7-Day Luxury Sri Lanka Itinerary

  • Day 1: Colombo City Tour
    30 minutes (19.5 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

    Begin your luxury Sri Lankan adventure in Colombo, the vibrant capital of the country. Take a city tour and visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the country's rich history before heading to the Gangaramaya Temple to witness intricate architecture and ancient Buddhist artifacts. Enjoy sunset and cocktails at the Galle Face Green promenade.

  • Day 2: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
    3 hours (174 km) from Colombo

    Travel to the central province of Sri Lanka where you'll find one of the most impressive World Heritage Sites - the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb up to the top of the iconic rock and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. Afterward, visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple to witness the vibrant Buddhist cave paintings.

  • Day 3: Kandy City Tour
    2 hours (80 km) from Sigiriya Rock Fortress

    Take a scenic drive to the hill country of Sri Lanka, where you'll visit the picturesque city of Kandy. Walk around the Temple of the Tooth Relic which is believed to house the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Attend a traditional Kandyan dance show in the evening for a cultural experience.

  • Day 4: Tea Plantations and Nuwara Eliya
    2 hours (78 km) from Kandy

    Explore the lush green hills of Sri Lanka by taking a tour of the famous tea plantations at Nuwara Eliya. Walk through the vast rolling hills of tea gardens and immerse yourself in the stunning scenery. Finish the day at the Lake Gregory for a peaceful boat ride and to witness the beauty of the sunset.

  • Day 5: Yala National Park Safari
    4 hours 30 minutes (240 km) from Nuwara Eliya

    Travel down to the southern part of Sri Lanka where you'll find the Yala National Park, home to elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and many other species of animals. Join a guided jeep safari and explore the wildlife sanctuary to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Wind down the day at the Unawatuna Beach, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters.

  • Day 6: Galle Fort and Beaches
    50 minutes (25 km) from Unawatuna Beach

    Take a drive to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and perfect example of ancient Portuguese and Dutch architecture. Wander around the fortress and its narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and galleries. In the afternoon, relax on the stunning beaches of Mirissa and watch whales and dolphins during a boat ride in the evening.

  • Day 7: Bentota Water Sports and Turtle Hatchery
    1 hour 15 minutes (65 km) from Galle Fort

    End your luxurious Sri Lankan tour with some water sports at Bentota, known for its calm waters and beautiful beaches. Try jet-skiing, windsurfing or even take a catamaran trip with a stunning sunset view. In the afternoon, visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery for an opportunity to learn about the conservation and protection of turtles. Spend some time at the beach before leaving back to Colombo.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • National Museum of Colombo (1-2 hours, $5)
  • Gangaramaya Temple (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (3-4 hours, $30)
  • Dambulla Cave Temple (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Nuwara Eliya Tea Plantations tour (2-3 hours, $20)
  • Yala National Park Safari (4-5 hours, $40)
  • Galle Fort (2-3 hours, $15)
  • Whale and dolphin watching boat ride (3-4 hours, $50)
  • Turtle Hatchery (1-2 hours, $10)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $200

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or a relaxing stay at one of Sri Lanka's luxurious beach resorts. If you have less time, skip the tea plantation tour in Nuwara Eliya, the boat ride in Mirissa, and the turtle hatchery in Bentota. Remember, Sri Lanka has a tropical climate all year round, so make sure to pack light and breathable clothes and use sunscreen and insect repellent frequently.

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