-off point for day trips.

Read : 9 Things to do in Kandy

Where to Stay in Kandy

Kandy offers a good selection of affordable hostels and hotels to suit every kind of traveler.

Hostels in Kandy 😴

We recommend staying in the city center to explore everything easily. Alternatively, choose to stay up in the hills for ultimate tranquility.

Day 4: Sigiriya

Lion Rock in Sigiriya is one of the country’s most famous landmarks. The enormous natural formation sticks out of the flat landscape, towering above forests and grasslands filled with elephants. On top of the 200-meter square-shaped rock, you’ll find the remains of an ancient palace and gardens and many rock drawings along the way. Additionally, Lion Rock is one of the eight UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sri Lanka, which is another reason to add it to your Sri Lanka route!

Alternatively, visit Pidurangula Rock , Lion Rock’s nearby little sibling. This rock may be smaller, but it provides a better view as it looks directly onto Lion Rock. There’s also a cheaper entrance fee too! 

If you have time to stay a few nights in Sigiriya, we recommend relaxing in one of the many beautiful hotels in nature, hiking the rocks, or going on an elephant safari in the flat valley. To get there, hire a driver or look for a shuttle bus (a 3-hour drive from Kandy).

Read: Climb the World-Famous Sigiriya Lion Rock

Where to Stay in Sigiriya

Most of the accommodation in Sigiriya is a bit higher in price. However, it does allow you to enjoy and make the most of the incredible scenery in this area.

Hotels in Sigiriya 😴

Tip: Some hotels even have direct views from the rooms of the rocks themselves!

Day 5: Kandy to Ella Train Ride

Head back to Kandy to catch the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka . This long train ride is one of the top things to do on any Sri Lanka route, taking you through stunning rolling hilltops, rainforest, and luscious green tea plantations. Hang out the door with the wind in your hair and feel the weather get cooler as you move higher up into the mist and the clouds of the Sri Lanka highlands. Get Kandy Train Tickets here .

Read: Kandy to Ella Train

Day 6 – 7: Nuwara Eliya

The train from Kandy goes all the way to Ella , making a few stops on the way. Get off a little earlier and spend a night in the natural beauty of Nuwara Eliya, an area famous for tea plantations.

Here are all your hotel options in Nuwara Eliya.

It’s especially well known as being home to the Lipton plantation, one of the world’s most famous tea growers and exporters! In fact, the history of colonization here by the English has even affected the architecture, with lots of English-style bungalows dotted through the fields, giving Nuwara Eliya the nickname ‘Little England’.

Read: Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

Day 8 – 10: Ella

Visit one of the most blissful and natural places in Sri Lanka : Ella. The small town has a laid-back hippy vibe, complemented by the great mountains and hills that tower over the town. Stay in a hilltop guesthouse with incredible views, and use it as a base to climb to Adams Peak, Ella Rock, or the mesmerizing Nine Arch Bridge . When you’re done hiking, head for one of the many picturesque waterfall pools for a refreshing dip.

Ella is one of the most beautiful places in the country and an absolute must-do in Sri Lanka !

Read: Best Things To Do in Ella, Sri Lanka

Where to Stay in Ella

Ella is full of fantastic accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts with swimming pools and beautiful views.

Hotels in Ella 😴

It can be fun to stay in the hillside guesthouses outside of town, where you’ll have great views and easy access to hiking trails.

Day 11 – 13: Arugam Bay

Ready to catch some waves? Arugam Bay is the most famous surfing spot in Sri Lanka . It’s so popular that many surfers make this their home between April and October when the days are sunny and warm, and the waves are great. It’s easy to see why people spend so much time here, with the relaxed way of life, living in a wooden beach hut, surfing, and sunbathing by day, and enjoying all the fantastic bars and restaurants by night. This is where you’ll truly find hammock-swinging and coconut-sipping vibes! 

Read: Things To Do in Arugam Bay

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is all about the beach! As such, most of the accommodations are located along the coastline. Choose from charming beach huts, mid-range guesthouses, or upscale beach resorts.

Hotels in Arugam Bay 😴

Day 14: Go on Safari in Sri Lanka

From Arugam Bay, it’s super easy to take a day trip to Yala National Park for a safari amongst nature. You might even be lucky enough to spot the elusive leopard!

See availability for a safari tour to Yala

Join a tour, jump in a jeep, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. As you cross over bumpy dirt roads, around lakes, and through bushland, you’ll see vast groups of wild elephants and other animals. There are plenty of national parks to choose from in Sri Lanka , some of the most popular being Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park . 

Read : Best national parks in Sri Lanka

Day 15 – 16: Mirissa

Head south to the paradise beach town of Mirissa. Take off your shoes and say goodbye to regular life as you slow down and feel the sand between your toes and the waves against your feet. Mirissa isn’t just about the beach, though; there are beautiful coconut tree forests to explore, fascinating tidal islands, and endless great restaurants.

Read: Best Things to do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka

Mirissa is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see Whales, which migrate here between November and March. You’ll find the most spectacular sunsets in this part of the country, a winning combination with a sunset whale-watching trip.

Tip: Are you someone always looking for a secret beach? Find your perfect beach on the list of 10 x Best Beaches in Sri Lanka .

Where to Stay in Mirissa

Mirissa is relatively small, so most guesthouses and hotels will be within walking distance of the beach.

Hotels in Mirissa 😴

As with most areas in Sri Lanka , prices are low for accommodation, and you can find beautiful beachside hotels, with views of the ocean, for a lot less than you might expect!

Day 17 – 19: Unawatuna

The Unawatuna area has the most famous beaches in Sri Lanka , known for the white sand, great surfing, lively beach bars, and Instagram-famous palm-tree swings. The town is small, but it has excellent shopping, guesthouses, and trendy restaurants.

It’s also a great jumping-off point to local sights nearby, like Galle Fort , Koggala Lake, or even the bright lights of Colombo! You could quickly lose track of time in this beautiful little beach town, and it’s the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of your Sri Lanka route.

Read: Awesome Things To Do in Unawatuna

Where to Stay in Unawatuna

Unawatuna is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the country. Because of this, expect to pay slightly higher prices for hotels and guesthouses.

Hotels in Sri Lanka 😴

Tip: Hotel Tri is a beautiful hideaway near Unawatuna around Kogalla Lake. The sunrise and sunsets here are one of a kind overlooking the lake and cinnamon plantations.

Day 20+21: Back to Colombo

Finish your trip and stay close to the airport in Colombo.

Here are all your hotel options in Negombo.

If you have a little extra time before your flight, visit Barefoot Handicraft and its fantastic restaurant or tick off some of the sights you may have missed at the beginning of your trip.

Optional Places

Sri Lanka is an absolute heart-stealer, and the likelihood is that you may want to stay for longer than three weeks. If you’re extending your route, there are many more amazing places to visit, especially in the northern part of Sri Lanka (where you’ll find some real hidden gems!). Some of the most popular places to visit on a Sri Lanka route are:

• Trincomalee
• Polonnaruwa

How to Visit Sri Lanka

International flights arrive at Colombo airport (actually closer to Negombo than Colombo).

From here, it’s straightforward to take public transport to your next destination or arrange for a driver to collect you. 

Getting Around in Sri Lanka

Hiring a driver in Sri Lanka is a very popular choice as it’s so reasonably priced. To do so will usually cost about $50 per day, which allows you a lot more flexibility with your itinerary. It also helps you get to the more remote places, which otherwise might be quite tricky. 

We recommend to rent a car in Sri Lanka through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Contact our friend Indi on Whatsapp (+94777644144) . Make sure to tell him you came via ‘Salt in our Hair’ so you’ll get the best price possible. 

Buses are a very cheap option; it’s just a few dollars for a full day of traveling by bus! Be aware that buses are usually packed full of people, and you will have to stand. Don’t expect air conditioning, but you’ll have the perks of enjoying local TV with Sri Lankan music videos! 

Purchase any transport tickets online here

Taking the train is a must-do in Sri Lanka . The country is home to some of the most beautiful train rides globally and has become renowned worldwide for the experience of hanging out the train door as tea plantations and rolling hills fly by. 

The price for a second-class cabin varies from $1.50 to $4. Sometimes they run out of seats, meaning you have to stand or sit on the floor. But do as the locals do and enjoy this beautiful experience!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. There isn’t a perfect period to visit because each side of the island has its own “best time to visit.” which means the sun will always be shining somewhere! ☀️

The dry seasons by month and destination are:

• North – May to September
• Center  – January to April
• South  – December – March

If you choose to visit these areas in the rainy season, you can still have a really enjoyable time. Prices will be lower, there will be fewer people, and nature will be particularly luscious. However, be aware that the rains can bring rough waves to the coast, causing the beaches to get pretty dirty and unusable at this time.

Sri Lanka Visa

You need a Sri Lanka visa to be allowed into the country. Luckily, arranging a visa isn’t difficult at all. All you need to do is make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. You can select several options for your visa for Sri Lanka , depending on how long you are planning to stay and for what reason you are visiting the country.

Online Visa, Sri Lanka

The first option is to apply for your Sri Lanka visa online . It’s wise to apply at least a few days before your arrival. Usually, the applications are approved within a few hours, and you will receive your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). The 30-day tourist visa will cost you $35.

Order online: Get your visa easily here!

Visa on Arrival

Even if you have not applied for ETA can get a Visa on Arrival on arrival for Sri Lanka . There is a counter at the airport in Colombo where you can go. However, you will pay $5 extra, and there are generally long queues. For this reason, we recommend applying for your visa online ahead of time.

How Much Does Sri Lanka Cost?

In Sri Lanka , payment is made in the Sri Lankan Rupee (not the same as the Indian Rupee). Currently, $1 is equal to 2 Sri Lanka Rupees. Generally, Sri Lanka is a cheap place to travel in, especially in the more remote locations like the North or the center.

A variety of accommodations is on offer, from budget guesthouses to the more luxurious beachside hotels. Plus, wherever you go, you can always find cheap and delicious food, either sold on the street or in small restaurants (a bowl of local rice and curry typically costs about $1-3 USD!).

Costs of Traveling in Sri Lanka

Travel on a budget in Sri Lanka, from $190 − $410 USD weekly per person, mid-range $530 − $960 USD, and high-end from $920 − $1250 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $10 − $30 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $20 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $2 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $50 − $80 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $2 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Vaccinations Sri Lanka

Whatever the length of your trip is, it’s recommended to get two vaccines:

• DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Polio)
• Hepatitis A

Staying away for several months? Then you probably should get vaccinations against Hepatitis B and rabies. There is no Malaria risk in Sri Lanka.

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Ella, Sri Lanka: 10 Best Things To Do

Best places to visit in nuwara eliya, 9 great things to do in mirissa, sri lanka.

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Home » Asia » Sri Lanka » Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

Sri Lanka Itinerary Trip Planner | Travel Routes for 2024!

So you’re planning an itinerary for Sri Lanka? That almost feels self-defeating. Both a part of South Asia and an island paradise, time has a certain way of taking its own flow here—locals lovingly refer to it as  ‘Sri Lanka Time’.

But perhaps you’re visiting Sri Lanka for a quick-blast holiday? Or maybe you just want to explore it fully before you kick off to the next grand destination? Either way, it’s good to know exactly where to go in Sri Lanka before you arrive.

Though not as big or as difficult to travel as its bigger brothers further up the subcontinent, you’re still looking at slow transit times and unpredictable occurrences of deeply-structured chaos. That’s why it’s important to be clued in on the ins-and-outs of executing a Sri Lanka itinerary seamlessly.

And that’s exactly why I present to thee a seamless itinerary for Sri Lanka… Two in fact!

Using these travel routes for Sri Lanka (as marked by the varying monsoon seasons), you’re going to see  a lot  of the country! All the best parts in fact, plus some sneaky bonus stops you’re probably not going to find out about anywhere else. I’ll be covering the coolest destinations in Sri Lanka, what to do there, and, of course, the best and brightest places to stay.

In one seamless guide.

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The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

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Sri Lanka is an all-year-round destination… in that it’s always raining and always sunny simultaneously somewhere on the island. The pesky alternating monsoon seasons make planning a trip to Sri Lanka a wee bit more complicated. In that sense, Sri Lanka is also a year-round monsoon destination!

• Northeast “Maha” Monsoon (December to February): Over the Christmas holiday period, the north and east take a refreshing shower, Arugam Bay all but shuts down, and the south coast of Sri Lanka is in full tourist swing.
• Inter-Season “Dryboi” Monsoon #1 (March-April): You’ll catch some rains in the southwest quadrant of the island during this period while everywhere else stays mostly dry.
• Southwest “Yala” Monsoon (May-September): This is when Sri Lanka’s south and west coast highlights really start to get soaked. The Yala monsoon period is easily when to go to Sri Lanka’s east coast—spending a surf season “stuck” in Arugam Bay in particular.
• Inter-Season “Sadboi” Monsoon #2 (October-November): It kinda just rains everywhere during this period… a lot. Have fun with that!

Right, so that may look way too complicated, but it’s not so bad. Except for when it really pours, the rains in Sri Lanka are pretty typical Asian-style monsoons: they rarely hang around for more than a couple of hours max. You can still expect frequent catchups with Mr Blue Sky even during the rains.

Realistically, the best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on where you want to go . Keep in mind the rough timing of seasons (and my even rougher attempt to break them down), and you’ll find that crafting a primarily dry itinerary for touring Sri Lanka will be easy. Just avoid the ‘Sadboi’ season; that shit sucks.

Weather in Sri Lanka

Monsoons aside, the climate in Sri Lanka is a much more straightforward ordeal. Expect serious thigh chafing conditions—hot and humid. Sometimes it may be just hot, and sometimes it may just be humid, but it’s probably always going to be at least one of the two.

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The exception is in the hill country (central highlands). Up here, things cool off considerably and even get properly cold in the right places. I’d actually go so far as to say it’s my sweet spot; blissful sunny mornings cooled off by drizzles of afternoon mist leading into a full night’s rest snuggled betwixt the blankets.

Check out the table below for some average temperatures in Sri Lanka. I’ve chosen Colombo (Sri Lanka’s west coast capital) and Nuwara Eliya (the balmy capital of the mountainous tea country) to contrast the two distinct climates.

So, before we start the 14-day Sri Lanka itinerary extravaganza, I wanna talk about arrival and Day 0. For any and all backpacking routes in Sri Lanka, you’ll be landing at Sri Lanka’s international airport— Bandaranaike —which is near Colombo but not in Colombo. This is a blessing in disguise.

Colombo is beautiful on the inside… probably. It’s hard to tell because it’s so ugly on the outside. I spent a week here: the only redeemable thing I found was UberEats so I could just stay in my hostel in Colombo .

Instead, I present to you… Negombo!

Negombo is a fine alternative to staying in Colombo’s gridlocked mayhem. It even sounds similar!

Negombo is a whole lot more chill, the beaches are nicer, and it’s closer to the airport. Maybe I sound like a vacuum salesman pitching the newest model, but suck it up, princess! Any and all times you can skip Colombo, do it.

Colombo is yesterday’s soggy street roti disappointing my mouth.

Where to Stay in Negombo:  YoYo Beach Hostel

There are actually two YoYo sister hostels in Negombo—this one and the airport hostel. The YoYo Beach Hostel is aimed more at a party vibe; you can expect to crack open the arrack by night and sleep off the migraine on the beach by day.

The  YoYo Airport Hostel  (which is closer to the airport than the beach) is more setup for one-night stayovers when flying in and out of Sri Lanka. You’ll get quiet vibes and a soundproof room with the option to transfer to the Beach Hostel if you wanna partake in family dinner. Truth be told, they’re both pretty mint places to stay, and you can’t really go wrong with either!

Sri Lanka in Two Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Kandy 5. Ella 6. Yala National Park 7. Mirissa (South Coast Beaches) 8. Galle Fort

December to January is the peak; March and April is a comfortable shoulder season.

1. Looking at Sigiriya Rock 2. The train ride to Ella 3. The hill country

Stop 1: Sigiriya (Days 1-3)

Next up is Sigiriya. You’d be hard-pressed to find a single suggested itinerary for Sri Lanka that didn’t include the majestic wonder of Sigiriya: the ancient rock fortress.

Set in the central, dry, and hot lowlands region, Sigiriya sits inside the Cultural Triangle area (which I’ll cover more in the ‘3-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary’ ). Beneath the hulking behemoth of Lion’s Rock  (AKA Sigiriya), is a relatively sleepy and tourist-lite village (comparatively to Sri Lanka’s other famous places to visit). I actually really dig the town; tourists float in, but it’s not overdone. Plus there are some endearing strange ones kicking around town.

The rock fortress of Sigiriya is the main draw to this area (not to mention one of the most famous tourist attractions in Sri Lanka).  If you’re only in Sri Lanka for 14 days, it’s a must-see thing. Powerful yet humbling, the supposed tomb of the God-King Ravana himself, it’s also mega-touristic and a tough price to swallow for those travelling Sri Lanka on a budget.

There are, however, other options…

You can potentially find a direct bus, but the train runs from either of the  ‘-ombos’  to nearby  Habarana . It’s an easy bus ride or tuk-tuk to Sigiriya from there.

The choice is as follows:

• Pay  $25 , climb Lion’s Rock with a horde of tourists and locals (it’s a very sacred site), and experience the admittedly very impressive ancient fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Or… climb the nearby Pidurangala rock for about  $3  with a smaller swarm of tourists and locals, and watch the sunset (or sunrise) set the hues of Sigiriya ablaze.

Ultimately, the choice is yours, however, I do recommend the latter. And at sunset. Alternatively, just do both!

• Shenadi Restaurant –  Yummy local food at cheap prices—it’s just that simple.
• Rastarant Sigiriya –  The juices are bangin’ and the slackline’s a’ hangin’!

Where to Stay in Sigiriya:  Jungle Vista

The family who runs the hostel are also mega-lovely, can easily organise safaris and tours, and cook up a mean Sri Lankan feed every night. It’s a bit out of Sigiriya town (about 10 km) but absolutely worth the tuk-tuk fare (the family can organise you transport anyway).

Stop 2: Kandy (Days 3-5)

Ok, ok, Kandy… most tourists I meet travelling Sri Lanka are pretty unenthused by Kandy. I can’t necessarily blame them. It’s, admittedly, a bit like chewing bubble gum—fun for a brief period, but the magic quickly wears off.

Yet, still, I like Blandy. It’s a normal but pretty city where normal people do normal boring things. There’s a mall with an ice-cream parlour, a lake for moonlit romantic strolls, and heaps of cheap food around.

If you’re a backpacker, Kandy is similar to Colombo (albeit way more chill and lacking in a proper nightlife); there’s not much reason to go there except to start the unbelievable train journey to Ella. If you’re visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, or on a whirlwind 5 to 7-day itinerary, you can just book a hostel in Kandy , stay a night, rest up, and catch the train right on out the following morning.

Unless you’re lucky enough to score a direct bus, chances are it will be one bus to  Dambulla  (30 mins approx.) followed by another bus to Kandy (hopefully < 3 hours).

Honestly, I scoped a few attractions out, and it really is the kind of city where you’re better off just wandering and seeing what secrets you find. That said…

• Temple of the Tooth –  Easily the most famous thing to see in Kandy, this temple holds a very sacred artefact: the alleged tooth of Lord Buddha himself. Personally, I’d say it’s not really worth the price of entry since you don’t even get to see the tooth, but it’s a mention for the temple-nutters.
• To the Batcave –  This is something special. I’m not sure if it’s seasonal (I visited Kandy in September) but at twilight, the sky fills with a myriad of bats—truly innumerable. Find a high spot in the hills, roll up, and enjoy the show.
• Licenced to Grill –  Delicious puns aside, you get wraps and burgers at mean prices with chips that are really more like wedges (which makes them better).

Where to Stay in Kandy:  Hipsters Hideout Lounge

You know when something is not particularly special, but it just kinda appeals to you. That’s how I feel about Hipster’s Hideout Lounge.

It’s cheap and the walls have got some cool art going on, but it was also pretty quiet every time I visited Kandy. The dorms are basic too—no lockers. That said, I like the vibes, and it’s always my go-to place every time I stay in Kandy.

Inter-Stops: The Kandy to Ella Train

This is why you have to at least pass through Kandy: the train to Ella. The Kandy to Ella train is a must-do thing on any and all Sri Lanka itineraries. It’s not a journey to be missed.

Chances are you’ve already heard of the train ride from Kandy to Ella. If not, you’ve at least seen pictures, even if you don’t know it. Winding train tracks elegantly slice paths through the jungles, tea plantations, and misty slopes of the hill country. It’s one of those types of train journeys where you get to do this:

You don’t have to actually board the train at Kandy. There are stops before and after, and you can even board the train at Colombo. That is a bloody long ride though.

Kandy is about the right distance to Ella (roughly an 8-hour train ride plus the margin-of-error for the Asia effect), and there are a few extra spots you can stop along the way in Sri Lanka’s hill country if you can smush it all into your travel itinerary route. Since we’re already smushing a lot in, I’ll cover the extra places to go in the 3-week itinerary: check the hill country section .

Stop 3: Ella (Days 5-8)

Man, cutting only 4-days from your Sri Lanka itinerary for Ella hardly even seems like enough! Ella is easily my favourite place to go in Sri Lanka: I collectively spent around 2 months there staying it what used to be one of the best hostels in Sri Lanka (R.I.P. and bless).

I wouldn’t suggest staying in Ella town itself. There’s some good food in town, and some souvenir/Goa-lite shopping, but, otherwise, it’s an over-capacity tourist bubble. The real draw of Ella is everything around the bubble.

Smack-bang right in the middle of the emerald sea of the hill country, Ella is surrounded by gorgeous tea plantations, stunning valley panoramas, and plenty of aimless wandering opportunities. If you’re not staying outside town in the fairytale fields of cloud forests and shifting mists, you’re missing out.

From Kandy, I’m only going to tell you to catch the train every time.

• Little Adam’s Peak –  An easy walk with a grand payoff. For people that like eating the cake but don’t wanna bake it.
• Ella Rock –  A more challenging and dynamic hike with, arguably, less viewing payoff. There are heaps of backtracks here making it a fave for anyone that likes exploring. For those that like baking the cake but don’t want to eat it because the calories will ruin their trim walking figure.
• Nine Arches Bridge –  It’s a pretty bridge that the trains runs across with people selling drinking coconuts nearby. I don’t really get it, but it’s mega-touristy and a super popular attraction in Sri Lanka, so I thought I’d be remiss not to mention it.

In Ella itself:

• Matey Hut –  There are some blessed dank eateries in town (shoutout to the nameless roti shop on the south edge of town), however,  Matey Hut serves up high-quality Sri Lankan cuisine in a tourist restaurant setting.
• Cafe Chill –  It’s not really my jam—a proper tourist joint through and through. The prices are high, the food top-notch, and the music is usually on-point too! Along with  Cafe One Love , it’s one of the two main watering holes in town.
• MozarElla –  No matter where you go in the world, you will always find three things: pigeons, pizza, and Australians.

Where to Stay in Ella:  Ella Escapade Hostel by Nomadic

As I said, it’s better to stay  outside  of Ella, and this is a sweet spot. Getting into town itself will take some forethought, however, in the surrounding area of the property, there is heaps to explore.

You’ve also got free breakfast here saving you the trek into town (although walking the train tracks into town is always a blast). Ella Rock is also super close and easy to access. Once you get to Ella town itself and feel how touristy and packed it is, you’ll be glad you booked this peaceful place outta town in the mountains.

Stop 4: Yala National Park (Days 8-10)

We’re heading south towards the beach, but first, stop 4 and a disclaimer! Listen, there are three things nearly all backpackers travelling Sri Lanka will do:

• Go on a safari
• Get an elephant tattoo (probably shortly after the safari)

On point two, Yala is arguably the best place to visit in Sri Lanka in your 14 days of adventuring for a safari; it’s Sri Lanka’s biggest national park . Personally, though, I wouldn’t recommend it.

The animal tourism in Sri Lanka has a less than sterling reputation . Even on my own personal backpacking trip to Sri Lanka, I saw multiple instances of animal abuse both inside and outside the tourism industry.

Many safaris in Sri Lanka are not at all in line with responsible and ethical wildlife tourism , and nearly all are contributing to the greater issue. In Yala alone, safaris are overbooked, traffic is frequent, drivers are reckless and endanger the wildlife, and wild animals are (and have been) killed as a result.

Chances are, if you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, you’re already considering booking a safari. Ultimately, you do you. Just consider this the counter-perspective.

Unles you want to organise a driver or shared tourist taxi (which is easy from Ella), you’ll need to catch the bus. There are a few options for where you can go close to the national park, but Ella to Kataragama is a standard route and base for exploration.

A safari or not—s’up to you. Fair warning though, you’re not really permitted to explore the national park at your own duress like other places in the world. I’d really just suggest outright skipping Yala and the moral bankruptcy to go just soak up the beach for longer.

Where to Stay in Yala:  Leopard Trails

When I say luxury, I do really mean luxury: it’s an expensive, high-end tent accommodation with all the trimmings of a modern-day resort. And, of course, they’ll set you up for all your safari shenanigans.

An Ethically-Sound Alternative to a Sri Lankan Safari: Millennium Elephant Foundation

That’s right – you can get up-close-and-personal with some of the most majestic beasts in Sri Lanka and not even feel a drop of moral anxiety about it!  Millennium Elephant Foundation  is  ethical elephant tourism.

These guys don’t even let you ride the elephants. They used to let you ride them bareback, but now they’ve exchanged that program for their much more whimsical and respectable  Elephant Walk Experience . It’s kinda like a first date: you get to hang out, go for a romantic stroll with your partner elephant, and even help them bathe at the end if you’re lucky. ?

Was the first date divine? Then it’s time to commit because the  Elephant Foundation accepts volunteers too!  Not only will you get to hang out, care for, and bathe with the lovelies, but you’ll help out around the property too with farming, veterinary work, and teaching!

Honestly, there’s zero reason not to drop the cash you were going to spend on booking a safari on this instead. It’s  1000 times more  of an authentic experience,  1000 times less  morally reprehensible, and  100,000 times better  than sitting in a jeep staring slackjawed at wild animals that really just wish you’d piss off…

Stop 5: South Beaches (Days 10-13)

And it’s time for the beach! We’ve spent nearly 14 days in Sri Lanka already, and we still haven’t hit the beach—shameful.

Instead of sending you along Sri Lanka’s south coast, however, I’m going to lay out the beach destinations here for you (southeast to southwest direction) and who they’re good for:

You’ll find a bus from Kataragama no sweat. Once you’re on the south coast, the train runs from Colombo as far east as  Matara  (between Mirissa and Tangalle), and the buses run straight along the coast from town to town. Getting around Sri Lanka’s south coast is super easy!

Pretty much anything associated with beaches and tourists:

• Diving/Snorkelling
• Drugs, backpackers, and parties

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s South (Mirissa):  Colours Hostels

A good atmosphere and a pumping little piece of backpacker accommodation in Sri Lanka’s south. To be fair, there are heaps of cool areas stay (just see above), but Mirissa is pretty central, close to lots of good beaches, and has a neato tourist-friendly scene going on.

Good people generally float in, the family feeling is high, and breakfast is a killer. Expect good vibes.

Galle and the Fort (Days 13-14)

Galle Fort—so pretty yet so strange. It is the perfect spot, however, to round off your southern Sri Lanka tour. Inside the fort proper—Galle’s main tourist hub—there’s an almost timeless bubble quality (even if the tuk-tuk bois are too thirsty); it’s easy to decompress here before heading back towards the madness of Colombo (or, ideally, straight to the airport).

Galle is an oddball. Outside the fort in Galle city things make sense in that they make no sense: the typical South Asia craziness ensues. It’s a Sri Lankan city through and through.

Once you step inside the fort though, the game changes—rice and curry goes out the bathroom window and barista coffee and cake come right on in. It’s like a little slice of Europe in Sri Lanka (right down to the narrow alleyways lined with Volkswagens and Portuguese/Dutch-era colonial architecture).

Personally, I’m not a big fan of staying in Galle Fort. The lack of street food and vendors peddling single cigarettes feels too inauthentic. But if you’re wondering where to stay in Sri Lanka for 2-3 days after a whirlwind highlight itinerary route, it’s a very beautiful place to tie it all up with some fine-dining and a romantic moonlit stroll.

Both the main bus station and the train station are situated right out front of the fort—easy peasy!

Depending on your style of travel, you’ll either find heaps to do or not much:

• Shopping –  And heaps of it! Tea, spices, souvenirs, art, gems (watch for scams) are all on ample display.
• Dining –  Much like shopping, there are heaps of restaurants functioning more on a Western schema.
• Early morning/late night strolls –  Galle is easily prettiest when the tuk-tuk mafioso and touts are sleeping off a hard day’s harassing. And, honestly, it’s kinda charmingly quaint.
• Galle Lighthouse –  I just think it’s super pretty.
• Abacate –  I simply CANNOT recommend this place enough. Genuinely authentic food inside the fort coming in at a fair price (which is also unheard of in the fort). I know the cook and his family personally, and there isn’t a single person in Sri Lanka I would rather send me into a blissful kottu-induced food coma on the whole damn island.
• Street eats –  For street food and hole-in-the-walls, you’ll have to leave the fort. Once you cross the big intersection back to the city main, you’ll find the good stuff again.

Where to Stay in Galle Fort:  Fort Sky House

Well, Galle Fort is  super  upper-class and when in Rome… rent a swanky apartment with an open-air kitchenette/lounge bar terrace! The whole apartment is most definitely continuing that whole Sri Lanka meets European village neighbourhood feel.

It’s in a sweet location in the fort—conveniently located but still in a private spot—with a very gracious host. Honestly, you’re about to leave Sri Lanka, so why not pimp out and just treat yo’self for the remaining nights!

Getting Home:  After Galle, getting to the airport is pretty simple. One option is to ride the train to Colombo and make your way from there, however, you’ll also find buses that go direct from Galle’s main bus station to the airport. Just ask around, and you’ll be fine.

Okely-dokely, you’ve got an extra week, and the rains are pissing down in the south. There are a few crossovers between this suggested Sri Lanka itinerary and the last, however, I’ll elaborate further on a few areas. Besides, Sigiriya, Ella, and the train are absolutely necessary things to do in Sri Lanka even in just seven days.

I’ve given you a few extra bonus stops too, but mostly I’ve bumped this up to a 3-week itinerary for Sri Lanka to give you extra time to spend in Arugam Bay. Arugam Bay is one of those places that people get stuck.

Sri Lanka in 3 Weeks: The Breakdown

1. Bandaranaike International Airport 2. Negombo 3. Sigiriya 4. Polonnaruwa 5. Anuradhapura 6. Wilpattu National Park 7. Jaffna 8. Trincomalee 9. Arugam Bay 10. Ella 11. Nuwara Eliya 12. Adam’s Peak  (Sri Pada) 13. Kandy 14. Meemure Village

March through to September with the summer months being the busiest.

1. Mad munchies in Arugam Bay 2. Still the hill country 3. An adventure to Meemure

Stop 1: Sigiriya and the Cultural Highlights (Days 1-4)

Well, we already talked about Sigiriya, so instead, I’m mentioning a few other notable places to travel to in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. I still recommend staying in Sigiriya and soaking that yumminess up though (potentially with some side-adventures to explore the local landscapes).

But, since you’re spending a few more days touring Sri Lanka, there are a few extra bonus day trips from Sigiriya you could consider:

• Polonnaruwa – The ancient city of kings. It’s a $25 entrance fee, but, honestly, if you were considering dropping that on Sigiriya Fortress, just visit Polonnaruwa instead. Think of Polonnaruwa as a historical theme park. Once, 800 years ago, it was a thriving city, a hub of culture and commerce, and the seat of power for one of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms . Now it’s a playground for lovers of archaeology, history, and ruins. It’s a large space—you’ll need to hire a tuk-tuk driver or a bike to explore it—but if you’re a sucker for old-world goodness, it’s worth the trip.
• Dambulla cave temple – It could be worth the trip if you’re really into temples. Dambulla town itself is a waste, but the cave interior temple (another extremely sacred site in Sri Lanka) is very impressive. It’s also extremely commercialised and carries that whole “God is dead” feeling… so… up to you!
• Jathika Namal Uyana (Rose Quartz Mountain) – Dude, I missed checking this out, and I hate myself so much for that. It’s exactly what it purports to be: five bucks and you’ll be standing on a mountain of pink rose quartz. Don’t be like me— go .

Where to Stay in Sigirya (again):  Nethmini Leege Cottage

It’s another place to stay in Sigiriya and a damn cool bit of accommodation in Sri Lanka—a treehouse! Nestled in the jungle, you’ll be surrounded by the gorgeous nature of Sri Lanka’s lowlands.

It’s very close to Sigiriya town and walking to Lion’s Rock is even an option. It’s still a homestay, however (treehouse or not), so expect some damn good home cooking! A mum-cooked meal when you’re so far away from home is always a blessing.

Stop 2: Anuradhapura (Days 4-6)

If you’re feeling the temple/history burnout, you can leave Anuradhapura off your itinerary in Sri Lanka. There’s not much else to see there except more of Sri Lanka’s historical attractions.

Well, that’s a lie—there is one thing that’s pretty dope: Sri Maha Bohdi . Thought to be the oldest-living human-planted tree in the world, the tree started as a cutting from the original tree that Lord Buddha gained enlightenment beneath. Planted as a sapling by one of the kings of old, now it’s an incredibly revered place to visit in Sri Lanka.

Past that, you’re looking at a similar concept to exploring Polonnaruwa, albeit slightly different in the execution. Another archaeological park with a $25 entrance fee and another archaic kingdom, however, this time it’s the cradle of Buddhism in ancient (Sinhala) Sri Lankan civilisation.

Enormous towering dagobas (brick stupas) and sprawling monastic complexes fill the area. Much like Polonnaruwa, it’ll be a matter of renting a bike or tuk-tuk driver to explore Anuradhapura to its fullest.

From Sigiriya, your options are:

• To travel to Dambulla and catch the direct bus from there.
• Or you should, theoretically, be able to catch a train from  Habarana  (or any other station) to Anuradhapura (since the train runs through it). I can’t properly confirm this through my sources, however.
• Abhayagiri Vihara –  One of the major monasteries in Anuradhapura and the biggest in Sri Lanka for a long while. Topped by a towering dagoba, there is some complex architecture on display here including the pools and intricately carved Moonstone.
• Isurumuniya Vihara –  Another monastic complex except this time, it’s carved out of rock!
• More of the same –  Yah, seriously, throw a rock in Anuradhapura and you’ll hit a ridiculously impressive dagoba or stupa (and probably a one-way ticket to Sri Lankan jail). A couple of other key players in Anuradhapura’s stupa scene include  Jetavanaramaya  and  Ruwanwelisaya .

Check out  Mango Mango  for some cheap local cuisine in a restaurant setting. Failing that, the shopping centre has some other snackeries.

Where to Stay in Anuradhapura:  Heaven Upon Rice Fields

Well, to start, there’s aircon, and in the mugginess of Sri Lanka’s central region, that really is a little slice of heaven (upon rice fields). Honestly, it’s just a nice place to stay in Anuradhapura.

A cute little Sri Lankan bed and breakfast with a darling outlook of—yup, you guessed it—rice fields! Yummy brekky, yummy dinner, bike rental (which is perfect for exploring Anuradhapura), and a damn nice room.

Booking a Tour in Sri Lanka

Usually, I’m not much of a tour guy, however, for some of these major historical sites in Sri Lanka— Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura in particular —you can see why booking a tour is smart. With such a complex and deep history locked behind such an esoteric culture and language, booking a tour is really the only way to fully comprehend these ancient wonders of Sri Lanka.

Organising a tour once your there is always easy; there’s always a bare minimum of 36 touts lurking in the bushes at any given time. However, if you want to pre-book, or want to ensure that you get a legitimately insightful and professional guide, I’d advise booking a less off-the-cuff tour through the links below.

Safari Stop-or-Not: Wilpattu National Park

Wilpattu National Park is northwest Sri Lanka’s answer to Yala. The largest national park in Sri Lanka, Wilpattu is also potentially an even better choice than Yala for seeing leopards (they’re still mighty rare, however).

Pretty much everything I said about Yala National Park still holds true here. It’s not so much a matter of the park-to-park context as it is the wildlife tourism in Sri Lanka as a whole.

That said, with two different Sri Lanka itineraries, two different monsoon seasons, and two different routes, this your alternative place to go if your heart is really just that set on a safari.

Where to Stay in Wilpattu National Park:  Base Camp Wilpattu

More ethically questionable luxury glamping— woo!  This one is allegedly reported, however, to abide by a strict set of environmental policies and be run by some upstanding peeps. Whether that’s true or not I can’t say, but I can say that you’ll be comfortable!

Fancy beds, fancy meals, fancy trimmings, and they’ll probably even deck you out with you own emblazoned fancy pants. Jokes aside, the reports are in that this is a dope place to stay and start your safari from. Apparently the staff really do care.

One Last Note on the Ethics of Wildlife Tourism in Sri Lanka

You can find reasonable or even positive forms of animal tourism in Sri Lanka (and low-impact safaris too). This is more a callout to be  shrewd . Extremely shrewd.

You’re travelling in a region of the world with a historically poor (and earned) reputation for the mistreatment of animals. A lot of backpackers and tourists kinda just roll in and assume that because a man in khakis told them it’s ok, that’s it’s ok. That’s usually not the case.

So be critical; taking the hypothesis that it’s a case of unethical tourism until given proof to the contrary is a good method. It’s better to be safe than sorry on this topic.

Oh, and for the love of God, please,  do not ride the elephant s .

Bonus Stop: Jaffna (Days 6-8)

Now, this is certainly an uncommon place to visit off the standard Sri Lanka backpacking itinerary. I’m saying it’s a bonus stop because:

• It is going to add some distance to your travel route.
• It’s a bit more challenging to travel.
• You honestly may just be busting to hit the beach after spending a week in the hot, humid, booze-less cultural epicentre of the island.

It’s impossible to really understand Jaffna without knowledge of the history of Sri Lanka. The tl;dr is that there are actually two subgroups of Sri Lankan people—the Sinhala and the Tamils. In modern times, there was an ungodly civil war that ripped these two peoples lives apart for more than two decades, and in the primarily Tamil northern area of Sri Lanka, you’ll still see traces of the horrors that occurred.

It’s not all doom and gloom though… Jaffna is also super pretty! It’s a change in architecture to a more South Indian style and, if your spice palette has refined enough to notice the subtle differences, it’s a change in cuisine too.

You don’t need to spend too many days in Jaffna. Mostly, you’ll be concerned with checking out some (more) temples and finding a soulful spot in the ocean to cool off during the midday heat. The remaining eleven days on this Sri Lanka itinerary is going to leave the historical stuff alone mostly in exchange for the blissful beach days. But if you’re interested in rounding off your experience by meeting the other half of Sri Lanka’s people before getting lost the bikini-booty-bods, travel to Jaffna.

There’ll be a bus—there’s always a bus in Sri Lanka—but the train also runs all the way north to the Jaffna peninsula.

• Island tour –  From the tip of the Jaffna peninsula, there are a couple of choice islands to visit: there’s  Nainativu Island  with its gorgeous Tamil-Hindu temple while  Delft Island  has both colonial and natural delights.
• Off-beat travel –  There are plenty of official homages to the civil war in Jaffna, however, look hard enough and you’ll start to see darker examples of what transpired. Crumbling ruins, forts, and even old bullet holes are there for those willing to look.
• Malayan Cafe –  Cheap and proper local grub where they won’t even bother giving the whiteys cutlery. An absolute gem.
• Jaffna mangos –  Not to be confused with the restaurant in Jaffna  called  ‘Mangos’ (who serve killer dosa). The mangos in Sri Lanka’s north are rumoured to be the best on the island, and you’ll find plenty of street food ops to eat them with a seasoning of chilli, sugar, and salt.

Where to Stay in Jaffna:  Sky Park View Guesthouse

First up, I like the location; it’s right across from a park! There aren’t any dorms here, but the private rooms are cheap (the same prices as a dorm in a lot of other hostels around Sri Lanka).

You’ve got scooter rental, super friendly and helpful staff, and plenty of local food around. It’s not ultra-flash, but it is home and a good bit of budget accommodation in Jaffna.

Stop 3: Trincomalee (Days 9-12)

The warm-up to the inevitable time-sink of Arugam Bay. There’s no good swell in Trincomalee if you’re chasing the ultimate surfing holiday in Sri Lanka , however, everything else is on point!

You’ll find long sandy beaches lined with deckchairs and drinking holes. A Lion Strong, a round of beach volleyball, and an escape from the insane midday heat in the sparkling water is a guarantee. It’s also considerably quieter than Arugam Bay—like everybody left their mutual chaos behind along with their binge alcoholism.

That’s what Trinco feels like: Arugam Bay all grown up. Arugam Bay in its 30s when it started showering regularly and stopped sleeping with everything with a pulse. It’s cleaner, a bit more refined, a bit more expensive, and also a bit more boring. It’s either the warm-up to Arugam Bay or the place to come down afterwards.

From either Anuradhapura or Jaffna you can catch the train, but it will require a backtrack to the  Maho Junction . There are also direct buses from both cities which would be your better option.

The train actually alights closer to the centre of town where you almost definitely won’t want to stay considering all those beautiful Sri Lankan beaches hanging around.

• Uppuveli  is the main tourist hub ( Sarvodaya Road  specifically). It’s one long street filled with restaurants, shops, and various bits of accommodation with  plenty  of beach access.
• Nilaveli  to the north of Trinco is a much quieter area. There are still plenty of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach hotels and resorts, but the actual area (and beach) is way more local.

As I said though, Trincomalee is noticeably more expensive than a lot of other places in Sri Lanka that I visited. If you’re budget travelling in Sri Lanka, the best way to keep the costs down is to step outside the tourist bubble. One foot off of Sarvodaya Road back into the real Trinco and everything gets  a lot  cheaper.

Where to Stay in Trincomalee:  Wanderers Hostel

And it’s back to the hostel life! Dorms with aircon (boom, Buddha),  plenty of travellers to chill with, private rooms for sex after the beach! (Na, Trinco is  wayyy  too hot for banging.)

It’s a chill hostel although I do wish they would actually fill that plunge pool up. There’s free tea and coffee but no food served, and the WiFi is inexplicably good. Like, really damn good—I don’t get it either.

Stop 4: Arugam Bay (Days 12-?)

We maaaade it. Here’s a season in Arugam Bay in a nutshell:

• Sweet wonderful vacuous meaningless backpacker sex

Personally, it’s not my vibe (except the doobies-munchies). But any way you swing it,  this is undeniably a backpacker haven—anywhere the Israelis congregate en masse usually is. If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, and particularly a first-time visit, plan to lose track of your holiday itinerary for an indeterminate amount of time. Arugam Bay is the surf mecca of Sri Lanka as well as the backpacking mecca. Arugam Bay is one of those places.

It’s a sticky place.

You may want to consider a taxi if you’re not a fan of long stints on the bumpy bus. Otherwise, from Trincomalee, it’s a bus to Batticaloa and a change for Arugam Bay.

Wednesdays are also a party night, but it’s a dumb party and no one goes:

• Blue Wave Hotel Pool Party (Thursdays) –  An Israeli pool party (legitimately) featuring Tel Avivian Ibiza vibes and next-level trash music. It’s easily the best place to get laid in Arugam Bay.
• Whiskey Point (Fridays) –  The traveller-fave of Arugam’s throwdowns. A beach bar a bit out of town featuring house and techno.
• Mambo’s (Saturdays) –  It’s another beach bar featuring techno and house except that this one is in town and there’s a slackline—yay!

My happy place:

• Mama’s Restaurant –  Welcome to Sri Lanka at it’s finest! All-you-can-eat rice and curry buffet, 6 types of curry, full-power papas, and no end or regrets in sight until you puke.
• Blue Vans/Trucks –  On the south side of town, there’s a row of them all serving up street eats, and they all kick ass!
• Bites –  Go here, get yourself a brookie It’s a brownie-cookie—eugenics done right.

Where to Stay in Arugam Bay:  The Long Hostel

The amenities are tight, and the dorms get the job done, but you’re more staying here for the vibe. It’s backpackery, young, 100% party-surf focused, and, honestly, kinda cliquey. Like I said, love it or hate it, it’s Arugam Bay to a tee.

Oh, and the iced coffees will blow your mind wide open.

