How many days do you need in Sri Lanka?

This itinerary covers 7 days in Sri Lanka, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Sri Lanka?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to Sri Lanka. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Sri Lanka Rail/Train Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 20, 2024

8:00AM

Explore Pettah Market

Start the day by immersing in the bustling atmosphere of Pettah Market, where you can find a variety of goods from fruits and vegetables to clothing and electronics.

500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Gangaramaya Temple

Head to Gangaramaya Temple, a prominent Buddhist temple with a museum and a stunning architecture reflecting Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese styles.

300, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Indulge in a mouthwatering seafood lunch at the renowned Ministry of Crab, known for its delectable crab dishes.

2500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Galle Face Green

Stroll along the scenic Galle Face Green, a seaside urban park offering beautiful ocean views and a relaxing atmosphere.

0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Upali's by Nawaloka

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Upali's by Nawaloka, featuring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a charming setting.

2000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Colombo

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Kandy, Sri Lanka on April 21, 2024

8:00AM

Train Journey to Kandy

Board the train to Kandy, enjoying picturesque views of lush landscapes and tea plantations along the way.

1000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Empire Café

Relish a delightful lunch at Empire Café, offering a blend of Sri Lankan and international cuisine in a charming colonial setting.

1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Temple of the Tooth

Explore the revered Temple of the Tooth, home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and surrounded by serene grounds and intricate architecture.

1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cultural Show at Kandy Lake Club

Attend a captivating cultural show at Kandy Lake Club, featuring traditional music, drumming, and dance performances.

1000, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Empire Café

Savor a delicious dinner at The Empire Café, with a menu featuring a fusion of local and international flavors.

2000, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Kandy

Day 3: Nature & Scenic Views

Ella, Sri Lanka on April 22, 2024

8:00AM

Train Journey to Ella

Embark on a breathtaking train journey to Ella, passing through stunning landscapes of rolling hills, tea estates, and waterfalls.

1200, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chill Café

Enjoy a scrumptious lunch at Chill Café, known for its delectable food and stunning views of Ella Gap.

1200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Nine Arch Bridge

Take a short hike to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and marvel at the architectural marvel surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

300, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Little Adam's Peak

Take a leisurely hike to Little Adam's Peak and witness a breathtaking sunset over the stunning Ella landscape.

0, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Matey Hut

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Matey Hut, offering a delightful selection of Sri Lankan and international dishes.

1800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Ella

Day 4: Tea Plantations & Gardens

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on April 23, 2024

8:00AM

Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Embark on a scenic train journey to Nuwara Eliya, passing by picturesque tea plantations and mist-covered mountains.

1500, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Labookellie Tea Centre

Visit the Labookellie Tea Centre to learn about tea production, stroll through the lush tea gardens, and enjoy a refreshing cup of Ceylon tea.

500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Grand Indian

Indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Grand Indian, offering a delectable array of Indian cuisine in a cozy setting.

2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Hakgala Botanical Garden

Discover the enchanting Hakgala Botanical Garden, home to a diverse range of flora including orchids, roses, and exotic plants.

1000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lake View Pub & Restaurant

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Lake View Pub & Restaurant, offering a picturesque setting by Lake Gregory and a delectable menu.

1800, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Nuwara Eliya

Day 5: Wildlife Safari

Yala, Sri Lanka on April 24, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Yala National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Yala National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife including leopards, elephants, and birds.

2000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari within Yala National Park, led by experienced guides to spot the rich wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

3000, 4 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Wild Coast Tented Lodge

Unwind in luxury at Wild Coast Tented Lodge, where you can enjoy the serene coastal surroundings and luxurious amenities.

8000, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Flame Restaurant

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Flame Restaurant, offering a fusion of international and Sri Lankan cuisine in an elegant setting.

2500, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Yala

Day 6: Historical Exploration

Galle, Sri Lanka on April 25, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Galle

Travel to the historic city of Galle, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and ancient fortifications.

2500, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore Galle Fort

Stroll through the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its charming streets, boutiques, and historic landmarks.

500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at A Minute by Tuk Tuk

Enjoy a unique dining experience at A Minute by Tuk Tuk, offering a creative fusion of Sri Lankan and international cuisine.

2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Maritime Archaeology Museum

Explore the Maritime Archaeology Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits on Sri Lanka's maritime history and underwater heritage.

300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Fortaleza

Indulge in a delightful dinner at Fortaleza, offering a fine selection of seafood and international cuisine within the historic Galle Fort.

2500, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Galle

Day 7: Beach Relaxation

Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 26, 2024

9:00AM

Relax at Mount Lavinia Beach

Spend a leisurely morning relaxing at the picturesque Mount Lavinia Beach, enjoying the sun, sand, and calming ocean waves.

0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Voile Blanche

Dine at La Voile Blanche, a beachfront restaurant offering a delectable array of seafood and international dishes with stunning ocean views.

3000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Colombo City Centre

Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Colombo City Centre, exploring its modern architecture, shopping malls, and cultural attractions.

0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Conclude the trip with a memorable farewell dinner at the iconic Ministry of Crab, savoring its signature crab dishes and vibrant ambiance.

2500, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Colombo

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Sri Lanka Rail/Train Trip Itinerary

Day 1: City Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Heritage

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Nature & Scenic Views

8:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 4: Tea Plantations & Gardens

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 5: Wildlife Safari

8:00AM

12:00PM

5:00PM

8:00PM

Day 6: Historical Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Beach Relaxation

9:00AM

12:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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