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Exquisite Sri Lanka: Colombo to Kandy, Nuwara Eliya & Bentota Road Trip Itinerary

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Day 1: Explore Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Kumbuk

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Cafe Kumbuk, known for its delicious smoothie bowls and artisanal coffee.
Located in the heart of Colombo, easily accessible from most hotels.
LKR1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Galle Face Green

Stroll along the vibrant Galle Face Green, a perfect spot to enjoy the ocean breeze and mingle with locals.
Directly beside the ocean, a short drive from Cafe Kumbuk.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore the National Museum of Colombo

Dive into Sri Lanka’s rich history at the National Museum, housing stunning artifacts and exhibits.
Easily reached by taxi from Galle Face Green.
LKR2000, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Indulge in some of the best crab dishes in the world at the renowned Ministry of Crab.
Located in the historic Old Dutch Hospital precinct.
LKR5000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Gangaramaya Temple

Discover the beauty of Eastern Buddhist architecture at the serene Gangaramaya Temple.
Short taxi ride from the restaurant.
LKR1000, 1 hour

4:30PM

Relax at Viharamahadevi Park

Enjoy a peaceful walk or a moment of relaxation at Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo's largest park.
Close visit from Gangaramaya Temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Sushi Bar

Savor their exquisite sushi and fusion dishes while taking in the ambiance of luxury dining.
Conveniently located near Viharamahadevi Park.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.
Depending on the location of your hotel.
Varies, 30 minutes
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Day 2: Journey to Kandy

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Kandy.
In-house dining.
Complimentary, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kandy

Begin your scenic drive to Kandy, taking approx. 3 hours amidst lush green hills.
Take the A1 road towards Kandy.
Varies, 3 hours

12:00PM

Visit the Temple of the Tooth

Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth, one of Buddhism's most important relics.
Centrally located in Kandy.
LKR1500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Empire Cafe

Relish local Sri Lankan and Western dishes while enjoying views of Kandy lake.
Just a short walk from the Temple.
LKR2000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Kandy Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around the serene Kandy Lake, admiring its beauty.
Easily accessible after lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Cultural Show at Kandy

Witness a vibrant cultural performance showcasing traditional Sri Lankan dance and music.
Various theaters around Kandy, check local listings.
LKR1000, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kandy House

Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine amidst a historic atmosphere.
Located just outside of Kandy’s city center.
LKR5000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel and unwind.
Depending on your hotel location.
Varies, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Kandy

Day 3: Nature Exploration in Kandy

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at your hotel.
In-house dining.
Complimentary, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Explore the vast and breathtaking Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to unique flora.
20-minute drive from downtown Kandy.
LKR1500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Udawattekele Sanctuary

Take a short trek in the Udawattekele Sanctuary, rich in biodiversity and natural beauty.
Close proximity to the city center.
LKR1000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mango Tree

Savor a delicious meal with local flavors at The Mango Tree, focusing on fresh ingredients.
Short drive from Udawattekele Sanctuary.
LKR2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Gem Museum

Learn about Sri Lanka's gemstone industry and see exquisite pieces.
Short drive from lunch.
LKR1200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Evening stroll around Kandy

Wander through Kandy's charming streets, stopping to shop or admire architecture.
Easy walking distance from the Gem Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Royal Bar & Hotel

Enjoy a mix of local and international dishes while soaking in the hotel’s historic vibes.
Located in the heart of Kandy.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Return to Hotel

Return to your hotel to reflect on the day's adventures.
Short commute based on hotel location.
Varies, 30 minutes
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Day 4: Scenic Drive to Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast and prepare for the journey ahead.
In-house dining.
Complimentary, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Nuwara Eliya

Take the breathtaking journey to Nuwara Eliya, famous for its tea plantations, taking about 2.5 hours.
Follow the A5 road through stunning landscapes.
Varies, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore a Tea Plantation

Visit a tea factory and learn about the tea-making process while tasting some freshly brewed tea.
Several tea plantations are located near Nuwara Eliya.
LKR1000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hill Club

Dine at the historic Hill Club and enjoy a traditional English meal in the charming atmosphere.
Near the town center of Nuwara Eliya.
LKR3000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Nuwara Eliya Lake

Take a peaceful walk around Nuwara Eliya Lake, rent a swan boat, or simply relax by the waterside.
Situated close to the town center.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Victoria Park

Wander through Victoria Park's scenic paths and enjoy moments amidst blooming flowers.
Adjacent to Nuwara Eliya Lake.
LKR300, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Grand Hotel

Partake in a grand dining experience with a blend of local and international cuisine.
Close to Victoria Park.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Relax at Hotel

Return to your hotel for a cozy night amidst the cool climate of Nuwara Eliya.
Short commute based on your hotel location.
Varies, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Nuwara Eliya

Day 5: Beach Retreat in Bentota

Bentota, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for the day ahead.
In-house dining.
Complimentary, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bentota

Make your way to Bentota, a charming coastal town, in approximately 3.5 hours.
Follow the A5 and A2 roads for a scenic route.
Varies, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Mangrove

Enjoy a delicious seafood meal at The Mangrove while overlooking the beautiful river.
Easily accessible near the beach.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax on Bentota Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun on the golden sands of Bentota Beach.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Water Sports Activities

Engage in thrilling water sports like jet skiing, banana boating, or windsurfing.
Available through several local vendors on the beach.
LKR5000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Golden Grill

Relish fresh grilled seafood and local dishes at the beachfront Golden Grill.
Located along the Bentota beach strip.
LKR3000, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Return to Hotel

Unwind at your hotel after an exciting day in Bentota.
Based on your hotel’s proximity.
Varies, 30 minutes
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Day 6: Return to Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before the return journey.
In-house dining.
Complimentary, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to Colombo

Begin your drive back to Colombo, taking around 2 hours via the A2 road.
Follow the coastal route back for lovely views.
Varies, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Colombo Lighthouse

Check out the charming iconic lighthouse, a great photo opportunity.
Conveniently located near the beach.
Free, 30 minutes

12:30PM

Lunch at The Harbour Room

Savor fantastic views of the harbor while enjoying a delightful meal.
Near the lighthouse.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Stroll through Colombo Fort

Explore the historical Fort area, lined with colonial buildings and shops.
A short drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Colombo Dutch Museum

Learn about the fascinating Dutch colonial history of Sri Lanka.
Near the Fort area.
LKR750, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The London Grill

Dine in elegance at The London Grill, offering gourmet meals in a lavish setting.
Located in the city center.
LKR8000, 2 hours

7:00PM

Last-minute Shopping

Enjoy some last-minute shopping for souvenirs in Colombo’s many markets.
Various markets spread across the city.
Varies, 1 hour

8:00PM

Return to Airport

Head to the airport for your departure, reminiscing about your incredible journey.
Direct route to Bandaranaike International Airport.
Varies, 1 hour
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