A Final Note on Backpacking Arugam Bay

Jokes aside, Arugam Bay really is backpacker central and a place people “get stuck”. It’s like a little slice of Thailand backpacking with a South Asian twist. Whether you love that or not is ultimately up to you.

If you’re not so much on a backpacking Sri Lanka tour as vacationing there, it may not be your vibe. Despite the copious amounts of joints being rolled, it definitely doesn’t feel chill. With such a high concentration of travellers, there’s the level of madness that you’d expect from other similar bubbles in the world like Pai, Pokhara, or Goa (though nothing competes with Goa).

Even if you’re a backpacker through-and-through but, perhaps (for example), one who’s grown into quiet living and out of many elements of the Southeast Asia backpacking scene, it still may not be your vibe. Unless you’re like me and will go anywhere there’s cheap food and doobs. Then it’s kickass for a week.

…Or if you’re a surfer. Then you’ll definitely be fine.

Stops 5-6: Ella, Kandy, and the Hill Country (Days 16-21)

Yup, the same as the 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary except in reverse! I really cannot stress enough how much this part of the country and the train journey are a must-see in Sri Lanka in any itinerary.

Ella really is the ultimate detox to skip the bends leaving Arugam Bay. There is a tranquil majesty to Sri Lanka’s hill country ( outside of Ella town) that will make even the most crushing wipeout a gentle ride to shore. If you can take a few extra days to hike, explore the valleys, or even just smoke and watch the sky, definitely do it.

When you do catch the train to Kandy, there are a few extra stops you can consider to break up the trip, provided you have the time:

• Nuwara Eliya – One of several points of interest in Sri Lanka that still  heavily carries the colonial remnants. The racecourse, the architecture, the tea, and definitely the post office all feel like cracking open a city-sized time capsule the British colonialists left behind. You’re up high in the hills here though, so expect it to get cold and rainy.
• Haputale –  Speaking of tea, at Haputale you’ll find Lipton’s Seat (yes, of  that Lipton) which is really more like an imperialist’s throne overseeing the incredible sweeps of plantations, hills and even right down to the south coast on a clear day!
• Hatton –  I’m not so much suggesting that you stick Hatton on your Sri Lanka itinerary as what’s near it: the mighty and majestic Adam’s Peak (AKA Sri Pada AKA  Samanalakanda AKA  Bob’s Your Uncle AKA a million other things). One of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka, Adam’s Peak is an absolutely exquisite climb to venture above the sea of clouds. The climbing season for both pilgrims and tourists runs from December to May, however, it’s a much nicer climb in the shoulder season before it gets crazy.

When you do arrive in Kandy, and since you’ll be departing shortly, forget the dorms! Take a nice accommodation in Kandy out of the city or up in the hills, and soak up the last few days spent with Sri Lanka.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

Idyll Homestay

The view is incredible, the bed is incredible, the visits from the local critter-cuties are incredible… the breakfast is  super  incredible! What ties it all together though is the host: he really goes above and beyond for his guests. Short of languishing within a hippy mountain palace, it’s undoubtedly one of the nicest places to stay in Ella.

Laughing Leopard Hostel

Truthfully though, the staff who run this place are warm and friendly to a fault; they really do create a space for people to relax in whatever capacity. If they also happen to enjoy some late night drinks and techno bangers, can you really blame them for that?

The Cliff Lodge

High up in the hills above Haputale is The Cliff Lodge: a place to retreat to, ditch the WiFi for a few days, and reset. Calling it a  “lodge”  is generous—you’re given a tent set up in an old tea picker’s hut, but that’s part of the charm. For nighttime fires, unreal starscapes, and a complete digital detox, this is where to stay in Sri Lanka.

Private Rooftop Villa with a Plunge Pool

Stop! You had me at skinny dipping!

I didn’t say skinny dipping…

Well… now you did!

It’s a private top floor villa outside of Kandy surrounded by lush greens and splatterings of colonial architectural charm. Breakfast is complimentary, the hosts are mega-chill, and, again, there’s a private plunge pool. Finish Sri Lanka with a bang…?

The Ultimate Boss: Meemure and the Knuckles Mountain Range

Mmm, yum. Mountains—my happy place (other than joints and buffets). This is about as off the beaten path in Sri Lanka as you can probably get. The unquenchable, untameable, and unabashed Knuckles Mountain Range hiding Sri Lanka’s most remote village—Meemure.

You’ll need to dedicate at least 3 days in Sri Lanka from your itinerary for the trip: one day there, one day to explore, and one day to return. If you can spare more time, then that’s even better.

Travelling to Meemure is one of those things where it’s about the journey. It may not be as hardcore as some other South Asian adventures (*cough* backpacking Pakistan *cough*) , but it’s still the most hardcore thing and hidden place I could unearth on my trip to Sri Lanka.

I really can’t break that down concisely here; you’ll have to read my  Meemure Village Cheeky Adventure Guide  for the deetz!

Again, check the guide. Even reaching and experiencing Meemure (and laying eyes on that absolutely magnificent Lakegala) is a feat and reward together. Outside of that, the Knuckles Mountain Range is so, so yummy and missing out on hiking them would be a damn shame. If you happen to see a leopard too, congrats! You’re a real traveller: stuff the safari up the industry’s left nostril.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Holy mother of box-ticking, Batman! Those are some blessed Sri Lanka travel itineraries.

Now, you’re probably going to have a cracker of a time no matter where you go; there are heaps of beautiful places in Sri Lanka . There are also heaps of beautiful feeds to feast upon in Sri Lanka! (I’ve failed to mention it thus far, but get yourself a kottu—Sri Lanka’s answer to greasy hangover food.)

However, before commencing on that ultimate holiday vacation to Sri Lanka, get yourself keyed on the insider knowledge. I didn’t live there for three months just so I could not share this stuff!

How many days should I spend in Sri Lanka?

Truthfully, I’d say anything less than a month just really isn’t doing it justice. There are just soooo many places to see in Sri Lanka . You could, however, potentially smush it all into a 3-week trip to Sri Lanka. My initial route backpacking around Sri Lanka was similar to the above-listed 3-week itinerary and weighed in somewhere between 3 and 4 weeks in execution.

If you’re not really the smoke, surf, and turf kinda human, the beaches may not slow you down as much as they would a typical backpacker. For everyone else though, Sri Lanka’s beautiful beach destinations—Arugam Bay in particular—will more than likely initiate “Actually, I’ll leave tomorrow,” syndrome.

When you’re planning your trip to Sri Lanka, ease up on the allotted time in your itinerary for the historical and cultural sites, and free up more for the ‘fun’  stuff. The historical sites in Sri Lanka are dope, no doubt, but every traveller I met at the beach or in Ella expressed regret over not having gotten there sooner.

Besides, for the same cost as entry to Sigiriya Fortress or Polonnaruwa, you could rent a surfboard for 7-8 days. You do the math.

…Wait, nevermind, I just did it for you.

What kind of travel budget do I need for touring Sri Lanka on an itinerary?

Obviously, that’s a highly variable question dependent on the length of your itinerary and travel style. I was able to live pretty comfortably on a daily budget of $20 a day in Sri Lanka, however, this is The Broke Backpacker and so that should give you an idea of how cheaply I travel .

If you travel like a backpacker, but it’s more of a holiday itinerary for Sri Lanka (as opposed to that sweet, sweet slow travel life), upwards of $40 a day should be plenty. That’s an extra $20 of wiggle room a day on top of the necessities (sleeping, eating, smoking) for activities, partying, and whatever else.

BUT, if you’re more the quick vacation type, say a budget for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, $60 a day is a cool max. You can set yourself up in a few top hotels around Sri Lanka and leave the dorms behind.

Finally, if you want to scoot around the island quickly, maybe a whirlwind 5 or 7-day itinerary through Sri Lanka’s highlights, you’ll be relying on taxi services or even a private driver. Honestly, that could run you up to $100 a day or even more depending on how you eat and sleep.

Folks, slow travel is cheaper.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

Right, so I’ve mentioned a lot of buses and trains , and the truth is that they’re simply the cheapest way of getting around Sri Lanka. But they’re also slow. And uncomfortable. And prone to the South Asia effect (it once took me 11ish hours, 6 bus changes, and one after-dark breakdown to go the 200 km from Unawatuna to Ella).

That said, I still love the public transport in Sri Lanka! It’s chaotic and an adventure every time. And… it’s super cheap:

• Bus from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay (via Batticaloa): < $7
• Versus a private taxi: $85-$90 (contingent on you haggling ability)

Taxis are, otherwise, going to be the main form of tourist transport services in Sri Lanka to utilise. You can save money by hooking up with a crew and sharing transport to the next destination; it’s always easy to find peeps in the tourist bubbles. Taxis are faster, but they’re expensive; you’re going to need to haggle like a pro .

You could also consider renting a bike in Sri Lanka. Cost-wise, that’ll run you about $5-$10 a day (though you can definitely get it cheaper if you rent for an extended period), however, Sri Lanka is a phenomenal road trip country! Just make sure you dot your i’s and cross your t’s with licencing and legalities.

And wear a bloody helmet—dem buses will smoke ya!

Tuk-Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka

Aww, yeahhh —and now we’re talking about the best way to travel in Sri Lanka. Cross the whole damn thing in your own mighty three-wheeling steed!

Can you rent your own tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka? Damn, right you can, and it don’t get much better than this. Well… unless you pay the few extra bucks for the optional boombox!

It really isn’t as confronting to learn to drive a tuk-tuk as you may think. I started to get the hang of it within 5 or 10 minutes. Plus, the looks the other tuk-tuk drivers give you when you overtake them are just so damn delicious.

It’s definitely not the cheapest form of transport in Sri Lanka— $25-$30 a day including rental costs, food, etc. —but that’s not really the bloody point! You’re driving a goddamn tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka! No matter what happens, it’s gonna be a journey you remember for the rest of your life, guaranteed.

All I can say is that I did it (well, hitched a ride with some peeps who did it), it was hella fun, I made some blessed life-long friends along the way (love you guys to the moon), and it’s a top recommendation for travelling around Sri Lanka without a shadow of a doubt.

Check out tuktukrental.com for more info. Use the code  brokebackpacker at the checkout when you decide to take the plunge, and let the good times roll out!

What to Pack for Sri Lanka

Packing for Sri Lanka is pretty straightforward; take whatever your usual backpacking setup is. There aren’t too many other nuances speak of.

DEFINITELY DO, HOWEVER, take a high-quality rain jacket . Even if you’re doing your best to avoid the monsoon, chances are that you’ll get rained on at some point during your visit to Sri Lanka.

Oh, and the mosquitoes are assholes. Take something from home or, better yet, just buy some Odomos when you arrive. It’s cheap there, and the best damn mosquito repellent I’ve ever used!

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Still wondering what to take to Sri Lanka? Then check out our full backpacking packing list more more ideas on gears, gadgets, and goodies for the road!

Staying Safe in Sri Lanka

So… Is Sri Lanka safe ? Yup! I mean, it’s not perfectly safe, but you can also choke on your toothbrush if you’re not careful so…

It’s easiest to think of it as India-lite. The same travel rules you’d apply for backpacking in India, apply it here and then just dial it back a notch.

• If someone asks if you’d like to take a photo of them, or they’re behaving like a tourist attraction (eg. a stilt fisherman or tea picker), then they’re almost definitely going to ask for money if you do take that snap. Kids will too!
• Never trust a tuk-tuk driver—GPS out and money is exchanged only after you’ve confirmed you’ve arrived at the correct destination.
• Travellers of the feminine disposition won’t have nearly as hard a time as in India but should still be wary, smart, and be careful where they’re walking alone at night. And get used to being stared at—take it in stride.
• Don’t leave your valuables unguarded on the beach (or anywhere for that matter).
• Your shoulders and knees need to be covered at sacred sites. No iconography of Lord Buddha-san (tattoos, shirt logos, etc.) and no turning your back on the Buddha statues or taking selfies with them.
• Watch out for scams but also don’t spit the dummy every time someone overcharges you 20 rupees. Therein lies the road to insanity.

Honestly, it’s a standard South Asia affair. Sri Lanka is pretty chill, and out of the three major backpacking destinations of the Indian subcontinent (Nepal, India, and Sri Lanka), I’ve found Sri Lankans (the Sinhala people specifically—maybe it’s the Buddhism) to be the most scrupulous and sincere.

Getting Insured for Your Trip to Sri Lanka

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know when planning their Sri Lanka itinerary.

How many days is enough to visit Sri Lanka?

14 days is a great amount of time to get around the country and take in the highlights.

Is 10 days enough in Sri Lanka?

It’s pushing it but you could see most of the main sights if you prioritise your time.

Is 3 weeks too long in Sri Lanka?

3 weeks is the perfect amount of time to really take in pretty much everything there is to see and have some down time too.

Is Sri Lanka cheap?

Yeah, Sri Lanka is a super affordable destination, it’s an ideal place to go backpacking!

Concluding Your Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Y’know, when I started writing this itinerary, I was all like “Man, itineraries are lame” .  And now…? Well, I still think itineraries are lame.

But it was also an absolute pleasure to write about travelling Sri Lanka again. I get a little blast of candy-nostalgia every time I return in my mind’s eye to that gorgeous island. Cloud forests rolling through plantations and emerald hills, the chaotic madness of any and all bus rides, dawn on sunkissed beaches watching lone fishermen drag their laden nets in.

Sri Lanka is both the gem of the Indian Ocean and subcontinent itself. Whether it’s one, two, or three weeks in Sri Lanka, every moment is a blessing. If you can give yourself 3 months, that’s even better!

Plan your trip with my perfectly crafted itineraries for Sri Lanka; there is a lot of love and care in them. See all there is to see, but also, remember to stop and smell the kottu. And to meet the peeps.

And to ride the trains, take a big slow breath, and, most of all, to appreciate the sky.

Ziggy Samuels

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Hey Ziggy, we are older backpackers planning a 3 month trip to Sri Lanka early next year. I am excited by your information and will refer to it many times, I’m sure. We love travelling slowly, Sri Lanka will suit us well. Thank you!

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The Ultimate Sri Lanka Itinerary for 14 Days

Are you visiting Sri Lanka for the first time and looking for the best Sri Lanka Itinerary?

We’ve put together a 14-day Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary that covers the popular attractions, the best places to see elephants, impressive beaches, and some hidden gems.

Take a Sri Lanka Road Trip to this magical country from Colombo to Unawatuna , discover the best sights by tuk tuk, and have an unforgettable experience.

Our Sri Lanka Travel Guide includes the best places to visit, how to get there, where to stay, and the best things to do in Sri Lanka. You’ll also find all the useful tips and information you need to plan your 2-week Sri Lanka Itinerary.

Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through our link. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring travel guides.

Best hotels in Sigiriya

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Where is Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is an island country lying in the Indian Ocean, in South Asia, which can easily be combined with India and the Maldives.

How to Get to Sri Lanka

Most travelers to Sri Lanka arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (airport code CMB), as you can get cheap flights to Colombo.

There are many direct flights to Colombo from India, Maldives, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and other international countries with easy connections.

Buy an eSIM and data package for Sri Lanka.

Colombo is the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. Therefore, it is the perfect place to start your Sri Lanka Itinerary from where you can easily reach Negombo,  Sigiriya , Galle, or  Kandy.

TIP Use  Skyscanner  to get cheap flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

The cheapest way to get around Sri Lanka is by public transport, and the best way is to rent a tuk tuk. The trains and buses connect all major cities, and local buses can also take you to smaller towns.  If you have limited time in Sri Lanka, we don’t recommend using public transport to travel around the country.

There is no official bus schedule, trains and buses are often delayed or overcrowded, and most buses are not air-conditioned. Although you can save money by using public transport when traveling in Sri Lanka, the costs can quickly add up if you have to use a taxi or hire a tuk tuk driver/scooter to reach the beaches and waterfalls.

Buy your train and bus tickets online through  12Go  or  Bookaway.

Are you spending limited time in Sri Lanka but want to make the most of your visit? For the ultimate experience,  book a 3-day tour  that includes Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Udawalawe National Park.

The tour includes  hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking driver/guide, two breakfast and dinner, and overnight accommodation in Kandy/Ella.

Alternatively, if you are spending more time in Sri Lanka and don’t want to worry about how to get from one place to another, book this excellent 8-day tour and make your trip even more unforgettable.

Keep reading → Kandy to Ella Train

Why Should You Rent a Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka?

The best mode of transport for your Sri Lanka Itinerary is to rent a tuk tuk. Although public transport is cheap, travel time is long, and some places are not accessible by bus or train.

So, if you want to explore the country’s hidden gems and hard-to-reach waterfalls, tea plantations, or beaches, rent a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka and have an unforgettable experience.

Renting a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the country at your own pace and get off the beaten path.

You can pick up your tuk tuk anywhere in Sri Lanka, such as Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Mirissa, etc. But for the best experience, pick up your tuk tuk in Colombo and complete this 14-day Sri Lanka Itinerary.

Save money, use our coupon code  dittusandmate  and get a 5% discount on  tuktukrental.com.

Read the full post →   Tuk Tuk Rental in Sri Lanka

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka can be visited all year round because the weather is hot and humid. But the best time to visit Sri Lanka is between December and March in the south/west and March to October in the north/east.

The busiest months are from December to April.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with high humidity and two monsoon seasons. The average annual daytime temperature in the country ranges between 26°C and 28°C.

TIP In high season, we strongly recommend booking accommodation, train tickets, and tours in advance!

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons:  the northeast monsoon season, which runs from December to January, and the southwest monsoon season, which runs from May to September. You can visit Sri Lanka in the monsoon season for the low prices and to avoid crowds, but we don’t recommend it.

We did this 2-week Sri Lanka Itinerary in April, and the weather was fantastic, with only a few rains.

See also → Dalawella Beach Rope Swing

Sri Lanka Itinerary for 14 Days

Day 1: arrive in colombo, sri lanka.

Welcome to Sri Lanka! We hope you had a great flight and are ready to explore this beautiful country. Colombo is the perfect place to start your two-week Sri Lanka Itinerary, from where you can easily reach Sigiriya, Kandy , Galle, or Ella .

Depending on when you arrive in Colombo, you can choose to take a Colombo half-day city tour or travel directly to your next destination.

From Colombo, continue your Sri Lanka trip to Sigiriya. You can book a day trip from Colombo to Sigiriya and Dambulla via  GetYourGuide.

TIP We recommend buying a Dialog SIM card at the airport, as the internet was excellent during our Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary.

Are you spending limited time in Sri Lanka but want to make the most of your visit? If you don’t want to worry about how to get from one place to another, book this excellent 8-day tour and make your trip even more unforgettable. You can visit Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala National Park, and Mirissa.

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Colombo to Sigiriya

The distance between Colombo and Sigiriya is about 175 km, which is 4-6 hours, depending on traffic and mode of transport.

We have a detailed post on how to get from Colombo to Sigiriya with all the information you need.

Although there are several ways to get to Sigiriya, you will need a mode of transport on arrival to discover the best attractions of Sigiriya. Therefore, one of the most exciting and best ways to get from Colombo to Sigiriya is to rent a tuk tuk and drive there yourself.

After you pick up your tuk tuk in Colombo, travel to Sigiriya. The journey time by tuk tuk is approximately 4-5 hours.

• Luxury:   Water Garden Sigiriya
• Mid-Range:   Hotel Sigiriya  or  Sigiriya Village
• Budget:   The Nature Park Villa

Day 2: Discover Sigiriya

Good morning! It’s time to start your Sri Lanka Itinerary and discover the best attractions of Sigiriya. If you want to make the most of your day, we recommend getting up early and heading to Pidurangala Rock to watch the sunrise.

It was a magical experience when the first rays of light came, and we enjoyed a spectacular 360-degree view of the Sigiriya Lion Rock and the surrounding landscape.

Then have breakfast in your accommodation or at a local restaurant and visit Sigiriya Lion Rock. As the entrance fee to Sigiriya Rock Fortress is expensive (30 USD per person) compared to other Sri Lankan attractions, many people decide to skip it and enjoy the scenery from Pidurangala Rock.

Recommended post → How to Hike Pidurangala Rock

Then relax for a few hours at your accommodation, have lunch, and travel to Dambulla by tuk tuk. The distance between Sigiriya and Dambulla is just 30 minutes.

The Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. It is a sacred Buddhist site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours at the cave temple and see the beautiful paintings and Buddha statues.

TIP Add an extra day to your Sri Lanka Itinerary and take a day trip to Kaudulla or Minneriya National Park.

Read our → Sigiriya Guide

Day 3-4: Travel to Kandy & Sightseeing Tour

Good morning! We hope you enjoyed exploring Sigiriya and are ready for your next destination in your Sri Lanka Itinerary. Kandy has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 and is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

There are no train connections between Kandy and Sigiriya and no direct buses, so travel by tuk tuk or private shuttle. The journey time by tuk tuk is approximately 2-3 hours.

Most people only know Kandy for its famous train ride between Kandy and Ella. But Kandy is much more than that and well worth a visit!

Read our → Kandy Guide

Wondering what to do in Kandy? Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, climb the  Ambuluwawa Tower,  see the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and wander around Kandy Lake.

During these two days, you can explore Kandy at your own pace, eat delicious Sri Lankan food, and meet friendly locals.

Important note Please don’t support places where elephants are kept in chains, so don’t visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage!

• Luxury:   Earl’s Regency Hotel
• Mid-Range:   Earl’s Regent Hotel
• Budget:   Queen’s Hotel

Day 5: Kandy to Ella Train Ride

Are you looking for an unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka? The stunning journey from Kandy to Ella is one of the most picturesque train rides in the world, so don’t miss it on your Sri Lanka Itinerary.

The train journey from Kandy to Ella usually takes 9-10 hours due to long stops and frequent delays.

Trains run only 3 times a day between Kandy and Ella! It’s good to know that if you want reserved seats, you must book your train ticket online at least 1 month before your travel date! 

Buy your train tickets easily through  12Go  or  Bookaway.

We recommend you travel to Nanu Oya and spend a night in Nuwara Eliya, then explore the tea plantations the next day and continue the journey by tuk tuk or train to Ella.

Nuwara Eliya does not have its own railway station. But you can reach Nuwara Eliya from Nanu Oya in about 20-30 minutes by local bus or tuk tuk.

Are you planning to rent a tuk tuk but don’t want to skip the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella? Tuktuk Rental offers a train transfer service.

Read the full post → Guide to Kandy to Ella Train

Kandy to Ella by tuk tuk

We decided to skip the long train journey from Kandy to Ella and travel by tuk tuk instead. It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the tea plantations and see the impressive waterfalls along the way.

Our journey started from Kandy, then we made a short detour at  Ambuluwawa Tower  and drove through Nuwara Eliya to Ella.

Depending on the photo stops and road conditions (some parts of the road were potholed),  you can reach Ella from Kandy in about 5-6 hours.

TIP Most people skip Nuwara Eliya and head straight from Kandy to Ella, but if you have time, we recommend a visit.

• Luxury:   Heritance Tea Factory
• Mid-Range:   Galway Heights Hotel  or  Hilldale Retreat
• Budget:   Misthill Rest – Lavish Villa

Day 6: Explore Nuwara Eliya – Optional Day

Nuwara Eliya is one of the best places on your Sri Lanka Itinerary, so don’t miss it. The best way to explore Nuwara Eliya is to self-drive a rented tuk tuk, join a Nuwara Eliya sightseeing tour ,  or hire a tuk tuk driver to take you to tea plantations, Bluefield Tea Factory, Single Tree Hill, Lake Gregory, and Ramboda Falls.

See also → Best Waterfalls in Sri Lanka

Enjoy the stunning scenery of the tea plantations and have a delicious cup of Ceylon tea. You can see how the tea is dried, pressed, and produced at the Bluefield Tea Factory.

You can decide whether to travel to Ella in the afternoon or the next day.

It takes about 2.5-3 hours to get from Nuwara Eliya to Ella by tuk tuk. Depending on when you arrive in Ella, take a stroll around the town, see the bustling bars, and eat at one of the great restaurants.

• Luxury:   EKHO Ella
• Mid-Range:   Mountain Heavens  or  98 Acres Resort & Spa
• Budget:   Ella Mount View Guest Inn

Day 7-8: Discover Ella

Are you ready for one of the highlights of your Sri Lanka Itinerary? The mountain town of Ella is one of the most visited places in the country.

We recommend you spend your first full day relaxing in Ella. Wander around the town, meet the locals, and discover some hidden gems. Ella has many great restaurants where you can try delicious Sri Lankan food or enjoy the nightlife in the bustling bars. You can also  go ziplining in Ella , join a cooking class, or relax at the Ravana Pool Club.

Did you skip the train ride from Kandy to Ella but want to take the iconic photo hanging out on the train? We recommend traveling from Ella to Badulla and back. Although this part of the journey is not as picturesque as the train ride from Kandy to Ella, it is a great way to experience the train ride and see the Nine Arch Bridge.

Keep reading → How to Visit Nine Arch Bridge

On the train from Badulla to Ella, you can take the iconic photo hanging out of a train. But be careful when hanging out the door, as trees can be too close and may cause injury.

The next day, we suggest starting your day at Little Adam’s Peak at sunrise, then driving to Ravana Falls and Diyaluma Falls. Finish your day with a stunning sunset experience at the Nine Arch Bridge.

Make the most of your visit and  book an Ella tour , which includes visits to Diyaluma Falls, Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, and Lipton’s Seat.

Recommended post → Ella Guide

Day 9: Travel to Yala – Optional Day

Good morning! It’s time to continue your Sri Lanka Itinerary and travel from Ella to Yala. Most people take a day trip from Ella to Yala National Park. But we decided to drive there on our own, stay there, and take a full-day safari tour the next day.

If you want to pass wild elephants on the way to Yala National Park, take a detour on the B35 Road. From Ella, head towards Wellawaya, then turn left on the A4 towards Buttala and take the B35 Road. During our trip, we also saw elephants in the middle and last section of the road, which was a fantastic experience in Sri Lanka.

The journey time by tuk tuk is approximately 3-4 hours. 

Read our → Guide to Visiting Yala National Park

These wild elephants are used to being around people, as locals regularly stop on the road to feed them.  However, walk near them at your own risk!

After arriving, explore Tissamaharamara, eat delicious Sri Lankan food, and relax.

Where to Stay near Yala National Park

Most people take a day trip to the Yala National Park from Ella, Galle, or Mirissa. But for the best experience, stay near the national park.

Another alternative is to  stay in Tissamaharama , as you will be close to the restaurants and budget hotels. These are our accommodation recommendations.

• Luxury:   Wild Coast Tented Lodge
• Mid-Range:   Jetwing Yala  or  Cinnamon Wild Yala
• Budget:   Kaaya Eco Resort Yala

Day 10: Yala Safari Tour & Travel to Mirissa

Sri Lanka has many stunning national parks that are perfect for spotting diverse wildlife, such as elephants, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and various bird species. You can easily join a safari tour from Ella or Tissamaharama to Yala or  Udawalawe National Park.

The tour price includes  hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned vehicle, professional driver/guide, and a jeep safari tour at the national park.

Check safari tour availability and prices  HERE.

Good to know Yala National Park is one of the best places to see elephants and leopards in Sri Lanka.

Recommended post →   Best National Parks for Safari Tours

After the morning safari tour, have lunch and travel from Tissamaharama to Mirissa. It takes approximately 3 hours to get from Tissamaharama to Mirissa by tuk tuk. Once you arrive in Mirissa, chill out at Mirissa Beach.

• Luxury:   Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa
• Mid-Range:   Mandara Resort  or  Triple O Six
• Budget:   Sunset Beach Hotel

Day 11-12: Enjoy Mirissa and Unawatuna

Are you ready for the best part of your Sri Lanka Itinerary? Spend a few relaxing days in the beach towns of Mirissa and Unawatuna.

We recommend spending 2 nights in Mirissa and 2 nights in Unawatuna.

Mirissa is a paradise for surfers, famous for its untouched beaches, snorkeling spots, and vibrant nightlife. Wondering what to do in Mirissa? Visit Coconut Tree Hill, explore the best beaches in Mirissa, join a whale-watching tour, and go surfing.

Recommended post → Things to Do in Mirissa

If you’re looking for the most beautiful sunrises or sunsets, the best spots are Unawatuna Beach or Coconut Tree Hill. Unawatuna is our favorite place in Sri Lanka, but there is not much to do, so it is the perfect place to relax.

Read our → Unawatuna Guide

Sri Lanka has many beautiful beaches, but we think the most beautiful beach is Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna.

Wijaya Rock, also known as Frog Rock, is another iconic attraction in Sri Lanka. You can easily reach the famous Frog Rock with a 10-minute coastal walk from Dalawella Beach.

• Luxury:   Araliya Beach Resort & Spa Unawatuna
• Mid-Range:   Agnus Unawatuna  or  Thaproban Beach House
• Budget:   Hotel Flower Garden

TIP Alternatively, you can  stay in Galle , only a 20-minute drive away.

Day 13: Visit Galle Fort or Relax on the Beach

On your last full day in Sri Lanka, we suggest you spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Alternatively, visit Galle Fort or take a day trip to Udawalawe National Park.

You can easily join safari tours from Unawatuna/Galle to Yala or Udawalawe National Park. For the best experience, you can  book a combined tour  that visits both national parks.

Yala is famous for its leopards, while Udawalawe National Park attracts visitors for its elephants. Over 500 elephants live in the park, which offers a great chance to see wild elephants in Sri Lanka.

Check safari tour prices and availability  HERE.

Galle is only 20 minutes from Unawatuna, so don’t miss a visit. The old town of Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the perfect place to see the beautiful Dutch, Portuguese, and British-style buildings.  Spend at least 2-3 hours in Galle  and explore the charming streets, buy souvenirs at the handicraft shops, visit the Galle Fort Lighthouse, and walk along the Galle Fort Wall.

If you have more time, we recommend adding extra days to your Sri Lanka Itinerary to visit Hikkaduwa and explore the stunning beaches. You can reach Hikkaduwa from Galle in just a 30-40 minute drive.

See also → Sri Lanka Itinerary for 7 Days

Day 14: Leave Sri Lanka

We hope you enjoyed your visit to Sri Lanka! But it’s time to leave Unawatuna and drive back to Colombo.

Our Sri Lanka Itinerary ends where it began. Go back to Bandaranaike International Airport and fly home. It takes approximately 4-5 hours to get from Unawatuna to Colombo by tuk tuk.

Important note This Sri Lanka Itinerary does not allow to visit Colombo or Negombo, so add extra days to explore them.

Alternatively, you can easily modify this Sri Lanka Route and spend two days visiting Negombo and Colombo by skipping the two optional days.

• Luxury:   Shangri-La Colombo  or  Hilton Colombo
• Mid-Range:   Mandarina Colombo
• Budget:   Grand Oriental Hotel

FAQ about Sri Lanka Itinerary for 14 Days

Is sri lanka worth visiting.

Absolutely! Sri Lanka is a tropical destination all year round, and we loved it!

Sri Lanka is well known for its untouched tropical beaches, cultural diversity, large numbers of elephants, diverse landscapes, world-class waves, and tea production.

How Many Days Do You Need in Sri Lanka?

You can easily modify our Sri Lanka Itinerary to extend or reduce the days. Most people choose a short Sri Lanka Trip Itinerary for their first visit. But if you can, we recommend you spend at least 2 weeks in Sri Lanka and explore the best places at your own pace.

Is it Safe to Travel to Sri Lanka?

Yes, traveling to Sri Lanka is safe! The Sri Lankan people are very friendly. However, small thefts and pickpockets can occur at the beaches, on public transport, or in parking areas. So always take care of your valuables!

There are monkeys, so always keep an eye on your bag and don’t leave anything in the tuk tuk.

You can swim and surf safely in Sri Lanka but don’t underestimate the waves and be careful. Beware of rip currents!

Don’t forget to buy travel insurance! We always choose  SafetyWing  for our travels.

Is it Safe to Drive Tuk Tuk in Sri Lanka?

Driving in Sri Lanka by tuk tuk can be a challenge, especially for first-time visitors. We found driving in the country safe and easy, so we highly recommend renting a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka.

Recommended post → Tuk Tuk Driving Tips

How Much Does it Cost for 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is a cheap country. However, some entrance fees and programs are expensive.

Budget travelers will spend around 35-40 USD per day.

The costs in Sri Lanka depend on the mode of transport, which accommodation you prefer, and how much you are willing to pay for restaurants or cafes.

TIP Prices are even higher during the holidays (Christmas, New Year, Easter), so avoid these months if you want to save money!

Sri Lanka Travel Costs

• Accommodation: 100-150 USD
• Food: 100-120 USD
• Transport: 300-400 USD (We rented a tuk tuk for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka for only 22 USD/day.)
• Activities: 100-140 USD (For most attractions, you will need to buy an entrance fee or join an organized or private tour.)

TIP Save money, use our coupon code  dittusandmate  and get a 5% discount on  tuktukrental.com.

A 14-day trip to Sri Lanka will cost between 500-600 USD per person.

Save money, avoid ATM transaction fees when going abroad, and pay in local currency with a Wise Card.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Sri Lanka?

Yes! You can apply for several types of Sri Lanka visa online depending on how long you plan to stay and the reason for your visit (tourist, business, transit).

A double-entry tourist visa for 30 days costs 53 USD.

You can get your Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) online a few days before arrival. Visa on arrival is also available, but avoid queuing and extra costs by applying for ETA online.

• Valid passport (must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry)
• Return or onward flight ticket

Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for Sri Lanka and apply for an e-visa online.

Sri Lanka 2 Week Itinerary Map

We hope our 2-week Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary will help you plan your next trip. If you have any questions or thoughts, let us know in the comment below.

Travel Resources

Hotels – Booking.com Car Rentals – Discover Cars Flights – Skyscanner Travel Insurance – SafetyWing Tours & Attractions – GetYourGuide Bus/Train/Transfer – Bookaway

RECOMMENDED POSTS

The Best Sri Lanka Itinerary for 7 Days

Best Ways: How to Get from Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

9 Best Things to Do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka

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within this you can easily find out proper tour itineraries to explore the Sri Lanka. Read More

Mirissa Whale Watching

Blue whales are the biggest animal live on the earth and Mirissa is the one of most suitable spot to watch blue whales and other whales too.  Read More

Yala National Park

This is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka.Yala is home to Asian elephants, leopards and variety of beautiful endemic birds.  Read More

sigiriya popular as eighth wonder of the world among the tourists and it was the one of Asia's oldest landscaped garden.  Read More

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Sri Lanka have divergent nine provincials.Select what you most prefer provincial in here and travel like your own way.   Read More

Southern Corridor

Many of gorgeous beaches are located in southern province of Sri Lanka and not at all, this city is home to ancient British and Dutch architectural buildings and many of ancient religious sites.  Read More

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•  Sabaragamuwa Province

Explore Sri Lanka

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Weather in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has different weather conditions. Center of the country weather are balmy and other sides being hot. You can feel this different in a one day.  Read More

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Hello Again Sri Lanka

Explore Sri Lanka to the best with the help of the listed itineraries. Sri Lankan tourism’s itineraries had been prepared with the view of enabling visitors to explore almost all the attractions in the country and could be easily adjusted to fit in the itineraries of international and local travel agents. It is best to explore the itineraries prior to planning a holiday to know of the best and the cheapest options available to every type of tourists. Each itinerary consist a series of experiences and activities surrounding one attraction, the easily accessible from one location. The time span allocated for each tour is between seven to eleven days and can be easily re-scheduled to suit each and every requirement, while visitors are welcome to mix and match few itineraries to suit their taste.

Untamed Sri Lanka

A wild and untamed Sri Lanka filled with natural wonders

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Enter a time when men tamed the rocks, filled oceans & built cities in the sky

Awash Sri Lanka

Golden beaches a washed with aquamarine waves and eternal sunshine

Rejuvenating Sri Lanka

For a mind free of its cankers and a body free of its pains

Romantic Sri Lanka

The central highlands of Sri Lanka are filled with pictures of stirring mountains carpeted with lush green tea gardens, roaring waterfalls mingling with the clouds and landscapes shimmering in sunlight and disappearing under the rising mist.

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Travelling Without a Passport

7 Days in Sri Lanka Itinerary: The Places You Can’t Miss

Delectable cuisine? Check. Pristine, powdery white-sand beaches? Yep. Elephant-filled national parks and thousand-year-old Buddhist monuments? You bet. Sri Lanka has everything you could ever want in a tropical Asian getaway destination — and yet, it still manages to fly (somewhat) under the radar, often overlooked in favour of neighbouring India or Southeast Asia ’s heavy-hitting destinations. 

Read here the best 2 week Sri Lanka itineraries .

Even if you only have one week to spare, this budget-friendly island nation will dazzle you with its ever-changing landscapes and staggering biodiversity. Covering some of the country’s can’t-miss highlights, read on for a seven-day Sri Lanka itinerary that offers a taste of its compelling cities, mountainous interior, and alluring coastline. 

Travel to: Sri Lanka

While many travel advisories to Sri Lanka have been lifted or downgraded, it’s always recommended to check your government’s travel advisory information for the most up-to-date advice.

Getting around in Sri Lanka

Whether travelling by bus, train, or tuk tuk, public transport is the cheapest way to travel in Sri Lanka — but it’s also the slowest. While the country’s infrastructure is constantly improving and a range of transport options is readily available, getting around Sri Lanka will likely feel a little trying at times. If you have limited time here, you may want to consider hiring a car and driver or joining a Sri Lanka tour to make the most of your precious time in the country.

Day 1: Colombo

Home to the country’s largest international airport, Colombo is Sri Lanka’s primary gateway and the perfect place to take a quick breather and recuperate after a long flight. If you’re keen to do a bit of sightseeing before moving onto the country’s stunning hill country region, visit the National Museum of Colombo, Viharamahadevi Park, and the Old City Hall for an introduction to the city’s top sights.

Top things to do in Colombo:

• Walk along the promenade at Galle Face Green  
• Admire the city’s impressive colonial-style buildings, including the Old City Hall and Dutch Period Museum 
• Escape the hustle and bustle at Viharamahadevi Park 
• Indulge in fresh seafood at the legendary Ministry of Crab 

See Also: Solo Female Travel in Sri Lanka: is it Safe?

Days 2 & 3: Kandy

Kandy, a picturesque city situated in Sri Lanka’s heartland, is a must-visit destination for its spectacular natural beauty and historic and religious significance. The main attraction here is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka’s holiest shrines, and one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. The temple itself is housed in the Royal Palace complex, which encompasses a series of smaller shrines, museums, and temples.

After you’ve had your fill of temples, take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake or hop on a bus and head to the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens, home to a collection of cannonball trees, orchids, a spice garden, and a range of wildlife — including monkeys, water monitors, and several species of birds. 

Top things to do in Kandy:

• Take a day trip to the ancient city of Sigiriya and Dambulla’s famed rock cave temple
• Watch a Kandyan dance performance at the Kandy Lake Club 
• Go hiking through Udawattakele Forest Reserve
• Visit the Botanic Gardens
• Stroll around Kandy Lake 

Days 4 & 5: Ella

The train journey from Kandy to Ella is a highlight in its own right; not only is it hailed as one of the most scenic train rides in the world, but it’s also one of the absolute best things to do in Sri Lanka. Winding through lush jungle-clad hills, verdant tea plantations, and colourful towns, the landscapes you’ll pass along the way are beyond stunning (just be sure to snag a seat on the right side of the train for the best views).

When you make it to Ella — a misty mountain town nestled amongst the country’s idyllic Central Highlands — even more spellbinding scenery awaits. Despite its small size, there’s no shortage of incredible things to see and do in this laid-back hill country oasis: hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock, swim in cascading waterfalls, walk through tea plantations, or simply admire the unbelievable views from one of Ella’s mountainside guest houses. 

Top things to do in Ella:

• Climb up Little Adam’s peak
• Take a cooking class at Ella Spice Garden
• Hike to the top of Ella Rock
• Walk along the rails on Ella’s famous Nine Arch Bridge 
• Visit Ravana Falls (located just outside Ella)
• Join a tea plantation tour

Tip: The best way to break up the 4.5-hour drive between Ella and Galle is to stop at Udawalawe National Park on the way. This is, quite possibly, the best place in Sri Lanka to see elephants in their natural habitat, along with sloth bears, sambar deer, water buffalo, crocodiles, and more.

See Also: We Rank the Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

Days 6 & 7: Galle

You’ll know you’ve arrived in Galle when you start feeling as though you’ve temporarily transported from Asia to Europe; this seaside city has a distinctly European flair, thanks to its narrow, cobbled streets and Dutch colonial buildings. 

Depicting a blend of European architectural styles and South Asian traditions, the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort is one attraction you can’t miss here. Set aside an afternoon to walk along the fort’s outer walls and explore its historic centre. The Galle Lighthouse, Galle National Museum, and the Old Dutch Hospital — which is one of the oldest buildings in Galle Fort — are only a few of the top highlights you’ll find within this fortified city.

Beyond the fort’s walls, stretches of azure coastline and palm-fringed beaches are only a short rickshaw or bus ride away. Unawatuna Beach, with its golden sand and gentle surf, is a dreamy tropical paradise where you can go snorkelling, surfing, or simply while away the hours from your sun lounger. 

The journey back to Colombo takes approximately two to three hours, so you can hire a taxi or hop on a train or bus to get back to the capital at the end of your holiday.

Top things to do in Galle:

• Immerse yourself in history and get lost amongst Galle Fort’s winding alleyways and cobbled streets
• Buy souvenirs and local handicrafts from the shops on Pedlar Street within Galle Fort
• Catch some rays or take a surf lesson at nearby Unawatuna Beach
• Stock up on Sri Lankan spices from markets located just outside Galle Fort

How would you spend one week in Sri Lanka? 

Ashley Nitransky

Ashley is a Content Editor at TourRadar. When she’s not writing, travelling, or obsessively checking flight prices on Skyscanner, you can find her attempting to fine-tune her photography skills or watching a shark documentary.

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Home » Asia » Incredible 2+ Week Sri Lanka Itinerary (+ Tips for First Timers)

Incredible 2+ Week Sri Lanka Itinerary (+ Tips for First Timers)

Sri Lanka is a beautiful, teardrop shaped island off the Southern tip of India. It has long been a favorite country on the backpacker trail, and has more recently been rediscovered by tourists and travellers alike. Indeed, having recovered from a long civil war and devastation from the 2004 tsunami, the tourist industry is now booming again in this incredible country.

In this post I will be highlighting some of the essential info and best bits for any first time travellers planning their Sri Lanka itinerary!

A Guest Post by Danny Newman from Whats Danny Doing?

In This Post

• 1.1 Visa Requirements:
• 1.2 Vaccinations:
• 1.3 Basic Sri Lanka Information:
• 1.4 The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka
• 2.1 Day 1 – 2: Colombo & Negombo
• 2.2 Day 3: Yapahuwa & Dambulla
• 2.3 Day 4: Anuradhapura
• 2.4 Day 5 – 6: Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala Rock + Kaudulla National Park
• 2.5 Optional Add On: Trincomolee
• 2.6 Day 7 – 8: Kandy
• 2.7 Day 9 – 11: Ella
• 2.8 Optional Stop: Arugam Bay
• 2.9 Day 12: Haputale and Lipton’s Seat
• 2.10 Optional Stop: Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)
• 2.11 Day 13 – 14: Mirissa / Unawatuna & Galle

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: What To Know Before You Go:

Visa requirements:.

Regardless of how long you plan to stay, you’ll need a visa to enter Sri Lanka! Head to the Electronic Travel Authorisation site to find out exactly what you need to do & submit your application. The visa isn’t free and the price varies on the nature of your trip: business or tourism. According to this site you can apply and pay for your visa on arrival in Colombo, but it’s cheaper to do so online in advance, and I personally prefer having visa’s sorted before traveling to prevent any delays or issues on arrival.

Vaccinations:

Unfortunately, you’ll need a couple of jabs for Sri Lanka! For up-to-date vaccination advice, check out the CDC or NHS advice sites, which will tell you everything you need to know about health precautions for any country around the world.

Basic Sri Lanka Information:

Religion: Predominantly Buddhist, with smaller numbers of Muslims, Hindus and Christians. Language: Sinhala, Tamil and English. Currency: Sri Lanka Rupee (LKR) Approx rate of exchange: GBP: £1 = 225 r USD: $1 = 176 r EUR: €1 = 200 r

The Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two different monsoon seasons, which impacts the best time to visit. For South, West, and Hill country, go between December and March; for the East coast, go from April/May to September. The temperature remains fairly consistent due to its proximity to the equator.

