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

City Experiences in Sri Lanka

Viewed by 56 travelers
Friday December 15: Exploring Colombo

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, known for its stunning architecture and sacred relics. Afterward, head to the Colombo Fort area and explore the historic buildings and museums. In the afternoon, take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a picturesque promenade by the ocean, and enjoy local street food. As the evening sets in, visit Pettah Market, a bustling bazaar where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with locals.

  • Gangaramaya Temple: Approximately 500 LKR, 2 hours
  • Colombo Fort: Free entry, 3 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Free entry, 1.5 hours
  • Pettah Market: Variable costs, 2 hours
Saturday December 16: Discovering Kandy

Embark on a scenic train journey from Colombo to Kandy, a picturesque city nestled in the hills of central Sri Lanka. In the morning, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, home to a revered relic of the Buddha. Afterward, explore the Kandy Lake and enjoy nature's tranquility. In the afternoon, take a walk through the streets of Kandy and visit local markets for handicrafts and spices. As the evening sets in, experience a traditional cultural show showcasing Sri Lankan music and dance.

  • Train from Colombo to Kandy: Approximately 200 LKR, 3.5 hours
  • Temple of the Tooth: Approximately 1,500 LKR, 2 hours
  • Kandy Lake: Free entry, 1 hour
  • Local Markets: Variable costs, 2 hours
  • Cultural Show: Approximately 1,000 LKR, 1.5 hours
Sunday December 17: Exploring Sigiriya

In the morning, journey to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock fortress. Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock and admire the breathtaking views from the top. In the afternoon, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a series of intricately decorated cave temples containing stunning Buddhist statues and paintings. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the cultural countryside by visiting a local village and engaging in traditional activities.

  • Sigiriya Rock: Approximately 4,500 LKR, 4 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Approximately 1,500 LKR, 2.5 hours
  • Local Village Experience: Approximately 3,000 LKR, 2 hours
Monday December 18: Discovering Galle

Head to the coastal city of Galle, known for its Dutch colonial architecture and historic fort. In the morning, explore the Galle Fort and walk along its charming streets filled with boutique shops and cafes. Afterward, visit the Maritime Archaeology Museum to learn about Galle's rich maritime history. In the afternoon, relax at the beautiful Unawatuna beach and indulge in water activities such as snorkeling or swimming. As the evening sets in, enjoy a sunset stroll along the fort walls.

  • Galle Fort: Free entry, 3 hours
  • Maritime Archaeology Museum: Approximately 300 LKR, 1 hour
  • Unawatuna Beach: Free entry, variable costs for activities, 3 hours
Tuesday December 19: Safari Experience in Yala National Park

Embark on an adventurous safari experience in Yala National Park, one of the best wildlife destinations in Sri Lanka. In the morning, go on a thrilling jeep safari and spot diverse wildlife such as elephants, leopards, and exotic bird species. In the afternoon, visit the Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, an ancient Buddhist monastery located within the park. As the evening sets in, enjoy a tranquil sunset at the park while observing the natural beauty of the surroundings.

  • Yala National Park Safari: Approximately 6,000 LKR, 6 hours
  • Sithulpawwa Rock Temple: Approximately 500 LKR, 1.5 hours
Wednesday December 20: Relaxing in Mirissa

Head to the coastal town of Mirissa for a relaxing beach getaway. In the morning, enjoy the pristine golden sand beaches and take a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, go on a whale watching tour and spot magnificent whales in their natural habitat. As the evening sets in, savor fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying the mesmerizing sunset.

  • Mirissa Beach: Free entry, 3 hours
  • Whale Watching Tour: Approximately 6,000 LKR, 5 hours
  • Dining: Variable costs
Thursday December 21: Exploring Nuwara Eliya

Travel to Nuwara Eliya, a charming hill station often referred to as "Little England." In the morning, visit the picturesque Hakgala Botanical Garden and immerse yourself in its floral beauty. Afterward, take a scenic hike through Horton Plains National Park and admire the stunning views at World's End. In the afternoon, experience a tea plantation tour to learn about Sri Lanka's renowned tea industry. As the evening sets in, relax at Gregory Lake and enjoy the pleasant weather.

  • Hakgala Botanical Garden: Approximately 200 LKR, 2 hours
  • Horton Plains National Park: Approximately 3,500 LKR, 4 hours
  • Tea Plantation Tour: Approximately 1,000 LKR, 2 hours
  • Gregory Lake: Free entry, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, consider exploring the vibrant street art scene in Colombo's Graffiti Street, indulging in local street food at Galle Face Green's food stalls, and visiting the lesser-known Pigeon Island near Nilaveli for snorkeling and diving adventures.

Click here to check 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