Sri Lanka Itineraries
Discover the gem of South Asia with our perfectly curated itineraries for 7 and 14 days. From ancient temples to tea plantations, golden beaches, and wildlife safaris, these Sri Lanka itineraries cover the absolute must-sees.
One thing we can assure you: once you experience Sri Lanka, you’ll be planning your return before your first trip even ends.
Sri Lanka - A Journey by Train, TukTuk & Taxi
Sri Lanka is one of the most rewarding travel destinations in Asia, especially for those who love scenic journeys. Instead of a traditional road trip, the best way to explore the island is by combining train rides through lush tea plantations, tuk-tuk rides around lively towns, and taxi transfers between key destinations.
Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to experience Sri Lanka’s golden beaches, misty mountains, wildlife safaris, ancient cities, and colonial charm — all within a compact island where every journey is scenic and manageable.
Sri Lanka Itinerary
Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to experience Sri Lanka’s golden beaches, misty mountains, wildlife safaris, ancient cities, and colonial charm — all within a compact island where every journey is scenic and manageable.
Day 1 Colombo
Begin your Sri Lanka adventure in the bustling capital, Colombo. This modern yet historic city offers a mix of colonial architecture, lively markets, temples, and a vibrant food scene. Stroll along Galle Face Green, visit the National Museum, and explore the colorful Pettah Market for a taste of daily life.
In the evening, head to Dutch Hospital Precinct for dining and nightlife, or enjoy a seaside dinner as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Tip: Colombo is well connected to Bandaranaike International Airport (about 45 minutes away by taxi). Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around within the city, while ride-hailing apps like PickMe make navigating traffic much simpler.
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Colombo
From upscale hotels to cozy homestays, Colombo offers a wide range of accommodation. Choose Colombo 03 (Galle Face) for oceanfront luxury, Colombo 07 (Cinnamon Gardens) for leafy, quieter surroundings, or Fort if you want to stay close to colonial landmarks and business hubs. See where we stayed in Colombo here.
Tip: Colombo traffic can be heavy, so staying central helps minimize long commutes — especially if you’re catching early trains or flights. Alternatively, if your flight is arriving late or leaving early and you don't have time or energy for a long drive to the airport, check-out stays in Negombo (where the airport is located).
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Day 2-4 Sigirya
Known as the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is home to the island’s most iconic landmark — the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising 200 meters above the jungle, this ancient rock citadel features impressive frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic views over the Cultural Triangle. Climbing to the top is a must for any traveler.
Beyond the rock, Sigiriya is surrounded by charming villages and lush landscapes.
Visit Pidurangala Rock for a less crowded sunrise or sunset hike with stunning views of Sigiriya itself. Explore local craft shops and traditional villages where you can experience authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
If you’re here in July or August, don’t miss the Esala Perahera in nearby Kandy, one of Asia’s grandest cultural festivals with dancers, drummers, and elephants.
The town offers plenty of photogenic moments — from the lotus-filled ponds around Sigiriya to rustic village scenes — so keep your camera ready. After a day of exploring, enjoy a traditional rice and curry meal at a local guesthouse or a more upscale dining experience at a boutique hotel.
About Minneriya National Park entrance fee & jeep tour: Plenty of offers out there, and the prices fluctuate depending on how much you negotiate. We took a jeep tour & entrance to the park for a total of 34,000 rupees/100€ for two (entrance fee to the park is approximately 35€ per person). The guide started from zone B rather than zone A where everyone else started. We were on our own with a pack of elephants due to this decision. Keep in mind, the place will be packed with tourists on jeeps all trying to get the best picture, so getting the right guide is ESSENTIAL. Here's the contact of the guide: Pathum Jeep Safari WhatsApp +94 71 976 6663.
Tip: Don’t miss Minneriya National Park, just a short drive away. This is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants, especially during “The Gathering” (July–September), when hundreds of elephants congregate around the water tanks. Bring water, sunscreen, and binoculars for the safari. About the TRAIN RIDE: take train from Colombo fort (counter 4 for second and third class if you have not booked your train in advance), the stop is not called ''Sigiriya'' but ''Habanara'', so be sure to hop-off here. Take a TukTuk to your accommodation using PickMe app, or if you can't, at least check the estimate prices to your accommodation using the app and negotiate with the TukTuk drivers waiting outside the train station.
Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Sigiriya
Book a boutique hotel surrounded by lush jungle views or an eco-lodge near the lakeside for a peaceful overnight stay. If you prefer a central location, choose a guesthouse or resort in Sigiriya village, which keeps you close to the entrance of Lion Rock and nearby dining options. For a quieter experience, the nearby towns of Habarana or Dambulla also offer great stays with easy access to Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park. See our full list of hotel recommendations for Sigiriya here.
Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka
Day 4-7 Trincomalee (Nilaveli)
Head to the east coast of Sri Lanka to discover Trincomalee, a laid-back seaside town known for its pristine beaches, sacred temples, and vibrant marine life. This region is a world away from the highlands, offering golden sands and turquoise waters perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Spend your days unwinding on Nilaveli Beach or Uppuveli Beach, both famous for calm seas and long stretches of sand. Snorkeling and diving at Pigeon Island National Park are a must, with coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles.
In town, visit the Koneswaram Temple, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the ocean, and learn about its fascinating history tied to Hindu legends. Don’t miss the Fort Frederick area, where spotted deer roam freely among the old colonial walls. For foodies, the east coast is the perfect place to try fresh seafood curries and traditional Tamil dishes, influenced by the local community.
Tip: If you can extend your stay, add an extra day or two in Trincomalee. Between beach hopping, dolphin and whale watching tours, temple visits, and diving excursions, you’ll find plenty to fill your itinerary. The east coast’s dry season (May–October) is the best time for swimming and snorkeling. We took a taxi from Sigiriya to Trincomalee for 12,000 rupees/35€ for two. Contact of our taxi driver in the next section.
Hindu Temple, Trincomalee, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Trincomalee
Our choice for staying in Trincomalee was Nilaveli Beach, known for its calm atmosphere, long stretches of sand, and peaceful surroundings — perfect if you’re looking for relaxation away from the crowds.
If you prefer a livelier scene, Uppuveli Beach is the better option, offering a range of bars, restaurants, and beach caféstailored for tourists. It’s ideal if you want nightlife and easy access to social spots, while still being close to the town and diving tours. Both areas make excellent bases for exploring Trincomalee, so your choice depends on whether you’re after tranquil seclusion or a more vibrant beach vibe. See our hotel recommendations here.
Tip: Book yourself a scooter, if you dare, and see as much as you can with it. We booked ours with Scooter Rental & Taxi Service Nilaveli, WhatsApp: +94 76 168 6957. We took the taxi service with him from Sigirya to Trincomalee and then Kandy for reasonable prices, plus we rented the scooter. He was always on time and proved to be reliable. From Trincomalee to Kandy we paid 17,000 rupees/50€ for two.
Rice & curry, Sri Lanka
Day 7-9 Kandy
Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, Kandy, blends cultural heritage with natural beauty. Nestled in the island’s central highlands, Kandy is best known as the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka and home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.
Stroll around the Kandy Lake promenade, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya with their 4,000+ species of plants, and explore the Kandy Market Hall for spices, handicrafts, and colorful textiles.
For adventurers, the surrounding hills offer rewarding hikes through tea plantations and forest reserves. A popular option is to trek to viewpoints such as Knuckles Mountain Range, where misty peaks and lush valleys provide incredible scenery and a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Tip: Don’t miss the evening cultural dance shows in Kandy, which showcase traditional Kandyan drumming, costumes, and fire dancing. If you’re visiting in July or August, the Kandy Esala Perahera is one of Asia’s most spectacular festivals, with nightly processions of dancers, drummers, and ornately decorated elephants. The city is walkable, but if you're staying away or want to see places outside the center, we strongly recommend using PickMe app.
Kandy Hill Temple, Kandy
Where to stay in Kandy
Opt for a centrally located boutique hotel near Kandy Lake or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic if you want to be close to cultural landmarks, restaurants, and markets. This makes it easy to explore the city on foot and enjoy the evening cultural shows.
For a more tranquil escape, choose an eco-lodge or hillside guesthouse in the lush highlands surrounding Kandy. These stays often offer panoramic views over tea plantations and valleys, while still being within easy reach of the city center for day trips and temple visits. See our full list of hotel recommendations for Kandy here.
Esala Perahera (July-August), Kandy, Sri Lanka
Day 9-11 Nuwara Eliya
Known as “Little England” for its colonial architecture and cool climate, Nuwara Eliya is a refreshing escape in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Surrounded by rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and serene lakes, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak in the beauty of the highlands.