A Perfect Sri Lanka Itinerary for First Time Visitors

There’s something for everyone in Sri Lanka. Whether you’re travelling as a family , going with a group, or exploring the country solo, everyone who heads there will love exploring this incredible place. Here’s a selection of must-see parts of the country to incorporate on your Sri Lanka itinerary.

Day 1 – 2: Colombo & Negombo

The remnants of Sri Lanka’s colonial past (it was part of the British Commonwealth until 1972) are evident in many of the attractions in the city. For instance, there’s the old 17th Century Dutch period museum, Dutch Hospital (now a shopping centre), the Victoria Park (now Viharamahadevi Park) and the National Museum. Other sights worth seeing are the Federation of Self-employees Market and Galle Face Green, the sandy promenade along Colombo’s impressive coastline. The beach and sea make for a lovely backdrop to the city. And if you are more of a beach than a city person, base yourself in the quieter fishing village of Negombo beach, just north of Colombo.

Day 3: Yapahuwa & Dambulla

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 22, 2018 at 9:54pm PST

It is, however, a few hours drive from Colombo/Negombo which makes Yapahuwa – a rock fortress which was once a royal residence and a site of the Temple of the Tooth Relic – a great stop to break up the journey. The 90m climb to the top is worth it for the views – but as it is practically vertical and via an ancient set of ‘steps’, it is not for the faint-hearted or those a little unsteady on their feet.

Day 4: Anuradhapura

Day 5 – 6 : Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala Rock + Kaudulla National Park

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 3, 2018 at 6:20am PDT

Also, whilst you are here, be sure to allocate a sunrise or sunset hike to neighboring Pidurangala rock for amazing panoramic views of Sigiriya. And for the animal lovers among you, you can’t come to Sri Lanka and not see the elephants in one of the many national parks. Kaudulla National Park is just a short drive from Sigiriya and a jeep safari would be the perfect afternoon/morning activity on the day you climb Pidurangala. (And if you would like to leave the elephants to later in your trip you could visit Yala National Park on the Southern Coast or Udawalawe National Park in the South of the Country).

Optional Add On: Trincomolee

I have a lot of love for Trincomolee. It’s another stunning beach location , this time on the North Eastern side of Sri Lanka, however it is a full day of travel from Anuradhapura/Sigiriya. If you are planning to be in the country 2 weeks or less, traveling to and from Trincomolee would eat up valuable time, which could be better spent elsewhere.

Trincomolee was ravaged by the Tsunami in 2004 and when I was there in 2013, it felt like an undiscovered treasure. It was the archetypal paradise beach: white sands as far as the eye could see and turquoise blue waters stretching to the horizon, with barely another soul in sight.

As tourism has massively increased in Sri Lanka since my time there, I can imagine it being slightly busier these days. However, please don’t let that idea put you off. There’s a host of awe inspiring things to do in Trincomalee, such as dolphin and whale watching (go at sunrise!), reef swimming with sharks and turtles around Pigeon Island, lazing on white sands… It’s a special place.

Day 7 – 8: Kandy

Day 9 – 11: Ella

There’s plenty to do in Ella too. You could climb Little Adam’s Peak (I’ll get to the actual Adam’s peak in a second!), take a natural shower in Ravana Falls (a popular waterfall for bathing among travellers and locals alike), or walk along the rails of the 99 foot high, Nine Arch Bridge. Despite its small size, you aren’t short of things to do in Ella.

NOTE: The train ride from Kandy to Ella is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, but it does take over 7 hours. As such, Day 9 of this itinerary would work out to be a full travel day.

Optional Stop: Arugam Bay

Golden sands are lined with beach bars, restaurants and cafes; the waves of the Indian Ocean make it a great place to surf too and people come from all over the ride the waves here. Likewise, the surrounding area boasts even more to do. From hiking (check out my list of hiking gifts !), to safaris, to epic moped trips. There’s a lot here to enjoy!

Day 12: Haputale and Lipton’s Seat

High up in the tea country of Haputale is Lipton’s seat, so called as this was where Sir Thomas Lipton (of Lipton’s tea) sat to overlook his tea plantations. He chose a good spot. Get a ride to up top of the hill and sit in the peace and quiet, overlooking the vast swathes of land (and ceylon tea) that stretch out before you; you can even buy a cup of tea while you’re up there! After you’ve taken in the view, go for a walk through the plantations; befriend the locals work in the tea fields and visit the tea factory to learn just how the tea is picked and produced.

Optional Stop: Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

            View this post on Instagram                         A post shared by Vicki Louise (@maketimetoseetheworld) on Nov 22, 2017 at 6:22am PST

To avoid cloud cover, it is best summited on a clear day. Wake at 3am to make the climb, up thousands of steps (around 5500!), in time for sunrise. When you’re finally at the top, admire the small temple that’s there (maintained throughout the year by monks), and gaze out over the mountains and hills that rise and fall all around you, interspersed with expanses of mist and cloud that extend away to the horizon. Adam’s peak is a great addition to your Sri Lanka itinerary if you are a keen hiker or simply want to challenge yourself!

Day 13 – 14: Mirissa / Unawatuna & Galle

Head to Unawatuna for some beach time to round off your perfect Sri Lanka Itinerary

On the South Western side of Sri Lanka are another two beachside towns that are well worth a visit. Golden sands abound, as do the beachside bars and cafes. As tourism increases these places are becoming ever more commercialised and Westernised. However, they’re perfect for more chilled vibes, beach time and nights out next to the sea. It’s not all about the beach though. The beautiful, white Japanese Peace Pagoda is in Unawatuna and provides stunning 360 degree views over the surrounding area. This is the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take a step back from the buzz of the beach.

Galle is just next door to Unawatuna too and well worth exploring. It’s an old fortified colonial town with origins going all the way back to the Portuguese in early 16th Century. Walk the walls of Galle fort, enjoying the colonial architecture situated on the doorstep of the swathes of golden sands. This is also a great area to see Sri Lanka’s famed stilt fisherman. Perched at the top of Bamboo poles, these amazing guys catch small fish swimming in the clear waters below them.

That brings to a close my suggested itinerary for 2+ weeks in Sri Lanka (which can obviously be extended by adding in the optional stops – and can certainly be slowed down if you have longer than 2 weeks). This beautiful country is being rediscovered by tourists and travellers from around the world. For a relatively small place, there’s a huge amount to see and do. There’s history, culture, art, natural beauty, friendly locals, incredible food to experience and enjoy. I hope this piece has provided some inspiration and helped you with planning your trip here. Hit any or all of these top spots and your trip to Sri Lanka is guaranteed to be that bit better!

And if you like this 2 week itinerary, or have a friend travelling to Sri Lanka who needs a bit of inspiration, please share this ultimate guide with them via Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or Flipboard. Just click the sharebar on the left for more options!

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Sri Lanka Itineraries

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We had a lovely vacation. Would recommend your local expert and our chauffeur-guide Bernard. Sri Lanka is amazing and we hope to return.

Are you interested in exploring Sri Lanka ? Keep reading to discover our fascinating Sri Lanka itineraries that will guide you through this enchanting island in a sincere and exciting way, whether it's the dynamic charm of Colombo, the serene charm of Nuwara Eliya, or the historical grandeur of Sigiriya.

Itinerary tips from Hazan: your Sri Lanka Travel Expert

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Our Sri Lanka travel expert , Hazan, believes crafting an itinerary in Sri Lanka is an adventure in itself. He emphasizes the incredible importance of a well-thought-out plan.

Sri Lanka is a tapestry of diverse cultures, locations, and experiences. From the lively avenues of Colombo to the serene Central Highlands, each place boasts its own unique flavor. That’s precisely why a customized itinerary can help you make the most of your trip, guiding you to the hidden treasures and rich cultural sites that set Sri Lanka apart.

With Hazan’s profound knowledge and vast experience, he's ready to assist you through every major step of your planning. Whether you're keen on delving into the ancient Buddhist temples, savoring the dynamic local food scene, or wandering through lush greenery, a meticulously crafted itinerary will ensure your journey is smooth and deeply rewarding.

Let’s collaborate to tailor an itinerary that aligns with your individual taste, rhythm, and interests , making your Sri Lanka adventure truly unforgettable.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Sri Lanka, created by local experts

12 days  / from 2250 USD

Sri Lanka: Off the Beaten Track

The ideal itinerary for everyone planning to go on a Sri Lankan adventure. Hike historic temples, become part of a Sri Lankan village for a day, visit tea factories, and many more activities included before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach.

11 days  / from 3400 USD

Affordable Luxury

Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime voyage exploring stunning sunny beaches; lush green mountains; unspoilt forest trails and breath-taking world heritage sites. This all-encompassing itinerary includes accommodation, private transportation and a variety of excursions and activities.

10 days  / from 2520 USD

Discover Sri Lanka

There is so much to see and do in Sri Lanka! This 10-day trip will take you around some of the most exciting parts of the country; spot Elephants in their natural habitat, discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and learn more about the famous Ceylon Tea plantations.

If you're planning your own trip to Sri Lanka, use these expert-craft itineraries as a starting point. For more inspiration, dive into our itineraries for different durations: 7 days - 10 days - 14 days

Get an initial impression of Sri Lanka with a 7-day Sri Lanka trip . Start in Colombo, where you'll experience colonial architecture and bustling markets. On the second day , head to Kandy to visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth and vibrant botanical gardens. 

On the third day , head to Nuwara Eliya for tea plantation tours and scenic hikes. On the fourth day , you'll head to Ella with its breathtaking views and the famous Nine Arches Bridge. Spend the fifth day in Yala National Park , where you can spot leopards during a safari.

On the sixth day , head to the historic Galle Fort to soak in the coastal charm and colonial history. On day seven , end your trip to Mirissa , relaxing on the pristine beaches and whale watching. Each day is a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, showcasing the best of Sri Lanka.

Galle, Sri Lanka

For a deeper immersion, opt for a 10-day Sri Lanka adventure . Begin your journey in Negombo , where on the first day you'll relax on serene beaches and visit local fish markets. On the second day , head to Anuradhapura to admire ancient ruins and sacred Buddhist sites. Dedicate the third day to exploring the cave temples of Dambulla before heading to Sigiriya to climb the legendary Lion Rock for breathtaking views.

Spend the fourth day in Polonnaruwa , cycling among the city's well-preserved ruins and statues. On the fifth day , head to Trincomalee to relax on the pristine beaches and snorkel in the clear blue waters. Day six is dedicated to visiting the historic town of Batticaloa; and exploring its lagoon and colonial sites.

On the seventh day , head to Arugam Bay , known for its surfing waves and lively beach life. Devote the eighth day to a safari in Kumana National Park, observing a variety of wildlife and bird species. On the ninth day , head to the town of Haputale, where you can stroll among lush tea plantations and visit Lipton's Seat for panoramic views.

Conclude your journey on day ten in the coastal town of Matara; explore Matara Fort and the serene Buddhist temple of Veherahena as you reflect on your journey through Sri Lanka's rich tapestry of experiences.

Sri Lanka © Anton Petrus/Shutterstock

Dive headfirst into a 2-week odyssey through Sri Lanka starting in the bustling streets of Galle town, exploring its historic fort and lighthouse on the first day . On day two , head south to the tranquil beach town of Tangalle , known for its secluded coves and turtle conservation projects. Spend the third day in Yala , delving deeper into the park on a full-day safari.

On the fourth day , head to the holy city of Kataragama where you will take part in a traditional puja ceremony. Day five takes you to the misty Ella Mountains, where you'll take a challenging but rewarding hike to Ella Rock. Day six is dedicated to a leisurely walk through the verdant tea fields of Nuwara Eliya and a visit to a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea production.

Day seven is set aside for a relaxing boat ride on Lake Gregory and explore the colonial-era buildings of Nuwara Eliya. On day eight , head to Horton Plains National Park for a morning hike to World's End, a stunning escarpment that offers grand views. On day nine , head to Adam's Peak, planning a night climb to see the sacred trail and a breathtaking sunrise.

On the tenth day , you'll head to the bustling city of Kandy, where you'll visit the Botanical Gardens and see a traditional dance performance in the evening. The eleventh day is dedicated to exploring the historical and architectural wonders of Mihintale. On the twelfth day , head to the coastal town of Trincomalee to relax on Uppuveli Beach and visit the Koneswaram Temple.

On the thirteenth day , devote a scenic boat tour to Pigeon Island National Park, known for its coral reefs and snorkeling opportunities. Finally, conclude your adventure by returning to Colombo on day fourteen , where you can shop for souvenirs and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Sri Lanka, tuk-tuk @ Shutterstock

Your 2-week grand tour in Sri Lanka begins with arrival and transfer to Kotugoda for rest on the first night . On the second day , you will travel to Sigiriya to admire the historical grandeur of the ancient kingdom of Yapahuwa and the spiritual cave temple of Dambulla. 

The essence of ancient Sri Lankan civilization is revealed on day three with a visit to the old city of Polonnaruwa and a safari in Minneriya National Park.

Day four moves on to a cultural immersion in Hirivadunna, where you will experience the local village, culminating in a climb to Pidurangala Rock. On the fifth day , the journey takes you to Kandy, a cultural center, after exploring the legendary Sigiriya rock fortress.

On the sixth day , you will have a serene time in Kandy, and on the seventh day , the adventure picks up and you head to Ella via Nuwara Eliya, taking in the colonial charm and tea culture. On day eight , you'll see the picturesque landscapes of Ella.

On the ninth day , you'll head to Koggala where you'll make the trek, climbing Little Adam's Peak before settling down on the beach. The tenth and eleventh days are dedicated to relaxation and optional beachfront activities.

Your Sri Lankan history continues on day twelve as you move to the historic city of Galle, which you explore on day thirteen . The fourteenth and final day will conclude your comprehensive journey, leaving room for reflection before you depart.

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock

This 7-day itinerary in Sri Lanka begins in the coastal town of Negombo, where upon arrival you will immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Muthurajawela Marsh during an enchanting boat safari.

The next two days will be spent in the wilderness of Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park known for its leopards and natural lakes.

On the fourth day , travel from Kandy to Dambulla, visiting an elephant orphanage where you can see these majestic creatures up close. Later, experience the spiritual serenity of the Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with ancient murals and statues.

Days five and six are dedicated to exploring the famous Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, a historic fortress rising dramatically above the central plains. Afterward, you'll go on a safari in Minneriya National Park.

End the week with a day in Udawalawe National Park, where you will go on another safari, this time with the opportunity to see large herds of elephants and other endemic wildlife, rounding off a week of unrivaled natural beauty and immersion in Sri Lankan culture. Book this trip now .

Adam Peak, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock

Start your Sri Lanka trip in Kalpitiya to enjoy eco-friendly dolphin watching and kitesurfing at Alankuda Beach on the first day . On the second day , you'll venture into the serene landscapes of Wilpattu National Park, which emphasizes ethical wildlife watching.

On the third day , you'll be transported back in time to Anuradhapura, respectfully exploring its ancient ruins. On the fourth day , you will ascend to the spiritual heights of Mihintale, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and Buddhist history.

Day five invites you to admire the medieval splendor of Polonnaruwa and appreciate the art and architecture. On the sixth day , move into the tranquil atmosphere of Batticaloa, enjoying its unique natural and cultural attractions.

On the seventh day , relax in Arugam Bay, respecting the local surf culture and environment. On the eighth day , embark on a pilgrimage to the many-faced Kataragama, observing various religious rituals.

Conclude your enriching tour with a two-day climb to Adam's Peak starting on the ninth day to witness the sacred sunrise and footprint, and take in the solemnity and natural beauty of this important spiritual journey.

Sri Lanka's Best Beaches: Sunset as seen from Elephant Rock near Arugam Bay © Shanti Hesse/Shutterstock

The ideal time to vacation in Sri Lanka depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to visit. Generally, the peak season is December to March , when the weather is dry and sunny, ideal for beach vacations and exploring the mountainous regions. 

However, if you want to visit the east coast, the periods from April to May and September to November are the best options, despite the occasional rains. From May to September, the southwest monsoon affects the west and south coasts, making it unfavorable for visiting these areas but suitable for surfing and exploring the culture in the central region. 

Conversely, from October to January, the northeast monsoon brings rain to the east coast, while the west and south coasts enjoy better weather.

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Uncover the Best of Sri Lanka with our Perfect 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary

Enjoy the best of this island paradise, including all the major sights and attractions, with our in-depth three-week Sri Lankan itinerary

When it comes to awesome travel destinations, Sri Lanka must be number one. 

Endless white-sand beaches with pumping surf dot the southern coast, while lush tropical jungle and misty mountain towns occupy its green centre. Ancient World Heritage sites are littered throughout the country and Asian Elephants and Leopards roam in abundance across the safari plains to the east, while enchanting train rides roll through verdant tea plantations and a vibrant cultural heritage thrives. 

Then there are the friendliest locals you could ever hope to meet plus curry, spice, and all things nice. 

So where do you even start with planning a trip to this incredible, bite-sized utopia?!

That’s where our three-week Sri Lanka itinerary comes in. 

Having now experienced just about every corner of the country on multiple trips (we’ve spent over two months in Sri Lanka!), we’ve put together what we think is the ultimate 3-week route guide through Sri Lanka. 

From the beautiful beaches of the southern coast (looking at you, Hiriketiya and Unawatuna ) and the stunning hill country of Ella , to the cultured heart of Kandy , Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya and the colourful Hindu temples and swaying palms of Jaffna and the north; this three week Sri Lanka itinerary has you covered, no matter whether you’re an adventure seeker, culture vulture, or total beach babe.

TRANSFORM YOUR SRI LANKA PHOTOS | We’ve just released our brand new collection of Lightroom Desktop and Mobile presets, including the Sri Lanka Preset Pack inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country! Check out the full range here now.

Sri Lanka Itinerary Highlights

#1 The cultural highlights of Colombo

#2 Beauty and history at Galle Fort

#3 The endless golden beaches of the Southern Coast

#4 Leopard spotting in Yala National Park

#5 Verdent highlands and epic train rides

#6 Rich history in Polonnaruwa

#7 History, culture and delicious food in Jaffna

SRI LANKA ITINERARY | SRI LANKA FACTS + TRIP PLANNING ESSENTIALS

Where is sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is an island country located in the Indian Ocean, south of India and the Bay of Bengal, east of Africa and the Middle East, and west of Indonesia and south-east Asia.

SRI LANKA’S WEATHER (AND THE BEST TIME TO VISIT)

Sri Lanka’s weather, much like its politics, is a complicated beast. Punctuated by two seperate monsoons affecting different parts of the island at different times of year, you trip will require a little pre-research to know what’s ‘in season’. The good news though, is that at least one part of the island is guaranteed to have good weather during your trip!

If you’re wanting to visit the incredible sights of the south and central areas, December to March is the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

Alternatively, if you’re keen to hit the surf breaks of Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, April/May to September is the best time to visit Sri Lanka .

HOW TO GET TO SRI LANKA

Being an island in the middle of the Indian ocean, pretty much the only way to get to Sri Lanka is by plane.

Right now, the main gateway to the country is Bandaranaike International Airport , at Katunayake, 30km north of the capital Colombo. The main frustration with the airport is the distance to Colombo - in traffic it can take over an hour to arrive into Colombo Fort. 

Sri Lanka is obviously well serviced by major Asian airlines, including budget airlines such as Air Asia, and increasingly by world-wide airlines.

Prices can be competitive, so it’s worth using Skyscanner to find the best price.

TRANSPORT IN SRI LANKA | HOW TO GET AROUND SRI LANKA

Due to Sri Lanka’s small size and abundance of transport options, getting around the island is easy, if not a little time consuming and uncomfortable.

Buses and tuk-tuks are the most common form of transport on the island, and service even the most remote corners.

Buses, however, are a fraction of the cost of tuk-tuks and oftentimes make for a much faster journey from A to B.

The most picturesque form of transport, however, is Sri Lanka’s train network. The network may be slow, cumbersome, and somewhat unreliable, but it services all the main areas of the island and provides travellers with rich cultural experiences that just aren’t as common in western countries.

Tickets for train travel can also be booked online up to 30 days in advance of travel at 12go.asia

If public transport isn’t your thing or time is of the essence, it is possible to arrange a private transfer, however, the cost is often prohibitive for a backpacker budget.

If you want to know more, we’ve extensively covered how to get around Sri Lanka in our Sri Lanka travel guide.

READ | Our comprehensive Sri Lanka Travel guide READ | Our guide to the Kandy to Ella train ride

SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS

If you’re planning your own travels to Sri Lanka, we’ve put together this list of Sri Lanka travel tips we really think you should know before you visit.

Includes the good and simple stuff that will help you travel better and more responsibly in the teardrop isle.

READ | 39 essential Sri Lanka travel tips

SAFETY IN SRI LANKA (YES, YOU NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE!)

Overwhelmingly, we’ve found Sri Lanka to be extremely safe and friendly , but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t issues with petty theft or personal safety at times.

You absolutely need to have travel insurance that ensures you and your belongings are protected here.

Plus, as the pandemic has taught; many things can go wrong anywhere in the world and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.

For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here .

For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.

Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy

*In normal times, we recommended using World Nomads travel insurance , but unfortunately they're not currently covering COVID-19 related claims adequately.

ACCOMMODATION IN SRI LANKA | WHERE TO STAY IN SRI LANKA

Accommodation to suit any budget can be found in Sri Lanka, from luxury hotels right through to dorms in budget backpackers.

We recommend staying in guesthouses, which you can find just about anywhere on the Island. Conversely, if money isn’t an issue, Sri Lanka is home to some incredible luxury hotels waiting for your visit.

Generally, the standard of accommodation in Sri Lanka is very good and compared to the west, quite cheap.

If you’re travelling on a budget, USD$20 per night should cover you, however , if money is no issue, luxurious hotels can cost anywhere between USD$50 - $200 per night.

HOTELS + GUESTHOUSES | Search for the best hotels and guesthouses here HOSTELS | Check  Hostelworld for the best hostels in Sri Lanka now READ | Our guide to where to stay in Ella

OUR 3-WEEK SRI LANKA ITINERARY | A MAP

Here’s a detailed map of our three-week Sri Lankan itinerary, broken up into the south, and the central and northern areas. It covers each aspect of our three week Sri Lankan itinerary below and will help you plan the ultimate Sri Lanka trip.

OUR DAY-BY-DAY 3-WEEK SRI LANKA ITINERARY

Day 1 | arrive and explore sri lanka’s capital city, colombo.

First point of call on your Sri Lanka itinerary is the capital, Colombo, where the international airport is located (well, technically it’s located in Negombo, an hour from Colombo). 

We’d recommend spending a night here to get your bearings (to help, check out this one day in Colombo guide ).

Honestly, Colombo is a hard city to love; it’s big, chaotic and has little in the way of must-see attractions.

We’ve spent a lot of time there on two different trips, exploring the best things to do in Colombo , desperately trying to dispel the notion that travellers should skip over it and move on to better things elsewhere. A mission that ended up altogether unsuccessful.

That said, it’s worth a day of your trip, if not to see the crowded bazaars of Pettah, then just to experience the kamikaze style driving of the city’s famed tuk-tuks. A few other sightseeing tips are: 

PETTAH MARKETS | in one of the oldest parts of Colombo, these markets are the best place to get initiated with the hustle and bustle of local life in the city. Selling everything from fresh produce to clothing, the chaos is intoxicating if not a little draining. Make sure you eat from one of the street food vendors!

JAMI UL-ALFAR MASJID (RED MOSQUE) | Located in Pettah (meaning ‘outside the fort’), this is a must-see in Colombo. Built in 1908, the mosque’s tall minarets and domes can be seen from quite a distance and its mesmerising colour patterns and architecture is enough to take your breath away. It's possible for both men and women to enter, but you need to cover your arms, legs and hair.

NATIONAL MUSEUM | A good place to get an understanding of Sri Lanka’s rich and diverse history, from ancient kingdoms to colonial times. We’d recommend going earlier in the day, although you only need to allocate a couple of hours.

GALLE FACE GREEN | Do as the locals do, and head to Galle Face Green for sunset. This is an ocean-side urban park, stretching along the coast in the heart of Colombo. Pack with vendors selling everything from cooked crabs to sliced mango and chilli (a popular Sri Lankan street food!), it’s a great place to grab an afternoon ice cream and watch the locals indulge in their favourite pastimes.

FOOD TIP | When you hear the noise and rhythm of metal on metal, stop! It means one thing: Sri Lanka’s famous street food, kottu roti. A delicious mash-up of roti, onions, leek, cabbage, eggs and sometimes chicken, mutton, beef, or our fave, cheese, Kottu roti is basically the best food ever. Chefs use two metal spatulas to mix and cut the ingredients on the grill with a rhythm, hence the noise. 

COLOMBO | THE DETAILS 

Where to stay in Colombo | Drift Hotel and Hostel in Colombo 3 has affordable rooms in the heart of the action. 

How to get around Colombo | Colombo isn’t easy to get around, however, trusty tuk-tuks are your best bet. Always use the ‘Pick Me’ app to book a tuk-tuk, or hire a tuk-tuk off the street (but always ask for the driver to put the meter on - this is a common travel mistake)

the ultimate sri lanka bucket list: 31 incredible things to see and do

Day 2 - 3 | head south to stunning galle fort.

From Colombo Fort train station, catch an early morning train along the picturesque Sri Lankan coastline towards Galle (around 2-3hrs). It’s one of Sri Lanka’s many beautiful train rides so make sure you get the window seat to take it all in.  

Galle Fort is one of the unmissable places to see in Sri Lanka (learn all about Galle Fort with our guide ).

Narrow, bustling laneways and crumbling colonial relics, an ever-present scent of exotic spices and the incredible tropical setting; there’s just something about this UNESCO World Heritage site that charms and captivates. 

MORNING | Explore the Galle Fort walls and ramparts, starting at the historic Clock Tower, before moving onto the Main Gate. There’s a heap of historic buildings to see within the Fort, including the Dutch Reform Church and the restored Old Dutch Hospital. Finish at the famous Galle Fort Lighthouse. Alternatively, head outside the Galle Fort to the local fruit, spice and flower markets to embrace some authentic Sri Lankan culture. 

DAY | Escape the incessant heat and shop in some of the local boutiques, art galleries, spice and gem stores, or pick yourself up a retro Ceylon poster from Stick No Bills (our favourite shop in Galle Fort). Don’t forget to stop by Poonies Kitchen , home to colourful, nutritious and progressive food fused with Sri Lankan flavours. Their signature dish, the super instagrammable Thali salad (LKR 1300), is an absolute must eat. Based on an Indian 'thali', it's a mish-mash of deliciously fresh flavours and as Mim says, is like "eating a rainbow".

AFTERNOON | Join the locals and tourists alike and head to the fort walls to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean (Triton Bastion or Galle Lighthouse are your best bet). We’ve now visited Galle twice on two separate trips, and watching a sunset from the Fort walls remains one of our favourite things to do in Galle.

NIGHT | There are a myriad of great restaurants to choose from, from local rice and curry haunts to upmarket fine dining. We loved A Minute by Tuk Tuk at the Old Dutch Hospital, where they served delicious contemporary Sri Lankan food. Try 'Batu Moju', an eggplant moju with roti and curry dips, washed down with the local brew, Lion Beer. 

While the Fort is rapidly gentrifying, it really is one of the best places to visit, and a must on any Sri Lanka itinerary.

GALLE FORT | THE DETAILS

Where to stay in Galle Fort | Read our guide to the best Galle Hotels

How to get from Colombo Fort to Galle Fort | Train. It’s a scenic 2.5-3.5 hour train ride from Colombo Fort to Galle Trains depart 10 times a day (check out our Galle Fort guide for all the details)

How to get around Galle Fort | By foot. Alternatively, tuk-tuks are a cheap alternative

READ |  Our comprehensive Galle Fort guide  

SRI LANKA HIGHLIGHTS

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort

the best things to do in galle fort , sri lanka’s historic seaside fortress

Days 4 - 5 | unawatuna and surrounds.

Just a short bus, tuk tuk, or taxi ride south of Galle Fort is Sri Lanka’s famous beachside town of Unawatuna .  

Although we’re not the biggest fans of Unawatuna town itself, it’s a great base for exploring the surf breaks and little towns along the coast, and it’s probably the most ‘happening’ place in Sri Lanka if you’re after a party.  

MORNING | First things first, you’ll need a photo at one of the famous rope swings of Sri Lanka, which are both located nearby at Dalawella beach and Mihiripenna beach. Although a little gimmicky, it really is a heap of fun and, considering the location and stunning tropical setting, is definitely one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka! 

DAY | On top of its rope swing, Mihiripenna beach is also one of the best beaches in the area, with a cool natural pool protected by a coral barrier. Alternatively, chill at Unawatuna main beach. You can rent a sunbed and relax, order cocktails and curries from the beachside bars, or take an afternoon stroll up to the pagoda at the north of the beach and watch the sunset.  

Hit up Skinny Tom’s in the centre of Unawatuna for brunch/lunch. Skinny Tom’s has a bit of a cult following on the southern coast, serving Sri Lankan/Western infusion brunch, including our favourite - poached egg hoppers. Delicious. 

NIGHT | Kingfisher Hotel is probably your best bet for a proper party. They hold a beach party every Saturday night, which fills with tourists, expats and locals ready to boogie to house music. Be warned though, the booze here is  insanely expensive - we paid more than London prices for a 330mL beer at the bar.

UNAWATUNA | THE DETAILS

Where to stay in Unawatuna |  We recommend Cantaloupe Levels , Thaproban Beach House , Paradise Garden

How to get from Galle to Unawatuna | Catch a local bus (LKR 60) or tuk-tuk (LKR 300) the 7kms from Galle to Unawatuna 

How to get around Unawatuna | By foot. Tuk tuks are also a cheap alternative

READ | All the best things to do in Unawatuna

parties and paradise: the best things to do in unawatuna, sri lanka’s popular beach town

Days 6 - 7 | stay at the stunning tri lanka (or surf in weligama).

The best thing about Sri Lanka being so small is that the distances required to travel between destinations are small and easy to manage, particularly on the southern coast.

From Unawatuna, we recommend splashing out and spending a few nights at one of the islands’ most beautiful resorts, Tri Lanka . 

A five-star sustainable, luxury retreat nestled into the jungle that surrounds Koggala Lake on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Tri Lanka is truly one of the greatest accommodation experiences we’ve ever had. The entire hotel is designed to be in, and of, the nature that surrounds it. It’s absolutely beautifully appointed, with attention to detail like nothing we’ve ever seen. 

Nurturing body, mind, and soul is at the core of Tri’s values, which means there are plenty of activities available, including: yoga, cycle tours of the local village, boat trips out to Cinnamon island, a beautiful organic spa and a glass-walled library and reading room, and as well as that insta-famous infinity pool too. Bliss! 

This is the ultimate splurge, but trust us, it’s worth it (read all about our time at Tri Hotel here ).

TRI LANKA | THE DETAILS

Where |   Tri Lanka , Koggala Lake  

How to get from Unawatuna to Tri Lanka | Private transfer (LKR 3,500) or tuk tuk (LKR 500) to Tri Lanka from Unawatuna

BOOK | Book Tri Lanka

READ | Our review of Tri Lanka, Sri Lanka’s best eco-hotel 

sustainable luxury on the shores of lake koggala: why you need to stay at tri hotel

Alternatively, if you’re on a backpacker budget (like us 99.9% of the time!), head instead to the super cool surfing town of Weligama .  A short bus ride from Unawatuna (LKR 100), or a cheap tuk tuk ride (LKR 1000), Weligama is built for surfers, with hundreds of surf schools located right on the beach - just turn up, speak to tout and you’ll be learning your way around a board just a few minutes later.  

For beginner surfers like us (we know, we’re terrible Australians!), Weligama is a great place to learn, with warm waters, cheap boards and easy waves the perfect combination to catch that first wave.

A 1 - 1.5 hour lesson costs around LKR 2,500 per person, and will teach you the basics of surfing including how to stand up, paddling for a wave, surfing etiquette, and safety. We went with Freedom Surf LK , and they were awesome. 

We recommend basing yourself at  Ceylon Sliders , a boutique hotel/cafe/surf store celebrating surf culture in Sri Lanka. It’s basically the coolest place on the southern coast, where surfers and yogis come to enjoy the best of Sri Lanka in an environment that wouldn’t be out of place in Bali. 

They also happen to have some of the best food in Sri Lanka, as well as the coolest staff we've ever met. 

WELIGAMA | THE DETAILS

Where |  Weligama, Sri Lanka  

Where to stay in Weligama | We recommend staying at Ceylon Sliders , alternatively search for Weligama accommodation here

Cost | 2hr learnt to surf lessons cost around LKR 2,500pp 

How to get from Unawatuna to Weligama | The cheapest transport is via local bus (LKR 100). Alternatively, hire a tuk tuk (LKR 1,000) 

the white sands and epic surf breaks on the southern coast

DAYS 8 - 9 | CHILL IN HIRIKETIYA, SRI LANKA’S RELAXED BEACH PARADISE

After learning to surf in Weligama, the stunning beachside paradise of Hiriketiya is where you can take your skills to a whole new level.  

What was once a sleepy hidden gem on Sri Lanka’s south coast, Hiriketiya is fast becoming the ‘it’ place for bronzed surfers riding waves all day long, digital nomads and their acai bowls, and salty-haired wanderers chilling into a new level of zen. We suspect it feels a little like Bali did 30 years ago, and we’re secretly hoping it stays this way. 

MORNING | Start your days at The Grove , which serves exceptional coffee, delicious breakfast tacos, and rosti eggs benedict which are to die for. You’ll be in foodie heaven here (and enjoy a welcome respite from rice and curry!).

DAY | Surfers can hire boards from the water’s edge for around LKR 250 ($1.50!), which is an absolute bargain. Be warned though - the waves get very busy from mid-morning to sunset, so we'd suggest surfing just after sunrise. Also, please remember to use surfing etiquette and respect the locals and their waves. 

For the ultimate zen, join a yoga session (or two) set amongst the jungles of Hiriketiya at Salt House (where you can also stay - they have beautiful rooms!). 

Although Hiri is amazing and you'll never want to leave, we do suggest you set aside a day to check out some of the main sights around Hiriketiya, including Dondra Lighthouse and Wewrukannala Viharaya. Completed in 1890, Dondra lighthouse is Sri Lanka's tallest, and in our opinion, most impressive (although the Galle Fort lighthouse pushes it hard!). The stunning coastal setting, beautiful palms, and lack of tourists means it'll be worth the effort to visit - trust us. 

Wewrukannala Viharaya temple draws visitors from all over the country to see the giant Buddha statue, which at 50m in height, is the tallest in Sri Lanka. However, the most unique (and frankly terrifying) part of the temple complex is the Buddhist hall of horrors, a long corridor illustrated with ghastly depictions of Buddhist hell. It’s worth a visit, just for this.

HIRIKETIYA | THE DETAILS

Where |  Hiriketiya Beach  

Where to stay in Hiriketiya |  Salt House , Dot’s Bay House , Jasper House (or search for Hiriketiya accommodation here )

How to get from Weligama from Hiriketiya | The cheapest and most effective transport is via local bus (LKR 200). Alternatively, hire a tuk tuk (LKR 2,000). The journey should take around 2.5 - 3 hours

READ | Our ultimate guide to Hiriketiya  

where jungle meets the sea: a guide to hiriketiya, sri lanka’s dreamy coastal paradise

Day 10 | leopard spotting in yala national park.

Hiriketiya is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave, except to travel to Yala National Park for safari and leopard spotting!

Jump on the bus (or tuk-tuk) towards Tissamaharama (Tissa to the locals) for around three hours, before making your way to Kirinda where the majority of Yala National Park accommodation exists. 

The impressive Yala National Park straddles the south-eastern coastline of Sri Lanka and is a must-see on any Sri Lanka itinerary. The 1268km² park is home to a rich array of dunes, forest, open plains and lush lagoons, which also attracts a huge diversity of wildlife; 44 mammals species (including elephants) and over 215 bird species, to be exact, and leopards, lots of leopards. 

MORNING | Book a safari (pick up at 5:30am, park opens at 6:30am) for the best chance to spot the rare and incredible animals of Sri Lanka. Although you’re not guaranteed to see a leopard, the chances here in Yala are much higher than elsewhere, so keep your eyes peeled. 

It’s worth noting that the safari routes can get very popular and crowded, especially during high season. To avoid this, we'd suggest visiting during shoulder season, or joining a safari tour group. 

You can book a safari through your accommodation, or when you arrive into Kirinda. There are a number of Jeeps that roam the streets looking for tourists, so enquire with one of these and negotiate a price you’re comfortable with.

We negotiated LKR 5,000 for the jeep hire, guide and morning safari, however this price does not include the park entry fees, which are LKR 3500 per person, nor a tip for your driver if you feel their service was worth it!  

DAY | After your morning safari, check out and start making your way towards Ella. 

YALA NATIONAL PARK | THE DETAILS

Where |  Yala National park, Southeast Sri Lanka  

Where to stay in Yala National Park |   Back of Beyond, Dune Camp Yala

How to get from Hiriketiya to Yala National Park | Bus is the easiest and cheapest option. Head to Tissamaharama (LKR 150 - 300), then change and catch another local bus to Kirinda (LKR 35). The journey should take around 3 hours. Alternatively, a tuk tuk should cost LKR 6,000

Cost | LKR 3,500 per person 

Leopard and elephant spotting in Yala National Park

trip planning essentials: everything you need to know before travelling to sri lanka

Days 11-13 | exploring the hill country and ella.

From Yala National Park, head north towards Sri Lanka’s hill country and the town of Ella . Take the bus from Tissa towards Wellawaya, before changing to the bus bound for Ella town. The trip should take around four hours, so if you’re after a quicker (yet slightly more expensive) journey, hire a taxi or tuk-tuk.  

Tucked away in the misty Sri Lankan high country, amongst idyllic green hills and gushing waterfalls lies Ella: one of this tear-shaped island's most appealing destinations.

The centre of all things outdoors, there’s so much to see and do in Ella that you could easily spend a month here, however, three days will allow you to see the best of the town and its lush surrounds. 

MORNING | Ella Rock is one of Ella’s most popular attractions, and sunrise is the best time to summit. You’ll enjoy spectacular views over Ella, Little Adam's Peak, and Ella Gap, illuminated by the golden morning sun. Treat yourself to a well-earned fresh coconut at the summit.

The best time to visit the mystical Nine Arch Bridge is also in the early morning, just after sunrise, when you’ll have the place to yourself (minus a few instagrammers like us!).  The Nine Arch Bridge, a must-see in Ella , is flanked by verdant forests and tea plantations, standing proudly across the valley below.

On misty days, low cloud hangs in the valley, giving the whole area a moody, mystical feel. It’s just a bridge, but a bloody beautiful one at that.

If you’re keen to get ’that’ shot, of the train going over the bridge, be there around the following times 9:30, 11:30, 15:30, 16:30, and 17:30 (train times are notoriously unreliable in Sri Lanka, so it may be a little late!). 

DAY | Jump aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train for a short trip to Haputale and the stunning tea country (book your tickets the day prior at Ella station).

After snapping away to get ‘that’ photo on the train, arrive in Haputale and head via tuk tuk (LKR 2,000 - 3,000) to visit the famous Lipton Seat, as well as the Lipton tea factory, where you can learn all about Sri Lanka’s most famous (and delicious) export. 

Sri Lanka’s second tallest waterfall, Diyaluma , maybe a little off the beaten track, but the epic views and natural infinity pools make the 1.5-2-hour journey more than worth the effort.

During the summer months when the water levels have dropped, you can enjoy a refreshing swim at the falls' various natural pools, including right on the edge of the main waterfall. Alternatively, there are larger, safer pools at the upper Diyaluma falls. Tuk tuk drivers in town will be able to take you there for around LKR 3,500. 

AFTERNOON | These are best spent hiking Little Adam’s Peak. The trek takes about two-hours roundtrip from Ella town, and starts in the lush tea plantations before slowly snaking its way to the first set of viewpoints. From here, you'll have 360-degree views overlooking the giant Ella Rock and Ella Gap towards Udawalawe National Park, perfect for photos. Hike up late afternoon and watch a glorious sunset unfold before you. 

NIGHT | Finish your time in Ella by doing a traditional Sri Lankan cooking class at Lanka's. You’ll learn how to cook an assortment of curries, including potato, okra, beetroot, pumpkin, and jackfruit curries in no time at all - and they were pretty amazing, if we do say so ourselves! 

ELLA | THE DETAILS 

Where to stay in Ella |  We’ve written a comprehensive guide to where to stay in Ella featuring all the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses to stay in for all budgets.

How to get from Yala National Park to Ella | Bus from Tissamaharama north to Wellawaya (LKR 200), before changing onto the Ella connection (LKR 150). The journey should take four hours. Taxi or tuk tuk hire is also available

How to get around Ella | By foot, or via the many tuk tuks that service the area. Remember to negotiate + agree prices before getting in

READ | All the best things to do in Ella , A comprehensive guide to the Nine Arch Bridge , A guide to Diyaluma Waterfall , Where to stay in Ella

misty mountain adventures: your ultimate guide to ella, sri lanka

The world’s greatest train journey from Ella to Kandy

DAYS 14 - 15 | EXPLORING THE CULTURAL CITY OF KANDY

The journey from Ella to Kandy will probably be the highlight of your three-week itinerary. 

Winding through misty forests, verdant tea plantations; over gushing waterfalls and streams, and past colourful towns and excitable locals, this train ride is, in our opinion, one of the world’s most picturesque. Grab a window seat (on the left) for the seven-hour ride and watch the lush countryside roll by. 

DAY | Nicknamed the City of Kings, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s second city and the island’s undisputed historical and cultural capital. The best-known of these sites is the Temple of the Tooth relic; Buddhism’s most important religious shrine, and said to be the location of a piece of Buddha’s tooth. Spend half a day here to fully appreciate the temple and the surrounding Royal Palace.

Spend the rest of the day walking Kandy’s stunning city lake, and meandering through the streets, laneways and market areas of the old town.

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth relic might be the most important of Kandy’s temples, but it’s definitely not the only temple worth visiting.  Jump in a tuk tuk and visit the three-temple loop, Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Embekke, and Lankathilaka. Each serves as a living history to Sri Lanka's extensive buddhist heritage and craftsmanship.   

AFTERNOON | Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya, the largest and most extensive in Sri Lanka . The gardens are amongst the best in the world, and home to the impressive and insta-worthy avenue of royal palms. When you’re done sightseeing, there are also a number of expansive lawns in which to relax and escape the Sri Lankan heat. 

KANDY | THE DETAILS

Where to stay in Kandy |  We stayed at Kandy City View Hotel , and also recommend Helga’s Folly , and OZO Kandy

How to get from Ella to Kandy | The Ella to Kandy train (2nd class: LKR 310, 3rd class: LKR 175). Read our Kandy to Ella train guide for all the details (including how to book tickets on 12go.asia)

How to get around Kandy | Kandy is a very walkable city, however use Pick Me or Uber for attractions further away. Beware of Kandy’s tuk tuk mafia who are notorious for overcharging unsuspecting tourists

READ | All the best things to do in Kandy , Kandy to Ella train ride guide

city of kings: why you need to visit kandy, sri lanka’s capital of culture

Day 16 | explore the rock cave temple of dambulla.

Just north of Kandy, in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, lies the famous Royal rock temple complex of Dambulla, home to some of the most impressive historical artwork in Sri Lanka, and a must-see on any Sri Lankan itinerary. It’s an easy ride from Kandy, at around 2 hours by bus or tuk tuk.

This UNESCO World Heritage site proudly sits atop a 160m rock and contains five separate caves with over 150 Buddhist statues and paintings, some dating back over 2,000 years. Murals cover over 2,100 square metres of cave walls, depicting Buddha’s life, including the temptation of the demon Mara, and Buddha's first sermon. 

The views from atop the rock are incredible, overlooking the surrounding valley, with Sigiriya in the distance; just watch out for the monkeys as they can be rather vicious! Dambulla is a great stop to break up the journey to Sigiriya .

THE DETAILS

Where |   Dambulla cave temple complex , Dambulla 

Opening hours | 07:00am - 19:00pm every day (ticket counter closes 17:00pm) 

Cost |  LKR 1,500 

Where to stay in Dambulla |  Search and book Dambulla accommodation here  

How to get from Kandy to Dambulla | Direct bus from Kandy to Dambulla route (LKR 200) This departs from Kandy Central bus station, adjacent to Kandy Railway station. Alternatively, an express bus, with air-conditioning, costs around LKR 500

DAY 17 & 18 | SIGIRIYA, PIDURANGALA + POLONNARUWA, 2 NIGHTS

Next stop on this Sri Lankan itinerary is one of  the 'must see' places on any Sri Lankan bucket list , Sigiriya (read our guide here) . 

