Welcome to Sri Lanka! Begin your adventure by arriving in Colombo, the bustling capital city. Spend the morning exploring the beautiful Gangaramaya Temple, known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage. For a relaxing evening, head to Galle Face Green, a popular promenade by the sea, where you can enjoy street food, fly kites, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Gangaramaya Temple: Estimated Cost - Entrance is free, donations are appreciated; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
National Museum of Colombo: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $5, children (6-12 years) $2.50; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Galle Face Green: Estimated Cost - Free; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Friday, November 10, 2023: Sigiriya and Dambulla
Start your day by traveling to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient rock fortress with breathtaking views. Climb to the top and explore the ruins of King Kasyapa's palace. In the afternoon, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred Buddhist site consisting of five caves adorned with intricate murals and over 150 statues. Wrap up the day with a visit to a local spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka's famous spices.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $30, children (6-12 years) $15; Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Dambulla Cave Temple: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $10, children (6-12 years) $5; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Local Spice Garden: Estimated Cost - Varies based on purchases; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, start your day at The Sugar Shack, a charming cafe known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head over to The Rice Bowl, a local favorite for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Try their flavorful curries and mouthwatering biryani. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at The Spice Route. Enjoy their exquisite fusion of Sri Lankan and international flavors while admiring the elegant ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Saturday, November 11, 2023: Kandy
Head to Kandy, a cultural gem nestled amidst picturesque hills. Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, a prominent Buddhist temple housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Explore the beautiful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in the afternoon, known for its vast collection of orchids and exotic plants. In the evening, enjoy a traditional cultural show showcasing Sri Lankan dance forms and music.
Temple of the Tooth: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $10, children (6-12 years) $5; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $10, children (6-12 years) $5; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Traditional Cultural Show: Estimated Cost - $10 per person; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at Devon Cafe, known for its delicious Sri Lankan hopper breakfast and aromatic Ceylon tea. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Empire Cafe, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of Sri Lankan rice and curry dishes made with fresh ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Indulge in a flavorful dinner experience at The Kandy Garden, serving authentic local cuisine with a modern twist. Don't miss their mouthwatering seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Sunday, November 12, 2023: Nuwara Eliya
Embark on a scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England" due to its colonial architecture and lush green tea plantations. Start your day with a trip to a tea estate, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a fresh cup of Ceylon tea. In the afternoon, visit Victoria Park, a beautifully landscaped garden perfect for leisurely strolls. End the day with a visit to Gregory Lake, where you can rent paddleboats and soak in the serene surroundings.
Tea Estate Visit: Estimated Cost - Varies based on purchases; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Victoria Park: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $5, children (6-12 years) $2.50; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Gregory Lake: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $2, children (6-12 years) $1; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Monday, November 13, 2023: Yala National Park
Embark on an exciting safari adventure in Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Explore the park in search of elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and various bird species. Don't forget to visit the Sithulpauwwa Rock Temple, a nearby Buddhist temple with ancient ruins and fantastic views. Spend the night in one of the eco-friendly safari lodges for a unique and immersive experience.
Yala National Park Safari: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $30, children (6-12 years) $15 (additional charges for safari vehicle); Time Spent - Full day
Sithulpauwwa Rock Temple: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $5, children (6-12 years) $2.50; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Eco-friendly Safari Lodges: Estimated Cost - Varies based on accommodation; Time Spent - Overnight
Tuesday, November 14, 2023: Bentota
Head to the coastal town of Bentota for a day of relaxation and beachside fun. Enjoy water sports activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and snorkeling. Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project to learn about the conservation efforts for endangered sea turtles and even participate in releasing baby turtles into the sea. In the evening, take a scenic boat ride along the Madu River, exploring its mangroves and visiting small islands.
Water Sports Activities: Estimated Cost - Varies based on activities; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project: Estimated Cost - Entrance fee for adults is $5, children (6-12 years) $2.50; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Madu River Boat Ride: Estimated Cost - Varies based on boat or tour; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, November 15, 2023: Colombo City Exploration
Return to Colombo for a final day of exploration in the city. Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Pettah Market, known for its bustling streets and diverse array of shops. In the afternoon, explore the Independence Square and stroll along the beautiful Beira Lake. Indulge in some retail therapy at the modern shopping malls like ODEL and take a final walk along Galle Face Green to bid farewell to Sri Lanka.
Pettah Market: Estimated Cost - Varies based on purchases; Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Shopping Malls (ODEL): Estimated Cost - Varies based on purchases; Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty Sri Lankan breakfast at Upali's by Nawaloka. This local favorite serves traditional dishes like string hoppers, egg hoppers, and kottu roti. Average cost for a meal is about 500 LKR per person.
For a delicious and affordable lunch option, head to Galle Face Hotel Verandah Restaurant. Enjoy stunning views of the ocean while indulging in a variety of Sri Lankan and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 1,500 LKR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at The Ministry of Crab, known for serving the best crab dishes in Colombo. This upscale restaurant offers a unique dining experience with mouthwatering seafood specialties. Average cost for a meal is about 5,000 LKR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience in Sri Lanka, consider exploring the lesser-known attractions and places loved by locals. Visit the picturesque town of Ella, nestled amidst the Hill Country, and hike to Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views. Discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, showcasing impressive ruins and intricate stone carvings. Explore the Udawalawe National Park, known for its elephant sightings and breathtaking landscapes. These off-the-beaten-path destinations provide an authentic and memorable Sri Lankan experience.