9-Day Comprehensive Sri Lanka Exploration Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Colombo, Sri Lanka on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Green Cabin

Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast with hoppers and fresh tropical fruit in a cozy local setting, giving a perfect start to your journey.

LKR700, 1h

9:30am

Colombo City Tour

Explore Colombo's vibrant colonial architecture, including the Gangaramaya Temple and the National Museum, diving into Sri Lanka's rich history and culture.

LKR1500, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Savor some of Sri Lanka's finest seafood with a focus on freshly caught crab dishes in this celebrated restaurant with elegant ambiance.

LKR3000, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax at Galle Face Green

Relax by the sea on this popular urban park, perfect for a gentle stroll along the Indian Ocean and watching the sunset.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Upali's by Nawaloka

Experience authentic Sri Lankan cuisine with dishes like kottu and rice & curry in a friendly atmosphere.

LKR1200, 1h

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Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Sigiriya/Dambulla, Sri Lanka on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for an active day ahead.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Explore the ancient rock fortress with its frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic views from the summit, showcasing impressive Sri Lankan engineering and art.

LKR4500, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Aliya Resort & Spa

Relax with a delicious lunch featuring local and international dishes at this upscale resort.

LKR2500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Dambulla Cave Temple

Discover the impressive rock temple complex containing ancient Buddhist murals and statues, a UNESCO World Heritage Site open until 6pm.

LKR1500, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Try traditional Sri Lankan rice & curry dishes at a nearby local restaurant offering authentic flavors.

LKR800, 1h

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Day 3: Ancient City Exploration

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a filling breakfast at your accommodation to fuel your day of exploration.

Included, 1h

9:00am

Guided Tour of Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park

Visit the ruins of the medieval capital, including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara rock temple, and ancient statues, open from 7am to 6pm for exploration.

LKR4000, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Royal Thai Polonnaruwa

Enjoy a break with flavorful Thai cuisine, a popular dining choice in the area.

LKR1200, 1h30m

3:00pm

Cycle around Polonnaruwa

Rent a bicycle and leisurely explore scenic surroundings and lesser-known historic sites nearby.

LKR500, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Relax with a fresh meal featuring local Sri Lankan delicacies to end your active day.

LKR1000, 1h

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Day 4: Hill Country & Culture

Kandy, Sri Lanka on May 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before traveling to the hill country.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Kandy

Drive to Kandy, the cultural capital, known for its scenic beauty and temples; journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Transport LKR5000, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Empire Cafe

Dine at a relaxed cafe offering international and Sri Lankan dishes in the heart of Kandy.

LKR1500, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Temple of the Tooth

Explore the sacred Buddhist temple that houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha, open until 7pm.

LKR1500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Stroll around Kandy Lake and Market

Enjoy a leisurely walk by the scenic lake and browse local crafts and souvenirs at Kandy Market.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Balaji Dosai

Try South Indian vegetarian specialties including dosas and thalis at this popular restaurant.

LKR900, 1h

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Day 5: Tea Country & Nature

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before heading into the heart of the scenic tea regions.

Included, 1h

8:00am

Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Take the iconic scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya through lush tea plantations and rolling hills; journey lasts about 4 hours.

LKR2000, 4h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Hill Club

Enjoy colonial-era ambiance and classic dishes at this famous club in Nuwara Eliya.

LKR2500, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory

Tour a local tea plantation to learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea, with tastings included; open until 5pm.

LKR1200, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Grand Indian

Sample hearty Indian curries and tandoori dishes in a warm setting.

LKR1000, 1h

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Day 6: Hiking & Scenic Views

Ella, Sri Lanka on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a good breakfast before your journey to Ella.

Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Ella

Drive or take a train to Ella, known for its breathtaking views and relaxed vibe; journey takes about 2 hours.

LKR2000, 2h

11:00am

Hike Little Adam’s Peak

Enjoy a moderately easy hike with stunning panoramic views over valleys and tea plantations; the trail is open all day.

Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Chill

Relax with healthy, tasty meals including fresh salads and smoothies at this casual spot.

LKR1200, 1h

3:00pm

Visit the Nine Arches Bridge

Walk to the famous railway bridge and marvel at the impressive colonial engineering surrounded by lush greenery.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Matey Hut

Try local Sri Lankan and Asian fusion dishes in a relaxed, friendly setting.

LKR900, 1h

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Day 7: Wildlife Safari

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka on May 18, 2025

5:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab an early breakfast before heading out for the safari to maximize wildlife sightings.

Included, 1h

6:30am

Morning Safari in Yala National Park

Embark on a guided jeep safari in one of Sri Lanka’s premier national parks, famous for leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species; park opens at 6am and safaris typically run 3-4 hours.

LKR6000, 4h