It’s a short bus ride from Dambulla to Sigiriya where you can drop your bags at your accommodation (we recommend Back of Beyond Pidurangala , a sustainable eco-lodge in the heart of the national park), and organise yourself for an afternoon at Lion Rock. 

An ancient palace and fortress built in 480AD atop a unique rock island that rises 200m above the jungle below, Sigiriya is often referred to as the eighth wonder of the world.

There’s plenty of debate around as to whether the (admittedly, very steep) entrance fee of USD $30 for Sigiriya is worth it. We visited in 2016 and splurged on visiting the fortress with absolutely no regrets - it really is a super unique and interesting site (read our guide to Sigiriya to find our more).

Starting in the gardens, the hike to the summit of Sigiriya is demanding; it is 1200 steps after all. You’ll then pass through ancient frescoes, the 1600 - year-old Mirror Wall, and the famous lion paws.

From here, it’s more stairs up to the top.

Although arduous and a little sweaty (even at 8am we were drenched!), the hike is absolutely worth it -  the view from the top is awe-inspiring; weathered stone ruins overlook the dense jungle, surrounding plains, and the incredible fortress grounds below. 

NIGHT | Watch the sunset from the top of the rock before making your way back to your accommodation for the evening.

MORNING | Hiking Pidurangala rock (entry LKR 500 per person) for sunrise has become something of a rite of passage for backpackers visiting Sri Lanka, and we definitely recommend waking up early for this - it's a truly magical experience.

Located adjacent to Sigiriya, Pidurangala rock provides equally epic views of the surrounding area, a historic cave complex of its own, a tenth of the crowds, and the most incredible view overlooking the famous Sigiriya rock.  

DAY | From Pidurangala, hire a tuk tuk and head towards the capital of ancient Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa (LKR 4,500 ($25 USD) entry fee to Polonnaruwa). Built between the 10th and 12th centuries, it quickly became the thriving commercial and religious epicentre if the country. Made up of a series of temples and religious buildings, the ancient site looks and feels like the Angkor temples of Cambodia, just not as grand or well preserved.  

The best way to explore the Polonnaruwa complex is via bike.

Where | Sigiriya, Sri Lanka , Pidurangala Rock , Polonnaruwa  

Where to stay in Pidurangala | Book Back of Beyond Pidurangala here , or search for other accommodation in Sigiriya here  

Cost | Sigiriya entry: LKR 4,500, Pidurangala entry: LKR 500 per person, Polonnaruwa entry: LKR 3,750

How to get from Dambulla to Sigiriya | From the centre of Dambulla, catch the frequent bus to Sigiriya for LKR 50

READ | Our essential guide to Sigiriya , and complete guide to Pidurangala Rock

The ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya

the best views of sigiriya | our guide to pidurangala rock

Days 19 - 20 | explore the northern capital of jaffna.

We really loved our time in Jaffna , but weren’t sure whether to include it on this Sri Lanka itinerary, given its position in the north of the country and the time it takes to get there. 

But we really feel it’s a vital place to visit in order to understand this diverse little island better. To get Jaffna from Sigiriya, you’ll need to catch a bus back to Dambulla before jumping aboard the direct bus between Kandy and Jaffna. It’s around a five-hour trip, but well worth it.  

This was where Sri Lanka’s bloody and brutal civil war played out for over 26 years , and the first thing you'll notice upon arriving into Jaffna is just how different it is from the rest of Sri Lanka. These northern realms of Sri Lanka beat to their own drum, lead by the Tamil population and a strong Hindu culture so entirely separate from the Sinhalese and Buddhist culture of the south.

Despite the lack of rope swings and insta-famous locations, Jaffna has an incredible amount of unique things for you to see and do, including ancient forts and temples, isolated islands, and truly amazing food.  

DAY | Spend a day exploring the sights and sounds of Jaffna proper. The city centre is surprisingly beautiful - towering palmyra palms, colourful Hindu temples, vibrant local markets, cute laneways, and of course, friendly smiles from surprised locals. The perfect way to see it all is on foot, stopping at the ancient Jaffna Dutch Fort, the colourful and ancient Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu temple, Jaffna Public Library and Jaffna Clock Tower. 

If you’re up for a true ‘off the beaten path’ adventure, spend the day Delft Island , an outlying coral and limestone island with a long history dating from the  Chola Dynasty , Portuguese, Dutch and the British Colonial Period. It's absolutely not your stereotypical postcard-worthy island, but that's all part of its uniqueness. 

Visiting Delft Island was like stepping wayyyyy back in time, with tiny villages, windy dirt roads, rock walls, and swaying palms making up the island.

Alternatively, hire a tuk tuk and head north to Keerimalai and Kankesanthurai beaches (KKS). The north is dotted with colourful Hindi Kovils, spiritual abodes for local devotees. Ask your tuk tuk driver to take you to the most important Kovil's in the area. 

NIGHT | Finish the day by watching the sunset over Jaffna from Jetwing’s hotel rooftop , accompanied by a happy hour cocktail or two.

FOOD TIP | The cuisine in Jaffna is very different to the southern reaches of Sri Lanka - think more South Indian in flavour, with heavier curries, biryani, dosas, and parathas. And Lassis... so many lassis! For the best Masala Dosa in town, head to one of Jaffna’s food institutions , Mangos .  

Where |   Jaffna, Northern Sri Lanka  

Where to stay in Jaffna |  Search and book Jaffna accommodation here  

How to get from Dambulla to Jaffna | From the central bus station, catch the Colombo to Jaffna direct bus (7hrs - LKR 370). Be at the station around 11am in anticipation, and ask a bus attendant when the bus may arrive

READ | Our guide to the best things to see and do in Jaffna , everything you need to know before travelling to Jaffna , plus our Delft Island guide

DAY 21 | JAFFNA TO COLOMBO AND FLY HOME

Morning | Leave early, and catch the train from Jaffna to Colombo.

This is definitely the quickest and most scenic way to get back to Colombo, as the train runs through the heart of Sri Lanka via Anuradhapura, passing the infamous Elephant Pass , a slip of land connecting the Jaffna peninsula to the rest of Sri Lanka, which played a critical role in many battles throughout the civil war.

Sadly, it’s then time to head to the airport and say goodbye to this wonderful country after an epic 3-week adventure. 

How to get from Jaffna to Colombo | Direct train from Jaffna station to Colombo Fort (7hrs, LKR 600), Trains depart at 06:10, 08:20, 09:35, 13:45, and 19:00

SHOP OUR SRI LANKA PRESETS NOW

The Sri Lanka Lightroom Preset Packs are finally here! Inspired by the tropical beauty and colour of this beautiful country, they’re perfect for bringing your epic Sri Lanka images to life.

BOOK A TOUR OF SRI LANKA

Although we’re definitely advocates for independent travel, we understand some travellers may want to experience Sri Lanka with a guide, and with all the nitty-gritty travel details taken care of.

Below is our favourite tour in Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka Encompassed with G Adventures | A 14-day small-group tour visiting major cultural sights within Sri Lanka, including the most scenic train ride in the world from Kandy to Ella. Includes expert guides, meals and transport.

BOOK | Sri Lanka Encompassed

head north: the best things to do in jaffna, sri lanka’s northern capital

Travel insurance | stay safe in sri lanka.

Overwhelmingly, we’ve found the country to be extremely safe and friendly, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t issues with petty theft or personal safety at times.

SRI LANKA BACKPACKING ESSENTIALS | EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY

Travelling through Sri Lanka comes with a unique set of needs. To help you have a comfortable, happy journey, we recommend bringing the following items with you:

Reusable water bottle | The best travel investment we’ve ever made! We use the Grayl water purification bottles , which allows us to fill up from any water source, anywhere in the world (including train taps!).

Biodegradable Wet Wipes | Keep clean without destroying the planet!

Hand sanitiser | not something we’d actually recommend normally, but in Sri Lanka, it can be a bloody great investment.

A spork | to cut down on unnecessary plastic usage at mealtimes

Power bank | don’t get caught out without power for your devices

READ | check out our eco-friendly packing guide to travel through Sri Lanka consciously and comfortably

VISITING SRI LANKA? READ THESE NEXT!

SRI LANKA TRAVEL TIPS | Our essential 3-week Sri Lanka Itinerary , Our 7-day Sri Lanka Itinerary , Everything you need to know before you visit Sri Lanka (39 essential tips!), Where to stay in Galle

SRI LANKA CITY GUIDES | We’ve got in-depth guides to Colombo , Galle , Kandy , Jaffna , Hiriketiya , Mirissa Beach

CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS | Our essential guides to both Sigiriya and Pidurangala , A guide to Polonnaruwa

TRANSPORT GUIDES | Our definitive guide to the Kandy to Ella train , how to get from Colombo to Kandy , how to get from Colombo to Galle

ELLA, SRI LANKA | Our complete guide to Ella , a guide to the Nine Arch Bridge , How to see Diyaluma Falls , Ella accommodation options for every budget (+ our recommendations)

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t leave home without travel insurance (seriously, don’t!). Click here to get the best deals with World Nomads , our trusted travel insurance provider

PHOTOGRAPHY | Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide , as well as our top travel photography tips !

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you travel more consciously around the globe

ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials

Have you been to Sri Lanka yourself? Share any tips or destinations you think we’ve missed on this three-week Sri Lanka itinerary with other readers in the comments below!

TRAVELLING TO SRI LANKA? READ THESE GUIDES

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The ultimate 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary | The best of Sri Lanka

Uncover the absolute best of Sri Lanka with this detailed 3-week itinerary. This itinerary covers all the best things to see and do – including the best beaches & surf breaks, must-see attractions, and impressive ancient World Heritage Sites.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find an island that amazes travellers as much as Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s natural beauty is unrivalled – from the beloved gold-sanded beaches on the southern coast to mysterious mountain towns in the idyllic hill country to the dense, wildlife-rich jungles of Yala National Park .

There is simply a myriad of reasons to travel to Sri Lanka, and the world’s most scenic train ride is absolutely one of them. Not to mention that Sri Lanka occupies some of the most vibrant cultural heritage sites, including a colonial seaside fortress , lush tea plantations, and multiple ancient cities which include Kandy , Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya .

You could easily say that Sri Lanka’s unique experiences and breathtaking landscapes go hand in hand, and it’s my intention to help you plan, and make the most out of your journey. I’ve put together the best possible itinerary to spend 3 weeks in Sri Lanka.

My 3-week Sri Lanka itinerary is a detailed introduction and covers all the best things to see and do – plus additional guides that help you throughout your trip. Now the only thing left for you to do, is soaking up beautiful Sri Lanka and its magical experiences.

3-WEEK SRI LANKA ITINERARY | WHAT TO DO IN SRI LANKA

Day 1 | colombo, sri lanka’s somewhat chaotic capital.

Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital makes an excellent first destination in your Sri Lanka itinerary, especially if you look at the fact that it is located just 45 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport.

With nearly 620,000 inhabitants, Colombo is considered Sri Lanka’s biggest city. Unfortunately, this comes with the side note that the city is rather intoxicating, and often too overwhelming to fully enjoy.

Although Colombo isn’t the most captivating city in terms of must-see attractions, I think you shouldn’t just skip over it. I would recommend spending at least one day here to experience the hustle and bustle of Sri Lankan everyday life.

COLOMBO | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

The Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque) | Located in the narrow streets of Pettah, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the few must-see attractions in Colombo. The mesmerising mosque is charmed by a distinct colour pattern, towering minarets, and ornate domes that can be seen from quite a distance. It’s utterly breathtaking to see the towering mosque appear while strolling through the lively streets of Pettah.

Barefoot | Barefoot is an iconic shop, gallery, bookshop, and courtyard café in the heart of Colombo’s spirited fort area. The vibrant café is tucked away in a garden of calm and serves a wide variety of delicious dishes, while the shop sells traditional artisan crafts like fabrics, linen, clothes and gifts. Barefoot also houses a unique bookstore that offers a great selection of books on art, architecture, photography and spirituality.

The streets of Pettah | Pettah is considered one of the oldest districts in Colombo and a stroll through its narrow streets is quite the experience. The Pettah market is an excellent area to get a feel for the country and its people. While you’re there, make sure to grab a bite at one of the many street food stalls. Bear in mind that these streets are very chaotic and overwhelming, therefore it is best to give in, and go with the flow.

COLOMBO | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Colombo

Where to stay in Colombo | I recommend Lavonca Boutique Hotel , a small, comfortable hotel in the heart of Colombo. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Colombo.

How to get around Colombo | Colombo is quite an extensive city and somewhat challenging to navigate by foot. The easiest way to get around is by making use of the famous tuk tuks, which are found at about every corner. To avoid unnecessary costs, use the PickMe app, or arrange a price with your tuk tuk driver in advance.

DAY 2 – 3 | GALLE FORT, A COLONIAL SEASIDE FORTRESS

After experiencing the hustle and bustle in Colombo, its time to embark on a scenic train journey in the direction of Sri Lanka’s spirited south coast.

During this 3-hour journey from Colombo Fort to Galle, you’ll get spoiled by views of vivid sceneries, as well as authentic local villages and the island’s golden-sanded coastline.

Once you arrive in Galle, you’ll quickly come to realize why it is such a beloved destination. The seaside town was once of significant importance and is still largely visited for its historical Galle Fort , a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to amaze travellers.

The Dutch Colonial fort in Galle has a rich and captivating character. With lively, narrow streets, decaying colonial buildings, trendy contemporary cafés, and an appealing, tropical ambience, Galle Fort is, in my opinion, a must-see in any Sri Lanka itinerary.

GALLE FORT | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Galle Fort Lighthouse | The Galle Fort Lighthouse is framed by tropical palm trees and is one of the many picture-perfect scenes in Sri Lanka. For that reason alone, it’s one of the things that shouldn’t be missed within the ramparts of the historical Galle Fort.

The Galle Markets | Just outside Galle Fort, you’ll notice several authentic markets that sell a wide variety of fruit, fish and spices. By visiting these local markets you have an excellent chance to taste delicious tropical fruits, stock up on high-quality spices – plus you become familiar with Sri Lankan culture.

Galle Fort interior | Taking a stroll through the narrow, colonial streets of the fort was by far one of the best things I did during my time in the Galle Fort. By doing so, you come along a collection of decaying colonial buildings, which makes it seem as if you’re living during the VOC era.

GALLE FORT | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Galle Fort, Galle

Where to stay in Galle Fort | Galle has no shortage of good accommodations, both in and outside the fort. I would highly recommend Yoho White House Apartment and The Bungalow – Galle Fort . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Galle.

How to get from Colombo to Galle Fort | The easiest and most scenic travel option is from Colombo Fort to Galle by train. The direct train operates frequently (about 10 times a day) and takes around 2.5 – 3 hours.

How to get around Galle Fort | Galle Fort is easily explored by foot. If your accommodation is slightly remote, make usage of the accessible tuk-tuks.

DAY 4 – 5 | UNAWATUNA, SRI LANKA’S BACKPACKER BEACH TOWN

Situated at only a 10-minute drive from Galle lies Unawatuna , one of Sri Lanka’s most popular coastal towns and the first proper beach destination in this itinerary.

Unawatuna has rapidly become a fixture for travellers that visit Sri Lanka, and trust me, that’s for a good reason. The trendy beach town is home to a laidback backpacker vibe and has no shortage of palm-fringed beaches, contemporary cafés, and irresistible beachfront restaurants.

Accordingly, I would recommend spending a few nights here, it has some of the island’s most beautiful beaches after all.

UNAWATUNA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Dalawella Beach | Dalawella Beach is an extremely picturesque stretch of beach and without doubt one of my favourite beaches in Sri Lanka. The charm that defines Dalawella Beach is realized by a scenic rock formation, exciting beach swings and plenty of low bending palm trees. Make sure you visit early morning or during sunset.

Skinny Tom’s Deli | Only head over to Skinny Tom’s Deli, if you’re keen on tasting the best brunch in town. This European-style café has a great reputation on the southern coast and serves life-changing bacon, dhal & egg hoppers, fresh eggs benedict toast, and delicious artisanal cakes and desserts.

Jungle Beach | Although its located slightly off the beaten path, Jungle beach is an exceptional place for an afternoon of relaxing, swimming and tanning. Make sure you take a look at the Japanese Peace Pagoda, which is situated in the lush jungle right above the secluded beach.

UNAWATUNA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Unawatuna

Where to stay in Unawatuna | Unawatuna has great accommodations in every price range and I would highly recommend Bedspace Beach and Cantaloupe Levels . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Unawatuna.

How to get from Galle Fort to Unawatuna | Take a 10-minute drive by local bus from Galle Fort to Unawatuna. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk.

How to get around Unawatuna | Unawatuna is easily navigated by foot. If you’re keen to explore the surrounding towns, make use of the affordable tuk-tuks, or rent a scooter.

DAY 6 – 7 | MIRISSA, A TRANQUIL BEACHSIDE PARADISE

After unwinding at one of the tropical beaches in Unawatuna, it is time to continue your journey along the island’s beloved south coast.

Mirissa is an energetic beach town that has not gone unnoticed to backpackers and travellers alike. It has, in fact, become quite an unmissable destination in Sri Lanka itineraries.

The beach town is all about riding waves, paradisiac stretches of beach, trendy cafés and the tranquil ambience that characterizes it. But what really highlights Mirissa is that it’s deemed to be one of Sri Lanka’s best places to get up close and personal with Blue Whales.

MIRISSA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Coconut Tree Hill | Coconut Tree Hill is without a doubt among the most iconic things to see in Sri Lanka. The tangerine-coloured cliff is extremely popular and well-known for its sea of swaying palms and views over the shimmering Indian Ocean. I’d recommend stopping by earlier in the day or during a glorious sunset.

Parrot Rock | Only just of Mirissa’s main beach is Parrot Rock, a small secluded rock-island that provides the most stunning views over the town’s golden-sanded shoreline. Make sure you climb to the summit, it’s one of Mirissa’s best spots to sit and watch the world go by.

Surfing in Weligama | With decent waves rolling in year-round, Mirissa is one of the leading surf destinations on Sri Lanka’s south coast. The vibrant town is home to excellent surf schools that provide lessons and board rental. The waves in Mirissa are perfect for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers.

MIRISSA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Mirissa

Where to stay in Mirissa | Mirissa has many excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Satori Beach Hostel , Triple O Six and Mirissa Heights . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Mirissa.

How to get from Unawatuna to Mirissa | Jump aboard a direct train from Unawatuna to Mirissa that operates frequently (about 5 times a day). Expect the journey to take around 0.5 – 1 hour.

How to get around Mirissa | Walking around town is your best option as the distances are quite short. For surfing in Weligama, I would recommend taking a tuk-tuk.

DAY 8 | YALA NATIONAL PARK, SRI LANKA’S BEST SAFARI DESTINATION

From the moment I booked my flight to Colombo, I was excited about one specific thing, travelling to the wildlife-rich jungles of the Yala National Park to experience my first ever safari.

The incredible Yala National Park , situated on the island’s south-eastern coastline, is famed as Sri Lanka’s most popular national park and is unquestionably a must-see on any Sri Lanka itinerary.

The park is home to dense jungles, sandy dunes, wide stretched grasslands and several lakes and lagoons. This distinct landscape is the perfect habitat for a great variety and density of wildlife, which results in the potential sighting of leopards, elephants, Black Sloth bears, Fishing cats, Red Slender loris and crocodiles.

In totality, the national park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles, which makes an excellent reason to jump aboard a jeep and roam around the jungles of the park. Believe me, it’s one of the most fulfilling adventures in Sri Lanka.

It’s easy to book your Yala National Park safari through your accommodation in Tissamaharama. I would recommend joining a morning safari, this increases the potential of leopard sightings.

YALA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Yala National Park

Where to stay in Yala National Park | Tissamaharama has great accommodations (both in and outside the park) and I would highly recommend Hotel River Front , Thaulle Resort and Cinnamon Wild Yala . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Yala National Park or Tissamaharama .

How to get from Mirissa to Yala National Park | For this journey, the local bus is the easiest and cheapest option. Head to Matara, here change to a direct bus to Tissamaharama. The journey can be quite intense and takes around 3.5 hours.

Entrance fee | 4.000 LKR ($21.50).

Half-day jeep safari costs | 5.000 – 6.000 LKR ($24,00 – 32,25) per jeep, with a maxi of 6 people.

DAY 9 – 10 | ARUGAM BAY, A LAIDBACK SURFER TOWN

Travelling to Arugam Bay requires quite a long and exhausting journey, as it is pretty off the beaten path compared to other destinations on this Sri Lanka itinerary. That being said, I truly believe that the detour is worth every minute of it.

Slightly hidden on Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast, with Yala National Park as its neighbour, lies Arugam Bay: one of the island’s leading surf destinations . With great bays, excellent surf breaks, stunning natural sceneries, and trendy cafés, there’s enough to see and do in Arugam Bay, therefore, I would recommend staying at least two days.

ARUGAM BAY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Kudumbigala Monastery | Just 45 minutes of Arugam Bay’s spirited main street is the Kudumbigala monastery, a sacred place where locals come to practise deep meditation techniques. In addition to those mysterious, spiritual vibrations, you’ll find a viewpoint that provides the most stunning panoramic views of the entire region.

Muhudu Maha Viharaya | Known as the temple of the ocean, Muhudu Maha Viharaya is a charming white Buddhist stupa, overlooking Pottuvil’s sandy dunes and shimmering ocean. Fortunately, the temple is out of range of the regular tourist area, so it gives an authentic glimpse of Sri Lanka’s daily life. As always, follow religious customs and visit in a respectful manner.

Elephant Rock  |  Acknowledged as one of the best surfing breaks in the area, and a great place to sit and watch the world go by, especially during the golden hour. Elephant Rock gives a marvellous view over the bay and its wave riding surfers, certainly a must-see in Arugam Bay.

ARUGAM BAY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Arugam Bay

Where to stay in Arugam Bay | Arugam Bay has no shortage of great accommodations. For surfing, I’d highly recommend Upali Beach Surf Resort – other excellent options are The Spice Trail and Arugam Bay Roccos . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Arugam Bay.

How to get from Yala National Park to Arugam Bay | Local bus is the cheapest option. Do keep in mind that this is one of the most exhausting bus journeys in Sri Lanka – plus it requires changing bus up to three times. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with the PickMe app. The journey can take up to 6.5 hours.

How to get around Arugam Bay | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, walk or make use of tuk-tuks.

DAY 11 – 13 | ELLA, SRI LANKA’S EXTRAORDINARY HILL COUNTRY

After learning to ride the waves in Arugam Bay, it’s time to head for Sri Lanka’s mysterious mountains and one of my favourite places in the country, the sleepy town of Ella .

Around 1,041 metres above sea level and hidden in Sri Lanka’s peaceful hill country is Ella: a small town that is encircled by charming tea plantations, towering mountains and rushing waterfalls.

If you’re a nature & adventure enthusiast like me, Ella’s incredible sceneries will surely blow your mind. I enjoyed this town so much, that I’ve ended up staying slightly longer than initially planned. Therefore I’d always recommend adding some flexibility to your Sri Lanka itinerary.

ELLA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Ella Rock | It is no surprise that Ella Rock is one of the must-see attractions in Ella as it provides breathtaking views of Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Gap and the mysterious hill country of Ella. If you’re a seasoned hiker, you certainly feel hyped for the somewhat challenging Ella Rock hike. Do bear in mind that the best time to hike up Ella Rock is around sunrise.

Nine Arch Bridge | The now-famous Nine Arch Bridge is single-handedly responsible for the largest part of travellers that come and visit Ella. Tucked away between the dense jungle and tea plantations; this stunning piece of architecture impresses both travellers and locals on a daily basis. The scene becomes even more remarkable when the famous blue train slowly navigates its way across the bridge.

Little Adam’s Peak | As the name implies, Little Adam’s Peak is named after its taller and better-known brother, Adam’s Peak. The hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak guarantees the most excellent overview of both Ella Rock and the infinite-looking Ella Gap. It’s therefore little wonder that it’s such a popular attraction in Ella.

ELLA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Ella

Where to stay in Ella | Ella has some of Sri Lanka’s finest accommodations and I would recommend Rawana Den , 98 Acres & Spa and Mountain Heavens . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Ella.

How to get from Arugam Bay to Ella | Take a bus to Monoragala, before changing to the bus that heads for Wellawaya. Here take the bus to Ella. If you’re fortunate, you may catch a direct bus between Arugam Bay and Wellawaya. Since the journey is quite chaotic, alternatively hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with PickMe . The journey can take up to 4.5 hours.

How to get around Ella | Ella is an easy town to navigate by foot. Alternatively, jump aboard one of the many tuk-tuks.

ELLA TO KANDY, THE MOST SCENIC TRAIN RIDE IN THE WORLD

Ask anyone that jumped aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train and they all answer the same – this scenic train journey is one of the absolute highlights in any Sri Lanka itinerary.

Secure yourself a window seat and witness the train meandering through mysterious woodlands, authentic local towns and leafy tea plantations. This seven-hour journey is one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, so make sure you enjoy every moment of it.

ELLA TO KANDY TRAIN JOURNEY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Ella Railway Station

Costs | 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit 12go.asia .

Train times from Kandy to Ella | 06:40, 09:24, 10:57 and 12:48. For up to date timetables, visit the Seat61 website .

DAY 14 – 15 | KANDY, THE CITY OF KINGS

Following the breathtaking train journey, you’ll arrive in Kandy , a vibrant city that is of major significance to Sri Lanka’s rich, captivating culture and history. It is, therefore, more than rightly so named, the city of kings by its locals.

Sri Lanka’s second-largest city is famed for its most important spiritual site, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic; which according to Sri Lankan legends houses a tooth of the Buddha.

Although many travellers tend to visit Kandy in a hurry, I think there are quite a few fascinating places to see and appreciate in Kandy. I would highly recommend spending at least two days exploring the lively city and surrounds.

KANDY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Right at the heart Kandy and next to the Kandy Lake is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine. The best time to visit is during a Buddha Puja ceremony, when pilgrims from all over the world reflect, sing and bring offerings to deepen the appreciation of the Buddha and his teachings.

Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya | For me, it’s always impressive to see a large urban city park in the midst of a lively city, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya are exactly that. The verdant gardens are home to over 4,000 species of plants, including palm trees, medicinal plants, orchids and spices. A peaceful morning walk is a perfect activity to escape the sizzling heat and chaos of Kandy.

Bahirawakanda Temple | Located atop of the Bahirawa Kanda hill and to be seen from the whole of Kandy lies the majestic Bahirawakanda Temple. The towering Buddha reaches a height of 27 metres and is considered one of the largest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Make sure you snap some shots of the panoramic views of Kandy.

KANDY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kandy

Where to stay in Kandy | I stayed at Range Hotel Kandy and Cafe Aroma Inn . Additionally, I would recommend Dumbara Peak Residence . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Kandy.

How to get from Ella to Kandy | Jump aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train. It’s cheap and considered the most scenic train ride in the world – 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit the 12go.asia website .

How to get around Kandy | Kandy is easily explored by foot. I’d recommend grabbing a tuk-tuk for attractions that are situated just outside the town.

DAY 16 – 17 | SIGIRYA, SRI LANKA’S EIGHT WONDER OF THE WORLD

It’s time to head further North to the Ancient City of Sigiriya , one of my all-time favourite places in Sri Lanka, and an unmissable destination on this itinerary.

It is little surprise that Sigiriya is loved by so many, it has essentially everything a traveller yearns for. The town is surrounded by nature, has no shortage of breathtaking sceneries and houses the authentic ambience of a local village.

The real draw though is the Ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the country’s most famous landmarks, and often stated as the eighth wonder of the world.

It is safe to say that being surrounded by Sigiriya’s idyllic nature has a therapeutic effect on both body and mind. Therefore, I’d recommend spending a few days to explore and unwind in this magnificent area.

SIGIRIYA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Sigiriya Rock Fortress | Sigiriya’s natural beauty is unrivalled – and that is largely by means of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Witnessing this unique, ancient fortress, should be on every Sri Lanka bucket list, whether viewed from Pidurangala Rock or up close and personal.

Pidurangala Rock | The Sigiriya Rock Fortress might be the number one attraction in Sigiriya, it’s the incredible view from Pidurangala Rock that stole my heart. Hiking the summit of Pidurangala Rock has rapidly become a must-do activity for travellers and locals alike. To experience the mesmerizing view in full potential, make sure to visit with sunrise or sunset.

SIGIRIYA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Sigiriya

Where to stay in Sigiriya | I stayed at Wali Kukula Nest multiple times and I felt at home every single time. If you’re a creative like me, this is an inspiring place where you surely want to stay. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Sigiriya.

How to get from Kandy to Sigiriya |  Take a bus to Dambulla, where you change for the bus that heads to Sigiriya. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk from Dambulla to Sigiriya (1,000 LKR – $5.50). The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

How to get around Sigiriya | Walking around town is your best options as the distances are quite short. Do be aware that elephants often roam around the jungles. Alternatively, hire a bicycle to explore the stunning surrounds.

DAY TRIP | KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK, THE GATHERING OF ELEPHANTS

Sigiriya is conveniently located and makes the perfect base for an exciting day trip: a jeep safari in Kaudulla National Park.

Poised between Sigiriya and Trincomalee, Kaudulla National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s best national parks, and home to over 200 wild elephants, including a newborn. The extensive wildlife park is often referred to as; The Gathering, world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.

It’s easy to book your Kaudulla National Park safari through your accommodation in Sigiriya. I would recommend joining an afternoon safari, right after you spend the morning to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Pidurangala Rock.

KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kaudulla National Park

How to get from Sigiriya to Kaudulla National Park | By safari jeep. A safari tour is always including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Entrance fee | 4,090 LKR ($22).

Half-day jeep safari costs | 6,000 – 7,000 LKR ($32.50 – 37.50) per jeep, with a max of 6 people.

DAY 18 | POLONNARUWA, SRI LANKA’S ANCIENT CAPITAL CITY

Part of Sri Lanka’s glorious cultural triangle and only an hour away from Sigiriya is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a thriving kingdom.

Present-day, this ancient city has no shortage of grandeur, whether it’s the remainings of temples and religious buildings, impressive shrines, or elegant Buddha statues. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa features some of the most impressive ruins in Sri Lanka – which is a true pleasure to seasoned travellers.

I’ve heard many backpackers that experienced difficulties when choosing between Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. When I followed my intuition and chose Polonnaruwa, it felt like the right decision, and up until this day, I’m still delighted with it – even after visiting the Angkor temples in Cambodia.

POLONNARUWA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Polonnaruwa

Entrance fee | Adult 4,550 LKR ($25), children 2,275 LKR ($12.50).

Opening hours | 07:00 – 18:30 daily.

Where to stay in Polonnaruwa | I stayed at Singha Guest House and would additionally recommend Pharo Lake and Mahanuge Hotel Polonnaruwa . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Polonnaruwa.

How to get from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa | Take the local bus to Inamaluwa, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Polonnaruwa. The journey should take no longer than 1.5 hours.

How to get around Polonnaruwa | The most fun way to explore Polonnaruwa is by bicycle. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk that guides you around the complex.

DAY 19 – 20 | TRINCOMALEE, SRI LANKA’S UNDISCOVERED EAST COAST

After soaking up all that Polonnaruwa has to offer, venture further east to the pristine, undiscovered beaches of Trincomalee and surrounds .

Trincomalee, often called Trinco by the locals, is a relaxed coastal town that is less frequently visited by travellers and backpackers alike. Even so, I sincerely feel that its beaches aren’t inferior to most of the must-see beaches on Sri Lanka’s beloved south coast.

But what really distinguishes Trincomalee is the fact that it’s deeply influenced by Tamil culture, resulting in a completely different atmosphere than elsewhere on the island. Trinco is thus, no stranger to vivid, breathtaking Hindu temples, and I would highly recommend attending at least one of them.

TRINCOMALEE | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Koneswaram Temple | The colourful Koneswaram Temple holds the upper area of Fort Frederick and is a must-see in Trincomalee. The fascinating temple is dictated by its main shrine, a large vivid statue of the Hindu god Shiva, and faces one of the world’s largest natural harbours. If you plan to visit, remember to respect religious customs.

Nilaveli Beach | Just 20 minutes north of Trincomalee you’ll find Nilaveli Beach, a secluded beach that is said to be among the best beaches in Sri Lanka. The sleepy town and its eponymous beach are still largely undiscovered to backpackers and houses an authentic local atmosphere. Nilaveli may be a little off the beaten path, but it is worth visiting, and a great place to grab a coconut while watching the world go by.

Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil | Trinco may be renowned for its pristine beaches, it is the incredibly ornamented Hindu temples that amazed me the most. Established adjacent to the Trinco bus station is one of them, the Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil, a work of art that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhadrakali. To fully experience the temples, I’d recommend taking a peaceful walk in and around the buildings.

TRINCOMALEE | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Trincomalee

Where to stay in Trincomalee | Trincomalee has excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Surf Reef Dive Beach Palace and OYO 310 Sea Lagoon Beach Hotel . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Trincomalee.

How to get from Polonnaruwa to Trincomalee | From Polonnaruwa’s main station, take the local bus to Habarana, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Trincomalee. The journey takes around 3.5 hours.

How to get around Trincomalee | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, go walking or hire one of the many tuk-tuks.

DAY 21 | NEGOMBO, TIME TO LEAVE SRI LANKA

It’s time to leave Trinco and board the train that brings you from Trincomalee to Negombo (departs once a day at 06:50).

This scenic train journey is the last glimpse you’ll have of this unique, captivating country. It’s a great moment to reflect and appreciate the fascinating adventures you’ve had during your 3 weeks in Sri Lanka.

To avoid unnecessary problems, make sure you arrive in Negombo one day prior to your return flight. By doing so, you ensure yourself a stress-free journey to the airport.

NEGOMBO | THE ESSENTIALS

Where to stay in Negombo | The last night before a flight, I always try to pick the most comfortable, budget-friendly accommodation possible. For Negombo, I would highly recommend Waves by Tranquil . Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Negombo.

How to get from Trincomalee to Negombo | Take the direct train from Trincomalee station to Gampaha station. From there, hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with the PickMe app to bring you to your accommodation in Negombo. The journey can take up to 9 hours.

Train times from Trincomalee to Negombo | Train departs once daily, 06:50. To avoid unnecessary problems, make sure you arrive in Negombo one day prior to your return flight.

SRI LANKA ITINERARY | TRAVEL ESSENTIALS AND TIPS

Weather in sri lanka | best time to visit sri lanka.

Although Sri Lanka is just a small island, it is quite a challenge to figure out the best time to visit.

Sri Lanka’s weather is somewhat confusing and dictated by two individual monsoon seasons, and since they alternate, it’s important to plan where you want to go. Due to this distinct climate, there’s always a part with good weather, making Sri Lanka a year-round travel destination.

May to September | The absolute best time to go and visit Sri Lanka’s undiscovered northern and eastern areas.

December to March | Sri Lanka’s popular south and central areas have excellent weather this time of year.

I’d followed this itinerary in September and was fortunate to have the best of both worlds. That said, do be aware that travelling during the shoulder season does not always guarantee good weather.

MONEY ESSENTIALS | CURRENCY IN SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka’s official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee, a currency that is indicated by LKR and Rs. The notes that are currently in circulation include Rs10, Rs20, Rs50, Rs100, Rs500, Rs1000, Rs2000 and Rs5000. Make sure you have enough notes in lower denominations, especially if you plan to stroll the markets and hire tuk-tuks.

Exchanging currency in Sri Lanka | I would sincerely recommend you to avoid buying Sri Lankan Rupees either ahead of time or at the airport. I made the mistake to buy upfront, and since the Rupee isn’t rated as a major currency, I ended up getting a bad exchange rate.

The exchange rate at the time of writing | $1 equals 189 LKR, and €1 equals 209 LKR.

For up to date exchange rates, visit the XE website .

ATM’s in Sri Lanka | ATM services are found throughout most popular tourist areas and work well. To avoid unnecessary costs, I’d highly recommend choosing the local currency when withdrawing money.

Fee-free ATM | I used The People’s Bank on many occasions, and had no commission or whatsoever.

STAY SAFE IN SRI LANKA | TRAVEL INSURANCE

Though Sri Lanka is perfectly safe for travellers, I always strive to sort out my travel insurance before arriving in a foreign country, and I highly advise anyone else to do the same.

Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury or an accident on the road. When that happens, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Heymondo | Whether you’re going on a 3-week backpacking trip, or planning a long stay somewhere abroad, Heymondo has excellent insurance options either way – plus full covid-19 coverage and a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy, more information here .

World Nomads | If you’re an adventure seeker, backpacker, or planning your once-in-a-lifetime world trip, make sure you check out World Nomads, they designed the perfect travel insurance to help you travel safer and smarter. Do note that they’re not covering covid-19 related claims.

PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ITINERARY WITH THESE ESSENTIAL GUIDES

A guide to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s best safari destination (Update 2023)

7 Incredible things to do in Galle Fort, Sri Lanka’s colonial fortress

46 Stunning photos that will inspire you to visit Sri Lanka

10 Awesome things to do in Unawatuna, Sri Lanka’s backpacker beach town

8 Marvelous things to do in Mirissa, Sri Lanka’s vibrant beach town

A travellers guide to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka

8 Wonderful things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s city of kings

8 Impressive things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka’s lush mountain village

9 Incredible things to do in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka’s unexplored east coast

7 Awesome things to do in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka’s surfer paradise (2022 update)

Wow your photography is so beautiful! We were hoping to go to Sri Lanka this year (fingers crossed) so will definitely be using this guide!

Thanks for those lovely words, I will hope for you to, its such a lovely country.

If you need any extra information, feel free to ask me!

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

2 Weeks in Sri Lanka: A Detailed Itinerary and Planning Guide

Last updated: June 30, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 17 Comments

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Sri Lanka a number of times, including a short trip and a number of longer trips.

I was asked recently how I would recommend spending two weeks in Sri Lanka, and thought a nice long itinerary post would be the perfect answer.

First though, let’s start by answering a few questions about Sri Lanka!

Why should you visit Sri Lanka?

The short answer is because it’s awesome, offering everything from great surf to amazing animal encounters to magnificent beaches to spectacular culture and food, all in an easy to explore size.

In case you need a bit more convincing though, here are some more facts.

First, location. Sri Lanka is an independent island nation located off the coast of India in the beautiful Indian Ocean. In 2009, the 26—year long war finally came to an end, with a heavy focus on tourism developing in the intervening years.

When I was in Sri Lanka, many of the people I was with said that Sri Lanka could be described as a “lite” version of India. Having never been to India, I can’t exactly comment. However, if India has always fascinated you, but has perhaps felt too overwhelming to tackle, then Sri Lanka could serve as the perfect starting point. Although, having visited, you will probably just want to come back.

Sri Lanka has a wonderful, friendly people, delicious food (particularly if you like curry!), beaches, rainforests, natural attractions and mountains, as well as a multitude of cultural and historical attractions.

There’s no shortage of activities to suit everyone, from adventure seekers to nature lovers, to people just wanting to relax and unwind on a gorgeous beach.

When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

This isn’t as easy a question to answer as you might think, because despite being so small, Sri Lanka has markedly different climates across the island, due to it having two separate monsoon seasons.

The good news is that there’s always going to be somewhere sunny on the island. The bad news… somewhere else is likely to be wet!

Generally, April – June is the wettest season in the west and hill country (including Kandy).

The east coast, on the other hand, has its wet season in November / December.

The worst time for weather (but likely cheapest for your pocket), is October – November, when it can rain anywhere.

For the itinerary I’ve outlined below, which covers the west and south coasts as well as hill country, the best time to visit is going to be December through to the end of March. Just be aware that prices will be higher during this time period. See more on budget towards the end of the post.

Temperature wise, there isn’t much variance through the year as Sri Lanka is quite close to the equator. Expect daily temperatures of around 28 degrees C ( 82F) in the lower and coastal areas, decreasing as you go up in height to average around 20 degrees C (68F) in Kandy. Humidity is high everywhere, ranging from 60 – 90%.

A 2 Week Sri Lanka Itinerary

Ok, let’s get going with this two week itinerary!

• Day 1: Colombo, City Exploration

To be honest, Colombo isn’t really worth spending a lot of time in, compared to the rest of the country.

However, since all the international flights arrive here, it makes a good stop to recover from a long journey, adjust to the time zone and start getting used to the heat. I’d suggest checking into a hotel here and relaxing for your arrival day, with a bit of sight-seeing thrown in if you’re up to it.

Highlights of Colombo include the National Museum, the Old City Hall and Viharamahdevi Park, plus you can take walking tours and naturally there are plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes.

I stayed in Colombo for a couple of nights, at the lovely Cinnamon Lakeside , which had a fine pool and lovely lake views.

However, I’ve been told that the Cinnamon Red property , which features a 23rd floor rooftop pool and stunning views of downtown Colombo, makes for a great, well-priced place to start a Sri Lankan adventure. Just don’t forget to do some sight-seeing as well before you get distracted by a chilled beer and that pool view! Prices range from $80 – $200 on booking.com .

• Days 2 – 4: Habarana, Elephants and UNESCO sights

Once you’re acclimatised and relaxed, it’s time to head into the country, and my suggestion would be to head north to what is known as Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, around four or five hours drive from Colombo.

Base yourself near or in the town of Habarana, in the Anuradhapura district, and take some time to see the following sights:

Sigiriya – an absolute must-visit when coming to Sri Lanka, this giant rock rises above the surrounding plains to a height of 200m, and served as the palatial fortress and home of one of Sri Lanka’s early Kings in the 5th century AD.

Nowadays it’s a UNESCO world heritage site and it is fascinating to visit, with ruins, frescoes, and of course, that mighty rock, which you can climb right to the top of via a series of fairly hair-raising stair cases. I’d suggest spending half a day here, and coming as early in the day as possible – it gets very hot, particularly on the top of the rock.

Polonnaruwa – another of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO world heritage sites, Polonnaruwa is the second oldest of Sri Lanka’s original kingdoms, having been here since at least 1070AD. Today it is one of the best preserved archaeological destinations in the country, and well worth your time to visit. It’s quite spread out, so you are likely going to need to hire some form of transport to get around the whole place. Bikes are a good option.

Minneriya National Park – If all that culture is a bit much, fear not, this region has another magnificent attraction, in the form of the Sri Lankan wild elephant. These guys are a subspecies of the Asian elephant, so a little smaller than their African cousins.

Despite being on the endangered list, Sri Lanka has the highest density of wild elephants in Asia, so you are almost guaranteed to see elephants.

The best way to do so is by taking an elephant safari into one of the national parks, with Minneriya National Park being one excellent spot to do so, although this will vary depending on the time of year. We saw literally hundreds of elephants from the back of our jeep, a truly incredible experience.

The Golden Temple of Danbulla – Last on this list, since this is the cultural triangle, you should also make time to visit the third UNESCO site in this area, the Golden Temple of Danbulla. This is Sri Lanka’s best-preserved cave temple complex, and has been a site of pilgrimage for over two thousand years.

In terms of accommodation for the Habarana region, I stayed at the Habarana Village by Cinnamon , which offered lovely chalet-style accommodation, a beautiful open plan restaurant/bar and a pool. Prices vary, but a quick look shows they are in the region of $40 – 120 for two adults on booking.com , depending on time of year. Naturally there are many more options in the region, to suit any budget.

• Days 5 – 6: Kandy, Hill Country

After all the excitement of those UNESCO world heritage sites and elephant spotting, I recommend heading up into Sri Lanka’s hill country to the town of Kandy, which also happens to be a UNESCO world heritage site. Sri Lanka sure packs them in!

It’s around a 2 hour drive, or 4 hour bus ride , from the Habarana region down to Kandy, the largest town in hill country, where the climate is cooler and, likely, wetter. Here, highlights include:

The Temple of the Tooth – one of Sri Lanka’s holiest shrines, the Temple of the Tooth houses a relic of the Buddha. It’s an important site of pilgrimage, and is well worth visiting, even if seeing the actual tooth is a bit tricky. Note that security is quite tight, with security scanners and guards, and you will have to be appropriately dressed to enter. If you love temples, Kandy has plenty more to choose from, so you can spend a good deal of time exploring!

