Relaxing 6-Day Itinerary in Sri Lanka - December 2023

1. Day 1: Visit to Bentota Beach
   2 hours (65 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

   Begin your trip by relaxing on the golden sandy beaches in Bentota. Morning, take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the sea breeze. Afternoon, visit the Kande Viharaya Temple, a Buddhist temple known for its large white Buddha statue. Evening, enjoy a boat ride in the Madu River, which is surrounded by mangroves and known for its bio-diversity.

2. Day 2: Visit to Galle Fort
   1 hour 45 minutes (85 km) from Bentota Beach

   Visit the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the morning. The fort has colonial-era buildings, museums, shops, cafes, and a lighthouse. Afternoon, visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda, which offers a panoramic view of the ocean and the city. Evening, take a stroll on the Jungle Beach and watch the sunset.

3. Day 3: Visit to Mirissa Beach
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   1 hour 30 minutes (45 km) from Galle Fort

   Take a morning drive to Mirissa, known for its crescent-shaped beaches and palm trees. Enjoy a lazy beach day, soak up the sun, take a dip in the sea, and sip on fresh coconut water. Afternoon, visit the Secret Beach, a secluded beach surrounded by rocks and cliffs. Evening, go whale watching and spot blue whales and dolphins.

4. Day 4: Visit to Yala National Park
   2 hours 45 minutes (155 km) from Mirissa Beach

   Take a jeep safari in the Yala National Park, known for its leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and birds. Morning and afternoon, explore the park and spot the wildlife. Evening, visit the Kataragama Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims.

5. Day 5: Visit to Ella
   2 hours 30 minutes (130 km) from Yala National Park

   Take a scenic train ride to Ella in the morning and enjoy the views of the tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountains. Afternoon, hike to the Little Adam's Peak, which offers a stunning view of the valley. Evening, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, a picturesque bridge surrounded by greenery.

6. Day 6: Visit to Nuwara Eliya
   1 hour 45 minutes (55 km) from Ella

   Take a morning drive to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" for its colonial architecture, gardens, and tea plantations. Visit the Pedro Tea Estate, which offers guided tours and tea tastings. Afternoon, visit the Victoria Park, a public park with flowers, trees, and birds. Evening, stroll around the Gregory Lake and enjoy the cool climate.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on visiting the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. You can also take a side trip to the Udawalawe National Park or the Horton Plains National Park. To maximize your fun, try local Sri Lankan cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and interact with the friendly locals.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Bentota Beach (1 day, free)
• Galle Fort (1 day, free)
• Mirissa Beach (1 day, free)
• Yala National Park (1 day, $30 per person)
• Ella (1 day, free)
• Nuwara Eliya (1 day, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $30 per person

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