After arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport, head to downtown Colombo to experience the city's vibrancy. Visit the Pettah Market, a bustling bazaar with a diverse range of vendors, selling everything from fresh produce to electronics. Then, head to Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple overlooking Beira Lake, to appreciate the intricate architecture and culture. End the day by checking out the nightlife at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct.
Head to Kitulgala, the adventure capital of Sri Lanka, for a day of thrill. Start with white water rafting in the Kelani River, followed by a trek through the forest to the Belilena Caves, which are over 12,000 years old. End the day by going on a waterfall abseiling tour at the beautiful Kitulgala Waterfall.
Ella is a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and tea plantations. Start the day with a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, which is considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. After reaching Ella, head to Little Adam's Peak for a relatively easy hike with incredible views of the valley. End the day with a visit to Nine Arches Bridge, a beautiful bridge constructed during the British colonial period.
Yala National Park is home to leopards, elephants, and all kinds of wildlife. Start the day with a morning safari and try to spot some of these amazing creatures. Afterwards, visit Butterfly Garden & Research Center to see a variety of butterfly species or visit the Kataragama Temple to explore the vibrant and spiritual Hindu culture. End the day by relaxing on the beautiful Yala Beach.
Mirissa is a small beach town known for its beautiful and serene beaches. Start the day with a Whale Watching Tour to see the majestic Blue Whale in their natural habitat. After the tour, unwind at Mirissa Beach with turquoise waters and soft sands. End the day with some fresh seafood and cocktails at one of the beach-side restaurants.
Galle is a charming town with a rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the Dutch Fort - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Then, visit the Galle Lighthouse, which dates back to the British colonial period. Spend the afternoon at Unawatuna Beach, a popular beach known for its crystal clear waters.
Kandy is a cultural hub and home to many important historical sites. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a famous temple that holds the relic of Buddha's tooth. Then, head to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, a sprawling garden with a wide range of flora and fauna. End the day with a cultural show at the Kandyan Dance Performance.
Sigiriya is home to one of the most iconic landmarks in Sri Lanka - the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb to the top of the fortress, which was built during the 5th century, to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Afterwards, head to the Pidurangala Rock, which is less crowded compared to the Sigiriya fortress, but still offers a breathtaking view of the area. End of the day with some lovely shopping and dinner in Dambulla.
To travel around Sri Lanka, we recommend renting a private car with a driver or hiring a tour operator. Travel costs vary based on the type of transport you choose. A private car with a driver typically costs around $40-$60 per day, whereas tour operators offer packages starting at $50 per day. Train and bus transport is also available but may not be the most convenient or comfortable option for tourists.
If you have additional days, visit the scenic hill town of Nuwara Eliya, where you can experience horse riding, tea plantation tours, and beautiful waterfalls. Alternatively, if you have less than 8 days, consider removing a destination from the itinerary or spending less time at each location. Be sure to pack light, comfortable clothing, and rain gear as Sri Lanka experiences tropical weather.
Sri Lanka's main international airport is the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located in the city of Katunayake, approximately 35 km north of Colombo. Alternatively, travellers can fly into the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI), located in Mattala, approximately 18 km from Hambantota. However, this airport has limited international flights, and most travellers enter via Bandaranaike Airport.