Spend a day at Gregory Lake, where you can go boating, enjoy a lakeside picnic, or simply relax with sweeping views of the surrounding hills. The sunsets here are particularly stunning, as the lake glows in shades of orange and gold.
Explore a tea estate such as Pedro Tea Estate or Bluefield Tea Gardens (free tour, free tea cup, very recommended) to see the full process of Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea. Don’t miss a stroll through the Hakgala Botanical Gardens, filled with exotic flowers and landscaped terraces.
For adventure seekers, hike in the nearby Horton Plains National Park to see the breathtaking lookout at World’s End and the scenic Baker’s Falls.
We did with TukTuk: Blue Fields Factory, Ramboda Falls, Ramboda View Point, Santi Pura View Point for 6000 rupees/18€ for two. Here's the contact of our TukTuk driver: Nalaka +94 77 975 8947
Tip: Take the train from Kandy railway station. If you have not bought the tickets in advance, go to the railway station one hour before departure to purchase your second or third class tickets. Keep in mind during the festival season, at least, the train is PACKED. We strongly urge you to book your train tickets in advance here to avoid a very uncomfortable train ride. The train stop of Nuwara Eliya is called ''Nanuoya'', make sure you stop here. Take a TukTuk from the railway station using PickMe app and if none accept, at least see an estimate of the price to negotiate with the TukTuk drivers. EDIT: Our experience in the Kandy-Nanuoya (NUWARA ELIYA) train was not as memorable, but we want yours to be. Book your train well in advance or if you want to do our itinerary the other way round, the route Ella-Nanuoya-Kandy seems to be less popular.
Ramboda Waterfalls, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Nuwara Eliya
Opt for a centrally located boutique hotel near Gregory Lake or the town center if you want easy access to restaurants, colonial landmarks, and local markets.
For a more tranquil escape, choose a tea estate bungalow or hillside guesthouse in the surrounding highlands. These stays offer panoramic views of tea plantations and cool mountain air, while still being close enough to explore the town and nearby attractions. See our full list of hotel recommendations for Nuwara Eliya here.
Day 11-14 Ella
After the cool highlands, head deeper into Sri Lanka’s hill country to the laid-back town of Ella, a backpacker favorite surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.
Start with the short hike to Little Adam’s Peak, which offers panoramic views over lush valleys and tea fields — perfect for sunrise or sunset. Another must is the Nine Arches Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks, where you can watch colorful trains wind through the jungle.
For a refreshing break, hike or tuk-tuk to Ravana Falls, a dramatic waterfall just outside town. Ella is also one of the best places to take a Sri Lankan cooking class, learning to prepare curries with fresh local ingredients. When you’re ready to relax, the town’s cafés and restaurants offer stunning mountain views, chilled vibes, and plenty of places to unwind after a day of exploring.
Tip: The train ride from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) to Ella is one of the world’s most scenic journeys, winding through tea plantations, tunnels, and misty hills — make sure to book your tickets early for the best experience here. If you choose to skip due to a traumatic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, opt for a TukTuk ride using PickMe app. The ride is gorgeous, too, and it's a lot faster. We booked a scooter from our hotel for 2500 rupees/8€ per day. Contact: Dinidu Rukshan WhatsApp +94 77 938 8673
9 Arches Bridge, Ella, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Ella
Opt for a guesthouse or boutique hotel in the heart of Ella town if you want to be close to restaurants, cafés, and the train station. This makes it easy to walk to popular spots like the Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak trailhead.
For a quieter escape, choose a hillside eco-lodge or luxury retreat surrounded by tea plantations and jungle views. These stays offer panoramic sunrises, serene evenings, and direct access to nature trails. See our full list of hotel recommendations for Ella here.
Adam's Peak, Ella, Sri Lanka
Day 14-16 Mirissa
End your Sri Lanka adventure by heading south to Mirissa, one of the island’s most popular beach destinations. Known for its golden sands, turquoise waters, and laid-back surf-town vibe, Mirissa is the perfect place to relax after exploring the highlands.
During the day, unwind on the beach or take a surf lesson — Mirissa is ideal for beginners as well as intermediate surfers. Don’t miss a whale watching tour (best between November and April), where you might spot blue whales, dolphins, and sperm whales off the southern coast.
