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Sri Lanka Exploration: Kandy to Trincomalee and Arugam Bay - 9-Day Itinerary

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Day 1: Cultural Kandy

Kandy, Sri Lanka on August 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar

Enjoy a fresh and healthy Sri Lankan breakfast with good coffee in a cozy atmosphere to start your day right in Kandy.
LKR1000, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

This important Buddhist temple houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha and is a key cultural and religious site, open 5am to 8:30pm.
LKR1500, 1h30m

11:30am

Explore Kandy Lake and Royal Botanical Gardens

Leisure walk around Kandy Lake followed by a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya (8:30am-5pm) showcasing vast plant collections.
LKR1500, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Empire Cafe

Try local Sri Lankan rice and curry or fusion dishes in the heart of Kandy.
LKR1200, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue

A giant seated Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Kandy city, open until sunset.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Helga’s Folly

Dine in a quirky, artistic setting offering a fusion of Sri Lankan and Western cuisine for a memorable last night in Kandy.
LKR2500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Travel to Trincomalee

Kandy to Trincomalee, Sri Lanka on August 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a light meal to prepare for the travel day.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive from Kandy to Trincomalee

Road journey approximately 5-6 hours passing scenic inland and coastal views; take breaks in scenic towns such as Habarana.
Private transport approx. LKR10000, 6h0m

2:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon

Enjoy a relaxing seafood lunch at the beachfront hotel after arrival in Trincomalee.
LKR2500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Koneswaram Temple

Explore the ancient Hindu temple with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, open until 7pm.
LKR100, 1h0m

5:30pm

Swim at Nilaveli Beach

Relax on the beautiful white sandy beach and swim in the calm waters of Nilaveli before sunset.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cara Restaurant

Enjoy local Sri Lankan and seafood specialities with ocean views.
LKR2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kandy to Trincomalee

Day 3: Trincomalee Highlights

Trincomalee, Sri Lanka on August 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a hearty buffet to prepare for water activities.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Pigeon Island Snorkeling Adventure

Boat trip to Pigeon Island National Park, famed for coral reefs and tropical fish; the park is open 9am-4pm.
LKR3000 (boat+entry), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trinco Pearl Shack

Simple beachside shack offering fresh seafood and local dishes ideal after snorkeling.
LKR1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Kudiramalai Beach visit

Relax at this lesser-known, peaceful beach, perfect for leisurely walks and unwinding.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dolphin watching tour

Take a late afternoon boat tour to spot wild dolphins and possibly whales; tours operate until early evening.
LKR3500, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Curry Leaf Restaurant

Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine using local spices and fresh ingredients.
LKR1800, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to Arugam Bay

Trincomalee to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka on August 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Light breakfast before the journey south along the east coast.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Trincomalee to Arugam Bay

Road trip about 4-5 hours passing through picturesque villages and coastal scenery.
Private transport approx. LKR9000, 5h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ilanthari

Taste locally sourced seafood and Sri Lankan fusion dishes on the beachfront.
LKR1500, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Main Point Beach

Explore Arugam Bay’s popular surfing spot for beginners and watchers, relax on the wide sandy beach.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Sunset at Whiskey Point

Top vantage point for sunset views, ideal for photo opportunities and relaxing with a drink.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hideaway Resort Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious mix of seafood and international dishes in a relaxed setting.
LKR2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Trincomalee to Arugam Bay

Day 5: Surf & Relax

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka on August 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Blue Spoon

Fresh organic coffee and healthy breakfast options, perfect to fuel a day of surfing.
LKR1200, 1h0m

8:30am

Surfing Lessons at Arugam Bay Surf School

Beginner and intermediate lessons available; rental included, sessions from 8:30am to 12pm.
LKR3000, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Stardust Beach Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed beachfront dining experience with a menu featuring tropical fruit and seafood.
LKR1600, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax on Peanut Farm Beach

A quieter beach ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing in the afternoon heat.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Hideaway Resort Restaurant

Delicious Sri Lankan and international dishes, great ambiance to end the day.
LKR2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Arugam Bay

Day 6: Explore Local Wildlife

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka on August 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Blue Monkey Cafe

Healthy smoothies and breakfast bowls to begin your day energized.
LKR1000, 1h0m

8:00am

Visit Yala National Park Safari

Full-day safari trip (8am-5pm) through Yala National Park to see elephants, leopards, and diverse birds; depart early from Arugam Bay.
LKR8500 (including entry and guide), 9h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Buffet Bay

Enjoy local grilled fish and curries with a view of the ocean after your safari adventure.
LKR1800, 1h30m
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Day 7: Relaxation Day

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka on August 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Latte Cafe

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and pastries in a calm, comfortable setting.
LKR900, 1h0m

9:30am

Yoga and Meditation Session

Join a morning yoga class by the beach to rejuvenate body and mind; sessions usually start at 9:30am and last 1.5 hours.
LKR1500, 1h30m

11:30am

Free time at Arugam Bay Beach

Spend your day lounging, swimming, and enjoying the scenic beach vibe at your leisure.
Free, 4h0m

4:00pm

Visit Muhudu Maha Viharaya

Explore this ancient Buddhist temple ruins near Arugam Bay, peaceful spot open until sunset.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hideaway Resort Restaurant

Choose from their fresh seafood specials or international cuisine to finish your trip off well.
LKR2000, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Arugam Bay

Day 8: Return to Colombo

Arugam Bay to Colombo, Sri Lanka on August 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Eat a filling breakfast before beginning your long journey back to Colombo.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel from Arugam Bay to Colombo

Approximate 7-hour drive or transfer by private vehicle, passing through scenic landscapes and towns.
LKR12000, 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and Rest at Colombo Hotel

Settle into your Colombo accommodation and rest after the journey.
Varies, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Dine on Sri Lanka’s finest crab dishes in Colombo’s premier seafood restaurant, reservations recommended.
LKR5000, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Arugam Bay to Colombo

Day 9: Departure Day

Colombo, Sri Lanka on August 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Relax with a final Sri Lankan breakfast buffet before your departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Gangaramaya Temple

Explore this eclectic Buddhist temple and museum close to the city center, open 7am-7pm.
LKR200, 1h0m

11:00am

Shopping at Pettah Market

Browse Colombo’s busiest market for souvenirs, spices, and textiles before heading to the airport.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport

Leave for airport in plenty of time for international flight check-in and security.
LKR3000, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Colombo
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