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Relaxing 7-Day Itinerary: Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya

Thursday, November 30: Arrival in Colombo

Welcome to Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka! Start your trip by exploring the beautiful Galle Face Green in the morning. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, taking in the stunning views of the Indian Ocean. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. As the evening sets in, indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at one of the luxurious wellness centers in the city.

  • Galle Face Green: Free, 2-3 hours
  • National Museum of Colombo: Entrance fee: $5, 2-3 hours
  • Spa Treatment: Starting from $50, 1-2 hours
Friday, December 1: Travel to Kandy

Take a scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy in the morning. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of lush green tea plantations and misty mountains along the way. Upon arrival in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site. In the afternoon, take a tranquil boat ride on Kandy Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, witness a cultural show featuring traditional music and dances.

  • Train from Colombo to Kandy: Starting from $10, 3-4 hours
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic: Entrance fee: $10, 2-3 hours
  • Kandy Lake Boat Ride: Starting from $5, 1-2 hours
  • Cultural Show: Starting from $15, 2 hours
Saturday, December 2: Explore Kandy

Start your day with a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just outside of Kandy. Admire the vast collection of exotic plants and enjoy a peaceful walk in the beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Kandy and explore local markets for souvenirs. In the evening, unwind with a cup of Ceylon tea at a cozy tea shop.

  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: $10, 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Local Markets: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Tea Tasting: Starting from $5, 1 hour
Sunday, December 3: Travel to Nuwara Eliya

Embark on a scenic drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, known as Little England. Enjoy the picturesque views of tea-covered hills and waterfalls along the way. Upon arrival, visit a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its colonial architecture and well-manicured gardens. End the day with a relaxing boat ride on Gregory Lake.

  • Drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: Starting from $20, 3-4 hours
  • Tea Plantation Visit: Starting from $5, 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Nuwara Eliya: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Boat Ride on Gregory Lake: Starting from $10, 1-2 hours
Monday, December 4: Discover Nuwara Eliya

Spend the morning exploring the Horton Plains National Park. Enjoy a scenic hike to World's End, a stunning cliff offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Garden, famous for its stunning collection of orchids. In the evening, unwind with a relaxing visit to a nearby spa or indulge in a soothing cup of tea at one of the colonial-style tea houses.

  • Horton Plains National Park: Entrance fee: $25, 4-5 hours
  • Hakgala Botanical Garden: Entrance fee: $10, 2-3 hours
  • Spa Visit: Starting from $50, 1-2 hours
  • Tea Tasting: Starting from $5, 1 hour
Tuesday, December 5: Return to Kandy

Travel back to Kandy in the morning, enjoying the scenic route once again. Once in Kandy, visit the beautiful Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens for a relaxing walk amidst the lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Kandy City Center, a modern shopping complex, and indulge in some retail therapy. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the Mahaweli River.

  • Drive from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy: Starting from $20, 3-4 hours
  • Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: $10, 2-3 hours
  • Kandy City Center: Shopping expenses vary, 2-3 hours
  • Boat Ride on Mahaweli River: Starting from $10, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Departure from Colombo

Travel back to Colombo in the morning to catch your flight. If time permits, visit the vibrant Pettah Market to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy shores of Negombo Beach, just a short drive from Colombo. End your trip with a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

  • Drive from Kandy to Colombo: Starting from $10, 3-4 hours
  • Pettah Market: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Negombo Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: Starting from $20, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly relaxing experience, head to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located close to Kandy. Spend a day interacting with and observing the elephants in their natural habitat. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Ramboda Falls, near Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and take stunning photos of the cascading waterfalls. Locals also love the serene Hantana Mountain Range, near Kandy, where you can hike and immerse yourself in nature.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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