14-Day Cultural and Coastal Exploration of Sri Lanka in June-July

Day 1: Arrival and Colombo Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka on June 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Barefoot Garden Cafe

Start your day with a fresh, healthy breakfast at this popular cafe known for its organic choices and relaxing garden ambiance.
LKR1500, 1h

9:30am

National Museum of Colombo

Explore Sri Lanka’s largest museum that showcases its rich history, art, and culture. A perfect introduction to the country's heritage.
LKR750, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Upali’s by Nawaloka

Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine including hoppers and string hoppers in a traditional setting.
LKR2000, 1h

1:30pm

Gangaramaya Temple

Visit one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples, featuring eclectic architecture and an interesting museum.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Walk along Galle Face Green

Relax with a stroll along the oceanfront urban park, perfect for watching the sunset and street food vendors.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Savour fresh seafood, particularly their famous crab dishes, at one of the top restaurants in Colombo. Reservations recommended.
LKR5000, 2h
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Day 2: Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka on June 6, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast so you can head out to Sigiriya while it’s cooler in the morning.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Ascend this UNESCO World Heritage site, an ancient rock fortress with stunning frescoes, water gardens and panoramic views.
USD30, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sigiriya Village Hotel

Sample traditional Sri Lankan dishes in a beautiful garden setting close to the fortress.
LKR1500, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Pidurangala Rock

Hike this lesser-known rock nearby for spectacular views of Sigiriya and the surrounding jungle.
LKR500, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at King’s Pavilion

Enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local and international favourites in a serene environment.
LKR2500, 1.5h
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Day 3: Ancient Capital Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up early for a day exploring the well-preserved ruins of Polonnaruwa.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park

Rent a bicycle and explore the extensive ancient city ruins, including the Royal Palace and Gal Vihara rock temple.
USD25 + bicycle rental LKR500, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at Ruwanveli Rest

Enjoy a variety of Sri Lankan meals offering local flavors and traditional rice and curry dishes.
LKR1500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Parakrama Samudra

Relax by the large ancient reservoir constructed by King Parakramabahu I, ideal for photography and a peaceful walk.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Restaurant

Savour some fresh seafood or vegetarian options at your accommodation following a day of exploration.
LKR2000, 1.5h
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Day 4: Dambulla Cave Temples

Dambulla, Sri Lanka on June 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day early with breakfast before heading to the cave temples.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Dambulla Cave Temple

Visit the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, famous for its Buddha statues and colourful murals.
LKR1500, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Iron Bar Restaurant

Taste authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry in this comfortable spot near Dambulla.
LKR1200, 1h

2:00pm

Explore local markets

Wander Dambulla’s vibrant marketplaces to shop for spices, handicrafts and souvenirs.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a quiet dinner with views of the surrounding countryside at your hotel restaurant.
LKR1800, 1.5h
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Day 5: Kandy and Cultural Highlights

Kandy, Sri Lanka on June 9, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before travelling to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Temple of the Tooth Relic

Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, and observe the intricate Kandyan architecture.
LKR1500, 1.5h

11:00am

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Stroll through Sri Lanka’s most expansive botanical garden, featuring orchids, palms, and over 4000 plant species.
LKR1500, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Empire Cafe

Enjoy a fusion of Sri Lankan and international flavours in a cosy café in Kandy town.
LKR2000, 1h

3:30pm

Kandy Lake and Market

Explore the scenic Kandy Lake and browse the colourful local market stalls for souvenirs and crafts.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner and Cultural Show at Kandyan Arts Trust

Dine while enjoying traditional Kandyan dance performances showcasing Sri Lankan culture and history.
LKR3500, 2h
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Day 6: Tea Country in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

A hearty breakfast before heading to the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory

Tour a working tea estate to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea production and enjoy tastings.
LKR1000, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Grand Indian

Enjoy delicious North and South Indian cuisine with a Sri Lankan twist in a charming setting.
LKR1800, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Gregory Lake

Enjoy a lakeside walk or boat ride in this picturesque location, perfect for relaxing amid cooler temperatures.
LKR300 for boat ride, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Hill Club

Experience colonial-era ambiance and classic cuisine in this historic members-only club open to visitors with prior booking.
LKR3500, 2h
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Day 7: Scenic Train to Ella

Ella, Sri Lanka on June 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before departing on one of the world’s most scenic train journeys.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Train from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya Station) to Ella

Take the picturesque 6-hour train ride through tea plantations, mountains, and waterfalls. Book first or second class for best views.
LKR500-1500, 6h

3:00pm

Check-in and lunch at 98 Acres Resort & Spa

Relax with lunch overlooking lush valleys in Ella’s famous eco-resort.
LKR2500, 1h

