6-Day Adventure in Sri Lanka on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Pettah Market

Start your day with a visit to Pettah Market, a bustling and vibrant market where you can shop for souvenirs and experience local life.
Pettah Market is located in the heart of Colombo. You can take a tuk-tuk or walk from your accommodation.
500 LKR, 2 hours

12:00PM

Gangaramaya Temple

Head to Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple with fascinating architecture and tranquil surroundings.
Gangaramaya Temple is a short tuk-tuk ride away from Pettah Market.
Free (donations appreciated), 1 hour

2:00PM

Galle Face Green

Relax at Galle Face Green, a popular ocean-side urban park where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and street food.
Galle Face Green is within walking distance from Gangaramaya Temple.
500 LKR for food, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Indulge in delicious seafood at Ministry of Crab, a renowned restaurant known for its crab dishes.
Take a tuk-tuk or walk to Ministry of Crab for dinner.
1500 LKR, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Sites

Colombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Independence Memorial Hall

Visit Independence Memorial Hall, a national monument that commemorates Sri Lanka's independence from British rule.
Independence Memorial Hall is a short drive from your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

National Museum of Colombo

Explore the National Museum of Colombo to learn about the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka.
The museum is located nearby and can be reached by tuk-tuk.
500 LKR, 2 hours

2:00PM

Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Shop for souvenirs and enjoy a meal at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, a historic shopping and dining complex.
A short tuk-tuk ride will take you to the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct.
1000 LKR, 2 hours

6:00PM

Street Food at Galle Face Green

End your day with more street food delights at Galle Face Green, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Return to Galle Face Green for some evening snacks.
500 LKR, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Train Ride

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Scenic Train Ride from Colombo to Ella

Embark on a breathtaking train journey from Colombo to Ella, passing through lush tea plantations and picturesque landscapes.
Take a train from Colombo to Ella. The journey takes approximately 9 hours.
1500 LKR, 9 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Accommodation

Arrive in Ella and unwind at your accommodation, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of this charming town.
Check into your accommodation in Ella.
Varies, Rest of the day
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Day 4: Nature Exploration

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Ella Rock Hike

Start your day with a hike to Ella Rock for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and tea plantations.
Begin your hike from Ella town. It takes about 2-3 hours to reach the top.
500 LKR for guide, 4-5 hours

1:00PM

Rawana Waterfall

Visit Rawana Waterfall, a stunning natural attraction where you can cool off and relax in the midst of nature.
Take a tuk-tuk or walk to Rawana Waterfall from Ella town.
200 LKR entrance fee, 2 hours

6:00PM

Local Cuisine for Dinner

Savor local Sri Lankan cuisine for dinner at a budget-friendly restaurant in Ella.
Explore the eateries in Ella town for dinner options.
1000 LKR, 2 hours
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Day 5: Beach Relaxation

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Travel to Mirissa

Take a morning bus or train to Mirissa, a laid-back beach town known for its pristine sandy shores and relaxed vibe.
Travel from Ella to Mirissa by bus or train. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.
1000 LKR, 5 hours

2:00PM

Mirissa Beach

Relax on Mirissa Beach, swim in the turquoise waters, and soak up the sun on the golden sands.
Mirissa Beach is a short walk from the town center.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Seafood Dinner on the Beach

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the fresh catch of the day as you watch the sunset.
Choose a seafood restaurant along Mirissa Beach for a memorable dining experience.
1500 LKR, 2 hours
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Day 6: Historical Exploration

Galle, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Galle Fort

Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with charming cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and ocean views.
Walk or take a tuk-tuk to Galle Fort from your accommodation in Mirissa. The journey takes about 1-2 hours.
500 LKR for entrance to some attractions, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fortaleza Restaurant

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Fortaleza Restaurant within Galle Fort, offering delicious international and Sri Lankan dishes.
Dine at Fortaleza Restaurant for a satisfying meal in a historic setting.
1000 LKR, 1 hour

3:00PM

Galle Maritime Museum

Visit the Galle Maritime Museum to learn about the maritime history of Sri Lanka and see interesting exhibits.
The museum is located within Galle Fort and can be easily reached on foot.
300 LKR, 1 hour

6:00PM

Sunset at Unawatuna Beach

Head to Unawatuna Beach to witness a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean, ending your day on a peaceful note.
Take a short tuk-tuk ride from Galle Fort to Unawatuna Beach for the sunset.
500 LKR for transport, 2 hours
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