For panoramic views, hike up to Coconut Tree Hill, a cliffside palm grove that’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Sri Lanka. In the evenings, the beachfront comes alive with cafés and seafood restaurants offering fresh catches of the day, best enjoyed with a sunset cocktail.
Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, nearby Weligama and Polhena offer more local vibes and calmer beaches, while still being close to Mirissa’s nightlife and dining scene. We set base in Mirissa and rented a scooter from our host at 1,700 rupees/5€ per day and explored around: Polhena beach, Dondra Headlight House, Matala Buddhist Temple, Coconut Hill. Setting base in one place was the best decision as we needed not to repack our bags and we could be somewhere else in just a short drive. We strongly recommend Mirissa for this.
Coconut Hill, Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Mirissa
Opt for a beachfront guesthouse or boutique hotel in Mirissa town if you want to be close to the main beach, surf schools, and the lively restaurant and nightlife scene. Staying central makes it easy to join whale watching tours and enjoy the vibrant evening atmosphere.
For a more tranquil escape, choose an eco-lodge or villa on the outskirts of Mirissa or in nearby Weligama. These stays offer quieter surroundings, panoramic ocean views, and easy access to hidden bays and smaller local beaches. See our full list of hotel recommendations for Mirissa here.
How to visit Sri Lanka
We chose to explore Sri Lanka independently, organizing our own trains, tuk-tuks, and taxis rather than hiring a private driver or guided tour. This travel style gave us complete freedom and flexibility, allowing us to explore at our own pace, linger in places we loved, and cut costs significantly compared to packaged tours.
Overall, traveling this way made us feel truly fulfilled — we connected more deeply with the country, navigated local transport like trains and the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s version of Uber), and still found it easy to move between major destinations.
That said, hiring a driver or guide is a very popular choice among travelers. Many prefer this option for convenience and local insights, especially if they want to maximize time and avoid the stress of planning. Since we did not use this service ourselves, we can’t recommend specific drivers or companies, but we can confidently say that independent travel in Sri Lanka is safe, rewarding, and budget-friendly.
VISA: Most nationalities need a visa but luckily, e-Visa service is available here (official Government website). Processing takes from 3-5 business days. Check if you need a visa for Sri Lanka here.
Dondra Lighthouse, Dondra, Sri Lanka
Where to stay in Sri Lanka
Colombo:
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Mid-scale: Dutch Heritage
Sigiriya:
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Guest-house: Harini Villa
Trincomalee:
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Mid-scale: Coco Lagoon Eco Resort
Kandy:
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Guest-house: SONORA
Nuwara Eliya:
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Upscale: The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Ella:
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Mid-scale: Travel Rest Inn
Mirissa:
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Mid-scale: Maduranga N Guest
Getting around Sri Lanka
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By Car: Hiring a private driver is one of the most popular ways to explore Sri Lanka. Roads are generally in good condition, but mountain routes can be steep and winding. A driver saves time and is convenient if you’re traveling with family or on a tight schedule. Taxis (and ride-hailing apps like PickMe) are also widely available in cities.
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By Train: One of the highlights of traveling in Sri Lanka is its scenic train journeys, especially the routes from Kandy to Ella and Colombo to Galle. Trains are affordable, safe, and offer unforgettable views of tea plantations, mountains, and coastline. Advance booking is recommended for popular routes.
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By Bus: Sri Lanka’s bus network connects almost every town and village, making it the most affordable way to travel. Comfort levels vary, but they’re efficient and frequent. For longer distances, you can opt for intercity air-conditioned buses for more comfort.
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By TukTuk: For short distances, tuk-tuks are everywhere and ideal for getting around towns or to nearby attractions. You can hail them directly or use the PickMe app to avoid overpaying. Some travelers even rent tuk-tuks for multi-day adventures across the island.
Tip: Download PickMe app before arriving to Sri Lanka. Book your taxi rides/tuktuk rides using the app or get estimates of how much you will pay from point A to B.
