6-Day Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Sri Lanka - September 2023

1. Day 1: Colombo
   35 minutes (19 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport

   Visit the National Museum of Colombo, which showcases the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, head to Independence Square, a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Finish the day with a traditional Sri Lankan meal at Upali's by Nawaloka.

2. Day 2: Kandy
   2 hours 40 minutes (115 km) from Colombo

   Take a scenic train ride to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred places for Buddhists and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterward, stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake and explore the local markets. End the day with a cup of Ceylon tea at Udawattekele Sanctuary, surrounded by lush greenery.

3. Day 3: Dambulla & Sigiriya
   2 hours 30 minutes (96 km) from Kandy

   Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses statues and paintings related to the life of Buddha. Afterwards, climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area from the top. End the day with a visit to the Pidurangala Rock Temple, a lesser-known but equally impressive site.

4. Day 4: Polonnaruwa
   2 hours 20 minutes (85 km) from Sigiriya

   Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihara, and other historic sites. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. End the day with a home-cooked meal at a local family's house.

5. Day 5: Galle
   3 hours 30 minutes (155 km) from Polonnaruwa

   Explore the charming colonial town of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk around the historic fort and visit the lighthouse. Learn about the town's history and culture at the Galle National Museum. Relax on the sandy Jungle Beach and enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants.

6. Day 6: Bentota
   1 hour 15 minutes (67 km) from Galle

   Head to Bentota, a town known for its beautiful beaches. Relax on the sand or take a boat ride on the tranquil Bentota River. In the afternoon, visit the Kande Viharaya Temple, an ancient temple with stunning views of the ocean. End the day with a sunset cruise, enjoying the views and some drinks.

Time and Cost Estimates

• National Museum of Colombo (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
• Independence Square (1 hour, free)
• Upali's by Nawaloka (2 hours, LKR 2,500)
• Train from Colombo to Kandy (2 hours 30 minutes, LKR 200-600)
• Temple of the Tooth Relic (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
• Kandy Lake (1 hour, free)
• Udawattekele Sanctuary (2 hours, LKR 500)
• Dambulla Cave Temple (2 hours, LKR 1,500)
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress (3-4 hours, LKR 4,500)
• Pidurangala Rock Temple (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
• Polonnaruwa (4 hours, LKR 3,000)
• Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park (3 hours, LKR 5,000)
• Galle National Museum (1 hour, LKR 300)
• Jungle Beach (2 hours, free)
• Seafood dinner in Galle (2 hours, LKR 2,500)
• Kande Viharaya Temple (2 hours, LKR 1,000)
• Sunset cruise in Bentota (2 hours, LKR 4,000)
Total Estimated Costs: LKR 29,600

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya or a trip to the beaches in Trincomalee. If you have less time, you can skip the jeep safari in Minneriya National Park. Note that some places may be closed on weekends or public holidays, so plan accordingly.