Sri Lanka Travel itinerary: from 4 days to 10 days

Planning the best Sri Lanka travel itinerary can feel a bit daunting if you have never visited before. Trust me, I have been there, and there is so much to see on this beautiful island that it can get overwhelming.

The key to a good Sri Lanka itinerary is to prioritise what you want to see and budget as much time as you can for it, because the travel time between places is not to be underestimated. Besides, you would want the time to digest and take everything in.

That said, if all you have is just a few days, I still have recommendations to help you!

> See Sri Lanka travel tips here, this post will only go over travel itineraries

Frequently asked questions when planning Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary

How many days are enough for Sri Lanka?

To truly do Sri Lanka justice, it’s best to spend a month there but most people won’t have the time to spare. This is why I’m writing this post to help make sure that you can make the most of your time in Sri Lanka and see the highlights.

Realistically, you need at least a week to see the highlights of the vibrant country, or you can just pick 1 or 2 important points of interest. But if you don’t want to sacrifice culture over beaches or vice versa then you’ll need more time.

Is 7 days enough in Sri Lanka?

7 days is enough to see 3-4 major highlights in Sri Lanka, but it won’t allow enough time to see everything in Sri Lanka, so this greatly depends you are keen on seeing everything or happy to pick some highlights that are most interesting to you.

Is 10 days enough in Sri Lanka?

10 days allows for a more relaxed pace, where you can explore cultural sites, enjoy nature, and unwind on the beaches. This timeframe is ideal for a well-rounded experience of the island.

Is 14 days enough in Sri Lanka?

With 14 days, you can dive deeper into Sri Lanka’s rich history and diverse landscapes. This itinerary can encompass cultural sites, national parks, and coastal towns, giving you a comprehensive view of the island.

Sri Lanka point of interest overview

There is plenty to see in Sri Lanka, but I’ll try to list the top highlights and also where they are on the island for a good overview:

Colombo

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka and although most people recommend it only as a quick stop, I think spending 1-2 days there is a great way to get a feel of the city. Especially to see the museum as well as some of the colonial architecture.

Galle

Galle is the base of the Portuguese and the Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Not to mention the southern coastline is absolutely breathtaking.

Sigiriya/Habarana

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress famous for its stunning frescoes, water gardens, and impressive Lion’s Gate. Many people stay at Habarana as it’s the gateway to Sigiriya, Hurulu Eco Park for elephant safari, and one hour from Polonnaruwa, the capital of the Second Kingdom of Sri Lanka as well as Dambulla Cave Temple.

Ella

Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Ella has become a popular town for tourists with a chill vibe, trails like Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge. Most tourists take the train from Kandy to Ella.

Kandy

Home to the Temple of the Tooth, Kandy is a cultural hub as the capital of the last kingdom in Sri Lanka. From the peaceful lakeside to the historical sites to visit, it’s a popular stop as it’s also the start/end point for the Kandy-Ella train. If you are visiting during July or August, check to see if the Esala Perahera festival is on!

Yala National Park

Yala National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife and is one of the best places in the world to see leopards in their natural habitat. Covering over 979 square kilometers, the park features a mix of savannah, wetlands, and forests, home to elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the capital of the first Kingdom of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is home to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, which is believed to be a descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries (aka the Second Kingdom). The city is known for its well-preserved ruins, including the impressive Gal Vihara, featuring four colossal Buddha statues carved from rock. The archaeological park also includes ancient temples, palaces, and the Royal Palace complex, providing a glimpse into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval history.

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a complex of five caves adorned with over 150 Buddha statues and beautiful murals that date back to the 1st century BC. The largest cave, the Temple of the Great King, features a colossal reclining Buddha. This ancient site offers not only a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage but also stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, is a sacred mountain that stands at 2,243 meters and is famous for its distinctive footprint, believed to be that of Buddha, Shiva, or Adam, depending on religious beliefs. The trek to the summit is a spiritual pilgrimage for many, especially during the season from December to May. Hikers often start at dawn to reach the top for a breathtaking sunrise view, making it a memorable experience.

Trincomalee

Trincomalee is a coastal city known for its stunning beaches and natural harbor, making it a popular destination for relaxation and water activities. The city is home to significant historical sites, including the Koneswaram Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil beaches of Nilaveli and Uppuveli, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, as well as exploring the vibrant marine life of the region.