Travel tips for Sri Lanka
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Plan Around the Monsoons
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, which affect different coasts at different times. The southwest (Colombo, Galle, Mirissa) is best from December–April, while the east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay) shines from May–October. This means you can usually find sunny weather year-round if you plan smartly. -
Book Trains in Advance
The famous train routes — especially Kandy to Ella — often sell out. Reserve seats early through the official Sri Lanka Railways site, local agents, or click here. If you can’t get a reserved seat, the unreserved class still offers the classic open-door experience. -
Use PickMe Over Taxis
In big cities like Colombo and Kandy, use the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s Uber equivalent). It saves you from haggling and ensures fair prices for tuk-tuks and cars. -
Dress Respectfully for Temples
When visiting Buddhist temples such as the Temple of the Tooth or cave temples in Dambulla, please, for the respect of locals, cover your shoulders and knees, and remove shoes and hats before entering. A light scarf or sarong in your daypack comes in handy. -
Try Local Food Safely
Sri Lankan cuisine is a highlight — from hoppers and kottu roti to fresh seafood curries. Stick to busy stalls and restaurants for hygiene. Don’t miss tasting Ceylon tea in the highlands and tropical fruit like jackfruit, mangosteen, and wood apple. -
Carry Cash, But Use ATMs Wisely
Many smaller hotels, tuk-tuks, and street vendors only accept cash (Sri Lankan Rupees). ATMs are widespread, but some charge high fees — use Bank of Ceylon or Commercial Bank for lower costs. -
Go Beyond the Beaches
Sri Lanka is not just about golden sands. Visit the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura), hike Adam’s Peak or Horton Plains, and go on a safari in Yala, Udawalawe, or Minneriya. The variety of landscapes is what makes the island so rewarding. -
Be Prepared for Slow Travel
Even short distances can take hours due to traffic, winding roads, or train schedules. Build in buffer time and enjoy the journey — the landscapes are often as memorable as the destinations. -
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Buy a local SIM card (Dialog or Mobitel are best) at the airport. Data is cheap, and coverage is excellent, even in rural areas. Perfect for using Google Maps and PickMe. -
Respect Wildlife
Safaris are a highlight, but avoid operators that chase animals. Choose ethical safari guides in Yala, Udawalawe, and Minneriya. And never feed monkeys — they become aggressive quickly. -
Don’t Underestimate the Sun
Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, and stay hydrated with bottled or filtered water. -
Water Prices by Law cannot be higher than a certain amount. 1L bottle water should cost 130 rupees. Always make sure the water bottles are sealed and try to buy from supermarkets rather than street.
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Pack Light but Smart
Sri Lanka’s climate is tropical and humid. Lightweight, breathable clothes are ideal. Bring a rain jacket, power adapter (Type D/G), mosquito repellent, and shoes suitable for both hiking and temple visits. -
You Look Like a Walking Wallet so stand your ground, ALWAYS know the prices of everything you will order, specially taxis and restaurants and do not fall for the ''Ok give me X amount of rupees, no problem'' which is the typical phrase to make you seem like you are being done a favor. Always keep in mind you scream money and are an easy target to loot if you don't pay attention. SAVE THESE WORDS: NOTHING IS FREE IN SRI LANKA.
Travel costs for Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is one of the most affordable destinations in Asia. Budget travelers can spend around €30–€45 per day, while mid-range trips average €60–€120 per day, and luxury stays start from €180+ per day.
Food: Local street food like kottu roti or hoppers costs around €1–€2, while a full rice-and-curry meal is €2.50–€5.50. Even mid-range restaurants usually stay under €12–€15 per person.
Transport: Buses are extremely cheap (€0.20–€1 per ride), and intercity trains are very affordable (€1.50–€5 depending on the route). Tuk-tuks are inexpensive for short trips, while taxis and apps like PickMe cost more but remain budget-friendly.
Accommodation: Guesthouses and budget hotels start from €18–€35 per night, while boutique hotels average €60–€100. Luxury resorts and villas begin at €150–€200+ per night.
Attractions: Many temples, viewpoints, and waterfalls are free. Entry to major sites like Sigiriya Rock Fortress or national parks costs between €8–€25, making activities excellent value compared to other destinations.
How much we spent on transport doing this trip on our own: At Colombo Fort Tourist Information (a desk inside Colombo Railway Station that also sells package tours), we were quoted €465 for transport across Sri Lanka to the destinations above listed. This package included train tickets, private transfers from stations to hotels, and a driver waiting in each city without train connections.
By traveling independently, we spent €267 in total on transportation — covering tuk-tuks, taxis, scooters, and trains. This not only gave us freedom and flexibility, but also saved us nearly 200 euros. In contrast, the package price at the station is inflated — it adds the convenience of a guaranteed driver and hotel pickups, but at almost double the real independent cost.
Would we do it again on our own? We wouldn't even think of taking a private driver throughout Sri Lanka, for any reason, at any point, so YES.
