12-Day Adventure Road Trip and City Experience Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Check into Hotel

Start your adventure by checking into a centrally located hotel like Galle Face Hotel, offering beautiful sea views.
N/A
USD150, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the National Museum

Explore the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka at the National Museum, the largest museum in the country.
Head to the museum using a tuk-tuk, approximately 10 minutes from the hotel.
USD10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of Colombo’s top-rated restaurants, specializing in Sri Lankan crab dishes.
10-minute tuk-tuk ride from the museum.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll along Galle Face Green

Walk along the scenic Galle Face Green and enjoy ocean views as you take in local street food vendors.
A quick tuk-tuk ride back to Galle Face Green.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Gallery Café

Dine at The Gallery Café, known for its fusion of Sri Lankan and international cuisine, set in a former office of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa.
5-minute drive or a short walk.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 2: Beaches and Chill

Negombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beach.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Negombo Lagoon Boat Ride

Take a relaxing boat ride through the scenic Negombo Lagoon, enjoying birdwatching and local scenery.
Drive to the lagoon (30 minutes).
USD15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lobster Pot

Try out fresh seafood at The Lobster Pot while enjoying views of the beach.
10-minute drive from the lagoon.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax on Negombo Beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming at Negombo Beach, known for its lively atmosphere.
A short 5-minute drive.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fish Market

Experience an authentic Sri Lankan dinner at the local fish market, where you can select fresh fish and have it cooked on-site.
5 minute drive or 15 minute walk.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Heritage

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing for Kandy.
Check-out and drive to Kandy (estimated travel time 2 hours).
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Temple of the Tooth Relic

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world.
Near the city center of Kandy.
USD10, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Balaji Dosai

Savor authentic South Indian cuisine at Balaji Dosai, famous for its dosas and thalis.
10-minute drive from the temple.
USD10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Royal Botanical Gardens

Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, featuring a stunning collection of orchids and endemic plants.
15-minute drive from the lunch spot.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Cultural Dance Show

Experience a vibrant Kandyian dance performance showcasing traditional Sri Lankan culture.
Shows are hosted in various venues around Kandy.
USD15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kandy House

Dine at The Kandy House, a hidden gem renowned for its local cuisine in a serene setting.
10-minute drive from the show venue.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 4: Mountain Retreat

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to Nuwara Eliya.
Drive to Nuwara Eliya (approx 2.5 hours).
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Victoria Park

Stroll through Victoria Park, known for its beautiful gardens and a quiet escape from the bustling town.
Located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Salty Snapper

Relish some fresh catch of the day at Salty Snapper, a cozy eatery with a focus on local fare.
5-minute drive from the park.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore a Tea Factory

Tour a local tea factory and see how Ceylon tea is produced, complete with tastings.
Drive to one of the local factories (about 20 minutes).
USD7, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Gregory Lake

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Gregory Lake, where you can enjoy boat rentals or simply relax by the water.
A short 15-minute drive from the tea factory.
USD10, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hill Club

Dine at The Hill Club, a colonial-style club known for its strong sense of history and excellent international and local menu.
10-minute drive from Gregory Lake.
USD25, 2 hours
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Day 5: Scenic Train Journey

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before the scenic train ride to Ella.
Check out and drive to Nanu Oya Train Station (about 30 minutes).
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Train to Ella

Take one of the most scenic train rides in the world from Nanu Oya to Ella, a journey filled with breathtaking views.
UFare at Nanu Oya Station.
USD5, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Chill

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Café Chill, known for its healthy and diverse menu.
Short walk from Ella train station.
USD10, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Nine Arches Bridge

Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by lush tea estates.
A 15-minute walk from Café Chill.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Little Adam's Peak Hike

Take a hike up Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views of Ella and its surrounding hills.
About 30 minutes walk from the bridge.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Road Side Restaurant

Enjoy simple yet delicious local fare at The Road Side Restaurant, popular among locals.
10-minute tuk-tuk ride from your accommodation.
USD10, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Wildlife Adventure

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Rise early and grab a quick breakfast at your hotel.
Drive to Yala National Park (about 2.5 hours).
Included, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Safari in Yala National Park

Experience a thrilling jeep safari in Yala National Park, famous for its leopard population.
Arranged safari pickups are available at park entrance.
USD60, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yala Village Hotel

Relax and enjoy lunch at Yala Village Hotel, featuring local dishes and beautiful views.
On-site at the hotel.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax and Explore Nearby Beaches