4 day Sri Lanka itinerary

If you only have 4 days in Sri Lanka, it does limit the amount of time you have so I have 2 versions of 4 day itinerary for you! One for culture lovers and one for beach lovers!

4 day Sri Lanka itinerary for culture lovers

The culture heartland of Sri Lanka is fortunately less than a half day drive from the airport (and Colombo), so even though this itinerary might be a bit packed and you’ll be on the road a lot, but you will get to see the highlight!

Day 1 Arrive and head to Habarana

Time is short! So after you land, go directly to Habarana which will take around 4-5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Depending on when you land, this might be the only activity of the day.

Negombo to Habarana

There is a highway connection from the airport to Habarana, but there are not many sights along the way to stop by and see. While Google Map will tell you it’s a 3-hour journey, it’s more likely to be 4, but it’d be a relatively smoother journey with the use of the highway.

Cost: 65 USD or so per car

Where to stay in Habarana

Habarana is the area where most hotels are and close to Sigiriya, Dambulla, 2 national parks, and an hour from Polonnaruwa. It’s an ideal place to stay, and we were at the Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, which was a serene and beautiful hotel that has a great breakfast and dinner buffet.

Here are some other options:

Budget: The Ayurvedic Lanka wellness hotel is a good budget choice that also offer Ayurvedic treatments.

Mid-range: Dudley Nature Resort is set back a little from the road and a family run resort that still has a pool and warm hospitality. An alternative is Heaven Habarana Guesthouse and Restaurant whose restaurant has a stellar review on top as well, but the accommodation is more rustic.

Splurge: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana is one of the best accommodation options in the region. The grounds itself felt like it’s part of nature and you get to stay at a nice villa with a good buffet breakfast and a pool.

Day 2 Sigiriya and Dambulla Cave Temple

Today is the ultimate culture day! Start with an early morning trip to Sigiriya, or alternatively you can hike the Pidurangala Rock during sunrise for the view before heading to Sigiriya. In the afternoon visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is just 30 minutes drive away from Habarana and you’ll go past the Elephant Road, possibly spotting elephants!

Sigiriya

Sigiriya was built in the 5th century AD by King Kashyapa, who chose it as his royal citadel and palace. It was a fortified palace complex, strategically positioned on a massive rock plateau that rises 200 meters above the surrounding landscape.

It is also known as the Lion Rock due to its shape, and you’ll walk through the Lion’s Gate – the entrance to the fortress – which is shaped like a massive lion’s paws.

The climb is steep with metal staircases and pathways taking you up, and depending on your physical strength level and the crowds, it should take 30-60 minutes to go up.

Other highlights are the frescoes on the walls of Sigiriya, which consists of celestral maidens, and the water gardens at the bottom. And did we mention the stunning views at the top?

Opening times: 5:00 – 18:30 (ticket issue closes at 17:00)

Entrance fee: 35 USD for adult, 20 USD for children, entry free for kids below 6

Lunch in Habarana

Depending on what time you finish sight-seeing at Sigiriya, and it should be early, return to your hotel to rest before lunch. We had local food at Dewata Villas Village Restaurant which is right next to our hotel and set back from the road, the owner was very lovely and you can find local games there too.

Elephant Road

The Elephant road is the name given to the road that leads from Habarana to Dambulla that roughly runs north-to-south. It is the A6 road that lies between Minneriya National Park and also near Hurulu Eco Park, and it’s common to see elephants roaming along the road or crossing it.

Note: for your safety, please do not exit your car or van when you see them, and drive away as soon as the elephant comes towards you as they are mostly likely charging towards you as a warning.

Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant historical and religious sites in Sri Lanka. 

It was a place of worship since the 1st century BC and a refuge for Buddhist monks during times of persecution. It was expanded by King Valagamba who visited the site and turned the caves into works of art.

The are five main caves in total under the batholith of granite, each one painted intricately from wall to ceiling with over 150 Buddhist sculptures inside in total. The frescoes depict stories of the Buddha’s life as well as other deities, with the first cave being the most historic.

It is a bit of a climb to go up to the Dambulla Cave Temple, and there is the Golden Temple with the towering seated Buddha statue at the foot of the hill.

It can get very hot on the way up and you do have to take off your shoes to visit the cave complex and also cover your knees and shoulders.