Tea! Sri Lanka, once known as Ceylon, is world famous for its tea, and the hills around Kandy are full of the stuff. A good place to get a handle on it all is at the Tea Museum ( TripAdvisor reviews ), found in an old tea plantation. This four storey building is a short (3km) trip from Kandy, and offers four floors of tea facts, as well as a lovely view of the surrounding landscape.

The Royal Botanical Garden – probably the best garden in Sri Lanka, these gardens feature a giant banyan tree, an orchid house and bats. Entry is just shy of 10USD.

Finally, if you’re feeling like a good hike, Kandy is a great launching point for one of Sri Lanka’s most popular hikes, up Adam’s Peak. This is an important pilgrimage for multiple religions, as there is a footprint on the top believed to belong to Shiva, Adam or the Buddha, depending on which religion you ask.

The mountain is just over 2 km high, and the hike will take you a total time of 4 – 7 hours, depending on fitness. Most visitors climb to see either sunrise or sunset. Find out more about climbing Adam’s Peak here .

• Days 7 – 10: Galle, Beaches and Forts

After all that culture, maybe it’s time to relax a bit, and head to the south. Leaving Kandy, I can highly recommend taking the scenic train towards Colombo, which offers stunning views of the scenery. Then, you can take either the bus or train on to the fortified city of Galle, your next destination.

Built by the Dutch, the original city of Galle dates from 1663, and is today one of the best surviving examples of a fortified port city in Asia. It’s also a UNESCO world heritage site.

These days, it’s a wonderful, vibrant place to wander about, with highlights including those incredible walls and the lighthouse. It’s also filled with boutiques, cafes and no shortage of hotel options .

Around Galle, there is also plenty to see and do, with visits to the beach towns of Unawatuna and Hikkaduwa recommended, both of which offer stunning beaches, dotted with cafe’s and bars, on which you can get your relaxation properly on.

• Days 11 – 13: The Far South – Whales, Leopards and More Beaches

If you can tear yourself away from Galle and surrounds, then I can recommend heading even further along the south coast. The further you go, the more deserted and gorgeous the beaches become. When I visited, these beach towns were everything I had ever hoped for from previous trips to Asia, but never quite found. You should definitely visit before everyone else figures this out, to wander beaches lit by candle-light against a back drop of surf.

If you do go into the south, a couple of things you should definitely do:

Visit Yala National Park – before I visited Sri Lanka I had no idea how incredible the wildlife viewing opportunities were. Yala National Park is full of wildlife, but the main attraction is without doubt the leopard. Yala has one of the highest densities of Leopard anywhere in the world, meaning your chance to see these animals is pretty good.

Go Whale Watching – the seas off the southern coast of Sri Lanka are filled with all sorts of marine life, but the big draw are the whales.

I took a trip from Mirissa with Raja and the Whales , and I have to say I was impressed by how the boat operator put the whales first, with the captain explaining how he wasn’t going to get too close, or “chase” the whales, as many of the other boats around us were doing.

They also work with local scientific organisations, collecting data on the whales, and at one point during the trip the captain even hailed a passing tanker and gave them a verbal dressing down for their illegal waste dumping.

I had a thrilling morning of whale watching, we saw blue whales, dolphins and turtles, and the boat operators kept us fed with eggs, toast, cake, and for those who needed them, sea sickness tablets! Highly recommended.

And that’s the end of this two week Sri Lanka trip itinerary!

There is obviously a lot more of Sri Lanka to explore, including the east coast and the far north, and you could easily compress the above itinerary into a week if you wanted to move faster, but since going slow and taking everything in is how I prefer to travel if I can, that’s how this itinerary has worked out.

Now, let’s look at some practicalities of travelling in Sri Lanka, including budget, health, staying safe, and more.

Sri Lanka Itinerary Overview

How much does it cost to travel in sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is not a seriously budget destination, although you can get by on $30 – $50 all in by being careful. Much less than that would be tricky though, and as soon as you start adding on sight-seeing and attractions, your budget is going to increase. Here’s an excellent budget guide to Sri Lanka to give you an idea of what’s possible.

Generally, rooms will cost you $20 and up, food can be had for $2 – $5, and transport on the cheaper buses can be had at a very low price. Of course, you can spend far more, with accommodation options available in a wide spectrum of prices, and if you choose to take a tour or other arranged trip then your budget will vary depending on the quality.

The other main cost you will have is going to be entry to attractions. Most national parks and monuments have an entry fee, and as a visitor you will pay a lot more than a local. Entry to attractions can quickly eat into your budget, with places like Sigiriya costing around $30.

Where to Stay In Sri Lanka and How to Get Around

 accommodation.

There’s no shortage of accommodation options in Sri Lanka , from upscale hotels, to boutique guesthouses, to hostels and B&B’s. Prices are not extravagant, but Sri Lanka isn’t a budget destination either.

On my two trips to Sri Lanka I was hosted primarily by Cinnamon Hotels, who own a series of three to five star properties all around the island, and are an excellent choice if you are looking for upscale, great-value comfort. I stayed in three of their properties at varying levels of luxury, and enjoyed the friendly welcome, hospitality and amazing food at all of them.

There are of course numerous other options depending on your budget. I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention another great option if you’re heading down south – the Cantaloupe properties. These guys hosted me for four nights of relaxation at their two properties, Cantaloupe Levels and Cantaloupe Aqua , both near Galle, and made sure I had an amazing time.

These are very different properties, with Levels being more of an upscale boutique hotel with a romantic, relaxing vibe, whilst Aqua was a beach front property that was perfect for a spot of surfing and sun. If you want something a bit smaller and intimate in this part of Sri Lanka, these two properties should have something to suit. See more tips on getting a great deal on accommodation in Sri Lanka at the end of the post.

Getting Around

There’s an extensive road network in Sri Lanka, some of which is brand new (the highway from Colombo to the south is excellent), and much of which is a little worse for wear.

Being a passenger in a vehicle can be a fairly hair-raising experience, although as the roads aren’t so great, often the speeds aren’t so great either. If you want to drive yourself, here’s our recommended way to get the best deals on car hire , searching across all the major providers to find you the best deal.

The cheapest way to get around is going to be on public transport, with buses running all over the place. They are likely to be crowded, slow and uncomfortable, but hey, it’ll be an experience. Some routes offer more expensive air conditioned buses with guaranteed seating, although they travel on the same roads so don’t expect to get there any quicker.

There are also three wheeled tuk-tuks for hire, which looked entirely terrifying. A better option would be to hire a car with a driver, which will likely work out relatively good value for money, and the driver might double as a tour-guide. If you don’t go on a full blown tour, I’d suggest that this might be the next easiest way to get yourself to all the major sights listed on the itinerary below.

If time is more important to you than money, then you can also get around the country by air. Cinnamon Air operates a charter service from Colombo, with which you can get around the country relatively easy. They also do sight-seeing services. I did a scenic flight over Sigiriya, which was a magnificent experience.

Finally, one experience not to be missed is a train ride. I took the train from Kandy to Colombo, an incredibly scenic journey through forests and fields. Some of the trains offer scenic observation cars, and if you splash for a more expensive ticket, the carriage could be air conditioned. There’s a good train network across Sri Lanka, and I would recommend this as a solid option.

Practicalities for traveling in Sri Lanka

Currency in sri lanka.

The local currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, which is easily exchangeable for most major world currencies.

Credit cards are also accepted, although it’s always useful to have cash on you, particularly in more rural areas or at local restaurants and smaller hostels and guesthouses.

Electricity in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka uses a 220v system. A little confusingly in my experience, different places had different types of plug. Some properties used the British three pin square shaped plugs, whilst others used a three pin round plug design (also found in India).

Either way, you’re most likely going to need an adaptor, which you’ll be able to buy on arrival, or you can pick one up from Amazon before you go.

Tipping in Sri Lanka

Tipping is part of life in Sri Lanka, so it’s advisable to have some rupees to hand. For things like porterage you’re looking at around 50-100 rupees, for restaurants, a 10% tip is fairly normal. This might be automatically added to your bill.

Crime in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has been regarded as a safe destination in previous years, however, like everywhere in the world violence and terrorism are an unfortunate reality – you can read about terror attacks in the country here . We advise following the advice of your countries foreign office, state department or relevant government body when travelling to any destination.

Violent crime against visitors is certainly uncommon, but as always, be mindful of yourself and your possessions. You should always take the usual precautions with your valuables, using the hotel safe if there is one available, and not leaving valuables in plain sight.

Health in Sri Lanka

The tap water in Sri Lanka is not generally advisable to drink, so either drink bottled water (widely available), or travel with a water purifier like this .

Sri Lanka also has malaria, although it is rare, so your requirement for anti-malarials will likely depend on where you are visiting. I’d very much suggest going to visit your doctor and getting up to date advice as to whether or not you need to take anti-malarials, as well as any other shots you might need for your trip.

For current health advice from the UK’s National Health Service for travel to Sri Lanka, see here .

Finally, Sri Lanka is a tropical country with a hot climate, so the biggest risk you are likely going to face is dehydration, which can make you very ill. Read my post for more on how to spot the signs of dehydration as well as how to treat and, more importantly, avoid it altogether!

Visas for Sri Lanka

Nearly every visitor to Sri Lanka will need a visa. Tourist visas are valid for ninety days, and you can either apply online for an e-visa , or pick one up on arrival. The cost is around 30USD – slightly less if you buy online in advance.

Internet access in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan internet is passable, but not terribly fast, and Wi-Fi connections are often a bit flakey. Still, I had no trouble getting online everywhere I went.

If you have an unlocked phone I’d advise picking up a SIM card at the airport, an extremely simple and cost effective option.

I used a Mobitel SIM card all around the country on both trips with no problem. You can expect 3G speeds in most cities, and 2G speeds as you get more rural. For up to date information on networks and pricing, this website is an invaluable resource .

Cultural Considerations

Sri Lankans society is fairly modest, so dress appropriately. If visiting culturally important sites, showing anything above the knee, or having bare shoulders, is generally frowned upon.

You will also likely have to remove footwear and hats to enter temples and the like, and be respectful of imagery of deities. It’s considered rude for example to stand with your back to certain statues, so keep that in mind when taking photos. Swimwear is fine on the beach, but not for general wear about town.

Language in Sri Lanka

There are two official languages in Sri Lanka, Sinhala and Tamil. As a visitor though, you will find English (spoken fluently by 10% of the population) will serve you very well, although of course learning some key words like “hello” and “thank you” in the local languages is always nice.

What to Pack for Sri Lanka

My general packing list for digital nomads is a great place to start, which you can adjust as necessary. If you’re not a digital nomad, you can leave much of the tech off the list, although these days all of us seem to travel with a lot of gadgets!

Overall, layers and breathable lightweight clothing are going to be your best option. It can get cooler in the evenings in hill country, particularly if you hike up Adam’s Peak overnight, so a fleece or windproof jacket will come in handy.

Something like a sarong for ladies to cover shoulders is likely going to come in useful. Unless you’re planning serious multi-day hikes, you won’t need any serious hiking gear. Beachwear and casual clothing are going to be your go-to items of clothing. You’re also going to want insect repellant and high-factor sun cream , and a hat wouldn’t go amiss!

Getting to and from Sri Lanka

I flew to Sri Lanka with SriLankan Airlines , the national flag carrier, who offer direct flights to Colombo from a number of destinations in Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

Planes are modern and the service is excellent, so I have no hesitation recommending them. Reaching Sri Lanka from the US is a little more tricky, as there are no direct flights.

When searching for flight deals, I generally find Priceline to be one of the best options.You can check them out here to see how much it will cost you to get to Sri Lanka.

Further reading and information

Looking for more reading to help plan your Sri Lanka trip? Here are some resources to help you out from the web:

• Our 1 week Sri Lanka itinerary , which focuses on a more luxury trip
• A Budget Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka by fellow blogger What’s Dave Doing
• The Rough Guide website ’s resource section for Sri Lanka
• Wikivoyage has a comprehensive page on Sri Lanka
• My four day Sri Lanka trip report which covers taking a private tour for a shorter trip, with a focus on luxury travel, tea and leopards

If you prefer your books to be somewhat more tangible (or offline readable at least), these are the most recently updated guidebooks out there at the moment, available on Amazon:

• The Lonely Planet Sri Lanka Guide
• The DK Eyewitness Sri Lanka Travel Guide

And that’s it! We hope this post is useful to help you plan your own 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary!

Have you visited Sri Lanka yet, or is it on your to-do list? Let me know in the comments below!

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There are 17 comments on this post

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21st January 2020 at 2:56 am

Lovely article

Laurence Norah says

21st January 2020 at 9:24 am

Thank you 🙂

Leah Drey says

24th September 2019 at 9:02 pm

Thanks for sharing this. I just have a few questions about getting back from Yalla to the airport/

– Can you share how long it would take to get from Yala to the airport? Google is failing me. – Would you recommend driving or alternative method of transport to get back to the airport? – Would it make sense to return from Colombo airport or do any of the others make more sense?

25th September 2019 at 8:18 am

So it’s around a 6 hour drive from Yala if I recall correctly. Driving is likely to be the best option, I believe there are also flights from a nearby airport from Yala to Colombo, but I’m not sure how regular they are.

When you say return from, do you mean fly from out of Sri Lanka? I think that’s the only logical option to be honest. A new international airport, Mattala, did open in 2013, but I don’t think there are any scheduled flights from there.

Have a great trip!

6th November 2018 at 9:32 pm

Hi Keith Forbes

I’m also taking my 2 teenage daughters to Sri Lanka at Xmas next year so I’d love to know what your daughters thought of the trip and what their favourite parts of it were.

keith forbes says

29th August 2018 at 5:11 am

Lawrence, Thanks for taking the time to put this all together. Great information and really well structured. We’re travelling to Sri Lanka for NYE this year thru to mid Jan with two 16yr olds and a 13 year old – all girls. Any tips on Galle or nearby for NYE? Also is there a central resource for train travel between the key locations? We arrive after lunch so we’re thinking of getting the train south (skipping Colombo) a few days around Calle then onto Yala, up to Kandy and if we have time Habarana and surrounds or maybe Colombo for a few days. Thanks, Keith

29th August 2018 at 10:59 am

My pleasure! For train travel, I always like the man in seat 61, and he has a good entry on Sri Lanka which should be useful: https://www.seat61.com/SriLanka.htm

I’ve not stayed in Sri Lanka for New Years, so can’t comment, but the Galle area is lovely, as are the surrounds. It sounds like your itinerary is a good one! Have a great trip 🙂

Zahava says

26th August 2018 at 1:12 pm

Hi Laurence. That’s The best blog I found, regarding Sri Lanka. Thanks! We are planning a 2 weeks trip during the Christmas break, with 3 children 11, 16, 20. I Was wondering what itinerary would you choose if we would like to spend the last week relaxing at the beach? Also, one of my daughters is Celiac, do you think the hotels you recommended will be able to Attend her needs of should we look for a more upscale hotels for that reason? Zahava. London.

26th August 2018 at 3:30 pm

Thanks very much! So for that time of year, the south west of the country is going to be in its dry season, so you should have better weather in the south west of the country. So I would suggest the region of the coast from Galle and south would be the best option, it has some great beaches and you should get the best weather. Just be aware that prices will be a bit higher in this region at this time of year.

If it was me I would probably follow this itinerary fairly closely, as the last week is easily adjustable to take in more beaches and less sight-seeing 🙂

I’m not an expert of Celiac travel, but I do know friends of mine who travel do find the higher end hotels are often better equipped to deal with this sort of thing. It might be worth reaching out and asking before booking anything, just to be sure.

Susie S says

17th September 2017 at 9:43 pm

Thanks for the great write up! You mentioned one option for getting around would be to hire a driver. Can you recommend how to book a driver? For example, from Colombo to Habarana and from there to Kandy. And Kandy to Ella. Thanks!

Vicki Majella Hansford says

6th August 2017 at 10:51 am

Hi Laurence I really like you blog Do you think it is necessary to pre book accommodation before we leave Australia or,can you rock up in places and be sure to find something Thanks Vicki

Laurence says

6th August 2017 at 7:04 pm

I think in many cases you can just rock up, although it depends on the time of year and where you are visiting. We also generally find we get better deals by booking in advance for some reason. So yes, you should be fine, with caveats 😉

Have an awesome trip 😀

Amar Hussain says

6th February 2017 at 9:45 pm

Great post Laurence. Looks like you had better weather in Galle than we did!

One thing missing from your itinerary is the Kandy to Ella train ride which is super scenic. The times, fares and how far in advance it books up stumps a lot of people as there isn’t a lot of accurate information online.

I’ve put up an itinerary here and it includes all the info for the train ride – http://gapyearescape.com/backpacking-sri-lanka-two-week-travel-itinerary/

7th February 2017 at 9:41 am

Thanks Amar – yes, we had a great trip and wonderful weather most of the time. Thanks for sharing your post, much appreciated!

Green Global Travel says

26th June 2015 at 7:20 pm

Thanks for sharing these great pictures and travel tips! It’s always important to know what kind of plug is needed and if tipping is normal. – Janeen

26th June 2015 at 7:22 pm

My pleasure, thanks for commenting 🙂

26th June 2015 at 6:23 pm

I completely agree, the mid-range options are excellent value for money 🙂

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The Perfect 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary

Despite being a fairly small country, Sri Lanka packs in a lot of amazing things to do. It really has it all: beautiful beaches, exotic jungle, lush tea plantations and plenty of wildlife watching opportunities. Deciding where to go in just two weeks can be tricky, but we've got you covered. 

We spent five weeks here and have cherry picked our favourite places to put together a two week itinerary which has the wow factor. 

The monsoon season can have an impact on your route, but when we visited in June and July we found the Yala monsoon on the south coast and in the west to be no problem at all. We barely had any rain and visitor numbers were down. One part of the country is always in monsoon season, so you can never fully avoid it. Overall we'd say Sri Lanka is a year round destination. 

The perfect 2 week Sri Lanka Itinerary

Here’s a summary of the perfect 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary:

Day 1: Negombo Day 2: Sigirya Day 3: Pidurangala Rock & Kaudulla Day 4: Kandy Day 5: Nuwara Eliya Day 6: Haputale Day 7: Haputale / Ella Day 8: Ella Day 9: Yala Day 10: Hiriketiya Day 11: Hiriketiya Day 12: Mirissa Day 13: Unawatuna Day 14: Galle

Day 1 - Negombo

Colombo airport is not actually in Colombo at all, it's actually in Negombo. If you're on one of the many flights that land in the middle of the night, or you're not a fan of big cities, opt to stay in Negombo instead. The journey into Colombo, despite the distance being small will take at least an hour and a half and the traffic around the city is awful.

The town of Negombo is just 15 minutes from the airport and is a much nicer place to spend the night, the accommodation is also a lot cheaper.  

There's not too much going on in Negombo, but you can go to the beach and chill if your flight lands in time. It's also a nice place to watch the sunset. 

Most hotels can organise a transfer, but we'd recommend downloading the Pick Me App. This is the Sri Lankan version of Uber and will get you the cheapest rates. Alternatively, you can book a hotel transfer in advanced with Get Your Guide for peace of mind.

Simply click on the button below find the latest prices.

Where to stay in Negombo

Mid-range: villa dominikku.

If you're looking for a stylish intro to Sri Lanka, then Villa Dominikku is a great option. The owners are incredibly friendly and will go out of their way to help you. The rooms are really comfortable, clean and all have a really nice en-suite bathroom.

It's tucked down a quiet alley, so you won't have to worry about tuk-tuks and lorries waking you up. It is in someone's house though, so it's a more immersive experience than a hotel. 

They also serve up authentic Sri Lankan breakfasts, allowing you to sample hoppers, wood apple juice and sambal for the first time.

Check prices for Villa Dominikku on:

Budget Option - Villa A50

The best budget option in town is Villa A50. It's very new and the rooms are comfortable, clean and have a great shower. It is central and down a quiet alley, meaning you'll get a good night's sleep. We thought it was very good value.

Check the latest prices for Villa A50 on:  

Day 2 - Sigiriya

Having settled into the swing of things, head over to Sigiriya to see the cultural side of Sri Lanka. The heart of this area is Lion Rock in the ancient city of Sigiriya. It's a jungly area and it's not uncommon to see wild elephants wandering the streets. 

The journey from Negombo will take about 3-4 hours, taking up the majority of the morning. In the afternoon, head for Lion Rock.

Entry - $30 USD

Whilst the entry fee will make your eyes water, Lion Rock is a UNESCO world heritage site and a monument of pride for Sri Lankans.

On top of this monolith are the foundations of what people used to believe was the palace of the King. Today archaeologists think it was actually a meditation site for a local temple.

Whichever is the true story, Lion Rock has a certain grandeur.

Starting in the beautifully manicured gardens, you'll begin ascending many staircases, passing beautiful cave paintings (sadly no photos allowed) and the mirrored wall before arriving at the instantly recognisable lion's paws.

From there it is just a few more stair cases to the summit. 

When we visited the winds were at gale force, blowing everyone off their feet at the top! But the views were amazing. :) It's a great spot for sunset. 

Day 3 - Pidurangala & Kaudulla

Am - pidurangala.

Get up early and hop in a tuk-tuk to Pidurangala Rock for an epic sunrise view.

The walk starts from a monastery at the base where you'll pay the $3 USD entrance fee. Bring something to cover shoulders and knees, or you will have to borrow something from the temple.

From here the trail ascends for 20-30 minutes to the summit for the best view in the area. 

Sunrise is the best time to go as there will be a lot fewer people there and the temperatures are at their coolest, making the walk a lot more tolerable.

The very last part of the walk can involve clambering over some rocks, so make sure you have the right footwear.

Check out our guide about the Pidurangala Sunrise Hike to learn more about what you can expect from the trail, including a tip to avoid the final boulder scramble to the summit if you are nervous of heights! 

PM - Kaudulla National Park

If you're visiting in July or August (and sometimes as late as October, check with locals), then you're in for a treat.

The elephant gathering in Kaudulla or Minneriya is the biggest gathering of Asian Elephants in the world.

We visited Kaudulla and saw over 110 elephants (yes, we counted) all within a very small area.

Seeing these incredible and rare animals congregating in such huge numbers is magical, and whilst there were quite a few jeeps around, the elephants didn't seem to be upset or disturbed by them. Most drivers kept a decent distance.

The majority of tours offer 2-3 hours in the park and another hour each side to get to and from Sigiriya.

If you're not visiting during the elephant gathering the parks are still popular for elephant sightings, there just won't be so many in one place. 

You can book your safari before your trip as Get Your Guide offers bookings in advance. Just click the button below to check the latest prices and availability.

We've written a blog detailing the costs and all the information you'll need to know about visiting Kaudulla National Park .

Day 4 - Kandy

After Sigiriya, it's time to move to the entry point for the Hill Country: Kandy.

The temperatures begin to cool in Sri Lanka's second city, and there is plenty to do here.

It only takes about an hour and a half by car, so you should arrive mid-morning. To get your bearings, head up to the Big Buddha (Bahirawakanda Vihara).

From the top of the hill, you'll get great views of Kandy as well as the chance to explore the Buddha that towers over the city.

For a small bite to eat, head to Buono. This small cafe helps to fund education for children in poverty. They also do a really good coffee and delicious curd. 

In the late afternoon (our show began at 5pm), check out one of the cultural dances. We went to the Kandy Lake Club, but there are a few others to choose from.

You'll see many unique dances as well some other spectacles such as fire swallowers and people walking on hot coals.  

Following the Buddhist theme, head to the Temple of the Tooth. This is one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka as it holds one of the Buddha's teeth.

Every evening there is a large ceremony where people come to see the tooth (which is actually a golden casket) which draws large crowds of worshippers. It’s a rushed affair but it’s not one we’ll easily forget so we’re glad we went for the experience.

If you visit earlier in the day you will not actually be able to see the casket that holds the tooth.

You can find out more about the experience in our blog on the best things to do in Kandy .  

Where to stay in Kandy

The biggest problem with accommodation in Kandy is the noise. The roads are busy most of the day, so getting a hotel or guesthouse in the centre of town will leave you sleep deprived.

Our Pick - Richmond House

This is why the Richmond House is a great choice: it's set on the hillside away from the main roads and is really quiet. It is decorated in an old colonial style and is clean, comfortable and great value.

It also has great views. We really enjoyed our stay here and Pick Me works in Kandy so you can get cheap fares into town.  

Check the latest prices for Richmond House on:

Luxury - Theva Residency

If you have a bigger budget we'd recommend taking a look at the Theva Residency. This hotel is further from the city centre but set in lush grounds, with an amazing infinity pool. We heard a lot of good things about this hotel. 

Check the latest prices for Theva Residency on:

Budget - Sevana City Hotel

We didn't book our hotel in advance and if Richmond House had been too expensive the   Sevana City Hotel   was our next choice. The hotel gets great reviews for clean, comfortable and affordable rooms. 

Check the latest prices for Sevana City Hotel on:

Day 5 - Nuwara Eliya

Am - kandy to nuwara eliya train.

Having checked out the highlights of Kandy, it's time for one of the highlights of the whole of Sri Lanka.

There are not many places in the world where a train ride is revered so highly, but the Kandy to Ella train is well worth the hype.

The schedules tell you that the train will take about four hours to get to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy, but it's likely to take five.... That's not accounting for the fact it will also turn up late.

The inside of the train is far from special, but after an hour you'll see the views that make it so popular.

As the train slowly rolls on, you'll pass endless tea fields and mountains. It's why there is so much competition to sit on the floor and swing your legs out the door! We were transfixed by the views. 

However, it is getting a lot more popular with tourists, making it harder to get a good seat.

To get the most out of your trip on the train, read our blog about the 7 things no one tells you about the Kandy to Ella Train .

If you want to buy your ticket for First and Second Class reserved then click here to book your tickets in advance (unreserved tickets can only be bought on the day).

PM - The tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya

The reason everyone goes to "Little England" is for the tea. Nuwara Eliya is the highest town in Sri Lanka and it's likely you'll need to put a jumper and raincoat on to keep warm!

Head over to Damro Tea Plantation for some epic views best enjoyed with a pop of Ceylon tea and a slice of tea cake.

The plantation has lush green tea fields that line the steep hills and river that runs through the valley.

After Damro, head to Pedro Tea Estate. Here you can see how tea is processed, from the picking all the way through to the distribution (though they process at night so you see the machines, but not in action).

You then get another cup of tea after the tour! 

There are also some tea fields that you can explore if you have time (we found them prettier than those at Damro).

It is a really beautiful place and one which we could have stayed at for hours if it hadn't rained! Luckily we compiled a list of things you can do when it rains in Nuwara Eliya .

Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is expensive, by far the most expensive place we have been during five weeks in Sri Lanka. We checked out so many hotels hoping to find a bargain, but came to the conclusion that even in low season there just aren't any bargains in Nuwara Eliya. 

Heritance Tea Factory Hotel

If you have a bigger budget then most definitely take a look at the Heritance Tea Factory hotel. We really wanted to stay here but it was a bit out of our budget.

The rooms looked incredible and the setting on a plantation is beautiful. It's quite far out of town but the perfect place to kick back with a book and a cup of tea for a few days. 

Check the latest prices on:

Day 6 - Haputale

Whilst Ella may steal all the limelight, the hill country town of Haputale is one of our favourites and even better for being overlooked by the vast majority of travellers.

This means a smaller town and quieter experiences than quite a few other places in Sri Lanka.

It isn't very far from Nuwara Eliya, taking just over two hours on the train (again, pending it turning up on time and it running to the right speed!). Along the journey you'll see more beautiful tea plantations and some huge views. 

Once you've setteled into your hotel, head out to do the Idalgashinna Railway walk.

Idalgashinna - Haputale Railway Walk

This hike takes about 2.5 hours to complete and is a loop through a forest and back to Haputale along the railway tracks.

Our version is slightly different to the standard walk, and was recommended by our guesthouse, the link below has more detail on the route.  Check ahead for train times and always look and listen for trains but they are very infrequent so it’s not a constant worry.

This hike is a beautiful way to see Haputale, starting by the Adisham Monastery. The path goes into an overgrown forest (you will need to prepare for fallen trees and many hurdles) before opening to a ridge with some stunning views.

The path then descends to the train tracks and heads back to Haputale. The track section is also picturesque, going through villages and opening out to some staggering views. Before embarking, check out our detailed guide to the Idalgashinna to Haputale Walk .

Places to stay in Haputale

Our pick - leisure mount view holiday inn.

This was one of our favourite places to stay in Sri Lanka. Whilst it isn't luxurious the rooms are clean and comfortable and come with million dollar views from the balcony.

The staff were all really lovely and the food was the best we had in Sri Lanka. We also checked out the nearby Olympus hotel which was twice the price and half as good.  

Day 7 - Haputale & Ella

Am - lipton's seat sunrise .

Sunrise at Lipton's Seat was our favourite thing to do in Haputale and one of our favourite things to do in the whole of Sri Lanka. If you aren’t planning to visit Haputale you can also visit from Ella, it’s just a slightly longer tuk tuk journey.

Although it requires an early start (getting up before 5am) you'll be rewarded with stunning views in a beautiful and peaceful place. 

You can get a tuk tuk to take you pretty close to the top (within 1.5km) and then watch the sun rise over miles of tea plantations from Lipton's Seat itself.

Once it's light, go to the stand by the viewpoint for some delicious, home made rotis with tea (again, one of the best in Sri Lanka).

After breakfast, wander down through the tea fields to the bottom where you can pick up a tuk tuk or a bus.

This hike is just over 7km, downhill and a really picturesque way to finish the morning.

If you are thinking of doing this, check out our blog all about sunrise at Lipton's Seat for more detail.

PM - Little Adam's Peak Sunset

You'll probably finish at Lipton's Seat by about 10am, so once you're back hop on the next train to Ella.

It should take about two hours (usual warnings etc etc).

Having chilled out in the afternoon, head out to Little Adam's Peak for sunset ( one of the best things to do in Ella ).

This offers some of the best views in Ella and you'll see the gorgeous countryside just as the sky turns a beautiful orange.

Whilst you'll get far less people at sunrise, there weren't too many people around when we went at sunset.

There is plenty of space at the top of the peak for you to get a seat and enjoy the view. The walk takes around 20 minutes from the 98 Acres Resort which is another spot for a drink if you can squeeze it in.  

Places to stay in Ella

Where we stayed - zion guesthouse .

Ella gets busy, very busy. Book in advance if you can.

We ended up spending a lot more than we were planning to on Zion. Whilst we don't think it represents good value for money it was a nice place to stay. The views are tremendous and we loved the hammock on the balcony.

The location is good, just a five minute walk from the town centre - though it's a killer hill on the way back up! The hot water and wifi were both very iffy but the rooms were large and comfortable. 

Check the latest prices for Zion Guesthouse on:

Luxury - 98 Acres Resort

We hadn't heard of this place before we arrived in Ella but when we stopped by for a drink we couldn't believe how stunning it looked. The rooms are individual bungalows on stilts and the views are incredible. It's directly on the walking track to Little Adam's Peak so it's in a quiet area a couple of kilometres from town. 

Check the latest prices for 98 Acres Resort on:

Day 8 - Ella

Am - nine arch bridge.

The iconic Nine Arch Bridge has became one of the most instagrammable spots in Sri Lanka  in recent years.

This beautiful structure is tucked into the lush green hills just outside Ella, and we recommend going at sunrise. 

As well as the beautiful light, you'll also miss the crowds and hopefully have the whole place to yourself.

We arrived just before 6am and only saw people after about 7.00am. There are two trains that are due to leave/enter Ella around 6am, so look and listen out for them. As with all Sri Lankan trains don’t be surprised if they turn up an hour or so late! Luckily it’s a fabulous area to wait around in so it isn’t a hardship.

There are several places to take in the view, so check out our blog on the best viewpoints of Nine Arch Bridge before you go .

 PM - Diyaluma Falls

In the afternoon, head to Diyaluma Falls: Sri Lanka's second highest waterfall. Whilst the bottom of the waterfall isn't bad, the natural infinity pools at the top are spectacular. You will need to hire a tuk-tuk from Ella and it will take up to an hour to get there.

The hike up to the top is pretty steep and relentless in the heat, but it is well worth it.

You'll have a choice of three beautiful infinity pools to swim in, with the final one having incredible panoramic views.

Because of the walk, there are not likely to be many people at the top with you.

Make sure your driver drops you off at the right place as many will want you to hire a guide at the bottom, rather than let you do it yourself. If you want to see how to do this hike, check out our blog on how to hike Diyaluma Falls without a guide . 

Day 9 - Yala National Park

After Ella, head two hours south to Tissamaharama (known as Tissa) to embark on your Yala Safari.

This national park is known for being one of the best places in the world to see leopards as the population density is high. We saw one fleetingly which still pretty amazing!

You can also see elephants, sloth bears (first time we’d seen them again since our attack ), mongooses, monkeys, crocodiles and hundreds of different types of birds.

As the majority of the park is forested, most encounters tend to be near the roads, meaning you can get quite close to these rare animals.

Whilst you'll want to weigh up the numerous safari options, visiting Yala is well worth it. It can be difficult to decide whether to do a full or half day safari (hence why we wrote this blog on whether a full day yala safari is worth it ).

You can see the many options available for Yala Safaris on Get Your Guide , which you can book in advance. Some include a beach BBQ or even luxury safari camps in the price!

Where to stay in Yala

The blue turtle.

We chose to stay at the Blue Turtle   which was a really great choice, especially for our budget.

In low season you can snag a bargain and we wanted to be in town so that we wouldn't be forced to take the hotel's tour and eat every meal there.

This was a good choice as in June there were only two other rooms occupied at the hotel! It was really quiet as it is a long way from the road, very comfortable and immaculately clean.

It was a very good price (remember to haggle if in low season) and we highly recommend it. Even though we didn't get the chance to use it they had a great pool too. 

Check the latest prices for the Blue Turtle on:

Luxury Options

If you're looking for something a bit more up market then, check out one of the tented camps closer to the National Park. We had looked online at Cinnamon Wild Yala   and Chena Huts   which both looked stunning.

Cinnamon Wild

Check the latest prices for Cinnamon Wild on:

Check the latest prices for Chena Huts on:

Day 10 - 11: Hiriketiya

Chill at our favourite beach.

You've put in a lot of effort and we hardly blame you if you're feeling pretty exhausted by now! The good news is, by travelling just two hours from Yala, you're on the South Coast where the pace slows and the majority of activities revolve around the beach!

We recommend starting at Hiriketiya, a beautiful beach by Dikwella. This stunning place is far from the main road and is home to just a few hotels and restaurants, giving it a blissful laid back vibe. The beach is fringed by palm trees and a beautiful blue water that was warm and great for a dip.

There are also really good restaurants around too. We loved Salt House, and couldn't resist going twice in a row for the delicious Mahi Mahi (a local fish).

However, if you've still got some energy and you're looking for a great photo op.....

The Dikwella Swing

At the far eastern end of Dikwella Beach is an epic swing that is the best place to be at sunset.

The views are incredible and as the light turns golden you wouldn't want to be anywhere else; it truly is paradise. This is not a swing you’ll have to queue for like the famous one at Dalawella Beach near Unawatuna.

It is also pleasant walking down the beach to the swing as you pass the locals playing cricket on the fields nearby. 

Places to stay in Hiriketiya  

Budget - seacoast sanctuary beach hotel.

If you're sold on Hiriketiya as the place to stay, then Seacoast is a great budget choice. It has a wooden gate directly to the beach and we were able to take 10 steps across the lawn to the waves each day!

The rooms are big, clean and very comfortable, with most having a balcony overlooking the ocean. The shower was great, powerful and hot and the staff were lovely. It's another place where you'll hear the waves as you fall asleep rather than the roads!

Mid Range - Salt House

If you are looking for a slightly fancier option then definitely check out Salt. It was also a short walk to the beach and had the best western food we tried in Sri Lanka. It's modern and funky, with doubles starting from $75 USD when we stopped by. 

Day 12 - Mirissa

After Hiriketiya, head down the coast to Mirissa where it will be a bit busier and livelier.

The town was originally a hidden gem, known only to travellers venturing beyond the beaten track. Now it's quite different and pretty popular.

If you are one for lazing around on the beach there are a few things to do in Mirissa to keep you busy, with our favourite being the Coconut Tree Hill.

The view up here is beautiful, especially at sunset.

Mirissa is also well know for its blue whale watching opportunities and we loved watching the fireflies flit between the trees in the evening. It’s a pretty special place.

If that's not enough action for you, then check out the other things you can do in Mirissa .

The Place to stay in Mirissa  

Oceans views from your bed - villa oceane.

As soon as we read the review that said "one of the biggest problems with this place is that the waves were too loud" we were sold. The idea of falling asleep by the sound of the ocean was what we'd longed for having been in Colombo and we weren't disappointed.

Tucked away in Madiha (a five minute tuk tuk ride from Marissa Beach), Villa Oceane is situated on it's own beach. The whole place only has five rooms and serves delicious local dinners (we didn't rate the breakfast though). You can see the palm trees and ocean from your bed and even in the shower! It was on the roads around Villa Oceane where we saw fireflies every night.

Quick note though if you are very particular about privacy ask for a room on the top floor, the ground floor rooms opened out onto the communal pool area.

Check the latest prices for Villa Oceane on:

Day 13 - Unawatuna

Am - mihiripenna beach.

Unawatuna is only an hour down the road from Mirissa, making it a leisurely journey.

Once you've arrived, grab a tuk-tuk to Mihiripenna Beach, a beautiful spot just ten minutes away from Unawatuna.

Unlike most of the beaches in the area, this was completely deserted when we visited.

At the furthest end you can also see the stilt fishermen (if they're there.... It seems they only pose in peak tourist season!).

There is also a picturesque swing in the middle of the beach. As this is so quiet, you won't have to queue or pay, giving you plenty of time to get that perfect photo. This was one of our favourite things to do in Unawatuna .

PM - Try that epic palm tree rope swing

To a lot of people, this is the photo to take in Sri Lanka. The palm tree rope swing at Dalawella Beach is set in an idyllic location, on a beautiful tropical beach.

If you go at sunset, you'll be able to get the beautiful colours in the sky in your shot as well. You won’t be alone but it is worth it!

This location is pretty close to Mihiripenna Beach and just a 10 minute tuk tuk ride from Unawatuna.

If you want to find out more about the swing and how to get there, check out our blog all about the palm tree rope swings of Sri Lanka .

Places to stay in Unawatuna

Heaven by o .

By far the best mid range choice we found in town was Heaven By O. This hotel was tucked away from the main street, making it incredibly quiet at night. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, with a great shower (a rarity in Sri Lanka). 

Day 14 - A trip to Galle

A great way to finish your time in the South Coast is with a trip to Galle.

This colonial city's centre is the Fort: a walled area that has preserved the style of the Europeans who once occupied it.

We really enjoyed walking around the area and taking in a completely different style and pace to the rest of Sri Lanka's towns, including some great views from the walls of the fort (a great place to be at sunset).

You can also check out the crumbling shop near the market - one of our favourite Instagrammable spots in Sri Lanka . Galle also has some fantastic restaurants and cafes which are particularly atmospheric in the evenings.

Galle is a 2.5 hour journey to the airport (possibly longer with traffic). You'll avoid the horrendous Colombo traffic and the majority of the journey is along the expressway.

We'd recommend using Pick Me to arrange a transfer as it will be significantly cheaper than a taxi rate.

Know before you go

Best time to go.

Sri Lanka’s monsoon seasons can make planning you trip really confusing. To put it simply, one part of the island is always in monsoon no matter what time of year you go. If you can choose any time to go, then we’d recommend May and June as the prices drop, the weather is great and there’s no one around! You can visit most of Sri Lanka without the fear of getting drenched.

You can now apply for a visa online before you go. It’s easy and pretty quick. Just visit their website by clicking here.

If you don’t fancy catching trains and buses (we don’t blame you), then driving in Sri Lanka gives you complete independence. Outside the cities, the roads are really quiet - especially on the South Coast. Why not get a quote below?

Our Camera Gear

Our brand of choice for camera gear has been Canon for many years and we love their L-Series lenses. Whilst they are heavier than some other brands, the image results are worth the additional weight. We’ve also used a few drones in our time (check out our guide to which drone to buy here ) but currently own a DJI Mavic Pro.

You can check out the full description of our favourite travel camera and all our gear by clicking on this link.

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, that we will earn a small commission if you click through and decide to make a purchase.

This helps towards the costs of running our website. :-)

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The perfect Sri Lanka 2 week Itinerary (2024)

Welcome to Sri Lanka, an island package of lush vegetation, ornate ancient temples, close up wildlife encounters and palm fringed beaches. To help you plan your trip we’ve crafted the perfect Sri Lanka 2 week itinerary, with 14 days of fun to see the best of this friendly tropical country. If you have less time there’s also an itinerary for 10 days in Sri Lanka that takes in the country’s highlights.

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Overview of our Sri Lanka 2 Week Itinerary

We’ve created a 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary that covers the top things to see. You’ll start and end in Colombo, making a loop of the central highlands, south and west of the country. If you have more time you could extend your trip to visit the east coast and Jaffna in the north, but this would add another week or two to the trip.

You’ll start in Colombo (Day 1) before heading inland to the Cultural Triangle for the top heritage attractions at Dambulla and Sigiriya (Day 2-4). Next you’ll visit Sri Lanka’s second city of Kandy (Day 5) and then head south into the cooler Hill Country.

Day 6 (Nuwara Eliya) and Day 7 (Horton Plains) are spent visiting tea plantations and hiking through lush green landscapes to see waterfalls and viewpoints. You’ll take the famous Blue Train to Ella (Day 8-9) and then spend a day spotting elephants in Udawuluwe National Park (Day 10).

Then it’s on to the south coast for some relaxation and beach time at Mirissa (Day 11). From here you will travel up the south-west coast stopping at the historic town of Galle (Day 12). The final night is spent back in Colombo or Negombo (Day 13) before flying home on Day 14.

For the next 2 weeks in Sri Lanka we’ll show you the country’s highlights including the top cultural sights, elephant safaris and beach time to relax.

If you need an airport transfer check these options for airport to Colombo and airport to Negombo .

Day 1 – Relax in Colombo

If you’ve had a long flight, you’ll probably need a day to relax and acclimatise. We recommend spending your first day in Sri Lanka’s capital of Colombo to see some of its sites. As an alternative, you may prefer a relaxing day in the beach resort of Negombo , which is closer to Colombo airport.

Things to do in Colombo

Colombo offers a blend of dynamic city life, shady green residential areas, old colonial charm and sea views bounded by the train tracks. Here’s how we recommend spending a day there.

For a gentle start, take a stroll around the algae green waters of South Beira Lake . We stayed nearby at the Boutique Hotel Taru Lake Lodge . On the lake is the Seema Malaka temple designed by Geoffrey Bawa and nearby is the Buddhist Gungararamaya Temple .

From here it’s an easy stroll through the shady Vihara Mahadevi Park to the Colombo National Museum . Set in a gorgeous colonial era building, the museum gives a taste of Sri Lankan art and history.

Afternoon in Colombo

In the pleasant leafy suburb just south of the museum is the former home of Geoffrey Bawa at No 11, 33rd Lane. The house gives a glimpse of the vision of Sri Lanka’s leading architect. If art and design interests you it’s worth taking one of the pre-booked tours – check the Geoffrey Bawa website for more details.

Nearby you can shop for authentic souvenirs from Sri Lankan designers at Barefoot and have a drink or snack in their garden cafe. We stayed not far from here at the pleasant and stylish Sayura House .

In the evening take a tuk tuk to the Galle Face Hotel for a sunset cocktail or mingle with the locals strolling by the sea at Galle Face Green .

If you prefer to feel the hustle and bustle of Colombo, take a walk around the Fort area near the station. There are many grand colonial buildings in this neighbourhood, including the atmospheric St Peter’s church. You can also dive into the hectic bazaar area of Pettah , although it can be rather chaotic and overwhelming!

Also check out our article on 20 Amazing things to do in Sri Lanka

Getting around Colombo

Getting around Colombo is easiest by tuk tuk which you can find on every street corner. We found this was one of the most fun ways to experience Colombo. The fare is determined by a meter although many drivers claim it is broken, but in any case prices are affordable.

Where to stay in Colombo

Book one of these hotels in Colombo for 1 night. * Our Pick

Boutique – Taru Lake Lodge * – boutique style well located close to South Beira Lake.

Budget style – Sayura House – affordable and stylish in a quiet area of south Colombo.

