7-Day Itinerary for Sri Lanka in June 2023

1. Day 1: Galle Fort
   20 minutes (6.8 miles) from Unawatuna Beach

   Discover the old Dutch Fort with a guided tour followed by lunch at the nearby Pedlar's Inn Cafe. Spend the afternoon strolling through the charming streets and browsing the local handicraft shops.

2. Day 2: Yala National Park
   4 hours (159 miles) from Galle Fort

   An early morning drive to Yala National Park for a thrilling wildlife safari. Spot elephants, leopards, and other exotic animals. Return to your hotel for lunch and then head to the nearby Kataragama temple for a cultural and spiritual experience.

3. Day 3: Ella
   3 hours (87 miles) from Yala National Park

   Wake up early and take the scenic train ride to Ella. Explore the beautiful town and its surroundings including the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. Have lunch at Cafe Chill and enjoy the amazing mountain views. In the evening, take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Sri Lankan dishes.

4. Day 4: Nuwara Eliya
   2 hours (38 miles) from Ella

   Drive to Nuwara Eliya, the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country. Take a tour of a tea plantation and learn about the process of tea-making. Have lunch at Grand Indian restaurant and visit the picturesque Gregory Lake. In the evening, head to Pedro Tea Estate for a scenic trek and panoramic views of the valley.

5. Day 5: Sigiriya
   4 hours (99 miles) from Nuwara Eliya

   Drive to Sigiriya and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Have lunch at the nearby Habarana Village by Cinnamon and then visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa for a cultural immersion. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage.

6. Day 6: Dambulla Cave Temple
   45 minutes (14 miles) from Sigiriya

   Visit the stunning Dambulla Cave Temple early in the morning and learn about the history and significance of the cave paintings. Have lunch at the nearby Green Garden Cafe and then head to the ancient city of Anuradhapura for a historical tour. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner at the nearby Rajarata Hotel.

7. Day 7: Negombo Beach
   4 hours (109 miles) from Dambulla Cave Temple

   Enjoy your last day relaxing at Negombo Beach. Have lunch at Lords Restaurant and visit the nearby Negombo Fish Market. In the evening, head to the nearby Seeduwa Railway Station for your departure back home.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or the Madu River Safari. For a side trip, take a day trip to the beachside town of Mirissa or the ancient city of Kandy. To maximize your fun, try a surfing lesson at Weligama Beach or join a local food tour in Colombo. Don't forget to try the famous Sri Lankan seafood and street food!

Time and Costs Estimates

• Galle Fort Tour (2 hours, $20)
• Yala National Park Safari (6 hours, $50)
• Cooking Class in Ella (2 hours, $30)
• Tea Plantation Tour in Nuwara Eliya (3 hours, $25)
• Sigiriya Rock Climb (3 hours, $30)
• Dambulla Cave Temple Tour (2 hours, $15)
• Ayurvedic Massage (2 hours, $40)
• Transportation (7 days, $400)
• Accommodation (7 nights, $700)
• Total Estimated Costs: $1,310