7‑Day Sri Lanka Adventure

Day 1: Arrival & Colombo Exploration

Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Colombo. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and settle in.

Afternoon: Stroll through the historic Fort District, visiting the National Museum and the bustling Old Dutch Hospital for lunch.

Evening: Dine at a seaside restaurant in Galle Face Green and watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Find Hotels

Day 2: Ancient Capitals – Anuradhapura & Polonnaruwa

Morning: Travel north to Anuradhapura and explore the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree and the massive Ruwanwelisaya Stupa.

Afternoon: Continue to Polonnaruwa, touring the well‑preserved royal palace ruins and the iconic Gal Vihara rock sculptures.

Evening: Return to your accommodation near Sigiriya and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner.

Find Hotels **Day 3: Sigiriya & Dambulla** **Morning:** Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, taking in panoramic views and frescoes. **Afternoon:** Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, admiring its vibrant Buddhist murals and statues. **Evening:** Relax at your hotel’s pool or take a sunset walk around the nearby village. **Day 4: Kandy – Cultural Heart** **Morning:** Drive to Kandy, stopping at a tea plantation en route for a quick tasting. **Afternoon:** Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and wander the picturesque Kandy Lake. **Evening:** Attend a lively cultural dance show featuring traditional drumming and fire‑walking. **Day 5: Scenic Train to Nuwara Eliya** **Morning:** Board the historic train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, enjoying misty mountain vistas. **Afternoon:** Tour a tea factory in Haputale and sample fresh tea leaves. **Evening:** Stroll around the charming colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” and dine at a local bistro. **Day 6: Ella & Yala Safari** **Morning:** Hike to the famous Ella Rock or relax at the scenic Ravana Falls. **Afternoon:** Drive to Yala National Park for an exciting wildlife safari, spotting leopards, elephants, and exotic birds. **Evening:** Stay at a jungle lodge, enjoying a hearty dinner under the stars. **Day 7: Beach Relaxation – Mirissa** **Morning:** Head to the coastal town of Mirissa for sun‑bathing on golden sands. **Afternoon:** Take a boat trip to spot whales and dolphins, or snorkel near the coral reefs. **Evening:** Savor fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant and reflect on your unforgettable journey.

Time and Cost Estimates

• National Museum, Colombo – 2 hrs – $10
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress – 3 hrs – $30
• Dambulla Cave Temple – 2 hrs – $12
• Temple of the Tooth Relic – 2 hrs – $15
• Tea Plantation Tour – 2 hrs – $20
• Ella Rock Hike – 3 hrs – $0 (self‑guided)
• Yala National Park Safari – 5 hrs – $80
• Whale Watching in Mirissa – 3 hrs – $45
• Accommodation (7 nights) – – $560
• Transportation (private driver & transfers) – – $250
• Meals (average $15 per day) – – $105
• Miscellaneous (entrance fees, tips) – – $50
• Total Estimated Cost – – $1,277

Tips

If you have extra days, consider adding a visit to the historic city of Galle and its fort, or spending a night on a luxury catamaran in the Maldives for a tropical extension. To shorten the trip, you can skip the train to Nuwara Eliya and replace the Ella hike with a quick visit to the Ravana Falls, focusing more on coastal relaxation in Mirissa.