Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 68 travelers

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Sri Lanka

Day 1: Wednesday, October 4 - Colombo

Start your trip by exploring the bustling capital city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple with intricate architecture. In the afternoon, stroll through the vibrant streets of Pettah Market, known for its colorful shops and street food. As the evening sets in, head to Galle Face Green, a seaside promenade perfect for a relaxing walk while enjoying the sunset.

  • Gangaramaya Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Pettah Market: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Day 2: Thursday, October 5 - Kandy

Take a scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy in the morning. After reaching Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist temple housing a tooth of the Buddha. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens, known for its vast collection of orchids and exotic plants. In the evening, watch a cultural show showcasing traditional Sri Lankan music and dance.

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Cost: 1500 LKR (approximately $8), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Cost: 1500 LKR (approximately $8), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Cultural Show: Cost: 1000 LKR (approximately $5), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Day 3: Friday, October 6 - Ella

Travel from Kandy to Ella, a picturesque hill town, in the morning. Start your day by hiking to Little Adam's Peak for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the Nine Arch Bridge, a beautiful railway bridge surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant cafes and shops in Ella town.

  • Little Adam's Peak: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Nine Arch Bridge: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Day 4: Saturday, October 7 - Yala National Park

Embark on an exciting safari adventure at Yala National Park. Start early in the morning to spot leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Explore the park's diverse ecosystems and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty. In the evening, relax at a nearby guesthouse or hotel.

  • Yala National Park Safari: Cost: 6000 LKR (approximately $32), Time spent: Half day
Day 5: Sunday, October 8 - Mirissa

Head to Mirissa, a coastal town famous for its stunning beaches and whale watching. Start your day with a boat trip to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. After the boat tour, relax on the golden sand beaches, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and soak up the sun. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant.

  • Whale Watching Boat Tour: Cost: 6000 LKR (approximately $32), Time spent: Half day
  • Beach Relaxation: Cost: Free, Time spent: Flexible
Day 6: Monday, October 9 - Galle

Visit the historic city of Galle, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. Start your day by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fortified old town with charming cobblestone streets and boutique shops. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Galle Promenade and enjoy panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Don't miss the opportunity to taste delicious seafood at one of the local restaurants.

  • Galle Fort: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Galle Promenade: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Day 7: Tuesday, October 10 - Negombo

Return to Negombo, a coastal town near the airport, for a relaxing end to your trip. Spend the day enjoying the beautiful beaches, indulge in water sports activities, or explore the local markets for some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the evening, treat yourself to a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant.

  • Negombo Beach: Cost: Free, Time spent: Flexible
  • Water Sports: Cost: Varies, Time spent: Flexible

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" for its colonial-era architecture and tea plantations. Take a scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya and explore the tea estates, visit a tea factory, and enjoy the cool climate. For a unique cultural experience, try a traditional Sri Lankan cooking class or visit a local village to learn about rural life and customs.

Check out hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version