Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 67 travelers

Sri Lanka 7-Day Adventure

  1. Sunday, December 17: Colombo
    34 minutes (22.3 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

    Enjoy your first day in Colombo, the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka. Start your morning with a visit to the Gangaramaya Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple filled with intricate sculptures. In the afternoon, explore the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the country's rich history. In the evening, take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular promenade overlooking the Indian Ocean.

    • Gangaramaya Temple: $5, 1-2 hours
    • National Museum of Colombo: $3, 2-3 hours
    • Galle Face Green: Free, 1-2 hours
  2. Monday, December 18: Kandy
    2 hours 39 minutes (116 km) from Colombo

    Embark on a scenic journey to Kandy, a cultural and spiritual hub of Sri Lanka. Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site housing a tooth relic of the Buddha. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens. In the evening, catch a traditional dance performance at the Kandyan Cultural Centre.

    • Temple of the Tooth Relic: $10, 1-2 hours
    • Royal Botanical Gardens: $10, 2-3 hours
    • Kandyan Cultural Centre: $15, 1-2 hours
  3. Tuesday, December 19: Nuwara Eliya
    2 hours 33 minutes (81.2 km) from Kandy

    Today, head to the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" due to its colonial architecture and tea plantations. Begin your day by visiting the Pedro Tea Estate to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a refreshing cup of Ceylon tea. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Garden. In the evening, stroll around Gregory Lake and enjoy the cool climate.

    • Pedro Tea Estate: $5, 1-2 hours
    • Hakgala Botanical Garden: $7, 1-2 hours
    • Gregory Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
  4. Wednesday, December 20: Ella
    2 hours 13 minutes (64.7 km) from Nuwara Eliya

    Travel to the charming town of Ella, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. Start your day with a hike to Little Adam's Peak for breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations. In the afternoon, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive architectural marvel. In the evening, relax at one of the many cozy cafes in town.

    • Little Adam's Peak: Free, 1-2 hours
    • Nine Arch Bridge: Free, 1-2 hours
    • Local Cafe: $5, 1-2 hours
  5. Thursday, December 21: Yala National Park
    3 hours 47 minutes (150 km) from Ella

    Embark on a thrilling safari adventure in Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife. Start your day with an early morning safari drive to spot elephants, leopards, and other animals. In the afternoon, visit the Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, an ancient Buddhist monastery. In the evening, relax at your accommodation near the park.

    • Yala National Park Safari: $30, 4-6 hours
    • Sithulpawwa Rock Temple: $5, 1-2 hours
    • Accommodation: $50-100 per night
  6. Friday, December 22: Galle
    3 hours 30 minutes (176 km) from Yala National Park

    Explore the historic city of Galle, famous for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Start your day with a visit to the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming streets and quaint shops. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Unawatuna Beach. In the evening, watch the sunset from the Galle Lighthouse.

    • Galle Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Unawatuna Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Galle Lighthouse: Free, 1 hour
  7. Saturday, December 23: Negombo
    2 hours 16 minutes (92.5 km) from Galle

    End your Sri Lanka adventure in the coastal town of Negombo. Start your day by exploring the Negombo Fish Market, where you can witness the bustling trade of fresh seafood. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Negombo Beach. In the evening, indulge in delicious seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants.

    • Negombo Fish Market: Free, 1-2 hours
    • Negombo Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Seafood Dinner: $20-30, 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Cave Temple, or the scenic beaches of Mirissa. For day trips, take a train ride through the scenic tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya or visit the sacred city of Anuradhapura. To make the most of your money and have fun, try negotiating prices at local markets and enjoy street food for an authentic culinary experience.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version