A Week in Sri Lanka: Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, Mirissa
Wednesday, October 18: Arrival in Colombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start your adventure in the bustling capital city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, known for its mix of architectural styles and religious artifacts. Indulge in a delicious Sri Lankan lunch at The Ministry of Crab, famous for its mouthwatering seafood. Spend the afternoon exploring the colorful Pettah Market, where you can find everything from spices to textiles. Finish off the day with a relaxing stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular promenade by the sea.
The Ministry of Crab: Avg. cost for lunch - Rs. 3,500 ($20), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Pettah Market: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Galle Face Green: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Kumbuk, a cozy cafe known for its healthy and organic food options. Enjoy a delicious breakfast bowl or avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try The Ministry of Crab, a renowned seafood restaurant in Colombo. Indulge in their signature crab dishes, such as garlic chili crab or pepper crab. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
For dinner, visit Nuga Gama, a traditional Sri Lankan restaurant set in a rustic village-style setting. Experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors with their wide range of curries and rice dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday, October 19: Nuwara Eliya
Leave Colombo and head towards the beautiful hill station of Nuwara Eliya. Start your morning with a visit to the enchanting Hakgala Botanical Garden, famous for its diverse plant species and stunning views. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at Salmiya Restaurant, known for its authentic flavors. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush tea plantations of Pedro Tea Estate, where you can also learn about the tea-making process. In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on Gregory Lake and soak in the serene atmosphere.
For breakfast, head to Cafe Divine, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, Salmiya Restaurant is a great choice for authentic Sri Lankan flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Grand Indian Restaurant, offering a wide selection of Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Friday, October 20: Nuwara Eliya
Spend another day in Nuwara Eliya exploring its natural beauty. Start your morning with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, home to stunning landscapes and the famous World's End viewpoint. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, taking in the breathtaking views of tea estates and waterfalls along the way. As the evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant in Ella to savor a delicious dinner.
Horton Plains National Park: Entrance fee - Rs. 3,000 ($18), Time spent - 4 hours
Train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella: Ticket cost - Rs. 500 ($3), Time spent - 3 hours
Dinner in Ella: Avg. cost for dinner - Rs. 2,500 ($15), Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Nuwara Eliya, Cafe 18 serves a variety of delicious dishes including omelettes, pancakes, and fresh fruit salads. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Grand Indian Restaurant which offers a wide selection of Indian cuisine, including biryanis, curries, and naan bread. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, try Salmiya Restaurant that specializes in Sri Lankan seafood dishes, such as crab curry and grilled prawns. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Saturday, October 21: Mirissa
Leave the hills behind and head to the coastal town of Mirissa. Start your morning with a thrilling whale watching experience in the Indian Ocean. Afterward, enjoy a seafood lunch at Zephyr Restaurant, overlooking the beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach, taking a dip in the turquoise waters. As the sun sets, head to Coconut Tree Hill for a magnificent view of the coastline. In the evening, indulge in a seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.
Whale watching tour: Tour cost - Rs. 6,000 ($35), Time spent - 5 hours
Zephyr Restaurant: Avg. cost for lunch - Rs. 2,500 ($15), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Mirissa Beach: Free entry, Time spent - 3 hours
Coconut Tree Hill: Free entry, Time spent - 1 hour
Seafood dinner: Avg. cost for dinner - Rs. 3,000 ($18), Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning at Sunshine Cafe, a cozy beachside restaurant with a wide variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, head to Zephyr Restaurant, a popular seafood spot with stunning views of the beach. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
End your day at Oceanic Restaurant, a beachside eatery known for its fresh seafood and romantic ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Sunday, October 22: Mirissa
Spend another day enjoying the tropical paradise of Mirissa. Start your morning with a visit to Secret Beach, a hidden gem known for its tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque Weligama Bay, where you can spot stilt fishermen. Enjoy a beachside lunch at Mirissa Eye, a cozy restaurant with stunning ocean views. In the afternoon, try your hand at surfing or simply relax on the beach. As the day comes to an end, treat yourself to a refreshing coconut drink while watching the sunset.
Secret Beach: Free entry, Time spent - 2 hours
Boat ride in Weligama Bay: Rental cost - Rs. 2,000 ($12), Time spent - 2 hours
Mirissa Eye: Avg. cost for lunch - Rs. 2,500 ($15), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Surfing or beach relaxation: Rental cost for surfboard - Rs. 1,000 ($6), Time spent - 2 hours
Coconut drink at sunset: Avg. cost - Rs. 200 ($1), Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Shack, a cozy cafe with a laid-back atmosphere. Their menu features a variety of options including fresh fruit smoothie bowls and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a mouthwatering lunch, head to Zephyr Restaurant, known for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Try their seafood curry or traditional hoppers for a taste of local flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Ministry of Crab, a renowned seafood restaurant located in Colombo. Enjoy their famous crab dishes and experience the perfect blend of flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Monday, October 23: Mirissa
Continue your exploration of Mirissa's natural wonders. Start your morning with a visit to Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara, a magnificent temple perched on a rock. Immerse yourself in its rich history and marvel at the stunning Buddhist cave paintings. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at Mirissa Village, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic flavors. Spend the afternoon snorkeling in the coral reefs of Mirissa, discovering the vibrant marine life. In the evening, treat yourself to a seafood dinner at one of the local beachfront restaurants.
Mulkirigala Raja Maha Vihara: Entrance fee - Rs. 1,000 ($6), Time spent - 2 hours
Mirissa Village: Avg. cost for lunch - Rs. 2,000 ($12), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Snorkeling in Mirissa: Rental cost for snorkeling gear - Rs. 1,000 ($6), Time spent - 2 hours
Seafood dinner: Avg. cost for dinner - Rs. 3,000 ($18), Time spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at The Shack, a charming beachside cafe offering a variety of freshly baked pastries and refreshing smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Indulge in a delightful lunch at Zephyr Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering Sri Lankan cuisine. Savor the flavors of traditional dishes such as curry and rice while enjoying the panoramic views of the ocean. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, head to Ministry of Crab, a renowned seafood restaurant situated by the beach. Feast on delectable Sri Lankan crab dishes prepared with the finest ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Departure
As your memorable week in Sri Lanka comes to an end, take some time to relax and enjoy the final morning in Mirissa. Indulge in a delicious breakfast at one of the beachside cafes. If time permits, take a stroll along the coast and soak in the last moments of paradise. Depart from Mirissa and head to the airport for your onward journey. Goodbye Sri Lanka, until we meet again!
Breakfast at a beachside cafe: Avg. cost - Rs. 1,500 ($9), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Coastal stroll: Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Shack, a cozy beachside cafe offering a variety of fresh tropical fruits, homemade pastries, and traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Curry Leaf, a local favorite known for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Indulge in flavorful curries, aromatic rice, and traditional breads. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
As the day comes to an end, head to The Ministry of Crab for a memorable seafood dinner. This popular restaurant is renowned for its mouthwatering crab dishes, prepared with utmost perfection. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Discover the charming Madu River, located near Mirissa. Take a boat ride through its mangrove forests, visit the small islands, and witness the abundant wildlife. Enjoy a tranquil experience away from the crowded tourist spots. Another local favorite is Ella Rock in Nuwara Eliya. Embark on a hike to the top and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Don't forget to carry water and snacks for the hike!
Check hotel and flight prices for your Sri Lanka adventure here.