Luxury – Jetwing Colombo Seven – a stylish and modern 5* international hotel with rooftop pool.

You can also check prices and availability for hotels in Colombo and hotels in Negombo

Stay in Colombo at the boutique hotel Taru Lake Lodge near South Beira Lake

Day 2 – Colombo to Dambulla

After checking out of your hotel, you’ll head inland to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle , one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for cultural and religious sites. Stop to visit the Dambulla Cave Temples , before spending the night close to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, which you will visit the next day.

It’s a 3.5 hour drive to reach Dambulla Caves and from there you will be only 30 mins drive from Sigiriya.

See below for tips on hiring a driver in Sri Lanka, but for convenience we recommend 12Go , the specialist website for booking train travel and taxi transfers in Asia and beyond.

Dambulla Cave Temples

The Dambulla Cave Temples date back to the 1st century and were carved by hand from a rocky overhang. Five caves are filled with statues of Buddha, other religious subjects and colourful frescoes covering every surface of the temple interiors. In one of the caves is a 14 metre reclining Buddha carved out of the solid rock, with murals depicting scenes from the life of Lord Buddha.

Buy tickets before you start climbing the steps to the cave temples themselves. Once at the top you will need to leave your shoes and walk into the temple compound barefoot (wearing socks is also allowed if your feet are sensitive).

Within the temple compound there are freelance guides who you can pay a fee to give you a guided tour of the temples, although we were happy to just wander around and take photos. Allow around 1-1.5 hours for your visit. After visiting the cave temples, your driver can leave you at your chosen hotel, to relax for the rest of the afternoon.

Where to stay near Sigiriya

We highly recommending treating yourself a stay at Heritance Kandalama , a gorgeous resort style hotel with swimming pools, set by a lake. The hotel was designed by Geoffrey Bawa, built into the rock and draped in jungle like creepers, with monkeys that play outside the windows. You’ll need to book a hotel for 2 nights, as you’ll also stay tomorrow after visiting Sigiriya.

If looking at other hotels, the closest town is Dambulla, where there are plenty of accommodation options, restaurants and services like ATMs. You’ll also find inexpensive hotels in Sigiriya and Pidurangala, very close to Lion Rock. * Our Pick

Luxury – Heritance Kandalama * – Geoffrey Bawa designed hotel by the lake with a jungle feel

Resort hotel – Jetwing Lake – contemporary hotel in peaceful lakeside setting

Budget – Nature Park Villa – peaceful small hotel with pool surrounded by nature

Stay at Heritance Kandalama near Dambulla – a unique lakeside hotel where we stayed designed by Geoffrey Bawa

Hiring a driver in Sri Lanka

On our trip we travelled with a driver for part of our journey, combined with travelling by train and tuk tuk. We don’t recommend hiring a car to drive yourself, as there is a very well established system of drivers to take you around the country, which is much more relaxing.

It’s very easy to find a private car with driver in Sri Lanka, even at quite short notice. You can use a booking site like 12Go – check out their most popular transfers in Sri Lanka . Hotels can also arrange a driver and you will often be approached by taxi drivers offering their services for longer trips. For trips lasting multiple days, the driver will arrange their own accommodation and this is included in the price quoted.

The cost of hiring a car with driver for a multi-day trip includes the fuel, car, driver’s wages and cost of driver’s accommodation and meals. Costs quoted will be variable depending on the size and quality of car, the costs of fuel at the time, distances travelled and the places visited, since driver accommodation may cost more in some places.

We found that costs were comparable to hiring a car in Europe, averaging £40-50 per day. However due to fluctuations in exchange rates and rising fuel costs, this may vary. A driver tip is customary at the end of a multi-day trip, we allowed around 10% of the overall cost.

For more travel tips read our article: Sri Lanka Travel Tips – information to plan your perfect trip .

Need help to design your dream holiday? We’ve partnered with UK travel advisor Luxeco Holidays to create your personalised itinerary

Day 3 – Eploring Sigiriya

Today is the day to explore Sri Lanka’s best known heritage site at Sigiriya , then stay a second night nearby at your chosen hotel.

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock , is a natural stone fortress that rises a sheer 200m from the jungle covered plain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a mixture of historical interest, an exhilarating climb and stunning views over the surrounding countryside.

Visiting Sigiriya Rock

You’ll need to be reasonably fit to climb the 1200 steps that take you up to the top of Lion Rock. But don’t be put off, as there are a number of resting points on the way up, with a two way system in some places.

Ask your driver to drop you off in the early morning, or take a tuk tuk from your hotel. You need to arrive before the heat gets too intense, or after 3pm when the crowds and heat are starting to subside. The site opens at 6.30am and closes by 5.30pm.

Be sure to carry a water bottle and some snacks on your climb, as there is nothing to buy once you leave the ticket office, which is also the last opportunity for a bathroom stop. Allocate 2-3 hours for your visit to Sigiriya.

Halfway up are the lion paws straddling the stairway, which is a nice place for a photo. They are all that remain of a giant lion statue that guarded the final stairway to the palace.

At the top of the rock is the ruined palace complex, with a water tank and great views over the ancient water gardens. It’s a wonderful spot to view the jungle covered countryside all around.

Frescoes at Sigiriya

On the way down you can climb a spiral staircase to see the frescoes of voluptuous water spirits, sheltered by a rocky overhang. The western rock face was thought to be covered with similar frescoes but only these 21 paintings remain. Sadly no photos of the frescoes are allowed.

Back at ground level there’s also a museum, which is included in your ticket. Cost to visit the whole site is $30 US and it’s best to bring cash with you. Once you have completed your visit, spend the rest of the day relaxing at your hotel, with dinner at one of the many local restaurants in Dambulla or nearby.

Day 4 – Sigiriya to Kandy

Today you are heading south to Kandy , the second largest city of Sri Lanka in the cooler Hill Country . Driving time is 2-2.5 hours depending on where you stayed near Sigiriya. There are a couple of extra things you might like to see en route, or otherwise arrive in Kandy by lunchtime for more sightseeing time there.

Climbing Pidurangala Rock (Option 1)

Close to Sigiriya is Pidurangala Rock , which you can climb to get some amazing views of the Lion Rock. Many travellers climb the rock before dawn to see the sunrise glowing behind Sigiriya. Not being a fan of early starts we opted to go in the morning and still got wonderful views.

The climb starts at a small temple, where you pay a mandatory donation to access the path (1000 Rupees when we were there). For this first part you will need to be suitably dressed and wraps are available to borrow if you are wearing shorts.

Easy stone and brick steps then take you up past the reclining Buddha statue under a rock overhang. From here the climb is a bit more tricky as you need to scramble over some large boulders and squeeze behind a rock. Finally you reach a rocky plateau with fantastic views towards Sigiriya.

The whole visit takes around 2 hours. Note that this climb is not suitable for young children and you need to wear trainers or hiking sandals.

Visit Polonnaruwa, ancient capital of Sri Lanka (Option 2)

If you go for this option, bear in mind that it will be a very long day, but worthwhile if you are interested in culture and heritage sites. The drive from Dambulla to Polonnaruwa is around 1hr 15 mins. You’ll need 2-3 hours to visit Polonnaruwa and then the drive from there to Kandy is around 3 hours.

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa was the capital of the Sinhalese kingdom established by King Vijayabahu I in the 13th century. It was later abandoned and became overgrown by jungle, but was excavated and declared a UNESCO World Heritage in 1982. The main sites are somewhat spread out with plenty to see once you have purchased a ticket.

Getting around Polonnaruwa

If you have hired a driver, they can take you by car between the different parts of the site or you can also hire a bicycle or tuk tuk near the entrance. I’d recommend taking a tour with one of the registered guides who will approach you near the museum and can follow you on moped around the site to explain everything.

Start your visit at the museum, where you buy your ticket, which gives a good overview of the site and houses some of its treasures. Next visit the Royal Palace group of buildings. These include the ancient ruins of the king’s palace, council chamber and the nearby bathing pool for the royal family.

Furthest from the ticket office is the Gal Vihara or Rock Monastery, which includes four enormous Buddha statues carved directly into the rock. The largest is a 14 m long statue statue, depicting reclining Buddha at the moment of death and entering nirvana.

Cost of the ticket for the whole site is $25.

Afternoon in Kandy at the Royal Botanical Gardens (Option 3)

If you arrive in Kandy around lunchtime, you can settle into your hotel and still see some things in the afternoon.

We particularly recommend visiting the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, a 15 minute drive by car or tuk tuk from Kandy. With orchid house, vivid floral plantings, palm avenues and a suspension bridge over the river, you could easily spend a pleasant hour or two here, before returning to your hotel.

Once back in Kandy, finish the day with a stroll around the Kandy Lake. Here you can hire a boat, admire the Queen’s Bathing House and take in the lakeside views.

Transport Tips

Kandy is where you may wish to end your arrangement with the driver you booked in Colombo, unless they are staying with you for the whole trip. Most things in Kandy are easily walkable or can be reached in an inexpensive tuk tuk ride.

Where to stay in Kandy

Most of the more luxurious and resort style hotels are a little way out of Kandy, which is fine if you just want to relax but not ideal when you want to explore Kandy. The best for location is the Cinnamon Citadel , just a 10 minute drive from the centre.

Kandy offers many affordable accommodation options, including the Radisson and Sharon Inn on the hillside overlooking the south side of Kandy Lake, so you can walk or take a tuk tuk into town.

You should book 2 nights in Kandy as you’ll stay here tomorrow as well. * Our Pick

Resort style – Cinnamon Citadel – resort style hotel by a river just 10 mins drive from the centre of Kandy

Mid-range – Radisson Hotel * – formerly the Ozo hotel, contemporary style with rooftop pool overlooking Kandy Lake

Budget – Sharon Inn – modest guest house with friendly owners, overlooking Kandy Lake – they do a great traditional curry buffet.

Stay in Kandy at the modern Radisson Hotel featuring a rooftop pool, near Kandy Lake

Day 5 – Exploring Kandy

Today we’ll be exploring Kandy, especially its biggest attraction, the Temple of the Tooth . A driver is not needed for this day as you can walk or take a tuk tuk to all the local attractions. You’ll stay a second night in Kandy before heading south into the Hill Country.

Top Tip: If you plan to take the famous Blue Train from either Kandy or Nanoya (near Nuwara Eliya) to Ella, reserve your seat as soon as possible at the train station in Kandy. Reserved seats for the Ella Train in 1st and 2nd class book up days, sometimes weeks ahead. Otherwise you may have to buy an unreserved seat and stand all the way. You can also book online through 12Go , but online bookings must be at least 4 days ahead and no more than 30 days as train tickets are not released beyond this.

Visit the Temple of the Tooth

The Temple of the Tooth is Kandy’s top attraction, so we suggest you spend the morning visiting it and allocate at least a couple of hours. Tickets for foreign visitors can be purchased by card at a machine, and freelance guides may approach you offering a tour which is worth considering.

As with all temples, you need to cover your legs and shoulders and shoes must be removed and left at a kiosk, for which there is a small charge.

The temple houses Sri Lanka’s most holy relic, the tooth of Lord Buddha housed in a gold casket within a gold roofed shrine. You may want to time your visit with the morning or evening puja ceremony accompanied by drumming, when the shrine is opened for a closer glimpse of the casket holding the tooth.

After visiting the hall that houses the relic and other parts of the temple, look around the gardens and see the Royal Hall with its carved wooden pillars.

Other things to see in Kandy

If you haven’t already visited the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, we suggest you take a tuk tuk there to visit in the afternoon. Otherwise in Kandy you could visit the busy covered market, with sections selling clothing, fruit and veg, meat and fish, which is good for local colour and buying spices and souvenirs.

Take a relaxing stroll around the Kandy Lake and perhaps walk or drive up to the viewpoint on the south side of the lake, for some great photos.

In the early evening it’s worth attending a performance of traditional music and dance. The 1 hour show at the Kandyan Arts and Crafts association is the one we saw. It’s an energetic taste of the performances that would normally take place during festivals.

You’ll spend a second night in Kandy at your chosen hotel.

Day 6 – Nuwara Eliya

South of Kandy is the Hill Country, where we will be heading today to Nuwara Eliya (3 hours drive). Due to the altitude, the temperatures are cooler and you may get rain showers, even in the dry season.

If you haven’t retained a driver for the whole trip, you could now engage one to drive you from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya . Alternatively you could easily take the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (2.5 hours). You’ll spend 2 nights in Nuwara Eliya.

Tea Plantations in Nuwara Eliya

Due to its cooler climate, Nuwara Eliya was the centre of the tea industry and is often described as “Little England”. The tea planters built their English style bungalows and imported their customs such as horse racing and afternoon tea to the town.

If driving into town you can stop and visit one of the tea plantation such as Damro Laboukellie . You’ll get a free short guided tour of the tea factory, followed by a cup of tea and cake in their tea lounge and plenty of opportunity to buy tea in the shop.

Other tea plantations to visit include the Blue Field Tea Estate 20 km north of the town and Pedro Tea Factory which has a scenic walking trail through the tea plantation.

More things to do in Nuwara Eliya

Once you’ve arrived at Nuwara Eliya and checked into your hotel you might like to take a stroll around the town, checking out the oh-so-English red brick post office with its clock tower. In the centre is Victoria Park , an English style public park, with fountains, pools and colourful floral displays, with a small charge to visit.

You can also enjoy the green space of Nuwara Eliya Race course , where you can have a pony ride alongside the race track, or continue your walk as far as Gregory Lake.

We enjoyed our elegant “High Tea” overlooking the gardens at The Grand Hotel . It’s a beautiful colonial style hotel that would not have been out of place in the Cotswolds!

If you have time, take a tuk tuk to the Ramboda Falls , which are just outside Nuwara Eliya. You can climb up the path to the head of the falls, with a shallow pool and cascade of water to stand under.

Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya on a Sri Lanka 2 week itinerary

You’ll need to book a hotel for 2 nights. * Our Pick

Heritage – The Grand Hotel * – elegant heritage hotel in lovely gardens, a short walk from the centre

Mid-range – Chimneys – small country house style hotel in a traditional bungalow on the edge of town

Budget – Nuwara Eliya Hills Rest – homely guest house in a bungalow, centrally located close to Victoria Park

Boutique Luxury – Heritance Tea Factory – boutique style in a converted tea factory, surrounded by tea plantations, outside Nuwara Eliya.

The Grand Hotel is a classic heritage hotel, set in lovely gardens beside Nuwara Eliya Golf Course

Day 7 – Horton Plains

Today you’ll take a day trip from Nuwara Eliya to visit Horton Plains National Park , returning in the afternoon to spend a second night in Nuwara Eliya. The drive is just over an hour and if you don’t already have a driver, ask your hotel to arrange one for the day take you there and back.

Be sure to set off by 6-7 am, in order to see famous World’s End viewpoint before the mist rolls in at 10am and obscures the view.

Visiting Hortons Plains National Park

On arrival at the park entrance, you will need to pay an entrance fee, as well as a fee for the car. Then there is a short drive from the ticket kiosk to the car park and visitor centre where you start the walk.

Horton Plains National Park is set on a plateau at an elevation of 2000 metres, making the climate here cooler and wetter than the Sri Lankan coastal regions. This was once a favourite hunting ground of the British, with deer, birds and monkeys, but you’re unlikely to see anything bigger such as elephants or leopards.

Horton Plains is a fantastic spot for hiking as it’s one of the few national parks in Sri Lanka where you can walk without a guide or a vehicle. The most popular circular walking route is well marked and takes in Baker’s Falls as well as the World’s End viewpoint and a second viewpoint at Mini World’s End.

World’s End Viewpoint

A big draw of Horton Plains Park is the viewpoint known as World’s End , where the escarpment drops away, revealing views down the valley and beyond to the coast. To see the viewpoint at its best, you need to arrive there before 10am when the cloud from the valley starts to rise and obscure the view.

Unfortunately we arrived at 10.15 and bang on time, the cloud had already rolled up the valley. Nevertheless, it was a great hiking experience. If you are hurrying to see the World’s End Viewpoint, then take the left hand fork where the path divides after the entrance.

Just before reaching World’s End there is a smaller viewpoint known as Mini World’s End . Continuing on this loop will take you past the series of cascades at Baker’s Falls. The whole circular trail is around 9km and you should allow at least 3 hours for your visit.

Tip: Single use plastic is not allowed in the park and the wardens will search your bag, so be sure to leave all plastic bags and food wrappings at home – although water bottles are allowed.

After your visit, ask your driver to take you back to Nuwara Eliya, where you’ll be spending a second night. If you had an early start, you can relax for the afternoon or see anything you missed.

Day 8 – Nuwara Eliya to Ella by train

Today you will catch the famous Blue Train from Nanuoya station, just outside Nuwara Eliya. This is one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka, running through a lush landscape of tea plantations, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Many people take the train from Kandy, but this takes around 7-8 hours, and the shorter section from Nanuoya to Ella is around 3 hours but with the same beautiful scenery.

Before catching the train from Nanuoya, we recommend stopping for refreshments at the small Edinburgh Tea Station cafe with beautiful views over the tea plantations.

Tips for taking the Blue Train

If you want reserved seats (definitely advisable), these should be purchased in advance up to 30 days ahead (tickets are only released for the next 30 days). You can buy them direct at any train station, or online through 12Go (at least 4 days ahead). So for this itinerary if you haven’t booked online, buy from the station in Colombo or Kandy, ideally for the earliest train of the day.

Be warned, this trip is very popular, so you may not get your first choice of seat. It’s best to travel in 2nd class, which offers comfortable seats and windows that open, allowing for the best photos as the train curves around a bend through the tea plantations.

3rd class offers the same views but harder seats. 1st class offers air conditioned compartments but the windows don’t open, making it more difficult to take photos.

You’ll see many photos on social media of people hanging out of the doors and windows, or dangling their legs from the open doorways. If you are going for this kind of shot, do take care as we heard tales of people falling out of the train, or getting injured, even though the train doesn’t travel very fast.

Arriving in Ella

On arriving in Ella , take a tuk tuk or taxi from the station to your accommodation. If you were able to take the earliest train, you’ll have the rest of the afternoon to look around and relax. The small town of Ella is a big backpacker destination. While the main street is very touristy, the surrounding area is undeniably pretty and a great place for hiking.

I’ll cover all the things to do in Ella in the next section, but you may have time for some of them on your arrival day.

For dinner head to the busy hipster hangout Chill Cafe , ideally reserving a first floor balcony table so you can watch the action along the main road.

Where to stay in Ella

Book accommodation for 1 night in Ella

Budget Boutique – BBQ Hub Ella – urban boutique style in a quiet side street close to the centre

Luxury – Anasa Wellness Resort – a small luxury resort surrounded by nature, just outside Ella

Budget – there are numerous budget options in Ella, check price and availability here

The BBQ HUB Ella is a budget boutique hotel in Ella with a quiet but central location

Day 9 – Ella

This is a day to look around Ella, with its tea estates, waterfalls and jungle covered peaks. In the late afternoon you’ll transfer to accommodation near Uduwalawe. If you don’t already have a driver, you’ll need to engage one to take you later for the 2 hour transfer to Uduwalawe where you’ll be taking an elephant safari tomorrow.

Things to do in Ella

First stop for most visitors is the easy climb up Little Adams Peak. Half an hour of mostly gentle walking will earn you a stunning view and plenty of photo opportunities to perch on cliff edge gazing into the distance. If you’re an avid hiker and have more time, you may want to tackle the more challenging Ella Rock , which you can see from Little Adam’s Peak.

Thrill seekers will want to do the Flying Ravena zipline , which is just under Little Adam’s Peak, but if it’s not for you, buy an ice cream and watch them come down from the viewing platform. At the bottom of the Little Adam’s Peak trail, we enjoyed a scenic lunch and juice in the quirky Ella Flower Garden restaurant, full of English style flower borders.

9 Arches Bridge

After Little Adam’s Peak it’s not too far to walk along the shady path to Demodara Bridge , also known as 9 arches bridge. There are lots of photos to be taken from all angles of the bridge and if you time it right, you’ll be there when a train crosses the bridge for an extra special photo.

If you still have time, take a tuk tuk from town to the nearby Ravana Falls which are conveniently located right by the road for a photo stop. There are also a couple more tea estates close to Ella which you could hike to: the Newburgh tea factory and the Uva Halpewatte tea factory.

In the late afternoon take the 2 hour transfer to your hotel at Uduwalawe where you’ll be spending the night.

Where to stay near Uduwalawe on your Sri Lanka 2 day itinerary

The hotels and lodges around Udawalawe cater for visitors wishing to take a wildlife safari in the nearby national park. Most hotels have their own safari vehicles and guides so ask when you make your booking.

Mid Range – Kottawatta River Bank Resort – small resort with A-frame bungalows and swimming pool. We took one of their safaris which was excellent.

Check Prices and availability for more hotels in Uduwalawe

Stay in a tented bungalow at the Kottawatta River Bank Resort near Udawalawe National Park

Day 10 – Uduwalawe elephant safari

Today you’ll take an elephant safari in Uduwalawe National Park , before transferring to Mirissa by evening. Ask your hotel to book a driver to take you on to Mirissa after your safari (2 hr drive).

The best known parks for seeing wild elephants other than Udawalawe, are Minneriya national park and Yala national park. We were very happy with our experience at Udawalawe, as we heard that Yala had become very crowded with vehicles.

Tips for an elephant safari at Udawalawe

The best option is to book a tour of the park through your hotel, since many have their own vehicles and guides. Alternatively, book with a reputable local tour company, since no private cars are allowed in the park. Or you can just turn up at the park ticket office and hire a jeep with driver there.

Wildlife tours of the park are normally taken early in the morning or the afternoon around 3.30pm when the temperatures are cooler and the animals are most active. We went in the afternoon and spent several hours until the park closed at 6pm. There’s also the option to do a full day safari, but for me that would be a bit too long.

Elephants at Uduwalawe

We were thrilled to see so many elephants, some quite close up as they munched through the vegetation, scratched against a tree trunk, bathed in the lake or showered themselves with earth to protect from the sun. It was an especially magical experience to see a group of 3 females with a baby only a few months old, coming to bathe in a pool then heading out into the bush.

Your driver will normally double as a guide, knowing the spots where you are most likely to see wildlife. In addition to elephants, we saw lots of birds, iguana, crocodiles, water buffalo, monkeys and peacocks. Leopards are known to be in the park but are rarely spotted.

After the safari, return to the hotel to meet your driver and transfer to the beach resort of Mirissa (2 hr drive).

Where to stay in Mirissa

Book 2 nights in Mirissa. We recommend booking a hotel that’s close to the beach and preferred the Turtle Beach end of the resort which is quieter. * Our Pick

Boutique beachfront hotel – The Slow *- stylish boutique hotel with idyllic beachfront position and vegan restaurant

Mid range – Morning Star – Sri Lankan style small hotel with pool, a short walk from Turtle beach

Budget – there are numerous budget and affordable places to stay in Mirissa – check here for prices and availability

THE SLOW Vegan Hotel boutique hotel in Mirissa is right on the beach with watersports and vegan restaurant

Day 11 – Mirissa

This is a day to relax in Mirissa and enjoy some beach time. The south coast offers many small beach resorts and Mirissa was one of the nicest we visited. With a chilled out vibe, the resort has several beautiful beaches fringed by palm trees and a good range of accommodation and restaurants.

The biggest sweep of sand is divided by parrot rock from a couple more beaches, one of which is good for snorkelling to see the turtles that give the beach its name. You can also take a tuk tuk to a more secluded beach known as “Secret beach” which is just round the headland.

It’s easy to walk from one section of beach to the other with some parts being good for swimming, and others for surfing. You can also rent surf and body boards and snorkels.

Mirissa is known as the place to go whale and dolphin spotting. If you take a whale watching tour, make sure you go with an operator who sticks to international whale watching regulations and conservation best practice.

If you want a bit more action, just walk along the beach to check out different beach bars, cafes and activity providers. We especially enjoyed the lovely vegan food and excellent cocktails at The Slow , who have a beach bar you can visit even if not staying there.

Fresh seafood for dinner at Weligama

In the evening we recommend taking the 10 minute tuk tuk ride to Weligama , a nearby resort that is favoured by surfers. Weligama is a thriving fishing area and you can see the colourful traditional catamarans pulled up on the beach at the end of the day. In the evening, fish stalls set up along the beach, each with tables to dine on the beach.

Choose the fresh fish, prawns, octopus, or lobster from the stall which is sold by weight, and then it’s cooked and brought to you in a meal with rice, fries and salad. It’s a magical sitting on the beach, watching the waves and the sunset, then feasting on fresh fish at the end of the day.

After a chilled out day, you’ll spend a second night in Mirissa.

Day 12 – Galle

In the morning you’ll transfer to Galle. It’s easy to arrange a driver for the 1 hour transfer to Galle. You can also take the train from Mirissa to Galle (1 hr 40 mins) which is a pleasant and scenic ride along the coast. You’ll be staying 1 night in Galle.

Things to do in Galle

The main attraction of Galle is the old colonial fort area, enclosed within the ramparts. As you only have a day to look around, we recommend that you choose a hotel within the fort area. The port had its heyday in the 16th and 17th century when the Portuguese and then the Dutch were in charge leaving churches and old buildings from that era.

It’s time to explore the narrow streets of the Fort area, where many of the houses have been made into guest houses, hotels, restaurants and shops. Take a walk along the ramparts at sunset to see everyone out enjoying the evening air and playing cricket, with locals having wedding and engagement photos taken. At one end of the ramparts is the famous lighthouse, the photographic symbol of Galle, although it was only built in 1938.

Around Pedlar Street are many shops shelling upscale souvenirs and jewellery. This is a great place to have jewellery made to your own design, using the Sri Lankan sapphires, rubies and moonstones.

Other places to visit include the atmospheric Dutch Reformed Church with gravestones dating back to the 18th century. Soak up some history at the various museums, such as the Galle National Museum, the Museum of Maritime archaeology and the Historical Mansion Museum.

There are no shortage of places to eat, from traditional rice and curry to international and Sri Lankan fusion dishes, with many of the hotel having excellent restaurants.

Where to stay in Galle

Book 1 night in Galle – we recommend staying within the Galle Fort area. *Our Pick

Budget Boutique – Mango House * – Small boutique hotel with a Bollywood theme in a quiet but central location of Galle Fort

Luxury – Galle Fort Hotel – Elegant luxury hotel with 11 suites and pool in a central location of Galle Fort

Budget – Villa Yehinsa – small guest house with colourful Sri Lankan style and quiet location in Galle Fort

Check out more hotels in Galle

Mango House is a charming boutique hotel in a quiet location within Galle Fort

Day 13 – Galle to Negombo or Colombo

Today you’ll be transferring back to Colombo or Negombo , the final stop before you fly home tomorrow. Ask your hotel to book a driver for the 2.5 hour drive to Colombo. Alternatively you can take the train from Galle to Colombo central station (3 hours) and then take a taxi to your hotel.

If you are heading to Negombo for an afternoon on the beach, it’s probably easier to book a driver for a door to door service.

For a unique and artistic place to break your journey halfway, we recommend stopping at Lunuganga Estate near Bentota, the country home of architect Geoffrey Bawa. Guided tours take place 3 times a day and should be pre-booked, to see the lovely gardens and some of the buildings which have now been converted into a luxury hotel.

Day 14 – Fly home

This is the day you fly home, so relax or do some last minute sightseeing, depending on the time of your flight. If you need to book a transfer to the airport you can book online for Colombo to airport or Negombo to airport .

For hotels check our previous recommendations for Colombo or look at all hotels in Colombo and hotels in Negombo

Boutique Guesthouse Sayura House is located in a quiet location of south Colombo

Sri Lanka 10 day Itinerary

If you don’t have 14 days to spend, you can adapt the itinerary above for a 10 day trip. Also check out our article on 20 Amazing things to do in Sri Lanka

1 – Following your flight, sightsee in Colombo or relax in Negombo – 1 night in Colombo / Negombo

2 – Travel to Sigiriya, visiting Dambulla Caves on the way – 2 nights near Sigiriya

3 – Visit Sigiriya, overnight at Sigiriya

4 – Travel to Kandy – 1 night in Kandy

5 – Travel to Nuwara Eliya – 1 night in Nuwara Eliya

6 – Morning Train from Nuwara to Ella – 1 night in Ella

7 – Morning transfer to Udwalawe, afternoon safari, transfer to Mirissa – 2 nights in Mirissa

8 – Relax in Mirissa, overnight in Mirissa

9 – Transfer to Colombo / Negombo stopping at Galle on the way

10 – Relax in Colombo/ Negombo, fly home

FAQ about Sri Lanka

We’ve tried to answer the most frequently asked questions about Sri Lanka below, but you can also read our full article Sri Lanka Travel Tips – information to plan your perfect trip .

Where is Sri Lanka?

The teardrop island of Sri Lanka is located in the Indian Ocean and is part of South Asia, with its northern tip 30 km from the south east coast of India. This island nation was formerly known as Ceylon and was a British colony until 1948, when it gained independence, making it the oldest democracy in Asia.

Airport transfers in Sri Lanka

International flights to Sri Lanka arrive at the country’s main Bandaranaike airport , which is just north of the capital city Colombo.

Unless you are on a tight budget or are a seasoned traveller, I personally think a pre-booked airport transfer straight to your hotel is the best option so that you can relax and acclimatise to the new country and culture.

We recommend leading booking site 12Go to book a taxi transfer for airport to Colombo or airport to Negombo .

If you don’t have anything booked, there is an official Airport Taxi kiosk once you are through security, where you can arrange a taxi at the official rate. You may also be approached by people from the tour company desks in the airport who can provide a taxi, transfer or longer tour.

An airport express bus is available that will take you directly to the centre of Colombo, with a journey time of around 1 hour, and this the cheapest option.

Sri Lanka visa requirements

To ensure you have the most up to date advice, for travel from the UK and visa for Sri Lanka, check the UK Government Sri Lanka page which has links to all official advice. If travelling from other countries please check your own government’s official travel advice.

All travellers to Sri Lanka require an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) which can be applied for online and is normally approved within hours. The ETA fee for travellers from UK, Europe and USA for a 30 day tourist visa is $50 (2024) but please check the official website in case this changes in the future. If you wish to stay longer than 30 days, it’s normally possible to extend this visa online while in Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

If visiting the west, central and southern areas, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is from December to March. Although it is considered high season, for the itinerary above we suggest above this is the best time to go.

However if visiting the north and east of the country, the weather in Sri Lanka is at its best between May and September. In the ‘shoulder’ seasons of April/ May and October / November you could visit any areas of the country and find warm weather but also expect to encounter some rain.

Weather in Sri Lanka

The weather in Sri Lanka tends to be hot and tropical all year round, with temperatures ranging between 25 and 30 degrees celsius. In the central part of the country, the temperatures are somewhat cooler due to the higher altitude, ranging between 15-17 degrees celsius.

Sri Lanka has 2 monsoon seasons when rain can be heavy. The monsoon rains hit the south and western coast between April and September, while the east and north of the country is wettest between September and March. Hence whenever you visit you will be able to find part of the country where the sun is mostly shining.

The central area around Kandy, the Cultural triangle and Hill Country can receive rain showers from both directions, even though the daytime temperatures are warm. During monsoon season it may be worth packing a small umbrella as the locals do, to use any time there’s a shower.

What languages are spoken in Sri Lanka?

The official language in Sri Lanka is Sinhala , with the second language being Tamil , which is spoken mainly in the north. English is widely spoken by anyone working in tourism and as a link language for locals.

Most tuk tuk drivers, shop assistants, hotel and restaurant staff will also speak at least a little English or there will be someone nearby that can translate.

To help plan your trip read my article: Sri Lanka Travel Tips – information to plan your perfect trip

More articles to read about Sri Lanka

20 Amazing things to do in Sri Lanka Our Kerala itinerary – amazing 10 day trip in southern India Sri Lanka travel tips – information to plan your perfect trip

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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10 Days Sri Lanka Itinerary For 2023: A Perfect Bucket List Trip!

by Jade Mortimer

A trip to Sri Lanka might not be high on your bucket list. But with its magnificent landscapes, elegant wildlife and heavenly food, it really should be! Enjoy a 10 days Sri Lanka itinerary and discover how to see this enchanting country.

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Necessary Spacing

• Day 1 – Explore the capital city of Colombo in a private tuk-tuk , or take a street food tour .
• Day 2 – Visit the Ceylon tea museum and take a cooking class .
• Day 3 – Wander around Kandy and visit Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic .
• Day 4 – Take the famous Kandy to Ella train and be prepared to be wowed by the incredible views! Go ziplining, visit Ravana Falls, go to see Dhowa Rock Temple or enjoy the vibes in the town!
• Day 5 – Wake up early and hike to Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise. Hike up to Ella Rock too! Or, you can book a guide for a day trip .
• Day 6 – Take a cycling tour , visit the tea factory or get a massage in town. Hire a car to take you down south to Tissamaharama.
• Day 7 – Book yourself onto a private, 12-hour Yala safari to see leopards, elephants and sloths bears.
• Day 8 – Take a car to Mirissa and visit Secret Beach and Coconut Tree Hill. Learn how to surf on Mirissa Beach.
• Day 9 – Take a whale-watching tour and then spend the afternoon in Galle as it’s not a very long train journey .
• Day 10 – Book train tickets up to Colombo and then get a tuk-tuk or a bus to Negombo so that you’re close to the airport. Spend the day on the beach or take one final city tour to get to know your final location!

10 Days In Sri Lanka

Previously known as Ceylon, and situated just south of India, Sri Lanka is often overlooked as a holiday location. Spanning only 65,000 km² (compared to the United Kingdom’s 240,000 km²!), you’d be forgiven for thinking that you might be stuck for things to do on the island.

However, you can spend more than a week here and have a completely full 10 days Sri Lanka itinerary. If you only have a week then make sure to check out our 7 day Sri Lanka itinerary too.

Start in Colombo, and make your way around so that you can truly experience the diverse and captivating Sri Lankan culture! We enjoyed a 10 days Sri Lanka itinerary, and although we didn’t explore the whole country, we felt that we saw plenty!

Read More: How To Backpack Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide

Day 1: Colombo

You’ll more than likely fly into Colombo International Airport (also known as Bandaranaike).

There aren’t many places to visit in Colombo in one day, but it’s not the best place to reflect Sri Lanka’s beauty so don’t fret. 

If you’re into partying – think live music, nightclubs and rooftop bars – then Colombo’s nightlife will likely impress you.

Take a simple wander around Colombo,  to get a feel for the city and become accustomed to life in Sri Lanka! You can explore on your own, or take a walking city tour with a local guide.

If you’re interested in Sri Lanka’s history, take a visit to the National Museum where you can find all sorts of artefacts from coins to paintings, as well as information about the past.

Read More: How To Escape Colombo + Visit Hikkaduwa

There are a couple of other colonial buildings in the area – the ones worth a visit are St Peter’s Church (the oldest functioning church in the country), the Dutch hospital (transformed into a shopping precinct recently but still retaining the architecture from the 17th century) and the Clock Tower (which used to be a lighthouse).

A 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary might not be enough for you. If you have more time, consider taking a food tour that will teach you all about the best dishes to look out for on the rest of your trip!

Whether you’re travelling Colombo with kids or backpacking Sri Lanka solo, you can explore the city in a day and still have time to relax in your hotel for the evening!

Colombo airport is actually closer to Negombo, but as you take the early morning train to Kandy which leaves before 9 am, it’s best to stay closer to Colombo town centre.

One of the best things to do in Colombo is actually to leave it … because you’ll be beginning the beautiful train journey that Sri Lanka has become famous for!

Read More: Your Guide To Taking The Train From Galle To Colombo

It takes less than two hours to get from Colombo to Kandy on the train but it really is the start of some incredible landscapes. You might even see a monkey or two sitting in a tree as you go past.

The Colombo to Kandy train timetable is available on the Sri Lanka railways website . You can turn up at the train station to buy unreserved tickets or click on the button below to buy your train tickets in advance.

Read More: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About Taking The Train From Kandy To Colombo

If you haven’t bought your tickets in advance, we recommend getting to Colombo Fort station about an hour before your journey to make sure that you get onto the platform in time. Go to the appropriate counter (we went to counter 2 but be aware that this could change) and keep hold of your ticket.

There are also often snack vendors who jump on the train at various stops throughout the journey so you can buy things like samosas and fresh fruit during the trip.

A second-class ticket is actually better than a first-class ticket on these trains. That’s because the 1st class coaches are air-conditioned and enclosed – which means you miss out on the true experience and views of the countryside! A 2nd class seat enables you to be comfortable, yet also gives you the opportunity to stick your head out of the window and truly get close to nature.

Accommodation in Colombo  

There are plenty of apartments to rent in Colombo with beach resorts, boutique hotels and city hotels offering plenty of rooms too.

Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a family looking for a 5-star resort, you’ll be able to book your accommodation in Colombo in advance. 

We’ve researched some of the best places to stay in Colombo during your 10 days in Sri Lanka so that you can easily pick your accommodation in the best area and for the best value for money too. Or just have a look at the map below to see current deals and availability.

The Best Apartment To Rent In Colombo

There are lots of apartments to rent in Colombo where you can cook for yourself, do your own washing (great news if you end up in Sri Lanka during the monsoon season because you can wash and hang up your clothes in your own space, rather than paying for them to sit damp in a launderette!) and a living area for when you just want to chill out after a day of exploring.

The Best Boutique Hotel In Colombo

Accommodation needs differ for everybody, but there’s definitely a boutique hotel in Colombo for everyone.

Whether you want to spend your afternoons searching the library for your next paper addiction, you’re travelling with a furry friend and they need somewhere to sleep or you want to wind down in a rare bath, you’ll find somewhere in Colombo to suit your needs.

Read More: Getting To Mirissa From Colombo

Day 2 – 3: Kandy

If you’ve skipped Colombo completely and made your way straight from the airport to Kandy, you’ll have missed out on some amazing views!

However, if you’re not sticking to our suggested 10 days Sri Lanka itinerary anyway then it’s not a bad idea to visit Kandy first because there’s plenty to do here!

Famous for its historical Buddhist attractions, Kandy is the perfect place to learn about the local culture. The city itself is in the hills and is home to one of the most sacred places of worship for Buddhists in the world.

There are some amazing markets and stalls for shopping in Kandy. Spend a morning at the Kandy Market Hall and grab a few bargains. Don’t expect to haggle too much of the price though – Sri Lanka is in a difficult economic crisis at the moment and the people are struggling, so be kind and don’t try to save £1 when it could feed a seller’s family for the day.

Take a guided tour around the  Ceylon Tea Museum , where you can learn about how the tea is picked to where it is sold. Have a look at a few other great tours in Sri Lanka here.

There’s a cafe on the top floor – choose a tea and enjoy a free cup here. If you’re planning on doing any souvenir shopping in Kandy, this is a great place to buy tea and trinkets. You can do the same in the city centre but buying from an old tea museum just seems like a better story!

Another one of the smaller attractions in Kandy is a spice garden tour.

It won’t take all day, but you can visit the garden and sample the variety of spices used in Sri Lankan cooking and medicine. Combine this with a fun cooking class and get to enjoy the food that you have picked and cooked!

One of the best places to visit in Kandy is the lake. It’s in the centre of the city, yet it’s a peaceful place to relax and stroll around throughout the day.

Once you’re here, take a moment to visit the Temple of The Sacred Tooth Relic. It’s said that when the Buddha died, one of his teeth was saved and it now lies in the temple in Kandy.

The temple can get busy with both tourists and locals, so it’s a good idea to go early in the morning or in the evening.

If you want to rent a car in Kandy to explore the city on your own terms, many hotels/guesthouses offer a helpful service to assist you with that. Don’t forget you can also experience something completely fun and new, and rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka!

Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens for a serene afternoon. You don’t need more than a few hours here, but it is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Kandy so don’t miss it!

Finally, if you want great panoramic views of the city, take a tuk-tuk up to the Big Buddha statue.  You can see it from the ground but making your way up to the statue is more impressive!

Rooms in Kandy

Guesthouses are common all across Sri Lanka, and Kandy is no exception.

Many local families open up their homes to tourists and give them an experience you just wouldn’t get in a hotel. A freshly made authentic Sri Lankan breakfast is usually included, and you can also often ask for dinner too if you’re not interested in looking around for restaurants every evening.

Some will give you added thoughtful extras, like a map of Kandy, or a list of the best bars in Kandy! However, the cheaper guesthouses probably won’t have air conditioning (there’ll be a fan instead) so consider that when booking.

Day 4 – 5: Ella

The train from Kandy to Ella is meant to be one of the most gorgeous journeys in the world! Depending on the time of year, you’ll encounter some unbelievable views.

Unfortunately, if your 10 days Sri Lanka itinerary falls in the early months of the year, the mist might ruin the scenery so think about that when you’re planning!

At certain times of the year, the weather in Ella can be terrible. It also can be very unpredictable so it’s hard to say when the best time to visit is. We visited Ella in February/March in two different years, and had awful, wet and foggy weather the first time, and beautiful sun and bright days the second!

Typically though, the best time to visit is from January – to March.

It takes around 6 and a half hours, and prices start from 270 rupees for a second class seat. You can also buy first-class tickets for this train to guarantee yourself a seat.

The train timetable in Sri Lanka can be found on the government website here .

There are some great things to do in Ella , despite it being a small town with not much tourism yet compared to somewhere like Mirissa.

There are a few shops and restaurants in the centre of Ella, but be careful about travelling back to your hotel. Tuk-tuks don’t tend to run too late into the night – the restaurant owners had to give us a lift when we lost track of time!

Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock are the most popular hikes in Ella. Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan breakfast and then spend a morning climbing.

If you’re hiking Little Adam’s Peak, you can hike this and then make your way back down to the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Take some awesome photos but be careful not to fall off!

There are trains running on this bridge but they aren’t very regular so you might just be lucky if you see a famous brightly coloured one go past!

You can also book a tour so that your day is organised for you! Click here for more information and prices.

One of our favourite things to do when travelling is to take a cooking class . There are a few highly rated ones in Ella so if you’re interested in doing one, go early and try and book for the next day.

Accommodation in Ella

Unlike a lot of places, Ella caters for backpackers quite well. There are a few hostels and bars dotted around the town for you to enjoy.

There are also a couple of higher-end hotels if you want to splurge, and they’ll offer incredible mountain views to justify the prices.

Day 6 – 8: Tissamaharama (Tissa)

We highly recommend visiting Yala Safari whilst experiencing a 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary. There are plenty of other parks , but this is the best place to see Sri Lankan leopards. Stay in Tissa as it’s the closest town to the park and your safari guide will pick you up.

Read More: The Complete Guide To All Of The Best Yala Safaris

You’ll probably arrive in the evening so relax and prepare for the long day and early start the next morning. Catch a bus from Ella or get a private car – share it with other travellers if you can. There are usually people waiting at the bus stop in Ella so if a driver offers to take you, you can split the cost. You can also download the PickMe app and book a car that way.

Have you ever seen a wild leopard ? We definitely hadn’t before we went to Sri Lanka, but we were incredibly lucky and saw THREE whilst on safari! Yala National Park has one of the highest leopard densities in the world, but you still usually have to look really hard to spot one.

Book a private tour – our advice would be to take a 12-hour safari. It sounds very long but the time just flies when you’re seeking out new animals every minute! Honestly, I can’t stress enough how you’ll want every minute you can to find the leopards – if your driver gets a call saying that there is one nearby, you want to be able to spend the time waiting for these magnificent creatures.

Read More: Choosing A Sri Lanka Safari: The Ultimate Guide

Be aware that there is really not much to do in the town of Tissamaharama. The few restaurants that do operate, close fairly early so it’s unlikely that you’ll be spoilt for dinner options. If your hotel offers meals, then I’d recommend eating there so that you’re not wandering around in the dark looking for food.

Accommodation in Tissa

Your stay in Tissa will be short but you’ll still appreciate a good bed after a 12-hour safari! There aren’t many hotels in the town, but the locals are friendly and the hosts are welcoming.

There is another option for your Yala safari. You can choose an all-inclusive hotel in Tissamaharama, which not only includes all of your food and drink but TWO safari drives as well!!

Leopard Trails Yala is a campsite with a difference. You can stay in a luxury tent – this puts the GLAM in glamping, it’s not your average two-man tent!

There is also a beautiful swimming pool, air-con (told you it wasn’t a normal tent!) and amazing views.

Day 8 – 9: Mirissa

You’ve had a bit of a busy 10 days in Sri Lanka, so now you’re ready to relax and unwind at the beach!

