Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Sri Lanka 6-Day Highlights Itinerary

Viewed by 139 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Colombo Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Colombo. After settling in, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Galle Face Green to stretch your legs.

Afternoon: Dive into the city's heritage with a visit to the National Museum, where you’ll see ancient Sri Lankan artifacts. Stop for a quick lunch at a local restaurant serving rice and curry.

Evening: Stroll through the vibrant Pettah Market, sampling street snacks and picking up souvenirs. Conclude the day with dinner at a seaside café overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Find Hotels

Day 2: Cultural Triangle – Sigiriya & Polonnaruwa

Morning: Travel to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and climb the fresco-adorned steps to the summit for panoramic views.

Afternoon: After lunch, head to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to explore well-preserved ruins such as the Royal Palace and Gal Vihara.

Evening: Return to Sigiriya village, relax at your guesthouse, and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner featuring fresh seafood.

**Day 3: Kandy – Temple & Tea Gardens**

Morning: Depart for Kandy and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, witnessing the daily rituals.

Afternoon: Take a short drive to a nearby tea plantation where you’ll learn about tea production and sample aromatic brews.

Evening: Wander around Kandy Lake, enjoy a cultural dance performance, and dine at a restaurant with views of the hills.

Find Hotels

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya – “Little England”

Morning: Journey through misty mountain roads to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at the scenic Ramboda Falls.

Afternoon: Explore the historic Gregory Lake area, rent a paddleboat, and visit the colonial-era Grand Hotel for afternoon tea.

Evening: Stroll through the fragrant Victoria Park and enjoy dinner at a local eatery serving hoppers and sambols.

Find Hotels

Day 5: Ella – Hiking & Waterfalls

Morning: Board the scenic train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, soaking in breathtaking valley views.

Afternoon: Hike to the iconic Ella Rock for sweeping panoramas, then visit the refreshing Ravana Falls.

Evening: Relax at your boutique hotel’s garden, savor a meal of grilled seafood and tropical fruits, and watch the sunset over the hills.

Find Hotels

Day 6: Galle – Fort & Beach

Morning: Travel to the southern coast and explore the UNESCO‑listed Galle Fort, wandering its cobblestone lanes and Dutch architecture.

Afternoon: Relax on the golden sands of Unawatuna Beach**, taking a dip in the clear waters or trying snorkeling.

Evening: Enjoy a beachfront dinner featuring fresh catch of the day, then head back to Colombo for your departure or onward journey.

Find Hotels

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Galle Face Green – 1 hour – $0 (public park)
  • National Museum – 2 hours – $10
  • Pettah Market – 2 hours – $0 (shopping varies)
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress – 3 hours – $30
  • Polonnaruwa ruins – 3 hours – $25
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic – 2 hours – $10
  • Tea plantation tour – 2 hours – $15
  • Ramboda Falls – 1 hour – $0
  • Gregory Lake – 2 hours – $5 (boat rental)
  • Victoria Park – 1.5 hours – $0
  • Ella Train ride – 6 hours – $20
  • Ella Rock hike – 3 hours – $0
  • Ravana Falls – 1 hour – $0
  • Galle Fort – 3 hours – $12
  • Unawatuna Beach – 3 hours – $0 (optional water sports $15)
  • Total Estimated Cost: $167 (excluding optional activities and meals)

Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a day in the east to explore the historic city of Trincomalee and its whale‑watching tours. To shorten the trip, you can combine Day 5 and Day 6 by flying from Colombo to Galle, skipping the Ella segment, which reduces travel time while still covering the cultural and coastal highlights.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version