More on Dambulla Cave Temple here

Opening times: 7:00 – 19:00

Entrance fee: LKR 2000 (~7 USD)

Dinner at Cinnamon Lodge Habarana 

If you have opted for half-board (which we did), then you will have dinner at Cinnamon Lodge Habanara, which is a comprehensive buffet that includes western food, as well as local curries and food.

Day 3 Polonnaruwa or Hurulu Eco Park, then head to Negombo (or Colombo)

Depending on your energy levels and preference, you can start with a morning safari to Hurulu Eco Park, then visit Polonnaruwa before driving straight to Negombo or Colombo from there. Otherwise, you can pick either the Hurulu Eco Park or Polonnaruwa for a more leisurely day.

Hurulu Eco Park

Hurulu Eco Park is the best place to spot elephants year-around and only a ten minutes drive from Habarana.

An early morning safari is a great way to spot them on your second to last day in Sri Lanka! And you can also do a little hike up to the viewpoint to admire the national park from a vantage point.

Cost: 60-70 USD depending on group sizes for Jeep + entry

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Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is the capital of the second kingdom of Sri Lanka and about 1 hour’s drive from Habarana. If you would prefer to leave early to head to Colombo or Negombo, then you can skip it, but personally, I enjoyed my visit to this ancient city – see more on visiting Polonnaruwa here.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site but it does mean you have to leave after breakfast upon return from Hurulu Eco Park, as it would add another hour to your journey back to the west coast.

Opening times: 7:00 – 17:00

Entrance fee: 15 USD

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Where to stay in Negombo

Budget: Negombo Boutique Villa is 2 blocks from the beach and has a pool. If you still prefer beach side, check out Island life Negombo.

Midrange: Regal Réseau Hotel & Spa is a good mid-range option with a good restaurant by the beach. 

Splurge: Jetwing Blue is a Sri Lanka chain with a beach view and a picturesque swimming pool. Sentido Heritance Negombo is more modern and still beachside.

Where to stay in Colombo

There are more choices in Colombo in terms of location as well, but here are some of my top picks:

Budget: THE DEN 23 is a basic but comfortable, with a cute rooftop space. For hostel lovers, Seconds Hostel is well rate if not a bit far in the south of the city.

Mid-range: If you don’t mind living a little far, Jetwing Colombo Seven has a gorgeous rooftop pool and comfortable rooms with apartment options. For something closer to the city, Sofia Colombo City Hotel is great value for money.

Splurge: Cinnamon Life at the City of Dream is the newest hotel in town with a spectacular almost 360 degrees view (depending on your window) of Colombo. Their buffet breakfast is also to die for!

If you prefer to be closer to the seafront/city, then Galle Face Hotel is a classic heritage choice.

Day 4 Negombo beach time or Colombo

Today is the last day of your trip, so depending on your flight time and whether you choose to overnight at Negombo or Colombo, you can chill in the hotel, the beach, or do some last-minute shopping or sight-seeing in the capital.

Note: it’s best to arrive at the airport a minimum of 2 hours before your flight, and it’s about 1 hour from Colombo to the airport near Negombo.

4 day Sri Lanka itinerary for beach lover

I get it, many people visit Sri Lanka to see the coast, which is why I also put together this alternate itinerary for those who love the beach.

Day 1 Arrive and Colombo

Arrive in Sri Lanka and head to the capital and check into your hotel! Depending on when you arrive, here are some places to visit to get some culture before you get a tan:

• Colombo National Museum (1-2 hours depending on browsing speed) – the museum is a great place to get an overview of Sri Lanka’s history. Open 9am – 5pm.
• Gangaramaya Temple (1-2 hours) – one of the most important Buddhist temple in Colombo that’s built by a lakeside. The architecture is a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, ancient Indonesian, Indian, and Chinese, and was built in the 19th century by a shipping merchant.
• Red Mosque + Colombo Fort Station – the area where the Red Mosque and the Colombo Fort train station is the old part of town with many heritage and colonial buildings. It’s worth a roam as you might not have time to take it all in tomorrow before your train ride.

Day 2 Colombo to Galle

Take the train from Colombo to Galle to experience the scenic coastal scenery of Sri Lanka! I’ve covered Sri Lanka train travel tips here, but for ease of navigation, you can check 12GoAsia for train times and prices as well as alternatives.

Colombo to Galle by train

Although it won’t be faster, the train ride from Colombo to Galle would be very scenic and you get to experience the famed transport mode of Sri Lanka in a short trip.

