14-Night Budget-Friendly Sri Lanka and Maldives Adventure in October-November 2025

Day 1: Arrival and Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka on October 15, 2025

9:00am

Bandaranaike International Airport Arrival

Arrive in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Clear customs and get a local SIM card to stay connected.
LKR0, 1h

11:00am

Check-in at Budget Hotel in Colombo

Stay at a well-reviewed guesthouse or budget hotel such as Clock Inn Colombo for convenience and affordability.
LKR3000, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Upali’s by Nawaloka

Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a casual setting. Try the rice and curry dishes for a flavourful introduction to local food.
LKR1200, 1h

1:30pm

National Museum of Colombo

Explore Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture with exhibits ranging from ancient artefacts to colonial times. Open daily 9am-5pm.
LKR500, 2h

3:45pm

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

Visit this iconic temple combining modern architecture with traditional elements, open 6am-9pm, great for cultural immersion and photography.
LKR200, 1h

5:00pm

Galle Face Green Walk

Relax and watch the sunset on this popular ocean-side urban park. Enjoy street food stalls in the evening.
LKR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Treat yourself to fresh seafood, particularly crab, at this popular yet affordable restaurant. Reservation recommended.
LKR2500, 1.5h
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Day 2: Cultural Triangle Exploration

Kandy, Sri Lanka on October 16, 2025

7:00am

Train to Kandy

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour train journey from Colombo to Kandy, passing beautiful countryside and tea plantations.
LKR400, 3h

10:30am

Check-in at Kandy Guesthouse

Stay at a guesthouse close to the city centre for ease of access to attractions.
LKR2500, 1h

11:30am

Temple of the Tooth Relic

Visit this sacred Buddhist temple housing a relic of the Buddha’s tooth, a must-see spiritual landmark. Open 5am-8pm.
LKR1500, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Balaji Dosai

Taste South Indian vegetarian specialties including dosas and idlis, affordable and close to main attractions.
LKR700, 1h

2:15pm

Royal Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the extensive gardens in Peradeniya, famous for orchids and giant Javan fig trees. Open 7am-6pm.
LKR1500, 2h

5:00pm

Cultural Show in Kandy

Enjoy traditional Kandyan dance and drumming performances in the evening to deepen your cultural experience.
LKR1000, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Empire Cafe

Dine at a trendy yet affordable cafe serving fusion and Sri Lankan dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
LKR1500, 1h
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Day 3: Hill Country and Tea Plantations

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on October 17, 2025

7:30am

Bus to Nuwara Eliya

Take a scenic 2.5-hour bus ride through the mountains to the cool hill station known as ‘Little England’.
LKR300, 2.5h

10:00am

Check-in at Nuwara Eliya Guesthouse

Choose a cosy guesthouse near town centre for convenience and authentic stays.
LKR2500, 1h

11:00am

Visit a Tea Factory (Pedro Tea Estate)

Learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea production with a factory tour and tasting session. Open 8am-4pm.
LKR600, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Grand Indian

Savour North and South Indian dishes in a colonial-style dining room, known for great flavour and service.
LKR1200, 1h

2:30pm

Walk around Gregory Lake

Leisurely stroll or paddleboat on this picturesque lake, perfect for relaxing and people watching.
LKR200, 1.5h

4:30pm

Explore Nuwara Eliya Town

Visit the local market, colonial post office and charming streets before dinner.
LKR0, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at Salmiya

Enjoy Middle Eastern and Sri Lankan fusion food in a cozy setting, great for variety and taste.
LKR1300, 1h
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Day 4: Scenic Train and Ella

Ella, Sri Lanka on October 18, 2025

7:30am

Train from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) to Ella

Ride one of the world’s most scenic trains, passing lush valleys and tea terraces on this 3-hour journey.
LKR400, 3h

11:00am

Check-in at Ella budget guesthouse

Settle into a guesthouse with mountain views and easy access to Ella’s highlights.
LKR2000, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Matey Hut

Casual eatery serving tasty traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in a simple setting.
LKR700, 1h

1:30pm

Hike Little Adam’s Peak

An easy 1-2 hour hike with fantastic panoramic views over Ella and surrounding hills. Open daylight hours.
LKR0, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Nine Arches Bridge

Famous colonial era railway bridge set amid jungle; perfect for photographs especially in late afternoon.
LKR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at 98 Acres Resort & Spa

Affordable dining with stunning views over tea plantations for a memorable evening meal.
LKR1500, 1h
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Day 5: Galle Fort Experience

Galle, Sri Lanka on October 19, 2025

7:00am

Bus to Galle (5 hours)

Morning bus southwards to the historic Galle Fort on the coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
LKR450, 5h

12:30pm

Check-in at Galle guesthouse

Stay within or near the Fort for best atmosphere and easy access to attractions.
LKR2500, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Tuna & The Crab

