7-Day Itinerary for Colombo, Kandy, Ella, and Arugam Bay in July 2023

1. Day 1: Colombo
   30 minutes (21.6 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

   Start your day at the historic Gangaramaya Temple, then head to the National Museum of Colombo for a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich history. In the afternoon, visit the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct for some souvenir shopping and enjoy a seafood dinner at Ministry of Crab.

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

   Visit the stunning Temple of the Tooth in the morning, then head to the tranquil Royal Botanical Gardens for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, learn about the art of tea-making at the Ceylon Tea Museum before enjoying a scenic train ride to Ella.

3. Day 3: Ella
   1 hour 40 minutes (63.4 km) from Kandy

   Start your day with a hike up Little Adam's Peak for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and take some memorable photos. End the day with a relaxing yoga session at Ella Yoga Hub.

4. Day 4: Arugam Bay
   3 hours 40 minutes (157 km) from Ella

   Hit the waves at Arugam Bay, one of the world's best surfing destinations. Take a surfing lesson or rent a board and catch some waves on your own. In the evening, relax on the beach and enjoy some fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.

5. Day 5: Arugam Bay
   Stay in Arugam Bay

   Explore the area around Arugam Bay with a visit to the scenic Pottuvil Lagoon or a hike through the nearby Kumana National Park. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan meal at one of the local restaurants.

6. Day 6: Kandy
   4 hours 30 minutes (281 km) from Arugam Bay

   Travel back to Kandy and spend the day exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Visit the magnificent ruins of the Royal Palace and the Gal Vihara rock temple. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

7. Day 7: Colombo
   3 hours (116 km) from Kandy

   Take a morning stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular waterfront park. Visit the colourful and vibrant Pettah Market for some last-minute shopping. In the evening, head to the rooftop bar at the Kingsbury Hotel for a final sunset drink before catching your flight home.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to Sigiriya Rock Fortress or the ancient city of Anuradhapura. To maximize your fun, try taking a cooking class and learn to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes or take a bike tour through the scenic countryside.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Gangaramaya Temple (1 hour, free)
• National Museum of Colombo (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
• Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct (1 hour, varies)
• Ministry of Crab (2 hours, LKR 3,000)
• Temple of the Tooth (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
• Royal Botanical Gardens (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
• Ceylon Tea Museum (1 hour, LKR 1,000)
• Little Adam's Peak (2 hours, free)
• Nine Arch Bridge (1 hour, free)
• Ella Yoga Hub (1 hour, LKR 1,000)
• Surfing in Arugam Bay (2-3 hours, LKR 2,000-3,000)
• Pottuvil Lagoon (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
• Kumana National Park (4 hours, LKR 4,000)
• Polonnaruwa ruins (4 hours, LKR 3,000)
• Kandyan dance performance (1 hour, LKR 1,000)
• Pettah Market (2 hours, varies)
• Rooftop bar at Kingsbury Hotel (1 hour, varies)
• Total Estimated Costs: LKR 18,500-20,500 (excluding flights and accommodation)

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.