Galle Fort

The train station is right by the Galle Fort, so if you don’t have a lot of luggage, you can head right over to check out the historic site.

The Galle Fort was built by the Dutch and is a complex with colonial buildings, fortifications, and even a church inside. You can join a walking tour that runs at 5 different times a day for a comprehensive guide to its history.

Where to stay in Galle

Galle has many different options for all budgets, but if you want to embrace the beach life then you might want to splurge a little and stay somewhere on the beach. The sunset are spectacular so you will want to make the most of your short time in Sri Lanka. Another option is to stay at a heritage hotel!

Budget: Tanty’s Hostel and Tamara Motels are both popular budget options, and you can find more homestay places cheap.

Mid-range: The Fort Printers is a hotel that was once – you guessed it – a printing house, for beach choices Arabella on Boossa is also by Galle Fort, and Serendipity Lake is further away in Hikkaduwa.

Splurge: Galle Fort Hotel is right in Galle Fort and Radisson Collection Resort is one of the best places to stay.

*I now use Trip.com to book too instead of booking if I want to pay for it upfront

Day 3 Yala National Park day trip/explore coastal cafes + cities

You can take a day trip to Yala National Park for a chance to spot the famous leopards on a safari. It takes 2-3 hours to drive there and then another 2-3 hours back, so it would be an early morning (or late evening) to do the safari.

Alternatively, you can explore the coastal cities and beautiful cafes in the area. One of the most popular places is Weligama, about 1 hour’s drive from Galle, but old favourites like Unawatuna and Mirissa are gorgeous to visit.

Here is a quick list in increasing distances from Galle:

• Thileni’s in Ahangama with a great beach view, bean chairs, and delicious food
• Kai Ahangama is a roof top bar and cafe that is close to Thileni’s and famous on instagram for its lattice weave roof.
• Moochies Restaurant & Rooftop is a good choice for healthy options and for digital nomads.
• The Cliff Weligama has a spectacular view and a grass patch to sit on. 

The area is also popular for surfing as well, so you can pop to the beach and try to rent a surf board, or opt for a lesson.

Day 4 Leave

From Galle it’s about 3 hours’ drive to the airport, so depending on when your flight is, make sure to leave plenty of time to head to the airport!

Note: you will not pass through Colombo on the way out as that can easily add another hour to your travel time due to traffic.

5 day Sri Lanka Itinerary

If you have 5 days instead of 4, I still recommend either opting to see the cultural side or the beachy side. Your itinerary would be more relaxed though – so that is a bonus!

5 day Sri Lanka itinerary for culture lovers

Day 1 Arrive and Colombo

Upon arrival in Colombo, take the day to explore the vibrant capital. Visit key attractions such as:

• Colombo National Museum: Get an overview of Sri Lanka’s history and culture.
• Gangaramaya Temple: A significant Buddhist temple featuring a mix of architectural styles.
• Galle Face Green: Enjoy a stroll along this lovely promenade by the sea and try some local street food.

Check into your hotel and relax, preparing for the adventure ahead.

Day 2 Colombo to Kandy

Take the train from Colombo Fort to Kandy and enjoy a scenic ride with relatively fewer people compared to the Kandy to Ella route. The ride itself is around 2.5 hours, and I recommend taking the 8:30 train on second class reserve to make the most of the open train door, and early trains are less likely to delay.

Once you’re in Kandy, check into your hotel and take a roam in town if you want to take it easy, but here are a few attractions for you to visit:

1. Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
   A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this temple houses the sacred relic of the tooth of the Buddha. It’s a significant pilgrimage site.
   
   *it might be worth it to visit this early in the morning the next day to maximise the time you have at leisure
   
2. Kandy Lake
   A beautiful artificial lake in the center of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk. You can enjoy the serene views and the surrounding gardens.
   
3. Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
   Located a short drive from Kandy, this expansive garden features a wide variety of plants and flowers, including a stunning collection of orchids.
   
4. Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue
   A large statue of Buddha that offers great views of Kandy. The site also has a temple and is a peaceful place to visit.
   
5. Kandy Cultural Show
   In the evening, consider attending a cultural show that showcases traditional Sri Lankan dance and music, often held near the Temple of the Tooth.
   
6. Local Markets

Explore the local markets for souvenirs, handicrafts, and spices. The Kandy Market is vibrant and offers a glimpse into local life.

