15-Day Adventure Itinerary in Sri Lanka

  • Day 1: Colombo
    Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo - 35 minutes (20 km)

    Colombo is the bustling capital of Sri Lanka and your gateway to the adventure-filled country. Spend your first day exploring the vibrant city-colony with its mix of architecture, street markets, and historical sites such as the Gangaramaya Temple.

  • Day 2: Wilpattu National Park
    Colombo to Wilpattu National Park - 2.5 hours (110 km)

    Wilpattu National Park is a pristine wilderness and home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard. Take a jeep safari and explore the park while enjoying the scenic landscape and spotting wildlife.

  • Day 3-4: Anuradhapura
    Wilpattu National Park to Anuradhapura - 3.5 hours (160 km)

    Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's ancient capitals rich with fascinating history, culture, and architecture. Visit the sacred Mihintale Buddhist site, the stunning Ruwanwelisaya stupa, and other historical attractions.

  • Day 5-6: Trincomalee
    Anuradhapura to Trincomalee - 2 hours (100 km)

    Trincomalee is a picturesque coastal town and idyllic destination for beach and ocean lovers. Enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation with activities like snorkelling in Pigeon Island, whale watching, and exploring Fort Fredrick.

  • Day 7-8: Arugam Bay
    Trincomalee to Arugam Bay - 5 hours (290 km)

    If you're a seasoned surfer or looking to learn, Arugam Bay is the place to be. With its world-renowned waves and laid-back vibe, you'll find yourself in surfer's paradise. Take a surf lesson or simply relax on the beach.

  • Day 9-10: Ella
    Arugam Bay to Ella - 4.5 hours (190 km)

    Ella is a small scenic town located in Sri Lanka's hill country, surrounded by majestic mountains, tea plantations, and waterfalls. Experience the stunning views at Little Adam's Peak, hike through tea fields to Nine Arch Bridge, and visit Ravana Falls.

  • Day 11-12: Udawalawe National Park
    Ella to Udawalawe National Park - 3 hours (120 km)

    Udawalawe National Park is a wildlife hotspot and the best place to see elephants in Sri Lanka. Go on a jeep safari and observe herds of elephants, crocodiles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

  • Day 13-14: Galle
    Udawalawe National Park to Galle - 3.5 hours (170 km)

    Galle is a charming city located in the south-western province of Sri Lanka. Its most iconic attraction is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Stroll through the charming streets, wander through the boutiques and shops, and indulge in its food scene.

  • Day 15: Colombo
    Galle to Bandaranaike International Airport - 2.5 hours (150 km)

    On your last day, return to Colombo and say goodbye to Sri Lanka.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Colombo Gangaramaya Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
  • Wilpattu National Park Jeep Safari (4 hours, LKR 4,000 ~ £16)
  • Anuradhapura sites (2-3 hours, LKR 2500 ~ £10)
  • Pigeon Island Snorkeling (2-3 hours, LKR 1,500 ~ £6)
  • Surfing lesson in Arugam Bay (2 hours, LKR 2,500 ~ £10)
  • Ella Little Adam's Peak (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari (3-4 hours, LKR 5000 ~ £20)
  • Galle Fort (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: LKR 22,000 ~ £88 (excluding transportation and accommodation)

Transportation

Sri Lanka has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains, that connect major cities and towns. Additionally, car rentals and private drivers are available, costing roughly LKR 4000 - LKR 6000 (~ £16-£24) per day for rentals and LKR 55-60 (~ £0.22-£0.24) per km for drivers. Be sure to plan your transportation ahead to ensure timely arrivals and departures.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a scenic train ride to Kandy, and a hike up to the summit of Adam's Peak. For a shorter trip, you can remove a few stops from the itinerary based on your interests and preferences or adjust the number of days spent at each location.

Airports

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the only international airport in Sri Lanka, located in Katunayake, 35 km north of Colombo. The airport has numerous facilities such as banks, ATMs, shops, and restaurants. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI) is another airport located in the south-eastern province of Sri Lanka, but it mainly serves domestic flights.

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