Sri Lanka 2 Day Itinerary
Sri Lanka 2-Day Itinerary: Exploring Cultural Triangle & Beach Bliss
Day 1: Discovering the Cultural Triangle
Morning:
- Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake. Complete your Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online beforehand if you’re eligible for the visa-on-arrival scheme. Sri Lanka ETA
- Hire a private car or join a tour group to travel to Polonnaruwa (~2 hours drive). Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which served as the second capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th centuries.
Afternoon:
- Head to Sigiriya (~45 minutes drive) and climb the famous Lion Rock, also known as Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It’s a steep climb with over 1200 steps but offers breathtaking views at the top.
- After descending, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, which houses over 150 Buddha statues and various murals.
Evening:
- Travel to Habarana (~30 minutes drive) for an overnight stay at a hotel or guesthouse. Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in the evening.
Day 2: Beach, Elephants & Departure
Morning:
- Early morning safari at Minneriya National Park (~30 minutes drive) to witness elephants gathering around the Minneriya Tank during the dry season.
- Post lunch, travel to Kandy (~2 hours drive). Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist temple that houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
Afternoon:
- Head to Nuwara Eliya (~3 hours drive), known as “Little England.” Explore this hill station town with colonial architecture and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea at one of the tea plantations.
Evening:
- Travel to Negombo (~2.5 hours drive) for your onward journey or departure from Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake. Alternatively, if you have more time, relax and unwind at a beach resort in Negombo before your flight.