Where to stay in Kandy

Budget Hotels: Kandy City Stay is well-rated budget option near the train station. For a more authentic experience, consider the Madugalle Friendly Family Guest House.

Mid-Range Hotels: Radisson hotel Kandy is one of the top rated hotels in the city and right by the lake. For a more boutique stay, try Castle Hill Bungalow, newly opened in 2024.

Luxury Hotels: Kings Pavilion Luxury Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotel in the area and a private estate up on the hill.

Jetwing Kandy Gallery, A Luxury Reserve is known for its serene environment and high-quality service, this hotel offers a luxurious experience with beautiful views and fine dining options, but it’s further from town.

Day 3 Kandy to Habarana

Explore a few more sights in Kandy before heading up north to Habarana. The journey would take around 3 hours, and it’s best to arrange for a taxi as public transport between the two spots are limited to local buses which is very slow.

Depending on the time you arrive in Habarana, you might be able to do an evening safari at Hurulu National Park, or just settle in for the night and rest.

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Day 4 Sigiriya and Dambulla Cave Temple

The next morning get up early and visit Sigiriya, one of the most iconic sites of Sri Lanka. The stairs are steep but the cooler temperature of the early morning should be helpful! There are many tours that would take you to Sigiriya and Dambulla Cave Temple in one day, which might be a good option to take to minimise stress on transport.

Alternatively, you can go up to the Pidurangala Rock during sunrise for a view of Sigiriya if you prefer views over history, but this is also an option in the evening if you haven’t opt for the safari, too.

Day 5 Hurulu Eco Park/Airport

If you have done the Hurulu Eco Park, then you can wake up at leisure and make your way to the airport. It is around 4-5 hours drive, so make sure you leave with plenty of time.

5 day Sri Lanka itinerary for nature lover

To be honest, the 5 day Sri Lanka itinerary for nature lovers just leave you an extra day so you can actually do Yala National Park and hop around beach cafes without having to choose either one or be super packed to do both.

Day 1 Arrive and Colombo

Arrive in Colombo and enjoy the day in the city! Depending on when your flight arrives, you can explore the colonial architecture near the train station, see the red mosque as well, visit the national museum and temples, or do some souvenir shopping.

Day 2 Colombo to Ahangama/Wegligama

In the morning, take a train from Colombo to either Ahangama or Weligama. The journey is scenic and takes about 2-3 hours.

Once you arrive, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of these coastal towns. Here are some highlights:

• Beach Cafes: Explore the numerous beachside cafes and restaurants. Try local seafood and enjoy the ocean views.
• Surfing: If you’re interested, Weligama is known for its surf-friendly waves, making it a great spot for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Day 3 Yala National Park day trip

Today, embark on an exciting day trip to Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations. Start your day early to maximize wildlife sightings and joining a tour is the best way. Yala is famous for its leopards, elephants, and diverse bird species.

After spending the morning in the park, return to your accommodation in Ahangama or Weligama for a relaxing evening.

Day 4 Galle

In the morning, head to Galle, which is about a 30-45 minute drive from Weligama.

Galle Fort: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colonial architecture, charming streets, and historical significance. You can walk along the fort walls and visit various shops and cafes.

Local Beaches: Spend the afternoon at nearby beaches like Unawatuna or Thalpe, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the shore.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring the fresh seafood and local dishes.

Day 5 leave

On your final day, depending on your flight schedule, you can either relax on the beach one last time or do some last-minute shopping in Galle.

7 day Sri Lanka itinerary

A week in Sri Lanka is the minimum to see both culture and beach, although not quite as comprehensive as if you have 10 or 14 days or more. Still, I’d aim to have at least 7 days on the beautiful island for the first time.

Day 1 Arrive and Colombo

Upon your arrival in Colombo, take the day to adjust and explore the vibrant capital.

• Colonial Architecture: Visit the Old Dutch Hospital and other colonial buildings around Fort. And pay a visit to the Red Mosque nearby
• Gangaramaya Temple: Explore this beautiful temple showcasing a blend of modern and traditional architecture.
• Colombo National Museum: a great place to get a comprehensive overview of the history of the island.
• Shopping and Dining: Check out local markets or enjoy a meal at a coastal restaurant.

Spend the night in Colombo.