There are buses from Tissamaharama to Mirissa, so if you’re confident with the transport system, then go ahead. The bus from Tissa to Mirissa stops in Matara, so jump off at the station and ask for directions for the right bus to continue on with your journey. The bus station can seem confusing, but people are quite helpful and Mirissa is a huge stop so plenty of others will be going there too.

However, if you have the budget, I’d recommend just asking your hotel (origin or destination) for a quote. We paid 6000 rupees for the trip the second time round we visited, and travelled in an air-conditioned vehicle with seatbelts – much safer than the bus trip!

There are a few fun things to do in Mirissa but once you’ve arrived, put your bags down and head on straight down to the beach!

Read More: Don’t Miss The Popular Photo Spot at Coconut Tree Hill!

Sri Lanka has some very pretty beaches all over. Mirissa is more of a resort area where you can grab a coconut cocktail, sunbathe on loungers and eat the famous Sri Lankan curry.

A couple of cool things to do in Mirissa on the beach include surfing and bodyboarding! You can also visit Secret Beach ( check out our complete guide to the secret beach here ) or even take an afternoon trip to Galle to look at the forts.  Here’s how to get there .

Read More: Your Complete Guide To Galle

One of the best things to do on your Sri Lanka 10 day itinerary is to go on a whale watching boat tour  in Mirissa! It’s best to pick the early morning slot, as the whales are the most active then. You’re likely to see huge blue whales, sperm whales and maybe even some playful dolphins.

Take a seasickness pill or put on some of these motion sickness prevention bands an hour before your boat leaves – the sea does get quite rough! Be aware though – the tablets can make you very drowsy so you might need to return to your accommodation for a nap!

A cooking class is a perfect way to get involved with the local culture in the afternoon. We took a class at Dewmini Roti Shop. The food was amazing but it wasn’t the best class we’ve ever been to . We did get to keep the recipe booklet and took away some good tips though. Try out Nishani’s cooking class near the river.

Be aware that everyone has a personal preference for how a class runs. Think about if you want a private class, or somewhere a bit more social.

Read More: Dewmini Roti Shop Cooking School: Is It As Good As They Say?

Mirissa nightlife isn’t exactly Ibiza, but there are a few beach clubs and bars that offer a good vibe and a place to dance! Take a wander down the beach and sample the different cocktails at the regular Happy Hours! If Cosmopolitans and Strawberry Daiquiris aren’t your thing, you’ll easily be able to grab a large Lion beer to watch the gorgeous sunset with.

Mirissa Accommodation

There is plenty of decent Mirissa accommodation but booking online in advance is recommended, as the town is becoming more and more popular with tourists. If you’re looking for something to treat yourself then take a look at these 9 incredible villas in Mirissa that we visited whilst there and the best 10 Mirissa boutique hotels!

Read More: A Guide To The Best Budget, Mid-Range and Luxury Hotels in Mirissa

You’ll be able to find cool hostels, cute guesthouses and swanky hotels near the beach easily, and finding somewhere with breakfast included isn’t hard either.

If you want a final night of luxury, book one of Mirissa’s stunning villas. Your every whim will be catered to, you’ll eat delicious fresh food and you’ll wake up to the peaceful sounds of the quiet beach area.

Click on the button below to book our favourite villa in Mirissa, or read this post to do your own research on the top 14 in the area!

Day 10: Negombo

To finish off your amazing 10 days in Sri Lanka, I would recommend either spending another night in Mirissa or making your way up to Negombo to be near the airport for your departure.

You can take a train from Mirissa all the way to Colombo , and then you’ll need to get a bus or taxi to Negombo. Don’t forget that you can use the PickMe app to find the best price for your taxi ride.

There aren’t many Negombo attractions but it’s a nice enough beach town to stay in before you fly home.

Rent a bicycle (usually for free) from your hotel and take a trip along the beach. Grab a few bottles from one of the many many beer shops around, and enjoy one of the best sunsets you’ll ever experience on the sand.

There are a few sellers trying to make a living – they weren’t too pressing though and we actually bought a beautiful bowl from one guy!

If you’re staying in a resort, you could spend the day relaxing and getting a couple of spa treatments. You could also book city tou r to see the real side of Negombo.

If you’ve booked into budget accommodation, you can visit the Jetwing hotel and for just 1500 rupees per person, you get access to the swimming pool, with a sunbed and towel. You can also buy food there and enjoy the beautiful beach views.

Negombo Accommodation

Negombo has some great options, from luxury hotels to budget bunk beds. As you’ll be going straight to the airport from here, you might decide on paying the bare minimum if your flight is late at night or in the early morning.

Enjoy this  Sri Lanka itinerary in January and enjoy sunny beaches, cool evenings and a higher chance of spotting a whale!

Where Else To Visit In Sri Lanka

Our 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary didn’t cover everything but we certainly had a wonderful time. If you’re going to backpack Sri Lanka, give yourself at least 10 days to explore it. Fantastic food, friendly people and gorgeous animals – there are so many fun things to do in Sri Lanka that it’s the perfect destination for your next holiday!

There are so many other amazing places that we both saw and didn’t get a chance to visit on our two trips, so if the above itinerary doesn’t quite tickle your fancy then don’t fret – there’s more!

Here are our other suggestions on places to visit in Sri Lanka if you’ve got more time or you wanted to change the itinerary:

This old city is a must for anyone interested in the colonial history of Sri Lanka. Galle Fort lies on the tip of the coastline and is full of museums, galleries, boutique hotels + shops and local restaurants.

There are also some amazing beaches in the Galle area – some are popular tourist spots with all of the amenities that you’d need for a day out, but some are real hidden gems that only the locals seem to visit!

Read our full guide about the best things to do in Galle here .

Jaffna is an important cultural area for the Tamil people in Sri Lanka, so it’s a really interesting place to go if you’re into finding out more about their heritage, and its close links to India. It was also occupied by the ‘Tamil Tigers’ during the civil war, and suffered greatly.

Since then though, Jaffna has welcomed visitors with open arms, and there are plenty of fascinating things to see.

Visit Jaffna library, which was rebuilt after being burnt down in the war (it lost over 90,000 books!), discover the temples in the city and enjoy the gorgeous beaches.

Nuwara Eliya

This pretty town is often called ‘Little England’ due to its links with Britain and the tea trade. There are parts that truly do resemble the English countryside, from the beautifully kept parks to the red postboxes dotted around town!

You can easily reach Nuwara Eliya from Ella by train and it is an incredible trip.

Once you’re there, take a trip to Gregory Lake, where you can eat candyfloss, hire a pedalo and cycle around the water. Ask a tuk-tuk driver to take you to see the Lover’s Leap waterfall, and spend some time in Victoria Park too.

Don’t miss visiting The Grand Hotel for a dinner (or four, we couldn’t stop going back!) Try both the Indian and Thai restaurants, as well as their Celebration High Tea, which you can enjoy in their gorgeous garden.

Read More: How To Visit Lovers Leap Waterfall In Nuwara Eliya

Trincomalee

If you’re looking for a beachside town without the tourists of Mirissa, then Trincomalee is a great option. It’s much quieter, but there’s still lots to do.

It’s a great place for whale watching from March until November, although for the highest chance of a sighting then go in the middle of this time from around May until October.

There are some amazing important temples in this area, and museums.

If you’re sick of the land, then get into the water! Spend some time snorkelling in Pigeon National Park and spot some turtles or even reef sharks!

You could even go whale watching in Trincomalee! I bet you didn’t know that!

Come here if you want another epic hike! This town is famous for Sigiriya Rock (also known as Lion Rock), the ancient fortress built on a rock almost 200m high! You can climb it all day, but you will get great sunrise views here.

You can walk within the landscaped gardens and visit the Rock Palace at the top.

However, a lot of people prefer (or choose as well) Pidurangala Rock instead. It’s only 1 metre smaller, but climbing this one means that you get insane views of Sigiriya! It’s also much cheaper for entrance.

This is a little-known beach town on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It’s got a chilled-out vibe, and it’s a lovely place to stay for a few days.

The main attraction here is Turtle Beach. You can get in the shallow water and see giant turtles just enjoying life! There is no fee as it’s not an official tourist attraction, which is better for the animals in our opinion.

You can feed them seaweed, and you can also hire snorkels from people on the beach so that you can swim next to these beautiful creatures. Obviously, it’s really important not to crowd or touch them as they are wild animals in their natural habitat, but it’s just an incredible thing to see!

If you’re coming here straight from Colombo, here’s how to take the train .

You might have seen elephants on your Yala safari, but if not then you should go to Udawalawe National park and take a safari there . I only recommend a 3-hour tour because there are so many elephants that you’re almost guaranteed to see them!

We saw around 40 on our tour compared to about 5 in Yala – that’s the kind of scale I’m talking about!

The Elephant Transit Home is also in Udawalawe. We were unsure about the ethics of this place as we had read some sad stories about it, so we decided to go and check it out, and talk to the staff if we had any concerns.

They do some really good conservation work, saving the orphaned elephants from roaming around the National Park on their own, but unfortunately, we saw some mistreatment of the babies with our own eyes. We watched a man hit a baby elephant in the face with a stick, just because it wanted to go back for some more milk.

I think that this place has a long way to go to be able to call themselves cruelty-free, but hopefully, in the future, they’ll be much more animal friendly and ethical.

Things To Know About Sri Lanka Before You Go

The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR or Rs). As of April 2022,  the rate is 1 USD = 321 LKR or 1 GBP = 418 LKR.

Change your money once you get to the country (it’s illegal to bring more than 5000Rs!) and look out for ATMs or licensed exchange bureaus. Usually, the rate you’ll get will be similar to the banks so you are unlikely to get ripped off here.

Remember to change your money back before you leave because you also can’t take more than 5000Rs  out of the country. A little souvenir is fine but there is literally no point in trying to keep more!

Sri Lankan Standard Time is 5 hours 30 minutes ahead of GMT. There’s no daylight savings time, and the zone brings the country in line with India’s time.

There are two official languages in Sri Lanka – Sinhala and Tamil. However, during our ten days in Sri Lanka, everyone we met spoke a high level of English. We were never stuck because of a language barrier.

There are actually four main religions in Sri Lanka, but Theravada Buddhism is the most common, with over 70% of the population following it.

As tourists, we felt very safe exploring Sri Lanka. We didn’t find that people hassled us on the street to buy things, the roads were very well maintained and the food always seemed well cooked. Obviously, keep your wits about you, but I’d tell people to do that in most places. I would recommend Sri Lanka as a destination for those of you who would be overwhelmed by somewhere super busy like India!

There is always the risk of something bad happening wherever you go, and the 2019 Easter attacks in Sri Lanka were an example of that.

However, security has been stepped up in the country and it’s no longer in the State of  Emergency. You should always avoid large crowds and gatherings – especially protests and demonstrations – and keep an eye out on the news too.

When Is The Best Time For A 10 Days Sri Lanka Itinerary?

You can visit the island all year round, but remember that there are changing seasons and they all affect the various cities differently!

There’s usually rain in the southwest and west of the country from April to September.

From October to March, the north and eastern parts experience their monsoon season.

The temperatures tend to stick around 26 – 30 degrees pretty much all year round, however, if you decide to hike up a mountain or two then the heat will disappear!

The higher you go, the colder it will get, especially at night time. Just don’t forget your pyjamas!

What To Pack For A 10 Days Sri Lanka Itinerary

You might find it difficult to pack light for your Sri Lanka trip as there are varying weather types across the island.

If you’re following this itinerary then you’ll want to bring beachwear, hiking gear AND safari clothes, let alone all of the usual everyday items you need.

Read More: Don’t Miss The Gorgeous Beruwala Beach!

On the beaches, be prepared for hot sunny days and incredible sunsets!

Our Top Pick

XL Backpack

Osprey Renn 50L

*See the full guide to this beauty right here!*

Carrying around a big backpack can be tiring, so you’ll need something extra comfortable like this Osprey Renn . It has an adjustable shoulder harness so it’s suitable whatever your height and the back panel is ventilated which helps on those hot sweaty days! The bag has plenty of compartments for all of your belongings – there’s a space for your sleeping bag, water reservoir sleeve and rain cover too! Click here to buy yours.

Walking Shoes

If you’re not planning on doing any major hiking, we recommend you check out these walking shoes. Don’t make the mistake of spending loads of money on insane walking boots if you don’t need to! Check them out here!

Walking Boots

If you’re planning on doing some serious hiking then we recommend you take a look at these Columbia walking boots. They come in loads of different colours and we think that they are really stylish. The most important thing however is that there are comfortable, waterproof and resilient which these are! There is nothing worse than sore feet preventing you from making the most out of your trip so don’t put it down to chance. Check them out in more detail here.

Travel Camera

Panasonic LUMIX ZS70K

If you don’t have a camera then I HIGHLY recommend the Panasonic Lumix ZS70K . It is an affordable point-and-shoot camera that can be picked up and used by anyone of any ability. The camera captures gorgeous images and surprisingly excellent video whilst fitting in your pocket. The main difference between this and your phone’s camera is that it also has an incredible optical zoom so you won’t miss any of the shots you need to take. Check it out here.

Micro Towel

If you’re stuck on what kind of towel to take with you then take a look at this microfibre poncho . We absolutely love ours and it is insanely helpful when you need to change on the beach. They dry fast and pack down super small so you’ll be able to fit one in your day pack easily enough. Check out the price here.

Multi Adapter

EPIKA Worldwide

If you’re worried about powering your devices on your trip then the simple solution is to take this EPIKA worldwide travel adapter. We have used it all over the world and it has worked flawlessly. Being able to charge up to 5 devices by USB (4 USB-A’s + 1 USB-C) plus a full power outlet socket is incredibly useful and works as an all-in-one solution. Check it out on Amazon here.

Combi Padlocks

If you’re worried about the security of your bag then make sure you grab this set of combi padlocks from SURE LOCK . Many attractions have lockers where you have to pay to use a padlock so they will come in very handy, not just for securing your bag. Grab yours here.

Menstrual Cup

We all know that tampons and pads are bad for the environment (not to mention uncomfortable and expensive!) so get yourself familiar with a reliable menstrual cup, like this one from Sirona . These can be reused for up to 15 years – think of the money and plastic waste you’ll save! Made from medical-grade silicone, Sirona’s cup is designed for comfort, sustainability and protection. Click here to choose the right size for you.

Addidas Originals

If you need protection from the sun then grab a hat before you travel. This Adidas original is affordable, protective and looks the part. Check out the price here.

Whether you’re visiting religious temples or windy beaches, this long cover-up by Moss Rose is perfect for wrapping around your shoulders. It’s lightweight and has so many uses, plus it looks great too! One size fits all and there are so many different patterns to choose from. Click here to get yours.

For a comprehensive breakdown of this list go to our budget savvy packing list guide .

Read More: If You’ve Got Time, Visit Udawalawe National Park Too!

Frequently Asked Questions

Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, beautiful scenery and exciting safaris. If you only have a short amount of time in Sri  Lanka, we recommend that you at least take the train through the hills and visit a tea plantation, and then take a safari. Yala National Park is famed for its leopards and Minneriya National Park is the best place to spot elephants. Click here to read our full guide on how to pick the best Sri Lankan safari.

A 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary is the perfect amount of time to explore the island, and not feel rushed. Sri Lanka isn’t the type of place that you only visit for 4 days or so because it’s not attached to the mainland. Two weeks gives you a little more flexibility to choose to stay somewhere for a few extra days so a fortnight is a good amount of time to spend in the country.

Generally, Sri Lanka is a safe place to visit. The locals tend to be friendly but obviously, there are some risks, just like in any country. Don’t carry a lot of money on you at any one time, and don’t let people know where you’re staying. Check with your accommodation whether you can drink the tap water because many areas do have filter systems in place.

Yes, you can. There are a few bars in the more touristy places like Mirissa, and we saw a good amount of beer shops but Sri Lanka isn’t known for its crazy nightlife so don’t go expecting an equivalent of Khao San Road or a Full Moon Party!

This whole trip cost us around 140,000 Sri Lankan rupees. That amount is for two people for ten days, including all food, private accommodation, in-country transport and activities (even the safari!). Obviously, this depends on factors like your accommodation standards, types of meals you choose to eat and if you decide to go on excursions or not. The cost of travel in Sri Lanka can be lower than that because you can easily find a room for less than 2000 rupees per night.

Spend 10 days in Sri Lanka and we guarantee that you’ll enjoy every minute!

Do you have any questions about this 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary? Email us or let us know in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!

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23 Comments

To be honest Sri lanka is high on my bucket list!! Ever since reading the Ramanyana, I have wanted to visit this island! Your stay looked amazing and thanks for sharing these top spots to see!

Thanks, I hope you get there soon! I hadn’t heard of the Ramanyana before going, I might have to have a read soon.

Such a detailed guide. Sri Lanka might not be on my top list but it’s a place I’d love to visit. And your post is just one of such I need to enjoy a beautiful stay in Sri Lanka. Thanks!

Thanks, I hope it stays relevant when you finally get there 🙂

Sri Lanka is a wonderful destination and has not been given its due. There are so many unknown gems in Sri Lanka and you have uncovered quite a few. A great itinerary that includes so many places off the beaten track makes for some memorable experiences. We have visited only Colombo while transiting through and need to return to see more of this lovely island country.

Thanks very much. I hope you get to see more than Colombo, it really is a beautiful place.

You are right, I too have overlooked Sri Lanka as a holiday destination. Whale watching and seeing the white leopards must have been awesome experiences. I think these two add a lot more value to the Sri Lanka itself, at least were most appealing to me. Nice post!

I hope you get to go there and see it yourself, it is very beautiful. I must say however that the leopards are not white haha.

You surely seen a lot in Sri Lanka for 10 days! Glad to see how you have maximized your trip.. 🙂 Tissa for a wildlife safari and whale watching are definitely on my to-dos when I visit Sri Lanka!

We sure did! Those are the two best thing so definitely go for it.

A perfect itinerary. And something I have been looking forward to. Since I keep planning trips, and one of those is around Sri Lanka covering exactly these locations. I heard that it’s really convenient to hop around using local trains and stay options are also plenty and comfortable as well

You’re completely right, the public transport is very easy to use, if not a bit crowded. Best of luck!

Sri Lanka is high on my list but it’s so darn far from where I live. Im so jealous you guys got to spend almost 2 weeks there. Bookmarking this for when I go- the beaches look beautiful!

Using China as a base whilst we were there was extremely useful for us when we were travelling Asia. I hope you manage to get there!

We spent four weeks in Sri Lanka last year – it had been high on our bucket list for years! We wanted to go there to see the old Buddhist sites mainly, but also enjoyed the wildlife. We were a bit disappointed by the food though – we are both vegetarians and expected more variety. Basically we had rice and curry or Kotthu every day.

Glad you guys enjoyed it. Although I have to disagree on the food! I could eat Sri Lankan Curry and Rice every day for the rest of my life haha

Sri Lanka looks amazing – it’s been on my wish list for years. Maybe I should make this the year…

It really is a beautiful country. I hope you manage to get there!

Six adults planning trip there for 10 – 14 da. ys from 22nd December 2018. I s it peak season?Thinking rent a car, four at the back,doing your good itinerary. Looking for three rooms accommodation at the various places. Suggestion?

December is a good time of year to do this itinerary because it focuses more on the central and southern parts of the country (it’s rainy season in the north!) Take a look on Booking.com ( https://www.booking.com/index.html?aid=1145420 ) for accommodation – it’s what we use to find the best deals and it’s handy to have all of your accommodation booked up in one place! Have a great time!

it was a good article bro,thx

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The Ultimate 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary (2024)

With its white-sanded beaches, mystical cave temples and beautiful nature, Sri Lanka has a lot to offer. This tropical island is home to amazing landmarks like Sigiriya’s Lion Rock, Ella’s Nine Arch Bridge and Dambulla’s cave temples. This 10-day itinerary for Sri Lanka will bring you to the country’s most iconic places .

Being one of the cheapest Asian countries , Sri Lanka is an excellent destination for budget travellers. It’s a country that history buffs, culture lovers and nature or beach lovers will adore.

Sri Lanka was the first country I visited when I started travelling full-time and I travelled around here for 2,5 months. This itinerary includes all of the highlights of my trip that can be seen in 10 days.

But without further ado, here’s the ultimate travel itinerary to make the most out of your 10 days in beautiful Sri Lanka!

10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for First Timers

This itinerary is a little packed so that it can include the highlights of Sri Lanka in just 10 days. If you have more time, then you could stay in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella or somewhere else for a little longer. It all depends on your personal preferences.

If you would like to take it a bit slower, you could consider skipping your least favourite destination and spending more time somewhere else. We all have a different style of travelling , after all!

• Day 1: Colombo

Most of the Sri Lankan itineraries don’t include the island’s capital, Colombo, and many people decide to skip it. However, there are quite some nice things to see in this underrated city.

With its rich history , interesting museums and colonial buildings , Colombo is a perfect introduction to Sri Lanka. You will most likely land at Colombo’s airport when you enter the country, and this is the perfect opportunity to spend a day in this bustling city!

All in all, if you’re asking me, Colombo is worth visiting for a day.

🛕 Highlights of Colombo:

• Seema Malakaya: This Buddhist temple is one of my favourite places in Colombo! It was constructed in the late 19th century and it’s beautifully located by Beira Lake. Besides serving as a temple, it’s also a learning centre.
• Gangaramaya Vihara Temple: Built around a sacred Bodhiya tree, this is one of the most important temples in Colombo. It houses a large amount of Buddha statues and dates back to the late 19th century.
• National Museum: This is Sri Lanka’s largest museum and you will find many artefacts here. During a visit to this museum, you will learn a lot about Sri Lanka’s interesting history, from ancient times until its colonisation.
• Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid): With its red and white colours and unique design, this unique mosque looks like it’s made of candy. It was completed in 1909, which makes it one of the oldest mosques in Colombo. The mosque is located in the Pettah area, which is worth exploring too!
• Galle Face Green: If you want to catch a glimpse of local life in Colombo, then Galle Face Green is the place to be. Its oceanfront promenade is the place where the locals head to relax or play with their children.
• Colonial buildings: You will find plenty of beautiful colonial buildings in Colombo’s fort area. These buildings date back to the Dutch and British eras. Some examples are Cargills Department Store, St Peter’s Church and the Old Galle Buck Lighthouse.
• Day 2 – 3: Sigiriya

Next, it’s time to head to Sigiriya , this town is part of the famous cultural triangle of Sri Lanka . It takes about 5 hours to get here from Colombo by train or 3,5 hours by private taxi.

Sigiriya is nestled in between lush green jungles and it’s home to the world-famous Lion Rock. This is one of the most famous landmarks in Asia .

For this itinerary, I would recommend stopping by the Dambulla Cave Temple on day 2 and then heading to Pidurangala Rock for sunrise on day 3.

After watching the sunrise at Pidurangala, you can head to the beautiful ancient city of Polonnaruwa . This is a 57 km (35.7 mi) drive from Sigiriya. You can either reach Polonnaruwa by local bus from Dambulla or by private car.

🛕 Highlights of Sigiriya :

• Pidurangala Rock: Watching the sunset over Lion Rock at Pidurangala Rock is definitely the best thing to do in Sigiriya! It’s a 30 to 40-minute hike up to reach the viewpoint and it’s one of these bucket list experiences in Sri Lanka .
• Lion Rock: Although Lion Rock can be visited, the entry ticket is quite expensive for foreigners ($30) and you will have a more beautiful view from Pidurangala Rock. I didn’t visit Lion Rock myself, so I wouldn’t know, but the opinions vary. Some people say it’s not worth the high entry fee while others say it’s a must-visit attraction in Sigiriya.
• Dambulla Cave Temple: These astonishing temples are a 20 km (12 mi) tuk-tuk ride from Sigiriya and it’s an additional short hike up a stairway to reach them. You will find five Buddhist cave shrines here, each of them containing beautiful statues. These temples date back to the 2nd century BCE.
• Polonnaruwa : The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is 57 km (35 mi) from Sigiriya. You can reach it by taking the local bus or a private taxi. Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura was destroyed in 993. This is a must-see for history buffs – there are plenty of beautiful ruins to see here.
• Day 4: Kandy

Depending on your mode of transport, it takes 2 to 3 hours to get from Sigiriya to Kandy – around 2 hours by private car or about 3 hours by local bus. Head here in the early morning so that you have enough time to explore the city.

After arriving in Kandy, I would head to the botanical gardens , visit the Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue next and finish the day at Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth . The best time to visit the latter is between 5 pm and 7 pm when monks perform rituals here.

🛕 Highlights of Kandy:

• Temple of the Tooth: This is the absolute highlight in Kandy. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth is one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world. It’s said to house the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and monks perform rituals here every day.
• Peradeniya Botanical Garden: There’s also a gorgeous botanical garden in Kandy. This garden dates back to the 14th century and you will find around 4,000 different plant species here.
• Kandy Lake: Kandy Lake is a nice place for a short stroll. It’s located close to the Temple of the Tooth, so these are ideal to combine.
• Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue : This giant Buddha statue towers over Kandy and it can be seen from many places in the city. It’s a 2 km (1.2 mi) hike or tuk-tuk ride up steep streets if you want to see it up close.

Tip: If you have more time to spare in Kandy or if this seems like a place you’d enjoy, consider heading to the unique Ambuluwawa Tower . It takes about 1,5 hours to get here from Kandy and it’s spectacular!

Day 5: Nuwara Eliya (train ride from Ella to Kandy)

Today, it’s time to take part 1 of one of the most beautiful train rides in the world – the ride from Kandy to Ella . This is an absolute must on any Sri Lanka itinerary.

As the train ride from Kandy to Ella is quite a long journey of 7 to 8 hours, Nuwara Eliya is the perfect place to stop in between. On top of that, splitting the journey in two will give you a greater chance of finding a seat by the window.

Beautiful tea plantations surround the town of Nuwara Eliya and it’s less touristy than Ella. Besides its beautiful green tea plantations , Nuwara Eliya is also famous for its waterfalls and British colonial buildings .

It will take around 3,5 hours to get from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya so make sure to leave early so that you have the rest of the day left to visit the place.

🛕 Highlights of Nuwara Eliya:

• Waterfalls: There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls to visit in Nuwara Eliya . I visited Ramboda Falls and Bomburu Falls , and loved both of them! If you’re short on time, you could head to Lover’s Leap Waterfall instead. These falls are just a short drive from the town of Nuwara Eliya. Do make sure to ask if there’s water flowing first because sometimes it’s dry.
• Post office: Nuwara Eliya’s post office is located in the centre of the town. It was constructed by the British in 1894 and, like many buildings in Nuwara Eliya, it looks super British.
• Tea plantations: There are lots of tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and most of them offer free tours and free tea tasting! I visited Damro Tea but there are many others, so you could even visit a few.

Day 6 & 7: Ella

After visiting Nuwara Eliya, it’s time to hop on the train to Ella. This is another beautiful train ride that takes about 3 to 4 hours.

There are plenty of things to do in Ella and this is one of my favourite destinations in Sri Lanka! This small town is surrounded by nature and offers plenty of great hiking opportunities. You will find lush green jungle hills, beautiful tea plantations and amazing waterfalls here.

Once you’ve arrived in Ella and rested a bit, you could head to the Nine Arch Bridge , which is a short hike from the centre.

On day 7, I would recommend doing the Little Adam’s Peak hike for sunrise , it’s truly magnificent!

After that, you can either marvel around the stunning tea plantations at Lipton’s Seat , head to the beautiful Diyaluma Falls or hike up Ella Rock . It all depends on your interests.

🛕 Highlights of Ella:

• Nine Arch Bridge: This photogenic colonial bridge was built by the British in 1921 and its name comes from the bridge’s nine arches. It’s located 2,5 km (1.9 mi) from the main street. You can either walk from here or take a tuk-tuk to the starting point of the path. From here, it’s a 10-minute walk to reach the bridge. This is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks .
• Little Adam’s Peak: Hiking up to Little Adam’s Peak for sunrise was one of my favourite things to do in Sri Lanka! It’s an easy, 1-hour hike from Ella’s main street and the view from the top is spectacular!
• Ella Rock: This hike is a little more challenging than the hike to Little Adam’s Peak. It will take you over train tracks and through beautiful sceneries. Although I loved both of these hikes, I would suggest going to Little Adam’s Peak if you can’t do both.
• Diyaluma Falls: Head to Diyaluma Falls if you’re a waterfall lover. These are Sri Lanka’s second-highest falls and you can cool off in its natural pools. It’s a 1-hour ride plus a short hike to get to Diyaluma Falls.
• Lipton’s Seat: If you can’t get enough of tea plantations then Lipton’s Seat is a must-visit. Located 30 km (18 mi) from Ella, this is the scenic viewpoint in the middle of tea plantations where Mister Lipton himself used to sit to look at his property.

Eco tip:  It might be tempting, but please don’t fly your drone at the Nine Arch Bridge as it upsets the bees. Bee attacks happen here daily and drones cause them.

Day 8 – 9: Mirissa

I have visited quite some beaches in Sri Lanka and Mirissa was my favourite one – even though I’m not the biggest beach lover.

If you’re travelling by local bus, you will have to take the bus from Ella to Matara (4 hours) first and take another bus to Mirissa from here. The journey takes about 4,5 hours in total.

Mirissa is the perfect place to relax a bit after having completed 7 days of this 10-day itinerary for Sri Lanka. You will find white-sanded beaches with palm trees here.

There are some nice places to visit and fun things to do in Mirissa . One of this town’s highlights is Coconut Tree Hill , which went viral on Instagram a couple of years ago. But Mirissa is also a nice place to go snorkelling and swim in the sea .

🛕 Highlights of Mirissa

• Coconut Tree Hill: This is one of the most Instagrammable places in Sri Lanka! This beautiful mound is full of palm trees and you can see the sea in the background. Do make sure to go early if you want to avoid hordes of crowds. I visited around 7:30 (in late February) and, unfortunately, it was already pretty packed.
• Mirissa beach: Relaxing in one of the beach bars, swimming and snorkelling in the sea are some of the best things to do at this beautiful beach.
• Parrot Rock viewpoint : This small island can easily be accessed from Mirissa Beach and from here, you will have the most beautiful view over the beach.
• Secret Beach: Secret Beach is a small, hidden beach where not too many people head to. It’s a 30-minute walk to get here from Mirissa Beach and when I visited it in the morning, it was empty!
• Day 10: Galle

It takes a little over an hour to get from Mirissa to Galle by train. This charming, fortified city was built by the Portuguese and later conquered by the Dutch. In the olden days, it was used as a trading port for spices and other goods.

The best things to do in Galle are to wander around its charming streets , drink juice at one of its lovely cafes and admire the beautiful colonial architecture .

Galle is quite small (that rhymes) and it doesn’t take too long to cover the centre, so it’s okay to take it slow, shop for some nice Sri Lankan souvenirs and relax on this last day!

🛕 Highlights of Galle

• Lighthouse: This is Galle’s most famous sight and it’s super photogenic! The city’s original lighthouse was built by the British in 1848 but it was destroyed by a fire a little less than a century later. In 1939, the lighthouse that’s standing today was built 100 m (328 ft) further than its predecessor.
• Ramparts: Walking on Galle’s old ramparts is another must-do in this city (they’re a great place to watch the sunset too). These were originally built by the Portuguese and later expanded to the seaside by the Dutch.
• Colonial buildings: Strolling around Galle Fort in search of its colonial architecture was my favourite thing to do in this town. Some of the buildings you cannot miss are the Old Gate, the Groote Kerk (Big Church in Old Dutch) and the Old Saints Church.

Map and Schedule for the 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary

Day 1: Colombo Day 2 – 3: Sigiriya Day 4: Kandy Day 5: Nuwara Eliya Day 6 & 7: Ella Day 8 – 9: Mirissa Day 10: Galle

Alternative: Yala or Udawalawe National Park

If going on a safari is on your bucket list, then you could skip Nuwara Eliya and head to Yala or Udawalawe National Park instead. Then your itinerary would look like this:

• Day 5 & 6: Ella
• Day 7 & 8: Yala or Udawalawe National Park
• Day 9: Mirissa

Why aren’t these on this 10-day itinerary for Sri Lanka?

I did three safaris in Sri Lanka, a jeep safari at Yala National Park , another jeep safari at Kumana National Park and a boat safari at Gal Oya National Park . The last one was my favourite, but Gal Oya is quite remote and it would take too long to get there on this short itinerary.

Although I did enjoy the jeep safaris in Yala and Kumana National Park, I don’t think these are the highlights of a trip to Sri Lanka if you’re short on time. Safaris here are not like they are in Africa, and sometimes, you don’t spot an animal for hours.

Additionally, I think safaris in Yala are too crowded for the animals, with tens of jeeps rushing all around and surrounding the animals.

Don’t keep this from going on a safari if this is something you want to do, though, as this is my humble opinion. Seeing an elephant or a leopard (I didn’t see any in Yala, but some people I met did) in the wild is one of these amazing bucket list adventures , after all!

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is between December and April . This is when the weather is at its best in the centre and on the West and South coasts, which is perfect for this itinerary.

On the East Coast of Sri Lanka, the weather is at its best from May to October. I went to the East Coast in March and the weather was nice, though. However, this is not a good time to good surfing or snorkelling in the sea.

How to Get Around Sri Lanka

As Sri Lanka is quite small, it’s easy to get around the country and the distances aren’t too big. You will find the best ways to get around the island below:

• Tuk-tuk: The best way to cover short distances is by hiring a tuk-tuk. Do make sure to negotiate the price in advance though, as tuk-tuk drivers charge more for foreigners. You can also use the Pick Me app , it works just like Uber, and this way, you will get a fair price immediately.
• Rent a tuk-tuk: I didn’t do it myself (yet) but renting your own tuk-tuk is probably the coolest (and most flexible) way to get around Sri Lanka!
• Local bus: Local buses are cheap, efficient and easy to take. Together with the train, this was my preferred method of transportation in Sri Lanka.
• Train: You cannot go to Sri Lanka and not take the train (think of the famous ride from Kandy to Ella, for example). Although trains in Sri Lanka aren’t the most comfortable and they’re often cramped (you can book in advance and there are different classes, though), travelling by train is a great way to see more of the country’s stunning landscapes!
• Rent a scooter: This is the easiest and most flexible way to cover shorter distances in Sri Lanka. You will find places that rent scooters all over the country.

I never booked a ticket in advance when I took the train or the bus, but you can book the train in advance if it gives you some peace of mind (or if you want to make sure to have a seat).

Sri Lanka Itinerary FAQs

Are 10 days enough in sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island with many amazing places to discover. 10 days is just enough to see its highlights, but your itinerary will be quite packed.

How much do 10 days in Sri Lanka cost?

It all depends on your travel style, but if you’re on a tight budget, it’s possible to travel around Sri Lanka for 10 days for $250 or less. It’s easy to find cheap accommodation and food and transportation aren’t too expensive either.

Itinerary for 10 Days in Sri Lanka: Final Thoughts

The places mentioned in this itinerary were the absolute highlights of my 6 weeks in Sri Lanka solo . With its nice mix of culture , nature and beaches , it will give you a good idea of what this island is all about.

All in all, Sri Lanka is a country I really loved exploring. It has an interesting culture, beautiful nature and incredibly welcoming locals. Even though I visited the country when all the protests were going on due to the economic crisis, the locals were still incredibly warm and friendly.

I hope you found this itinerary helpful and that it helped you decide what places to visit during your 10 days in Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Sri Lanka on  Skyscann e r . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Hostelworld . 🛺 Download the  Pick Me app  to order a rickshaw or a taxi. 💰 Get travel insurance via  VisitorsCoverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa  to visit Sri Lanka.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Thank you so much for your blog, I was planning my trip tp sri lanka. although this will be my 4th visit I have never visited kandy and Ella and a lot of the other places that you mentioned. So I guess you plan my trip for me Better than I could have planned it myself. Finishing with Mirissa for the perfect surfing spots! yaY

Hi Zeina, thank you for your sweet comment, I’m happy this post was helpful! 🙂 Kandy and Ella are amazing, have a wonderful trip!

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Your Trip Your Way

04 Days- Kandy- Nuwara-Eliya- Colombo Tour

3 nights – 4 days.

Classic Tour in Sri Lanka

8 nights – 9 days.

Explore Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Bentota in Sri Lanka

5 nights – 6 days.

Family Tour in Sri Lanka

11 nights – 12 days.

Gem Tour in Sri Lanka

13 nights – 14 days.

Hill Country Photography Tour in Sri Lanka

7 nights – 8 days.

Last Minute Tour in Sri Lanka

Ramayana Tour

6 nights – 7 days.

Relax and Unwind in Sri Lanka

Shopping Tour in Sri Lanka

14 nights – 15 days.

Short Break Tour In Sri Lanka

2 nights – 3 days.

Short Break Tour in Sri Lanka 1

Short Break Tour in Sri Lanka 2

Solo Tour in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka and Maldives Tour

12 nights -13 days.

Sri Lanka Itinerary 7 Days

Sri Lanka Itinerary 14 Days

Sri Lanka Itinerary 21 Days

20 nights – 21days.

Sri Lanka Luxury Tour

Sri Lanka Round Tours

UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour in Sri Lanka

Wildlife Tour in Sri Lanka

Beach Tour in Sri Lanka

7 days – 7 days east cost – 7 days west coast – 7 days south coast – 14 days.

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Itinerary Sri Lanka 2 & 3 weeks: the ultimate itineraries for backpacking in Sri Lanka!

The ultimate itinerary for sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful and versatile country. It is not big and the distances between destinations are short. You can visit Sri Lanka with a fixed itinerary, but this is not necessary. Booking a hotel last minute is easy and transport is often available without a reservation. Due to the many highlights, it can be difficult to make choices: there is so much to do, even in two or three weeks you will not be able to see everything.

Don’t worry, whatever your itinerary for Sri Lanka is, you’re going to have a fantastic time anyway. To get you started, we have put together three different itineraries for Sri Lanka that will let you experience culture, nature and beautiful beaches. Then you will find a short description of what to expect here a little further in the article per destination in Sri Lanka. This way you can judge for yourself whether you add the destination to your tour through Sri Lanka!

Our trip through Sri Lanka:

Looking for inspiration for nice hotels and unique places to sleep? Then read our hotel guide for Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka itinerary 2 weeks

Do you want to visit the most authentic destinations of Sri Lanka in just a short time? Then consider the following 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary. With this tour you visit the old capital of Sri Lanka; you can see different beaches and experience the special train journey from Kandy to Ella . You will also visit the beautiful Sigiriya with its characteristic temple on top of the rock and you can enjoy hiking in the beautiful surroundings of Ella . Want to take it slower, then scrap the beach town of Mirissa and use the extra days for Ella or Arugam Bay.

This 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary is as follows:

Negombo – Anuradhapura – Sigiriya – Kandy – Ella – Arugam bay – Dickwella – Mirissa – Colombo

Day planning itinerary Sri Lanka 2 weeks:

Day 1: Negombo – Anuradhapura (4-6 hours drive) Day 2: Anuradhapura Day 3: Anuradhapura – Sigiriya (2 hours drive) Day 4: Sigiriya Day 5: Sigiriya- Kandy (2 hours drive) Day 6: Kandy – Ella (7 hours train) Day 7: Ella

Day 8: Ella – Arugam Bay (3 hours drive) Day 9: Arugam Bay Day 10: Arugam Bay – Dickwella (2 hours drive) Day 11: Dickwella Day 12: Dickwella – Mirissa (1.5 hours drive) Day 13: Mirissa Day 14: Mirissa – Colombo (3 hours drive)

Do you want to know how we spent our time in Sri Lanka? Then read my diary blogs about Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka itinerary 3 weeks

This 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary takes you past the ancient royal city of Anuradhapura , the spectacular Lion’s Rock, Ella and beautiful beaches. You will also stop here in the old colonial village of Nuwara Eliya where you can visit the traditional tea plantations. Challenge yourself while climbing the most sacred mountain in Sri Lanka: Adam’s Peak . For spotting wildlife, you have to go to Yala National Park . Here you will find herds of Asian elephants and with luck a leopard. You will spend the last days of your trip at the beach and if you haven’t seen enough culture yet, you can always consider a visit to Fort Galle .

This 3 week Sri Lanka itinerary is as follows:

Negombo – Anuradhapura – Trincomalee – Sigiriya – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Adam’s Peak – Ella – Yala National Park – Dickwella – Mirissa (Galle) – Colombo

Day planning itinerary Sri Lanka 3 weeks

Day 1 : Negombo – Anuradhapura (4-6 hours drive) Day 2: Anuradhapura Day 3: Anuradhapura – Trincomalee (2 hours drive) Day 4: Trincomalee Day 5: Trincomalee Day 6: Trincomalee – Sigiriya (2 hours drive) Day 7: Sigiriya Day 8: Sigiriya- Kandy (2 hours drive) Day 9: Kandy Day 10: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya (3 hours train) Day 11: Nuwara Eliya & Adam’s Peak

Day 12: Nuwara Eliya – Ella (4 hours train) Day 13: Ella Day 14: Ella Day 15: Ella – Yala National Park (2 hours drive) Day 16: Yala National Park – Dickwella (safari + 2 hours drive) Day 17: Dickwella Day 18: Dickwella Day 19: Dickwella – Mirissa (1 hour drive) Day 20: Mirissa (Galle Fort) Day 21: Mirissa – Colombo (3 hours drive)

Visiting the most sacred mountain in Sri Lanka? Then climb Adam’s Peak early in the morning!

Combined trip India, Sri Lanka & the Maldives

A tour through Sri Lanka can also be combined well with the Maldives. From Colombo you can fly to Male in no time and from this travel, if the budget allows it, to a beautiful overwater bungalow. Allow at least 4 days for the Maldives. For backpackers who have more time to spend, India is a nice destination that is easy to combine with Sri Lanka. From Kochi you fly directly to Colombo. Traveling through the Maldives is considerably more expensive than backpacking through India or Sri Lanka. A possible itinerary from which you can further explore each country is:

Kochi – Colombo – Male

Highlights of Sri Lanka: all destinations at a glance!

Although Sri Lanka is a relatively small country, it has many highlights! For your convenience, we have made a map with all the highlights of Sri Lanka. 

Map with the highlights of Sri Lanka

The destinations in Sri Lanka are quite diverse. Below we have briefly described what you can expect at each Sri Lankan highlight.

Colombo: International airport

In Colombo you will find Sri Lanka’s international airport. Chances are that you will start your journey through Sri Lanka here. Do not stay here too long, Colombo is mainly a large and busy city. Consider spending your first night in nearby Negombo to acclimate to Sri Lanka.

Negombo: Beach place

Negombo is not a huge highlight, but a beach place where you can relax perfectly before your trip through Sri Lanka starts.

Anuradhapura: Spiritual place of prayer

Jaffna: culture & island hopping.

Jaffna is located in the quiet north of Sri Lanka. If you really want to get off the beaten track, consider discovering this area. You will meet considerably less backpackers here and the city has only been open to tourists since 2009. Enjoy the beautiful temples or go on an island hop tour in Jaffna!

Trincomalee: beaches

Sigiriya: lion’s rock, a beautiful rock formation, kandy: busy city + start of the famous train journey kandy to ella.

Kandy is a typical Asian city: busy and chaotic! But if you have the time, immerse yourself in this bustle and enjoy the scents, colors and sounds that belong to Sri Lanka! Plus Kandy is the starting point for one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world: the train ride from Kandy to Ella! You can read everything about Kandy in Sri Lanka  here.

Nuwara Eliya: Tea Plantations & Adam’s Peak

On the way from Kandy to Ella, the train also stops in the village of Nuwara Eliya. This green hilly area is known as little England. It is a lot colder here in comparison to the rest of Sri Lanka and very green. Visit one of the tea plantations or depart from Nuwara Eliya to the top of the sacred mountain Adam’s Peak ! Read all about Nuwara Eliya in this blog .

Ella: nature and fun!

Ella is known for its many beautiful walks and delicious food. Read here about the seven activities that you should not miss in Ella, Sri Lanka!

Arugam Bay: surfing!

Yala national park: safari in sri lanka.

In Sri Lanka you also have several safari parks with elephants and other wild animals. One of these is Yala National Park. A cool park perfect for a safari! Consider this day safari in Yala National Park and  Udawalawe National Park.

Dickwella: surfing

Dickwella is the hip and slightly undiscovered sister of Mirissa! Just 1.5 hours away you will find this relaxed village with Hiriketiya Bay as its highlight. The ultimate place to learn to surf as a beginner. Read all about our favorite beach town Dickwella in this travel guide!

