5-Day Itinerary for Sri Lanka

  1. Day 1: Colombo
    Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo (45 mins - 34.5 km)

    Start your trip to Sri Lanka by exploring its capital city Colombo. Visit the Pettah Market for unique souvenirs, experience the religious harmony at the Gangaramaya Temple, and take a stroll along the Galle Face Green promenade.

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

    Head towards the cultural hub of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, see the stunning views from the Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue, and take a peaceful walk around Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.

  3. Day 3: Dambulla and Sigiriya
    Kandy to Dambulla to Sigiriya (3 hours - 76 km)

    Take a day trip to Dambulla and climb the Dambulla Cave Temples to admire the Buddhist murals and sculptures. Then, head towards Sigiriya to hike to the top of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and ancient ruins.

  4. Day 4: Nuwara Eliya
    Sigiriya to Nuwara Eliya (4 hours - 132 km)

    Take a scenic drive through tea plantations to reach Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England". Stroll in Victoria Park, visit a tea factory and plantation, and enjoy the stunning views at World's End viewpoint in Horton Plains National Park.

  5. Day 5: Mirissa
    Nuwara Eliya to Mirissa (5 hours - 201 km)

    End your trip by relaxing at the beach town of Mirissa. Take a whale-watching tour, bask in the sun at Mirissa Beach, and witness the stilt fishermen at Koggala Beach.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Gangaramaya Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Pettah Market (2-3 hours, budget)
  • Galle Face Green (1 hour, free)
  • Temple of the Tooth (2-3 hours, average)
  • Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue (1 hour, free)
  • Peradeniya Botanical Gardens (2 hours, average)
  • Dambulla Cave Temples (2-3 hours, average)
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (2-3 hours, average)
  • Victoria Park (1-2 hours, free)
  • Tea Factory and Plantation (2-3 hours, free)
  • Horton Plains National Park (4-5 hours, average)
  • Mirissa Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Koggala Beach (1-2 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Cost: Average

Useful Tips

If you have more time, explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura or go on a safari at Yala National Park. If you have less time, skip Dambulla and Nuwara Eliya. Keep in mind that Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, pack light, breathable clothes and don't forget to try the delicious local cuisine!

0