7-Day Itinerary for Shrilanka

Sunday October 22: Arrival in Colombo

Start your trip by arriving in Colombo, the capital city of Shrilanka. In the morning, explore the historic Fort district, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant markets. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the country's rich history and culture. As the evening sets in, head to Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade, to enjoy beautiful sunset views.

  • Fort district: Cost estimate: INR 100, Time spent: 3 hours
  • National Museum of Colombo: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday October 23: Kandy

Start your day by traveling to Kandy, a cultural and religious hub. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth, which houses a relic of Lord Buddha. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens, known for its diverse plant species. As the evening sets in, watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance and immerse yourself in the local culture.

  • Temple of the Tooth: Cost estimate: INR 1000, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kandyan dance performance: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday October 24: Nuwara Eliya

Start your day by traveling to Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England." In the morning, visit the picturesque Gregory Lake and enjoy a boat ride. In the afternoon, explore the tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process at a tea factory. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll through the city and enjoy the cool climate.

  • Gregory Lake: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Tea plantations and factory visit: Cost estimate: INR 1000, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Nuwara Eliya city: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday October 25: Sigiriya

Start your day by traveling to Sigiriya, home to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. In the morning, hike up the rock and marvel at the ancient ruins and beautiful frescoes. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As the evening sets in, relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of Sigiriya.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Cost estimate: INR 2000, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Cost estimate: INR 1500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Relaxing in Sigiriya: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Thursday October 26: Trincomalee

Start your day by traveling to Trincomalee, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and historical sites. In the morning, visit the Koneswaram Temple, perched on a cliff with panoramic ocean views. In the afternoon, relax on the golden sands of Nilaveli Beach or go snorkeling in Pigeon Island National Park. As the evening sets in, indulge in fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

  • Koneswaram Temple: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Nilaveli Beach: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pigeon Island National Park: Cost estimate: INR 2000, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Friday October 27: Ella

Start your day by traveling to Ella, a charming hill station surrounded by lush greenery. In the morning, hike to the famous Ella Rock for breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, a picturesque railway bridge. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant Ella town and try some local cuisine.

  • Ella Rock hike: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Nine Arch Bridge: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Ella town: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday October 28: Colombo Departure

On your last day, spend some time exploring Colombo before departure. In the morning, visit the vibrant Pettah Market for a unique shopping experience. In the afternoon, explore the contemporary art scene at the Colombo National Museum of Modern Art. As the evening sets in, enjoy a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic city views.

  • Pettah Market: Cost estimate: INR 500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Colombo National Museum of Modern Art: Cost estimate: INR 1000, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant: Cost estimate: INR 2000, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where you can explore archaeological ruins and learn about the region's history. Another hidden gem is the Udawalawe National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and elephant sightings. Locals also love the coastal town of Mirissa, famous for its beautiful beaches and whale watching opportunities.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

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