Mirissa: Beaches and whales

Mirissa is known as a relaxed beach spot. You will find cute bays, wide sandy beaches and many beach bars here. Mirissa has now become a real hotspot that attracts many tourists every year. Don’t fancy that? Then consider choosing Dickwella instead of Mirissa. It is possible to spot whales in Mirissa, but read carefully about the animal welfare of such a whale safari! Read all about Mirissa here.

Galle: beach resorts & old Dutch fort!

Sri lanka tips: good to know before traveling to sri lanka.

Finally, some useful tips and facts about traveling through Sri Lanka.

1. Sri Lanka is not an expensive country!

Sri Lanka is by no means an expensive country! For example, you can eat delicious curries at local restaurants for just a few euros. Accommodation is also not expensive and for a few euros you can travel all over the country by public transport. An average daily budget for a backpacker in Sri Lanka is between 30-40 euros.

Curious how expensive a trip through Sri Lanka can be? Read all about traveling on a budget in Sri Lanka here in this blog.

2. Good English is spoken in Sri Lanka

Do not worry whether you can make yourself understood: people speak good English in Sri Lanka. In addition, the population is often very helpful and nice.

3. Traveling around Sri Lanka is simple!

Transport options in Sri Lanka

You can travel in Sri Lanka by public transport or by private transport:

• Public transport in Sri Lanka: If you are traveling on a budget, you have to rely on colourful buses or the train. The buses in Sri Lanka connect all over the country and run several times a day. A ticket for the bus is cheap (1-2 euros for a distance of 100-300 km). A ride on the train in Sri Lanka is a special experience (especially between Kandy and Ella!). Keep in mind that the trains are sometimes full and that they do not run throughout Sri Lanka.
• Private transport in Sri Lanka: If you are in a hurry or need more comfort, you can opt for the tuk-tuk, taxi or pick-up service from the hotel. This is more expensive, but faster than public transport.
• Independent driving in Sri Lanka: Would you rather be in control yourself? You can rent a tuk-tuk to drive all over Sri Lanka yourself. It is also possible to rent a scooter on location for a day to see the nearby area.

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The Ultimate Itinerary for your road trip in Sri Lanka, the Teardrop Island

There’s only one way to describe Sri Lanka – a small island country with the largesse of an entire continent! Diverse landscapes, stunning beaches, expansive tea estates, laid-back tropical villages, world heritage sites, scrumptious food, and friendly people – there is nothing a self-drive road trip in Sri Lanka doesn’t offer! You know we love road trips and would highly recommend a visit to this island nation.

We’ve tried to include everything you need to plan an incredible road trip in Sri Lanka below. Choose an itinerary that suits your budget and the number of days you have at hand and get going 🙂

Getting into Sri Lanka

Bandaranaike International Airport /Colombo International airport is well connected to most countries. On this occasion, we took a convenient direct flight (3 hours) from New Delhi as we were in India before flying to Sri Lanka. Air India, Jet Airways, and Sri Lanka Airlines all provide equally  convenient connections from India – it’s best to compare rates before booking a flight.

Sri Lanka offers Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)  – you can apply on the ETA website  and you’ll receive the visa approval letter via email usually within 24 hours. The fee for SAARC residents is USD 20 and for other residents is USD 35. You get a double entry visa valid for 30 days.

Cab from Airport

You need not book a pre-paid transfer to your hotel unless it is included in the cost of your hotel booking. Upon getting to the airport, you will be hounded by several taxi drivers and taxi companies. The most cost effective option is to book a fixed price cab that costs 3000 LKR ($18) from a stall such as Cassons or Airport Taxi. You will spot these stalls as soon as you exit the Arrivals area at the airport

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is between November and March as the weather is pleasant. However we visited during the shoulder season in September and despite grumbling about the intense heat on a couple of days, we enjoyed ourselves.

Renting A Car for your road trip in Sri Lanka

It is easy to get around Sri Lanka using public buses and trains but renting a car is the most comfortable way of getting around Sri Lanka. If you intend to rent a car with a driver in Sri Lanka, then it is easy to arrange one in advance. However if you want to drive yourself, then just keep aside half a day to get your licence validated in Colombo. If you have an International Driving Permit (IDP), the car rental company can get the validation done for you. However if you don’t have an Intrnational Driving License, then you will have to be present at the DMV to obtain a temporary driving license (valid for 30 days). The fee for this temporary license is LKR 1000 ($6). It took us a couple of hours to obtain this license.

But despite this extra effort, we would definitely recommend renting a car to explore Sri Lanka on your own. If you travel frequently or have driven in even slightly chaotic countries, we would HIGHLY recommend planning a road trip in Sri Lanka. It’s affordable, roads are good, people even better, and you’ll stumble on SO many gems along the way like this ancient rock fortress.

We rented our car from Malkey Rental and it was a seamless process. We reserved a car via their website and one of their representatives accompanied us for the license validation process. If you’re renting a car in Sri Lanka, then we’d definitely recommend going with a Sri Lankan company like Malkey as they understand the nuances of the country better and are more flexible when it comes to the terms and conditions dependent on the terrain. The rental car cost LKR 15000 ($88) per week for an economy class car. This cost included a limit of 80 kilometres per day. Additional kilometres were charged at LKR 30 per kilometre. We rented it for 16 days and ended up driving around 1400 kilometres, thereby paying for 120 odd extra kilometres. We had read plenty of discussions on forums where people had strongly discouraged others from renting a car – we are SO happy we rented one 🙂

View this post on Instagram Driving past THE icon of Sri Lanka – the Lion Rock ??? When we first started reading about self-drive rentals in Sri Lanka all we saw were lots of discussion boards warning people against renting cars or driving in the country. We researched some more, weighed our pros and cons and decided to GO for it anyway! ? On getting to Colombo, we got our rental car in Sri Lanka after waging a mini bureaucratic war ?? ✨ ✨ To cut a long story short, you just need 1 extra day in Colombo to get your license validated. You’ll have to queue up (will pop all details in our article so the process is seamless for you ☺️?!). But once that is done, you are all set to explore every little corner of Sri Lanka on your own. If you travel frequently or have driven in even slightly chaotic countries, we would HIGHLY recommend renting a car to explore Sri Lanka. It’s affordable, roads are amazing, people even better, and you’ll stumble on SO many gems along the way like this ancient rock fortress ??? ✨ ✨ MORAL of the story? Travelling to new places is a bit like LIFE itself! You need to exercise common sense, measure your options but ALSO be confident and take risks. Don’t follow the herd and most importantly don’t be scared of the unknown and you’ll reap the highest rewards in travel and in LIFE ☺️? #bruisedpassports #lifelessons #traveltips A post shared by Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Sep 22, 2018 at 9:31pm PDT

Sample Itineraries for your road trip in Sri Lanka

We will provide a day-by-day breakdown of our entire road trip below. But here are a few suggested itineraries depending on the number of days that you have in the country

SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR 4 DAYS

• Day 1 – Stay in Colombo
• Days 2-5 – Stay in Galle and explore Southern Province including Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Galle

SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR 1 WEEK

• Days 5-7 – Stay in Yala National Park and go on safari

SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR 2 WEEKS

• Days 5-7 – Stay in Yala National Park and go on safari (2 days)
• Days 7-10 – Stay in Arugam Bay/Trincomalle and explore offbeat beaches of Eastern Sri Lanka
• Days 10-11 – Stay in Sigiriya and go hiking
• Days 11-13 – Stay in Kandy/Ella and explore Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Kandy
• Day 14 – Fly out of Colombo

SUGGESTED ITINERARY FOR 1 MONTH

• Days 1-3 – Stay in Colombo
• Days 3-8 – Stay in Unawatuna and explore Southern Province including Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Galle
• Days 8-10 – Stay in Yala National Park and go on safari (2 days)
• Days 7-12 – Stay in Arugam Bay
• Days 12-18 – Stay in Trincomalle and explore offbeat beaches of Eastern Sri Lanka
• Days 18-20 -Stay in Anuradhapura and explore surrounding temples and monasteries
• Days 21-24 – Stay in Sigiriya/Dambulla and go hiking
• Days 24-27 – Stay in Kandy and explore Sri Lanka’s most visited town
• Days 27-29 – Stay in Ella and explore Nuwara Eliya and Ella
• Day 30 – Return to Colombo and fly out of Colombo

Day by Day breakdown of our road trip in Sri Lanka

Days 1-2 : arrive in colombo and pick up your rental car.

Irrespective of where you are flying from, we’d suggest spending at least a night in Colombo before you pick up your car. The next morning, you can get your license validated and pick up your rental car for your road trip in Sri Lanka. You can also spend a day exploring the major highlights of Colombo such as visiting the Beira Lake, National Museum, exploring the historical streets of Pettah (don’t miss the gorgeous Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosuqe) or eating at the Ministry Of Crab!

Accommodation in Colombo

We chose to stay at an AirBnB apartment in the bustling centre of Colombo since we booked at the last minute and couldn’t find a good hotel in the area we wanted. Apartments are a great option in Sri Lanka but make sure you check for essentials such as wifi, parking, air conditioner etc before you book. If you are new to renting apartments and want some help, check out our guide here:

Days 2-5 Drive to Galle and Explore the Southern Province

This is when your road trip starts in real earnest. Drive from Colombo to Galle took around 3 hours. We’d suggest taking the fast expressway instead of the coastal road as you will have access to plenty of coastal roads and panoramas later in this road trip. Galle will be home for three nights and here is a list of things to do in the area with some tips

• Spend a day exploring Galle’s historical centre – especially Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church, and its iconic lighthouse.
• Drive to Mirissa for its iconic palm forest. It’s hard to find it on Google Maps but it’s right next to Maison D’hotes and Sea Star Lodge. This is a popular spot for sunset, so it tends to get incredibly crowded around sunset. We actually think it looks prettier during the day, so try going around 10 am. Spend the afternoon at the beaches in Mirissa. You could even witness turtle hatching by visiting a farm in Mirissa.
• Drive to the quaint Weligama Fishing Village, where you will spot colorful fishing boats. On the way, you will also spot Sri Lanka’s famous stilt fishermen. Unfortunately they aren’t actual fishermen, just actors who ask for money for every photograph you take.
• Drive to the incredibly serene Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Spend a day at the beaches of Unawatanu – they are gorgeous to say the least.
• Shoot a memorable photograph at the insta-famous Unawatuna swing. It is located at Dallawella Beach near Unawatuna. It gets very crowded at sunset – we’d suggest going during the day or right after sunset for great light and least crowds. It costs 500LKR ($3)
• If you have some more time at hand, you could also visit The legendary hill of Rumassala or the Ariyapala Masks Museum in the vicinity.

View this post on Instagram A perfectly triangular grove of palm trees with that view ???This morning we went to the beach for sunrise and hiked up here for a picnic ?? A post shared by Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Sep 10, 2018 at 9:40pm PDT

Accommodation in Galle

We chose our hotel in Galle based on our readers’ recommendations and we enjoyed it so much that we ended up staying in a number of Jetwing Hotels throughout this trip. So many of our readers recommended Jetwing Lighthouse and we can see why. The hotel has one of the most gorgeous views we’ve seen in a while. You will be greeted with an expansive beach complimented by dramatic waves crashing against giant rocks. Rooms are spacious and comfortable and equipped with all the amenities you would expect from a luxury hotel. The breakfast buffet is expansive and we really enjoyed it. Make sure you try local delicacies such as egg hoppers, dosas, and Sri Lankan curries. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, we’d recommend booking a sunset dinner on the rocks. This is available at a surcharge and dependent on the weather, but it makes for a memorable dining experience.

Days 5-7 Go on safari at Yala National Park

A road trip to Sri Lanka would be incomplete without going on a safari! This 4 hour drive will take you from the coast to the heart of wild Sri Lanka. Yala National Park is gorgeous and safaris here range from $35-$180 depending on where you get them. We booked our Safari through our hotel itself and reserved a private jeep for the two of us. Safaris are enthralling and you can expect to spot everything from leopards and elephants to wild boars and spotted deer. A variety of birds can also be spotted along the way. A word of caution – a large (and apparently the best) part of the park – Block I and II – is closed for a couple of months during September and October (may change every year – check here ) so we had to go to Block 5 – let’s just say it wasn’t the best safari viewing afternoon 🙂

Accommodation in Yala National Park

What comes to mind when you think of staying in the wilderness? Camping! If you’re anything like us and love your creature comforts then glamping is the answer! We stayed at Jetwing Yala and what an experience it was! The hotel is located mere minutes away from the Block 1 entrance to Yala National Park where most safaris start (when this block is open). As a result you’ll see plenty of elephants, wild boars, monkeys, and other wildlife roaming around in the hotel. You can choose to stay in hotel rooms or glamping tents. Rooms are spacious and equipped with luxurious beds, hot showers, indulgent toiletries et al. The glamping tents are full of character and comfortably furnished with portable air conditioners, comfortable beds, and equipped bathrooms. You might spot an elephant or wild boar as you sip on tea on your patio. However do be warned – if you choose to stay in the tents, you cannot leave your tent after dark on your own.

Whatever accommodation you choose, breakfast is served at a scenic restaurant close to the reception. If you’re celebrating an anniversary or birthday, we’d recommend booking a special sunset dinner on the dunes overlooking the beach on one side and Yala National Park on the other. This is available at a surcharge, but it makes for a truly  special dining experience.

View this post on Instagram Glamping dinners under the moonlight ??? Why choose between the sound of waves, a candle-light dinner, or a National Park when you can have all 3 at once amiright? ?? ✨ ✨ #bruisedpassports @jetwinghotels #srilanka #sunset #safari A post shared by Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Sep 17, 2018 at 9:31pm PDT

Days 7-10 Unwind at Arugmam Bay

Arugam Bay exudes a laid-back beach town vibe and it was the definite highlight of our  road trip in Sri Lanka. It would be easy to spend a week or two here, but if you don’t have that long we’d suggest spending at least 3 days here. Here are some of the things you can do in the area:

• Go surf or take surfing lessons.This is the surfing capital of Sri Lanka and there’s no dearth of training schools here.
• Lounge on the beautiful beaches
• In case you need a break from driving your car, you could rent a bike or colourful tuk tuk to explore the area
• Attend a yoga class
• Visit Pottuvil Point or Elephant Rock for amazing views
• Take a boat tour at Pottuvil Lagoon
• Visit an ancient monastery – you could drive to Muhudu Maha Vihaqraya, Magul Maha Viharaya, or Sastrawela monastery. If you’d like to work up an appetite, we’d suggest hiking to Kudumbigala monastery
• In case you didn’t stop at Yala National Park, you can go on safari from Arugam Bay – Gal Oya National Park and Kumana National Park are in the vicinity.

Accommodation in Arugam Bay

Jetwing Surf is a comparatively new hotel with just 20 cabanas and screams beach chic. The hotel complex is dotted with palm trees and boasts of a long stretch of beach. Each cabana has four poster beds, bamboo furnishings, and the most gorgeous open-air bathrooms with outdoor showers. The only downside is that the cabanas are not air conditioned, which is not a problem most of the year. We’d suggest opting for a beach facing cabana to take your vacation up a notch. Jetwing Surf also has a supremely scenic pool (watch the most stunning sunrise here) and breakfast area, so make sure you set aside plenty of time to spend in the hotel complex.

Arugam Bay is the ideal place for a prolonged stay if you chose the 1 month itinerary listed above. It has a bohemian and laid-back vibe perfect for long-term travellers. In case you intend to spend more than 5 days in Arugam Bay, we’d suggest renting an apartment on AirBnB

Days 10-13 Explore heritage sites and go hiking at Sigriya

The drive from Arugam Bay to Sigiriya is a long one. Make sure you start early as it can take anywhere between 7-8 hours. Sigiriya is a destination bathed in history. Here are some things to do in the area:

• Hike to the top of the iconic Lion Rock. The entry fee is $30 for adults and $15 if you’re from a SAARC nation. Make sure you take your passport along and go early as it gets really hot and crowded later in the day
• For a much cheaper and less crowded experience, hike the rock opposite the Lion Rock. The entry to Pidurangala Rock is merely $2.50 and it’s every bit worth it. If you have to choose between the two rocks, then we’d suggest saving some money and hiking the Pidurangala Rock . We suggest reaching the top just before sunset. The view from the top is spectacular and you get to see the Lion Rock from a vantage point
• Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples and marvel at the gorgeous carvings. The World Heritage Site is bound to leave you awestruck
• Go on safari to Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park to witness the largest gathering of Asian elephants in the wild. The chances of spotting elephants in one park or the other keep changing according to the seasons, so make sure you ask your safari provider which National Park is the best for spotting elephants at the time you visit. We booked our safari with Minneriya Safari Tours and they provided transfers from the hotel and we ended up seeing loads of elephants too. The price for a private vehicle for the evening Safari was USD 120 for 2 people. The jeeps here provided a much better viewing experience as they were open-top.

View this post on Instagram Out with the wild ones, where we belong ???? A post shared by Savi and Vid (@bruisedpassports) on Sep 25, 2018 at 5:30am PDT

Accommodation in Sigiriya

If I had to pick my favourite hotel from our trip to Sri Lanka, it would have to be Jetwing Vil Uyana . If you book one hotel from our recommendations, then make it this! The hotel has been awarded several awards for being the best eco-luxury resort in Asia and it sure lives up to that! This is eco-luxury at its finest – each chalet at Jetwing Vil Uyana is surrounded by paddy fields, reeds, or a man-made lake. Chalets are ultra-spacious and luxurious – think four poster beds, mosquito nets, expansive balconies, bath tubs, and large shower cubicles with hot and cold water. And despite having all those luxuries at hand, you can step out and feel like you’re in the lap of mother nature. A stay here is the perfect antidote to the hustle bustle of Sigiriya’s historical sites – highly recommended!

Days 13-16 Drive to Ella/Nuwara Eliya and explore the tea country

You could take a pitstop in Kandy on your drive from Sigiriya to Nuwara Eliya. In fact if you have a couple of extra days here, we’d highly recommend spending two nights in Kandy.

Driving to Nuwara Eliya feels like stepping back in time. As you near the tea country, you will be surrounded by low lying clouds and miles upon miles of tea plantations. Driving on this route reminded us A LOT of our epic road trip in Kerala . Make sure you pack a light woollen for your time in Nuwara Eliya because you’ll need it! Spend your time in Nuwara Eliya doing the following things

• Visit a tea estate. A number of tea estates allow visitors to explore them for free. You could take a paid tour to the tea factory or just wander around the estate yourself for free.There are a number of tea estates that work on this model but our favourite was Pedro Tea Estate – gorgeous views and scenic trails. Make sure you carry some loose change to tip tea-pickers if you want photos of/with them as they expect it.
• Hike to Lovers Leap Waterfall. If you have a car, you needn’t pay tuk tuk drivers atrocious fares (LKR 2000 for a five minute drive) at the main entrance to the waterfall. Take the alternative route suggested by Google Maps and park your car and hike up!
• Picnic by Gregory Lake, a favourite with locals.
• Drop in for a cuppa at the restaurant at Mackintosh Estate – it overlooks an expansive tea estate
• Drop by Jetwing St. Andrews for English Afternoon Tea
• Drive to Ella to witness its many waterfalls or the iconic Nine Arches Bridge. If you haven’t rented a car, you could also take the extremely scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy.

Accommodation in Nuwara Eliya/Ella

This was the only place we felt we went wrong with the duration of stay! We booked a hotel for 3 nights in Nuwara Eliya, but to be honest you don’t need more than a night in the area. In fact we would recommend booking an Airbnb or a hotel in Ella and covering Nuwara Eliya on a day trip if you are driving yourself.

Day 17 Return your rental car and fly out of Colombo International Airport

If you’re driving from Ella or Nuwara Eliya back to the airport, start early as it takes time. Also, there are some stunning vistas on the way, especially when you’re still driving in the hills.

And, here is a video with all our experiences on this road trip:

That’s it. The ultimate itinerary for a road trip in Sri Lanka with loads of suggestions, tips, our favourites, (unfavourites), and everything in between. If you need any other answers, just leave us a comment and we’ll get back super soon.

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101 thoughts on “ the ultimate itinerary for your road trip in sri lanka, the teardrop island ”.

You have described it really well. I just wanted to know how similar or different was Sri Lanka similar to Kerala.. And where did you enjoy more in SriLanka or Kerala?

Hey Pratik – The two are similar but Sri Lanka has more diverse landscapes and prettier beaches 🙂

Self Drive Malkey car Rentak charge of 15000LKR per week includes fuel ?

Fantastic post. Quite surely am now going to Sri Lanka.

Love you guys!

So glad you enjoyed it 🙂 We always love hearing from you – You’ll really enjoy Sri Lanka. It has so much for offer 🙂

Hi .. thank you for the very informative post ! Of the two places Nuwara and Ella , which one would you recommend for a stay? Also any particular hotel if you could suggest in the above two places , Yala and Galle if a little tighter on budget ?

Hey Prachi – as mentioned above, we would recommend Ella to stay. If you’re a tea connoisseur, you can stay in Nuwara Eliya. You can look up Air BnB for such great affordable B&Bs in these areas. You can use this link for a $30 discount on your booking to cut costs further http://www.airbnb.co.in/c/viditt

Great Blog ? Sri Lanka in may first week for a 6 day trip,will it be good time?

It will be quite hot then 🙂

Hey, I enjoy reading your posts but can I make a small request? Can you mention how much your trips cost? It would be very useful for people like me to plan the trips. Ihave been planning to visit Sri Lanka (maybe next year). Thank you.

Hey Christina – we do include budgets for a lot of our trips but here we’ve mentioned how much safaris and car rentals etc cost but the overall cost depends heavily on the kind of hotels you choose and where you fly from 🙂

Thanks for the article . Loved it ! Wanted to know how long is the hike to the rock opposite Sigiriya ?

Hey so happy you enjoyed our itinerary for a road trip in Sri Lanka. To answer your question, the Pidurangla Hike takes about 30 minutes one way 🙂

What a great article you write up! This road trip looks really great and you captured awesome views. Loved your post. Thank you so much for sharing a fantastic experiences.

This is amazing!I could almost feel I’m already there just by reading it. My friend is heading to Sri Lanka for her honeymoon and I’m definitely recommending this to her. I’m sure she’ll love it too! Thank you for the elaborate itinerary! Loads of love to u guys!❤️

I’m so happy to hear you found this happy Manasi 🙂 I hope your friend finds our itinerary for Sri Lanka helpful too

Hi guys, how much did it cost for the specialty dining (on the rocks and on the dunes )?

Hey Neeharika – it varies depending on the package you have at the hotels but it is around $300 🙂

Hi Guys Loved the super detailed post! Captured the essence of Sri Lanka so well We’re going to be in Sri Lanka only for a day as a Layover from Maldives. Would you recommend that we travel to Galle/ someplace nearby or should we just stay back in Colombo and explore here. Also which area would you recommend for us to stay in Colombo

If you’re there only for a day, we’d suggest sticking around in Colombo itself. Just rent a hotel close to the airport and go explore the city for a bit 🙂

Hi! Thanks for sharing all the information. Your blog is just amazing. I am planning a 6 days trip covering Srilanka and Maldives in November. What would say is a must visit if I plan to cover srilanka over 3 days. I am keen on visiting any one of the national park and turtle hatchery. Thank you in advance.

Hey Madhura – if you have 3 days, I’d suggest following itinerary number 1 listed in this article 🙂

Hey guys, i am planning to visit Sri Lanka for 5N this month. If i have to divide my stay in two parts (don’t wanna travel much between places) what places should i consider so that i don’t miss out on the good stuff? I’ll be visiting Sri Lanka after 4N stay in Maldives.

Thank You 🙂

We’d suggest spending some time in Galle and Yala National Park

Finally got time to catch up on this. Boy, glad I took my time to peruse every tiny bit and absorb the beauty captured by you guys. Can’t wait to explore Sri Lanka!

Happy to hear that 🙂 Sri Lanka is a dream, especially if you’re driving 🙂

Why did you not mention about Raavan’s palace in the post? Where is the location of the palace?

Hey! Me and my friend (both girls) have a 5 day trip to Sri Lanka in December end. We love outdoor activities, adventure sports, staying with localities, workshops and similar stuff. Could you suggest places specifically for these? Also, I have heard a lot about Bentota, do you recommend it?

Yes Bentota is nice, you should visit 🙂 As for suggestions, well everything we have to suggest for Sri Lanka is already in this article 🙂

Hi! Thanks so much for the detailed information. Just one query – would you know if it is easy to purchase a local sim card for use in Sri Lanka? In India it takes 3 days to process an application for a local sim card so I was wondering if it is any easier here. Many thanks. 🙂

Hey Babita,

It’s VERY easy – done in 15-20 minutes 🙂

Do you guys have any recommendations for restaurants in Colombo, Galle, Unawantuna, Mirissa and Yala?

Please do share. Thank you!

Hey Tanvi – our recommendations are above. We really enjoyed Jetwing Yala and we chose to visit Unawantuna/Mirissa on a day trip, so we didn’t stay there! However there are loads of hotels in the area

Hey Savi! I am heading to Sri Lanka for a week. Lot of people have asked me to avoid Kandy and Nuwara Eliya – as the south seems to have a lot more to offer. Getting very contrasting opinions on entirely giving these two a miss right to making them a key part of the itinerary. Your view?

Our view is above. It’s a pretty part of the country but you might want to skip it if you’ve explored some other tea plantations before

Hi maam..really wonderful pics and amazing information. we were planning a trip to the Andamans..now can u suggest whether visiting just shrilanka for a week will be better than Andamans?

Hey that depends on personal choice. Sri Lanka offers a more diverse mix of things to do (safaris, beaches, historical cities etc) while Andamans is more about the beaches!

Ohhhhh myyyy Goddd.. . beauty “Srilanka” and you too also 😛 thanks for sharing, will apply on me also..

You’re welcome!

Could you recommend some other boutique hotels to stay at in Galle ! Would be really helpful !

Hey Anushka – We stayed at Jetwing Galle and loved it. You could also rent an apartment on AirBnB here http://www.airbnb.co.in/c/viditt

We have planned a road trip basis this itenary and suggestions. We contacted Malkey as suggested but the car rental rates during Jan isn’t 15000 LKR but 25000 for a week probably due to the season & off-season rates and I contacted them 2 months in advance. This is not much of a problem anyways but just an update so others could note, also to get the license validated it’s important to keep in mind we arrive in colombo on a Sunday or any other working day as the authorities office only opens from Monday to Friday. We didn’t know this and booked our flights for a Saturday so will have to either wait till Monday in colombo or get a IDL first from Delhi and pay 4000 LKR to get that validated without being present. Just writing so others could benefit but thank you for all the tips, pictures and advices. I can’t wait to get to Srilanka soon.

Hey Kamakshi,

Thanks for taking out the time to update everyone – very sweet of you 🙂 Hope your Sri Lanka road trip was amazing 🙂 Do share photos with us!

Hi Kamakshi, thank you for providing this information. Also, can you help me how I can get my IDL validated without being present as I am arriving Colombo on Saturday and don’t want to waste my day at their office.

Hi Savi, I love all of your photos, there all amazing. Can you suggest things to do for one day in Colombo?

Hey Agness so lovely to hear from you – sorry couldn’t get back to you sooner. Honestly we didn’t really spend much time in Colombo – just picked our rental car and off we went (we spent half a day just to get the temporary driving license in Colombo) – so that was our highlight in Colombo 😉

Hey, your post is very informative and ever if anyone don’t want to visit would say yes after your post, just as I did. I am planning my moons and we are thinking of Sri Lanka & Maldives along. Could you help us suggest best place to not miss during our visit. It’s a 5-6 days in Srilanka & 3 in Maldives.

Hey all details are on our website – both for Sri Lanka and Maldives 🙂 Please search!

Hi I loved reading your itinerary as Sri Lanka is up on my list now. I wanted to know if you visited Bentota , should we go there ? If yes then why , Coz I dnt see it in your plan . Thank you

We couldn’t go to Bentota but would have loved to – we’d recommend you go there 🙂

Very well described. Thanks. It seems a wonderful place….gonna plan this soon. 🙂

Yes a road trip in Sri Lanka is amazing – the places, people, and food – all are great 🙂

Great article . Wanted to check, if we rent a car for week, do we have to give security deposit. Read somewhere its some 300$ to be paid in cash . Just wanted to confirm.

Hey Snehal,

Yes you have to deposit cash. It was around 200$ for us. Returned as is without any question.

Hi Savi and Vid,

Can you guys suggest any other hotel in Galle other than Jetwing? Also is it possible to stay in Weligama and travel to Galle other than staying in Galle and traveling to Weligama?

Regards Surabhi

Hi Surabhi,

Not sure about any other hotel in Galle. I am sure you’ll find plenty 🙂

As for your other question – yes, why not? You can stay in Weligama and travel to Galle for sure.

Enjoy your trip to Sri Lanka!

Thank you. Could you suggest any good Airbnb in Colombo?

Hey Surabhi – Air BnB’s don’t really have names so can’t recommend exact apartments. But AirBnB is a great option in Colomobo- would suggest booking with a superhost in Colombo as AirBnB reviews are a great way to assess where you’ll be staying 🙂

Hey The article is meticulously curated! Would you be able to give a rough total for a couple for 7 days in Sri Lanka? Regards Thank you!

*total budget

Thanks Ridhi. The budget depends purely on where you are flying from and the kind of hotels you choose. But you will need to budget a minimum for USD100/INR 8000 per day for everything (including accommodation, meals, excursions, public transport) and upwards of USD 200/INR 15000 per day if you’re renting a car, staying in nice hotels, and exploring independently. Hope that helps 🙂

Hi Guys, I am planning a trip to Sri Lanka during upcoming Diwali holidays with my parents. Your entire post has been really informative and helpful. Keep up the good work! We would like to book a taxi for 3 of us. The internet has multiple options. Could you recommend us any specific taxi driver services? This will be a week long trip. Your recommendation will really help 🙂

Glad our tips on Sri Lanka came in handy. As we have mentioned we rented a car so not sure about Taxi services – perhaps you could get in touch with Malkey (the car rental company) and ask them if they also arrange cars with drivers?

Hi Guys, love your blog. We were thinking of staying in Nuwara Eliya for a couple of day apart from a day in Kandy and 2 in Ella. Is Nuwara Eliya not worth it?

Hey Nuwara Eliya is beautiful but very similar to tea plantations in Munnar (if you’ve been to Kerala, then we’d suggest skipping Nuwara Eliya).

Such a amazing article. Thanks for sharing this useful information with us

Thank you 🙂

Hey guys. Great blog. I’ll take this as a reference. I’ve planned a trip with friends this new year. I just wanted to know the process of getting temporary driving licence. Do you have any blog for that? Do we need to take international driving licence(IDL) in India and then go to the DMV office or directly we can go without IDL.

Hi Anirudh,

What I was told was that if one has an IDL, then he/she can just scan and send across to the rental company in Sri Lanka who will use these scanned copies to obtain the local license for you and have it ready by the time you get there. However, if you don’t have IDL, you have to personally go to DMV for this half-day process. It’s relatively straightforward.

Hope that helps. Have a great road trip in Sri Lanka

Thanks for the detailed blog. I want to explore the palm swing near Galle as part of my visit. I heard the palm swing at Dalawella beach is tough to master. Any recommendations if there are any alternative palm swings at Unawatuna?

Hi, We are planning a road trip around Sri Lanka for 10 days in Dec. From personal experiences can we get suggestions/ references of drivers for hiring a car with a driver.

We did a self-drive tour. However, you can reach out to the agency (Malkey) we rented our car from as they do provide the service you are after 🙂

Thanks for your blog. I loved it. 🙂 I’m going to Srilanka next week and planning to cover Ella and Nuwara Eliya in two days. We’d be traveling to Ella from Mirissa early morning and planning to leave for Nuwara the next morning. Is it feasible? Please share your suggestions.

It is doable but will be very rushed. And don’t treat driving time shown in Google as the actual time it’ll take. Add around 30% to that 🙂

We’d suggest skipping Ella and just going to Nuwara Eliya and spending a couple of nights there.

Hi Vid & Savi,

Is there any firm which does drone photography for the couple in Sri Lanka?

Hi Nivedita,

I’m sure there is. Your best bet would be to do a google search depending on the part of Sri Lanka where you’re looking for a drone photographer 🙂

Interesting one on Sri Lanka. My hubby n I are planning a trip to the southern province and are contemplating between a self-drive vehicle or a chauffeur driven one. Which one would you recommend keeping in view the traffic/road conditions, tourist safety and car-breakdown assistance.

We always prefer renting a car and driving ourselves. We did not face any problems in terms of traffic or safety. If you’ve driven in India, you’ll be absolutely fine, no worries 🙂

Article didn’t mention any list of things to do in Kandy but it did recommend a stay for about 2 nights in Kandy instead of Nuwara Eliya. Any suggestions on places to visit while in Kandy?? Or could we skip that and go straight from Sigiriya to Nuwara Eliya and cover Ella instead ??

Hey Sanskruti,

Yes, you could do that 🙂

Nice blog. Very informative and useful.

Amazing article. Very useful if someone planing to visit Srilanka

Very nice information, your blog is awosome l thanks for sharing such a nice information .

I really loved reading your blog. It was very well authored and easy to understand. Thank you for sharing .

What a fantastic post you shared. Thank you so much for sharing this post myself anubhav from Agra, India. We have a tour operator company by the name of Padma Holidays.

Wow! Just love. Lots of love for your Sri Lanka Trip. The places are amazing and you both too. I just fall in love with this awesome country. I added it in my travel list. When the pandemic gets over, I wl definitely travel there and will follow your tour plan for sure. Believe me , the pictures are awesome.

Hey! Just wanna say that this is a great blog, I got to know really some useful tips here! Thank you for taking the time to share! I have planned this year to visit a friend there and he’s going to show me around, so I have the perks of a native tour guide.

This is a Informational Post! Thanks for sharing such a wonderful post with us. I really like your post. Please, keep sharing..!!!

Very nice blog thanks for sharing such a nice information. We have good news for foreign travelers who have been wanting to visit India for a long time. Citizens of 156 countries can plan their travel as per the new visa guideline standards.

Dear, Thanks for the post all the good information has been posted in this article.

Dear Blogger, Great post Thanks for sharing this inspiring post Now you can book your favorite tour package for making your Days happy and spiritual to you Offers

Thank you very much for sharing this road trip to visit itinerary Srilanka. It is a very useful to travel blog history for tourists.

Thanks For Sharing Such a Nice Articlle

Amazing Information On Road Trip In Shrilanka Thanks For Sharing

Great expirience good blog post, thanks for sharing information

excellent information,thanks for sharing

Very intresting artical and amazing vlog.thanks for sharing with us

Hiring the best stunning Uttarakhand tour package to enjoy an exciting adventure tour will refresh your mood and provide you with a memorable journey to Uttarakhand.

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Nice blog. thanks. Planning a one month Sri lanka trip by own car. Taking a ferry from Nagapattinam to Kankesanthurai which will take our car. Then starting from north we will criss cross Sri Lanka. Time is Nov 2024. Your notes will be very handy in planning itineraries.

That sounds exciting – so happy to hear this guide to Sri Lanka helped 🙂

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Japan sells itself as Global South’s China counterweight with whistle-stop tour of Africa, South Asia

• Madagascar, Ivory Coast and Nigeria were first on the itinerary for Tokyo's top diplomat this week, with Japan's Indo-Pacific strategy front of mind
• Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa's 10-day tour is calling at Sri Lanka and Nepal last - where the China-India rivalry is sure to be high on the agenda

Japan has dispatched its top diplomat on a whirlwind tour of Global South countries in recent days, as Tokyo seeks to showcase its commitment to the emerging economies of Asia and Africa - where it continues to jostle with China for influence.

Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa began her 10-day tour last Saturday in the Indian Ocean island nation of Madagascar, off Africa's east coast, where she discussed economic cooperation and Japan's "free and open Indo-Pacific" strategy - a vision it shares with Washington that emphasises open trade, maritime security and the rule of law.

'Ball in Sri Lanka's court' as Japan seeks closer ties amid Indo-Pacific rivalry

She visited Ivory Coast next, on Monday, and Nigeria the day afterwards, ending the week in France before planning stops in Sri Lanka and Nepal over the weekend.

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge , our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

As well as stepping up engagement, Tokyo's aim is to narrow the development gap among countries in the Global South - a term for a loose grouping of developing nations - according to Celine Pajon, head of Japan research at the French Institute of International Relations' Centre for Asian and Indo-Pacific Studies in Paris.

Strategic considerations were front of mind during the visits, Pajon said, noting that Japan's free and open Indo-Pacific plan was particularly relevant to Madagascar, given the island's location in the western Indian Ocean, separated from the African continent by the Mozambique Channel.

The 1,700km (1,100-mile) strategic waterway is primarily used for trade and the transport of energy resources and minerals, but drug trafficking, illegal fishing and piracy have also become problems in recent years.

"Japan is thus seeking to strengthen maritime connectivity and security, through investments in the Toamasina Port and provision of patrol boats," Pajon said, referring to Madagascar's main port. She added that economic security was another key consideration as the island is rich in natural resources and minerals such as nickel.

In a meeting with Madagascar's President Andry Nirina Rajoelina on Sunday, Kamikawa said Japan wanted to contribute to the African country's economic resilience by improving mineral-resource production and fostering urban growth. In her meetings with senior Ivory Coast officials later in the week, she stressed the importance Tokyo attaches to the country as a gateway to the francophone region of West Africa.

Pajon said the minister's visits were also aimed at laying the groundwork for the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), which is set to be held in the Japanese port city of Yokohama in August next year.

Japan's footprint in Africa

Japan launched the TICAD in 1993, becoming the first Asian country to forge closer ties with Africa through an institutional framework, according to Purnendra Jain, an emeritus professor at the University of Adelaide's Department of Asian Studies who specialises in Japan studies.

Beijing and New Delhi's efforts - the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and India-Africa Forum Summit - came later by comparison, starting in 2000 and 2008, respectively.

"China's financial clout and political influence are enormous, and it is beyond Japan's capacity to match China's financial support to Africa, nor does it intend to do that," said Jain, who is also a visiting senior fellow at the National University of Singapore's Institute of South Asian Studies.

"However, Japan's approach to Africa has been measured, nuanced and balanced, and Tokyo has involved many other stakeholders in the TICAD dialogue."

China-Africa trade hit US$282 billion in 2023 but Africa's trade deficit widens

China's trade with Africa hit US$282 billion last year , nearly 12 times the US$24 billion in trade Japan does with the continent each year. Aid is more closely matched, however, with Japan pledging US$30 billion to Africa in 2022, a year after China had promised US$40 billion in loans and aid .

Ovigwe Eguegu, a policy analyst at African-led international development consultancy Development Reimagined, cited Nigeria and Ivory Coast as examples of Japan's trade links with the continent.

The two countries are some of the biggest African importers of Japanese goods - mainly vehicles - but Eguegu said Chinese brands such as Sinotruk and Guangzhou Automobile Group had been aggressively competing for more than a decade to carve out their own market share.

"Beyond trade, Japan is aiming to deepen its political and diplomatic footprint in Africa at a time [when] African countries and the African Union are speaking with a louder voice in the international arena," he said.

Shinichi Takeuchi, director of the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies' African Studies Centre, said Kamikawa's visit to Africa was timely given the reduction in China's financial largesse towards the continent in recent years.

"China is a huge player in Africa ... However, its economic commitment has reduced since the end of 2010s. The Japanese government wants to show itself as a stable partner," Takeuchi said.

Chinese loans to Africa dropped to US$2.22 billion in 2021-2022, according to data compiled by Boston University's Global Development Policy Centre and reported in September, down from a peak of more than US$28 billion in 2016.

Renewed focus on South Asia

As China continues to expand its regional footprint, Japan is also looking to expand trade and other areas of cooperation with Sri Lanka and Nepal.

During her trip to Sri Lanka on Saturday and Sunday, Kamikawa was expected to pay courtesy calls to President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

The Indian Ocean island nation is a key part of Japan's Indo-Pacific strategy and Pajon said Colombo was expected to continue seeking help from Tokyo to lighten its heavy debt burden.

"Japan has been playing a key role, along with France and India, in helping restructure Sri Lanka's debt, while providing grants to support the country," she said. "A debt recovery would allow Japan to resume its loans to Sri Lanka's port infrastructure and more."

Sri Lanka declared bankruptcy in April 2022 , defaulting on more than US$83 billion of debt - more than half of that owed to foreign creditors - and turned to the International Monetary Fund for a bailout package.

In a move aimed at pushing forward negotiations on restructuring Sri Lanka's debt, Japan joined India and France last April in launching an initiative that looked to kick off a series of meetings among the island nation's creditors. An agreement on restructuring debt was reportedly reached in November.

Historically, Japan and Sri Lanka have had strong relations, but these were put to the test when former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa upset Tokyo by unilaterally scrapping several Japanese-funded projects, Jain said.

As such, Kamikawa's trip to Colombo could become a platform for both countries to reset ties.

"Kamikawa's mission is to build up the relationship," he said, noting that Rajapaksa's successor, Wickremesinghe, had apologised to Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida for the previous president's actions in Tokyo last year.

Her Nepal stop on Sunday, meanwhile, is expected to see Kamikawa unveil plans for Japan to play a bigger role in Nepal's economic and social development.

"Japan's balancing act in Nepal is important, so China's presence does not become oversized," Jain said.

China has built airports, highways and hydropower projects in Nepal under its Belt and Road Initiative to grow global trade. Railway lines, electricity transmission projects and a proposed development corridor linking the Himalayan nation with China's sprawling metropolis of Chongqing via Tibet and Sichuan are also under discussion.

Nepal was once renowned for its high-end tourism. Now, it wants its crown back

Japan was not just seeking to act as a counterweight to China, but also offer South Asia an alternative to India, Jain said.

"Tokyo would ideally like to assist Sri Lanka and Nepal to strike a balance so they do not feel crushed under a big power rivalry between China and India, who have dominant influence in Nepal," he said.

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This article originally appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), the leading news media reporting on China and Asia.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

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Sri Lanka extends visa-free entry for Indian visitors and others to boost tourism

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , SRI LANKA / Created : May 7, 2024, 16:32 IST

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Sri Lanka extends visa-free entry for visitors from India and select countries until May 31, 2024, with a $50 fee for a 30-day visa amidst stakeholder advocacy and challenges from Covid-19 and internal crises.

Sri Lanka extends visa-free entry for visitors from India and select countries until May 31, 2024, with a $50 fee for a 30-day visa amidst stakeholder advocacy and challenges from Covid-19 and internal crises. Read less

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• Holding a valid passport with at least six months' validity from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka.
• Applicants are required to complete an online visa application form and pay the applicable fee.
• They must also provide confirmation of return or onward travel, proof of accommodation bookings in Sri Lanka.
• Health-related documents such as a Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate, if arriving from an infected area.

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Sri Lanka extends visa-free entry for visitors from India and select countries until May 31, 2024, with a $50 fee for a 30-day visa amidst stakeholder advocacy and challenges from Covid-19 and interna...

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Sri Lanka makes U-turn on decision to double visa fees

Shortly after announcing a higher fee for tourist visa – US100, up from the previous US$50 – Sri Lanka’s cabinet on May 6 decided to reverse the move in an apparent bow to pressure from furious travel and tourism professional industry bodies.

The President’s Office said in a statement that it would also maintain the Immigration and Emigration Department as facilitator, reversing the decision to permit VFS Global, a global visa facilitation company, to handle visa processing and facilitation.

The new fee, which included a service and facilitation charge of US$25 by VFS Global, was implemented on April 17 despite industry players warning that arrivals would be adversely impacted. The crisis came to a head on April 30 when long queues formed at the Bandaranaike International Airport due to a glitch in the system.

The Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators, the Travel Agents Association of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Association of Professional Conference Exhibition and Event Organizers, and the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises in Tourism had earlier issued a joint letter urging the government to restore “a competitive and user-friendly visa process through a government-operated website, similar to the previous ETA system, to enable a tourist to obtain the necessary 30 days single-entry visa with ease”, which was deemed crucial to “sustaining the positive momentum” in tourism recovery.

As conflict between the industry and the government spiked over the new visa fee and its implementation, tourism minister Harin Fernando told reporters that the changes were not implemented by him, but by the minister of national security Tiran Alles.

Fernando said: “My view is that we should do away with visas altogether for tourists. Travelling should be as simple as getting off the plane and going out.”

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