7-Day Itinerary for Sri Lanka

  1. Day 1: Galle Fort
    2 hours (118 km) from Colombo

    Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the historic 17th-century Dutch fortification, walk through the cobblestoned streets and shop for souvenirs.

  2. Day 2: Mirissa Beach
    2 hours 30 minutes (75 km) from Galle Fort

    Relax on the beautiful and secluded beach, go whale watching and enjoy seafood at restaurants or cafes built on the rocks overlooking the Indian Ocean.

  3. Day 3: Udawalawe National Park
    3 hours (154 km) from Mirissa Beach

    Embark on a jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat, visit the elephant transit home and experience traditional culture at Sankapala Raja Maha Viharaya.

  4. Day 4: Nuwara Eliya
    2 hours 45 minutes (117 km) from Udawalawe

    Discover the colonial charm of the tea country, visit tea plantations and factories for a cup of world-renowned Ceylon tea, explore the Victoria Park and take a horse ride through the lush greenery.

  5. Day 5: Kandy
    2 hours 45 minutes (77 km) from Nuwara Eliya

    Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, explore the charming Kandy Lake and the botanical gardens, and watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

  6. Day 6: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
    3 hours 10 minutes (98 km) from Kandy

    Climb the ancient rock fortress to see the well-preserved ruins of King Kasyapa's palace and the stunning views of the surrounding jungles and villages.

  7. Day 7: Colombo
    4 hours (178 km) from Sigiriya

    Explore the vibrant capital city, visit the National Museum and the Gangaramaya Temple, shop at the local markets and malls, and dine at the beachside restobars.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Galle Fort (3 hours, $3 entrance fee)
  • Mirissa Beach (4 hours, $10 for whale watching tour)
  • Udawalawe National Park (6 hours, $30 entrance fee + $20 for jeep safari)
  • Nuwara Eliya (6 hours, $5 for tea factory tour)
  • Kandy (5 hours, $10 for Temple of the Tooth Relic entrance fee)
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (3 hours, $30 entrance fee + $10 for guide)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $108

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a visit to the ancient city of Anuradhapura or a beach break at Unawatuna. If you have less time, consider skipping Sigiriya or Kandy. Remember to pack sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and comfortable shoes for safari and trekking. Always carry cash as some places do not accept credit cards.

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