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

Sri Lanka Adventure on a Budget

Viewed by 124 travelers
Day 1: Friday, December 15

Start your adventure by exploring the bustling city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple known for its architecture and exhibits. Afterward, head to Galle Face Green, a popular park overlooking the Indian Ocean, where you can fly a kite or indulge in some street food. In the afternoon, take a tuk-tuk ride to Pettah Market, a vibrant local market where you can shop for spices, textiles, and souvenirs. Wrap up the day by enjoying the sunset at Mount Lavinia Beach, just outside the city.

  • Hotel and flight prices depend on your preferences.
  • Gangaramaya Temple: Entrance fee of approximately 300 LKR ($1.50). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Pettah Market: No entrance fee. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Mount Lavinia Beach: Free entrance. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Day 2: Saturday, December 16

Embark on an exciting wildlife adventure in Yala National Park. Begin your day with an early morning safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other exotic animals. After the safari, take a short drive to visit the Kataragama Temple, a popular pilgrimage site where you can experience the spiritual side of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, relax by the beautiful Kirinda Beach, enjoying the serene surroundings. End your day with a visit to the Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, an ancient Buddhist monastery perched on top of a rock.

  • Yala National Park: Entrance fee of approximately 3,500 LKR ($18). Estimated time spent: 6-8 hours including safari.
  • Kataragama Temple: No entrance fee. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Kirinda Beach: Free entrance. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Sithulpawwa Rock Temple: Entrance fee of approximately 200 LKR ($1). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Day 3: Sunday, December 17

Get ready for an adrenaline-filled day in Kitulgala, the adventure capital of Sri Lanka. Start your morning with white water rafting down the Kelani River, experiencing thrilling rapids and breathtaking scenery. Afterward, embark on a canyoning adventure, rappelling down waterfalls and sliding through natural rock pools. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike through the lush rainforest to the stunning Laxapana Falls. Wrap up your day by relaxing at the riverbank and taking in the peaceful atmosphere.

  • White water rafting: Approximately 3,000 LKR ($15) per person. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • Canyoning: Approximately 4,500 LKR ($23) per person. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
  • Laxapana Falls: No entrance fee. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
Day 4: Monday, December 18

Experience the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka in Kandy, the cultural capital of the country. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. Take a walk around the tranquil Kandy Lake and enjoy the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the colorful Kandy Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance in the evening.

  • Temple of the Tooth: Entrance fee of approximately 1,500 LKR ($8). Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Kandy Lake: Free entrance. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Kandy Market: No entrance fee. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Kandyan dance performance: Approximately 500 LKR ($3) per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
Day 5: Tuesday, December 19

End your adventure with a trip to the scenic hill station of Ella. Start your morning by hiking up to Little Adam's Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel nestled amidst the tea fields. Take a train ride from Ella to Demodara, experiencing the breathtaking scenery along the way. Spend your evening exploring the vibrant nightlife and local cuisine in Ella.

  • Little Adam's Peak: Free entrance. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Nine Arch Bridge: Free entrance. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Ella to Demodara Train Ride: Approximately 100 LKR ($0.50) per person. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're seeking off the beaten path adventures, consider visiting the beautiful village of Bambaragala. This serene village is tucked away in the mountains and offers stunning hiking trails and waterfalls, including the picturesque Bambaragala Falls. Another hidden gem is the Ritigala Forest Monastery, an ancient Buddhist monastery situated in a dense forest. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility. Additionally, the coastal town of Arugam Bay is a surfer's paradise, offering world-class waves and a laid-back atmosphere.

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