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

7-Day Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Sunday October 8: Arrival in Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start your adventure in Colombo, the vibrant capital city. In the morning, explore the historical Colombo Fort area, visiting attractions like the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct and the iconic Galle Face Green. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum and immerse yourself in the country's rich culture. As the evening sets in, take a sunset stroll along the iconic Independence Square.

  • Colombo Fort: Entrance fee: $5, Time spent: 3 hours
  • National Musuem: Entrance fee: $7, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Independence Square: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Monday October 9: Kandy

Leave Colombo and head to the scenic city of Kandy. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens in the afternoon, a great place to relax and enjoy nature. In the evening, watch a traditional cultural dance performance showcasing Sri Lankan art forms.

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic: Entrance fee: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: $7, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Cultural dance performance: $15, Time spent: 2 hours
Tuesday October 10: Nuwara Eliya

Travel to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" for its colonial-era architecture and cool climate. In the morning, explore the breathtaking Horton Plains National Park, home to the World's End viewpoint. Enjoy a scenic drive to Ramboda Falls in the afternoon and take in the stunning views. In the evening, stroll through the charming town center and visit a tea plantation to learn about Sri Lanka's famous tea industry.

  • Horton Plains National Park: Entrance fee: $25, Time spent: 4 hours
  • Ramboda Falls: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Tea plantation visit: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
Wednesday October 11: Sigiriya

Head to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its ancient rock fortress. In the morning, climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock and marvel at the stunning frescoes and panoramic views. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a series of rock cave temples adorned with intricate Buddhist murals. Enjoy a sunset safari at Minneriya National Park and witness the gathering of wild elephants in the evening.

  • Sigiriya Rock: Entrance fee: $30, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Entrance fee: $10, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Minneriya National Park safari: $40, Time spent: 4 hours
Thursday October 12: Trincomalee

Travel to Trincomalee, a coastal town with stunning beaches and historical sites. Spend the morning relaxing on the pristine Nilaveli Beach, swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, boasting well-preserved ruins of palaces, shrines, and Buddhist statues. Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach as the sun sets.

  • Nilaveli Beach: Free, Time spent: 4 hours
  • Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Entrance fee: $25, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Seafood dinner: $20, Time spent: 2 hours
Friday October 13: Galle

Head to the enchanting city of Galle on the southwestern coast. In the morning, explore the well-preserved Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with colonial architecture and narrow streets. Visit the Maritime Museum and enjoy stunning views from the fort walls. In the afternoon, relax at Unawatuna Beach, known for its clear waters and golden sands. Experience a delicious seafood dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

  • Galle Fort: Entrance fee: $10, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Maritime Museum: Entrance fee: $4, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Unawatuna Beach: Free, Time spent: 4 hours
Saturday October 14: Departure from Colombo

End your trip with a visit to the bustling city of Colombo. Explore the colorful Pettah Market in the morning and indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. Enjoy a final taste of Sri Lankan cuisine for lunch before heading to the airport for your departure.

  • Pettah Market: Free, Time spent: 3 hours
  • Lunch: $15, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Airport transfer: $30, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Don't miss the beautiful coastal town of Mirissa, known for its pristine beaches and whale watching opportunities. Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, filled with well-preserved ruins and sacred Buddhist sites. Take a scenic train ride through the picturesque tea plantations of Ella. Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Koggala Lake, home to diverse wildlife and charming islands.

For hotel and flight prices in Sri Lanka, you can check here.

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