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5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Sri Lanka in September 2023

  1. Day 1: Colombo
    30 minutes (21.7 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

    In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple to learn about Buddhism and admire the architecture of the temple. In the afternoon, head to the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the country's history and culture. In the evening, stroll along the Galle Face Green Promenade to catch a beautiful sunset by the sea.

  2. Day 2: Kandy
    3 hours 15 minutes (116 km) from Colombo

    Start the day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the beautiful Kandy Lake and visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. In the evening, watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

  3. Day 3: Ella
    4 hours (135 km) from Kandy

    Wake up early to catch the stunning sunrise at the Little Adam's Peak. After breakfast, take a scenic train ride to Ella and admire the beautiful views of the mountains and tea plantations. In the afternoon, go on a hike to the Nine Arch Bridge and marvel at its architectural beauty. In the evening, visit the Ravana Falls.

  4. Day 4: Mirissa
    2 hours 30 minutes (85 km) from Ella

    Start the day with a visit to the Udawalawe National Park for a safari to spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife. In the afternoon, head to Mirissa and go on a whale watching tour. In the evening, relax on the Mirissa Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

  5. Day 5: Galle
    1 hour (40 km) from Mirissa

    Start the morning with a visit to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its beautiful architecture and history. In the afternoon, head to the Unawatuna Beach for some water activities such as snorkelling or surfing. In the evening, watch the stilt fishermen at the Koggla Beach.

Recommendations

While in Sri Lanka, make sure to try the delicious local cuisine such as rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu. You can also visit the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya and take a dip in the natural pools at the Diyaluma Falls. Make sure to bring comfortable clothes and shoes for hikes and safaris.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Gangaramaya Temple (2 hours, free)
  • National Museum of Colombo (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
  • Temple of the Tooth (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
  • Kandy Lake (1 hour, free)
  • Royal Botanical Gardens (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
  • Kandyan dance performance (1 hour, LKR 1,000)
  • Little Adam's Peak (2 hours, free)
  • Nine Arch Bridge (2 hours, free)
  • Ravana Falls (1 hour, free)
  • Udawalawe National Park (4 hours, LKR 4,000)
  • Whale watching tour (4 hours, LKR 6,000)
  • Unawatuna Beach activities (2 hours, prices vary)
  • Galle Fort (2 hours, free)
  • Koggla Beach (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: LKR 15,000 / £57

Check out hotel and flight prices here.

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