Day 2 Colombo to Galle

In the morning, head to Galle (approximately 2-3 hours by car or train). I recommend taking the train for a scenic ride, but a car would be more comfortable if you have bigger luggage

• Galle Fort: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, walking along the fortifications and visiting quaint shops and cafes.
• Beaches: Spend the afternoon relaxing on nearby beaches like Unawatuna or Hikkaduwa, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Bonus: if you are going by car, stop by the Lunuganga, the countryside estate of Geoffrey Bawa in Bentota for lunch and roam around the sprawling estates that is a blend of Sri Lankan heritage architecture and a British estate.

Stay overnight in Galle.

Day 3 Galle to Haputale/Ella

From Galle it’s a 4-5 hours drive to Haputale or Ella, depending on where you want to stay. Depart from Galle and drive to either Haputale or Ella (4-5 hours). 

• Haputale: is more quaint with boutique mountain-side resorts dotted around, and closer to Diyaluma Waterfall.
• Ella: you’ll be more in the hustle and bustle and it’s now a quaint backpackers town, and closer to attractions like the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak.

As it’ll be a long drive and you’ll likely arrive in the mid-afternoon, here are some suggestions:

• Tea plantation: visit a tea plantation nearby and learn about how the famous Ceylon tea is made. A nearby one is Lipton’s Seat.
• Diyaluma Waterfalls: it is enroute to Haputale (and a slight detour for Ella) and the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. You can just stop to admire it from the road below or climb up to take a dip (depending on weather and time)
• Little Adam’s Peak: an easy-intermediate trail that should take 1-2 hours to hike and there is even a zipline! If the weather looks nice, it’s a good option for the late afternoon.

Where to Stay in Haputale

Budget: Dilshani Inn offers comfortable accommodations and receives praise for its stunning views and friendly service. Guests appreciate the serene atmosphere and convenient location for exploring the surrounding area.

Midrange: Ella Jungle Resort provides an adventurous experience with its remote jungle setting, accessed by cable car, and offers activities like waterfall hikes and natural swimming. While some find it overpriced, others cherish the immersion in nature and the tranquil escape it provides.

Splurge: Melheim Resort and Spa Haputale is a wonderful mountainside resort with villa-style rooms and the restaurant serves delicious food! A bird stole my breakfast but it’s very cute so it’s ok.

Where to stay in Ella

Budget: Sapphire Garden Ella offers comfortable rooms in a serene setting, along with great amenities and friendly service.

Midrange: Ella Green Cottages has warm hospitality, a beautiful garden, and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Guests appreciate the cozy atmosphere and the convenient location near major attractions in Ella.

Splurge: the 98 Acres Resort & Spa is close to the Nine Arch Bridge and located on a scenic stretch of mountains with luxurious rooms.

Day 4 Ella to Kandy

Take the most famous scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy, which is said to be the less crowded orientation.

It’s essential to take the early train as they have less delay and also give you more time in Kandy on arrival. 

Once you arrive at Kandy, here are the highlights:

• Temple of the Tooth Relic: A UNESCO World Heritage site housing the sacred tooth of Buddha.
• Kandy Lake: Enjoy a peaceful walk around this beautiful artificial lake.

Day 5 Kandy to Habarana via Dambulla Cave Temple

Leave Kandy in the morning and head towards Habarana, and the Dambulla Cave Temple is en route and makes a perfect stop to this 3-4 hours journey.

Dambulla Cave Temple: Explore the stunning caves filled with Buddha statues and intricate murals.

After your visit, continue to Habarana for the night.

Day 6 Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa

Start your day with an early visit to Sigiriya (less than 30 minutes from Habarana) and admire the ancient wonder known as Lion’s Rock. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Take a lunch break and in the afternoon, drive to Polonnaruwa (approximately 1 hour).

The main attraction in Polonnaruwa is the ancient ruins, including the Gal Vihara and Royal Palace, for a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s medieval history.

Return to Habarana for the night.

Day 7 Habarana to Airport

From Habarana it’s a 4 hours or so drive to the airport, so remember to budget enough time to head there for your flight.

10 day Sri Lanka itinerary

Upon your arrival in Colombo, take the day to adjust and explore the vibrant capital.

• Colonial Architecture: Visit the Old Dutch Hospital and other colonial buildings around Fort. And pay a visit to the Red Mosque nearby
• Gangaramaya Temple: Explore this beautiful temple showcasing a blend of modern and traditional architecture.
• Colombo National Museum: a great place to get a comprehensive overview of the history of the island.
• Shopping and Dining: Check out local markets or enjoy a meal at a coastal restaurant.

