Explore the 17th-century Jaffna Fort and nearby waterfront for a sense of the island's colonial and maritime history; it's photogenic and easy to walk. Check opening hours—usually daytime until late afternoon.
Try Jaffna-style crab curry or a local rice-and-curry plate at a reputable waterfront or town restaurant; this cuisine is spicy and distinctive to the north.
If you prefer an island experience, arrange a late-morning boat to Delft Island to see wild ponies and colonial ruins; allow a full half day and check ferry schedules in advance (seasonal).
Explore the vast UNESCO World Heritage site – Ruwanwelisaya, Sri Maha Bodhi (the sacred fig tree), and ancient stupas. The site opens early (typically 5:00am–6:00pm), so mornings are best to avoid heat.
Visit the rock temple of Isurumuniya with its famous carvings, and, if time permits, drive ~20–30 minutes to Mihintale — an important pilgrimage hill with panoramic views and ancient ruins.
Climb the UNESCO-listed 'Lion Rock' (open ~7:00am–5:30pm). See the frescoes, mirror wall and spectacular summit views — allow 2–3 hours for the climb and surroundings.
Enjoy a relaxed dinner with Kandy’s cooler air — pick a lake-facing spot or your hotel restaurant. Check kitchen closing times (many close around 10pm).
Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a top spiritual site in Sri Lanka (open early and into the evening; pujas at morning and evening). Check dress code — modest clothing required.
Stroll the expansive gardens (open ~7:30am–5:30pm) to see orchids, giant Javan fig trees and manicured lawns — great for photography and a relaxed morning.
Have an early breakfast and head to Kandy station if you choose the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya/Nanu Oya — trains depart early; book 1st class observation or 2nd class seats in advance.
Take the world-famous train route through tea plantations and misty mountains (approx 4 hours). Seats fill quickly — reserve ahead; the scenery is the highlight.
Visit a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea production, taste fresh brews and walk through neatly tiered tea fields — most factories open mid-morning to afternoon.
Leave Nuwara Eliya early for Ella by private car or local transport; the road or train offers dramatic mountain views — travel time ≈ 2–3 hours depending on route.
Hike Little Adam's Peak (gentle) and walk to the iconic Nine Arches Bridge — both are free and excellent for photos; arrive before midday for cooler conditions.
Visit the picturesque Ravana Falls (short stop), then begin the scenic drive to the south coast (Mirissa), which will take ~4–5 hours by road — expect winding roads and stops.
If travelling in high season (Nov–Apr), depart early for a whale-watch tour (boats leave ~6:00am). Outside season sightings are less certain — check local operators for times and cancellations.
Drive approx 1–1.5 hours to Galle. Walk the ramparts of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, visit boutiques, Dutch-era buildings and the lighthouse; Fort area is open all day.
Head north along the coastal expressway to Colombo; traffic can vary — expect arrival in the early evening. Consider spending the night in Colombo if you have an international flight next day.
Reserve ahead for Ministry of Crab (famous and popular) or choose another high-quality seafood/modern-Sri Lankan restaurant to celebrate the trip finale.
Visit Gangaramaya Temple (opens early) for a cultural stop, then stroll Galle Face Green and enjoy the ocean breeze — short city highlights suitable for a half-day.
Choose the National Museum for a quick cultural overview (check opening times) or go shopping for last-minute tea, spices and handicrafts in Colombo’s shops and arcades.
Allow 45–90 minutes to the airport depending on traffic; confirm your flight time and airport terminal. If departing from Colombo, leave with plenty of buffer for check-in.