4:30pm

Hike Little Adam’s Peak

A gentle hike offering panoramic views of tea fields and hills, perfect for sunset views.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Chill

Casual dining with a mix of local and western dishes, famous for its relaxed vibe.
LKR2000, 1.5h
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Day 8: Yala National Park Safari

Yala, Sri Lanka on June 12, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before a morning safari departure to Yala National Park.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Morning Safari at Yala National Park

Discover Sri Lanka’s wildlife including leopards, elephants, and exotic birds in this renowned park. Safari tours last approximately 4-5 hours.
USD60, 5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cinnamon Wild Yala

Dine in comfort near the park with local and international cuisine after your safari.
LKR3000, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at resort

Enjoy downtime by the pool or spa at your hotel to recover from the morning’s adventure.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at hotel

Have a relaxed dinner onsite featuring local specialties.
LKR2500, 1.5h
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Day 9: Beach Relaxation in Mirissa

Mirissa, Sri Lanka on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Leisurely breakfast before heading to the southern coastal town of Mirissa.
Included, 1h

11:00am

Beach time at Mirissa Beach

Relax on this beautiful sandy beach, swim in calm waters, or take a boat trip to spot whales and dolphins (season dependent).
Free; whale watch approx LKR5000, 4h

3:00pm

Lunch at Zephyr Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails with a view of the beach.
LKR2000, 1h

5:00pm

Explore Mirissa town

Wander local shops and cafes or visit the nearby Coconut Tree Hill for sunset views.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Salt Restaurant

Dine on contemporary Sri Lankan seafood dishes in a chic setting overlooking the sea.
LKR2500, 1.5h
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Day 10: Galle Fort Walk

Galle, Sri Lanka on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin your day with breakfast before travelling to Galle.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Explore Galle Fort

Walk the ramparts of this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colonial Dutch architecture, quaint streets, and artisan shops.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Tuna & The Crab

Savour fresh seafood dishes in an atmospheric colonial building inside the fort.
LKR2500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit National Maritime Museum

Learn about Sri Lanka’s rich maritime history and naval artifacts, open from 9am to 4pm.
LKR600, 1h

6:00pm

Sunset walk and coffee at Pedlar's Inn Cafe

Relax and soak in the ambiance in one of Galle Fort’s oldest cafes while enjoying a coffee or light snack.
LKR700, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Fortaleza

Delight in Mediterranean-inspired cuisine paired with Sri Lankan ingredients inside the fort’s old walls.
LKR3000, 1.5h
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Day 11: Beach Time at Bentota

Bentota, Sri Lanka on June 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a laid-back breakfast, soaking in the coastal vibes of the south.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Bentota Beach Relaxation

Spend your day sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports at one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beaches.
Free; Watersports vary approx LKR2000, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Malli’s Seafood Restaurant

Tuck into fresh seafood in a casual beachfront setting.
LKR2000, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Brief Garden

Explore the beautifully landscaped gardens and artworks of renowned Sri Lankan artist Bevis Bawa.
LKR1000, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Villa Bentota

Enjoy fine dining with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and elegant preparation.
LKR3000, 1.5h
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Day 12: Return to Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast at the beachside hotel.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Drive to Colombo

Return drive to Colombo for some last-minute shopping and urban exploration.
Included, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Gallery Café

Dine in a stylish setting, formerly the office of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, offering modern Sri Lankan dishes.
LKR2500, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping at Odel or Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Browse for souvenirs, contemporary crafts, and designer goods in Colombo’s premier shopping locations.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Nihonbashi (Japanese cuisine)

Enjoy authentic Japanese fare, considered one of the best in Sri Lanka, rounding off the trip with a unique dining experience.
LKR4000, 2h
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Day 13: Negombo and Departure Preparation

Negombo, Sri Lanka on June 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel in Colombo

Have a hearty breakfast before travelling to the coastal town of Negombo.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Transfer to Negombo

Short drive to Negombo, known for its beaches and Dutch colonial heritage.
Included, 1h

10:00am

Visit Negombo Dutch Fort and Fish Market

Explore the historic fort area and lively fish market to experience local life and fresh catches.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lords Restaurant

Relish seafood and Sri Lankan specialties with a lagoon view.
LKR1800, 1h

2:00pm

Relax at Negombo Beach

Spend a relaxing afternoon on the beach or enjoy a spa session to unwind before departure.
Free; spa varies, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at the hotel

Enjoy your final meal in Sri Lanka at the hotel restaurant with a choice of local and international cuisine.
LKR2000, 1.5h
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Day 14: Departure Day

Colombo, Sri Lanka on June 18, 2025

6:00am

Breakfast and check-out

Early breakfast and check-out from hotel in Negombo with transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Airport transfer

Allow comfortable transit time for international flight departures from Colombo.
Included, 1h
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