Spend the night in Colombo.

Day 2 Colombo to Galle

In the morning, head to Galle (approximately 2-3 hours by car or train). I recommend taking the train for a scenic ride, but a car would be more comfortable if you have bigger luggage.

• Galle Fort: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, walking along the fortifications and visiting quaint shops and cafes.
• Beaches: Spend the afternoon relaxing on nearby beaches like Unawatuna or Hikkaduwa, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Bonus: if you are going by car, stop by the Lunuganga, the countryside estate of Geoffrey Bawa in Bentota for lunch and roam around the sprawling estates that is a blend of Sri Lankan heritage architecture and a British estate.

Stay overnight in Galle.

Day 3 Galle

Dedicate this day to further exploring Galle and its surroundings.

• Galle Lighthouse: Visit this iconic lighthouse and enjoy the views of the coastline.
• Local Cafes: Discover quaint cafes and try local seafood dishes.
• Cultural Walk: Stroll through the streets of Galle Fort, visiting shops and museums.
• Beach time: if you are staying at a beach front hotel, take some time to relax and unwind with the gorgeous view.
• Ahangama/Wegligama: visit the popular beach towns of Ahangama or Wegligama where you can find good surf and cute cafes

Stay another night in Galle.

Day 4 Galle to Yala

In the morning, depart for Yala National Park (approximately 2-3 hours). Depending on what time you arrive, you can probably go on an evening safari or enjoy your accommodation.

Where to stay in Yala National Park

Where you stay in Yala National Park generally depends on which safari company you go with. There are camps that are closer to the national park but also slightly further places that are arguably better value for money, so it depends on your preference.

Here are some suggestions for you regardless of that:

Budget: Elegant Lake House is located in Tissamaharama and one of the best-rated stays in the area. The host Randy is mentioned in every review who goes above and beyond for his guests and helps organise Yala safari tour.

Mid-range: Gaga Bees Yala has cozy chalets and uses their own organic vegetables in the restaurants, most suitable for those looking for a slice of nature. If you prefer something more modern, My Village is a good choice.

Splurge: Cinnamon Wild Yala is a comfortable and beautiful resort nearer to the coast in Yala National Park with frequently elephants crossing into the camp! For a truly comprehensive and inclusive experience for those with a budget, Uga Chena is the best rated in the area with daily safari included.

Day 5 Yala National Park

Embark on a full-day safari in Yala National Park.

• Wildlife Viewing: Look out for leopards, elephants, and various bird species. An early morning or late afternoon safari is recommended for the best wildlife sightings.

Return to your accommodation for the night.

Day 6 Yala National Park to Ella

After breakfast, head to Ella (approximately 2-3 hours).

• Scenic Views: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way.
• Relax in Ella: Spend the afternoon exploring the town or visiting nearby attractions like the Nine Arches Bridge.

Stay overnight in Ella.

Day 7 Ella to Kandy

In the morning, take the scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy (about 2.5 to 3 hours).

• Arrive in Kandy: Check into your hotel and explore:
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic: A UNESCO World Heritage site housing the sacred tooth of Buddha.
  • Kandy Lake: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake.

Stay overnight in Kandy.

Day 8 Kandy to Habarana via Dambulla Cave Temple

Depart Kandy and head towards Habarana, stopping at the Dambulla Cave Temple en route (approximately 2-3 hours total travel time).

• Dambulla Cave Temple: Explore the intricate caves filled with Buddha statues and stunning murals.

Continue to Habarana for the night.

Day 9 Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa

Start your day with an early visit to Sigiriya (about 30 minutes from Habarana).

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Climb the iconic rock and enjoy breathtaking views from the top.

In the afternoon, head to Polonnaruwa (approximately 1 hour).

• Polonnaruwa: Explore the ancient ruins, including the Gal Vihara and Royal Palace.

Return to Habarana for the night.

Day 10 Hurulu Eco Park to Negcombo

On your final day, enjoy a morning safari at Hurulu Eco Park (about 30 minutes from Habarana) for a chance to see elephants and other wildlife.

After Safari: Head to Negombo (approximately 4-5 hours) for your departure, allowing ample time to reach the airport.