Enjoy fresh seafood in a stylish yet accessible restaurant inside Galle Fort.
LKR1800, 1h

2:45pm

Explore Galle Fort and Ramparts

Walk the historic rampart walls, museums, old churches, and artisan shops at leisure. Open public spaces.
LKR0, 3h

6:00pm

Sunset at Galle Lighthouse

Watch the beautiful sunset from the lighthouse area, a peaceful spot with picturesque views.
LKR0, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Poonie’s Kitchen

Affordable Sri Lankan and vegetarian meals using fresh local ingredients.
LKR1000, 1h
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Day 6: Travel to Maldives

Malé, Maldives on October 20, 2025

7:00am

Bus/Taxi to Colombo Airport

Return to Colombo Airport to board flight to Maldives.
LKR1500, 2.5h

10:00am

Flight Colombo to Malé

Fly approx 1.5 hours to Malé, Maldives’ capital.
USD150, 1.5h

12:30pm

Arrival and Check-in in Malé guesthouse

Stay budget-friendly in Malé city or nearby islands with guesthouses offering authentic experiences.
USD50, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Shell Beans Cafe

Casual cafe popular for fresh seafood and local dishes in Malé.
USD10, 1h

2:45pm

Explore Malé City

Visit the Sultan Park, Old Friday Mosque, Maldives National Museum, and bustling local markets. Many sites open until 5pm.
USD5, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Symphony Restaurant

Affordable multi-cuisine restaurant in Malé offering Maldivian and Asian fusion dishes.
USD15, 1.5h
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Day 7: Island Hopping and Beaches

Maldives Islands on October 21, 2025

8:00am

Day trip to nearby budget beach islands

Book a day tour to islands like Maafushi or Gulhi for stunning beaches, snorkeling and local island life experiences.
USD50, 8h

12:30pm

Lunch on Maafushi Island

Eat at a local cafe serving fresh seafood, grilled fish and tropical fruits at reasonable prices.
USD10, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Malé

Boat transfer back to Malé after an active day enjoying beaches and marine life.
USD10, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Symphony Restaurant

Relax with comforting Maldivian cuisine and international options, ideal after a long day.
USD15, 1.5h
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Day 8: Relaxation and Snorkelling

Maldives Islands on October 22, 2025

9:00am

Snorkelling Excursion

Join a half-day snorkelling tour to vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and turtles.
USD45, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Local Cafe

Enjoy light snacks and fresh juices at a beachside cafe after your snorkelling adventure.
USD8, 1h

3:00pm

Beach relaxation or spa treatment

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the white sand beach or book an affordable spa massage for rejuvenation.
USD30, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Seagull Cafe

Dine on delicious seafood and international dishes in a laid-back atmosphere by the waterfront.
USD20, 1.5h
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Day 9: Local Culture and Markets

Malé, Maldives on October 23, 2025

9:00am

Visit Malé Fish Market and Local Market

Experience the lively atmosphere and see local life as fishermen sell their daily catch and shoppers buy fresh produce.
USD0, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Copacabana Beach Cafe

Relax beachside eating sandwiches, salads, and tropical fruits in a chilled atmosphere.
USD10, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Maldives Islamic Centre and Grand Friday Mosque

Admire Islamic architecture and learn about Maldives' history; open daily 8am-5pm.
USD0, 1h

3:00pm

Afternoon coffee break at Copacabana Café

Enjoy coffee and cakes while watching the beach view and people.
USD5, 1h

5:00pm

Walk along the waterfront promenade

Evening stroll to unwind and enjoy the ocean breeze and street life.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Shell Beans Cafe

Dine on fresh catch with robust Maldivian spices in a budget-friendly setting.
USD15, 1.5h
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Day 10: Beach Day and Departure Planning

Maldives on October 24, 2025

9:00am

Relax at Hulhumalé Beach

Spend a leisurely morning at Hulhumalé's clean sandy beach, a short drive from Malé, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
USD0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Seagull Cafe

Enjoy fresh food and chilled drinks near the beach to keep refreshed.
USD15, 1h

2:00pm

Prepare for Departure

Return to guesthouse to organise luggage and last-minute packing.
USD0, 1h

3:30pm

Local souvenir shopping

Buy last-minute souvenirs and gifts in Malé’s markets.
USD10, 1.5h

6:00pm

Dinner at local restaurant

Have a final dinner at a local restaurant featuring Maldivian specialities at budget prices.
USD15, 1.5h
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Day 11: International Flight Departure

Malé, Maldives on October 25, 2025

5:00am

Transfer to Velana International Airport

Reach the airport early for check-in and security for international flights.
USD10, 1h

7:00am

Flight to Home Country

Depart Maldives with wonderful memories of your Sri Lanka and Maldives trip.
N/A, N/A
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