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the nearby Sithulpawwa Rock Temple or relax at a secluded beach.
Drive to Sithulpawwa (about 30 minutes).
USD5, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kholer

Dine at The Kholer, a local eatery known for its fusion of traditional and modern cuisine.
Drive back to Tissamaharama (about 30 minutes).
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 7: Heritage City

Galle, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out and heading to Galle.
Drive to Galle (about 2 hours).
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Galle Fort

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle Fort, with its charming streets and Portuguese architecture.
Located in the center of Galle.
USD5, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Fortify Kitchen

Savor delicious dishes at Fortify Kitchen, known for its fresh ingredients and unique flavors.
A short walk from Galle Fort.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Marine Museum

Visit the National Maritime Museum, showcasing Galle's maritime heritage and marine life.
Just a short walk away.
USD5, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax at Unawatuna Beach

Take a quick drive to Unawatuna Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
10-minute drive from Galle.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Kingfisher Restaurant

End the day with a lovely dinner at Kingfisher Restaurant, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
Drive back to Galle (about 15 minutes).
USD20, 2 hours
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Day 8: Beach Relaxation

Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast overlooking the ocean at your hotel.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Water Sports at Unawatuna Beach

Try exciting water sports, like snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant underwater life.
Beachfront service available.
USD30, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Happy Banana

Savor fresh seafood and local dishes with a view at Happy Banana.
A short walk along the beach.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Japanese Peace Pagoda

Head to the nearby Japanese Peace Pagoda for stunning views over Unawatuna and beyond.
20-minute hike or a short tuk-tuk ride.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relaxing Afternoon on Beach

Unwind on the beach or take a swim in the calm sea.
Return to the beach (15-minute walk).
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Unawatuna Beach Resort

Indulge in a delectable meal at the beach resort, known for their exquisite seafood choices.
On-site at the resort.
USD25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Tropical Paradise

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing for Mirissa.
Drive to Mirissa (about 30 minutes).
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on a thrilling whale watching tour, keeping an eye out for blue whales and dolphins.
Book a tour at the beach entry point.
USD50, 3-4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant Aloha

Refuel with a delicious lunch at Restaurant Aloha, offering both Sri Lankan and international dishes.
Short walk from the beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Mirissa Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing and sunbathing on the stunning Mirissa Beach.
Easily accessible by walking.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Whale Bar

Wrap up your day with dinner at The Whale Bar, known for its cozy atmosphere and excellent cocktails.
Short drive or walk back to the main area.
USD25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Relaxing Coastal Day

Bentota, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading to Bentota.
Drive to Bentota (around 1 hour).
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Bentota Beach

Spend a relaxing morning soaking up the sun at Bentota Beach, one of Sri Lanka's finest beaches.
Beachfront access.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Surf Hotel

Indulge in a beachfront lunch at The Surf Hotel, offering a range of local and international cuisine.
A short walk from the beach.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bentota River Safari

Take a scenic river safari and explore the waterways of Bentota, spotting wildlife along the way.
Arrange a safari tour from the beach.
USD25, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax on Bentota Beach

Unwind for the rest of the evening back at Bentota Beach, enjoying the sunset.
Walk from the river safari ending point.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Golden Grill

Delight in an exquisite dinner at The Golden Grill, known for its grilled seafood and exotic flavors.
A short drive from the beach.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 11: Return to Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your morning meal before checking out.
Drive back to Colombo (around 1.5 hours).
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Colombo Dutch Museum

Discover the history of Dutch colonialism in Sri Lanka at the Colombo Dutch Museum.
Located in the Fort area of Colombo.
USD8, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Ocean Seafood Restaurant

Savor a fresh seafood lunch in a fine dining setting at The Ocean Seafood Restaurant.
10-minute taxi ride from the museum.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Colombo’s Markets

Wander through Colombo’s bustling markets for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Walk to the nearby markets.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Tea at Barefoot Café

Relax and enjoy a soothing cup of tea at Barefoot Café, a local favorite.
10-minute walk from the markets.
USD5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Final Dinner at Blue Elephant

Celebrate your journey with a final dinner at Blue Elephant, serving a mix of Sri Lankan and Thai food.
Short taxi ride from the café.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 12: Departure

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Sri Lanka at the hotel before checking out.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Airport Transfer

Check-out from the hotel and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure.
Arrange a taxi or use hotel shuttle.
USD30, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability