Sri Lanka 3 Day Itinerary

Sri Lanka 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Colombo & Galle

Places to Go

  1. Gangaramaya Temple: A Buddhist temple complex with architectural styles ranging from Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese.
  2. National Museum of Colombo: The largest museum in Sri Lanka showcasing the country’s history, art, and culture.
  3. Galle Face Green: A seafront garden in Colombo, perfect for relaxing or trying local street food.
  4. Old Town Galle: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved Dutch colonial buildings.
  5. Jungle Beach: A beautiful secluded beach in Galle with crystal clear waters and lush greenery.

Activities

  1. City Tour in Colombo: Explore the vibrant city of Colombo, visiting key landmarks and markets.
  2. Whale Watching in Mirissa: Take a boat tour to spot blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins (available from November to April).
  3. Exploring Galle Fort: Walk around the fortified old city of Galle, visiting its charming streets, boutique shops, and cafes.

Things to Know

  • Sri Lanka’s currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
  • The primary language spoken is Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken in urban areas.
  • Driving is on the left side of the road.
  • Be respectful when visiting religious sites; remove shoes and dress modestly.

Visa Requirements

  • Many nationalities can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online for a fee. Check srilanka.visahq.com for eligibility and application.

Transportation

  • Tuk-tuks are the most common form of transportation within cities, while trains offer scenic views between cities.
  • Renting a car or scooter can also be an option, but driving can be challenging due to traffic conditions.

Day 2: Yala National Park & Ella

Places to Go

  1. Yala National Park: One of Sri Lanka’s most popular national parks with diverse wildlife including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles.
  2. Ella - A picturesque hill country town surrounded by tea plantations and stunning landscapes.

Activities

  1. Safari in Yala National Park: Early morning or late afternoon safaris are the best time to spot wildlife.
  2. Hike Little Adam’s Peak: A moderate hike offering panoramic views of Ella and its surrounding countryside.
  3. Visit Nine Arch Bridge: A well-known railway bridge with stunning views of the tea plantations below.

Things to Know

  • The best time to visit Yala National Park is from February to July, when wildlife viewing is at its peak.
  • Ella can be chilly at night, so pack warm clothing.

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya & Tea Plantations

Places to Go

  1. Nuwara Eliya: Known as Little England, this hill station offers colonial architecture and beautiful tea plantations.
  2. Tea Plantations & Factory: Visit a working tea factory to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea.
  3. Horton Plains National Park: A hiking destination offering breathtaking views and unique flora and fauna.

Activities

  1. City Tour in Nuwara Eliya: Visit the Post Office, Gregory Lake, and the Sita Temple.
  2. Tour a Tea Plantation: Learn about the tea-making process, pick tea leaves, and enjoy a cup of fresh tea.
  3. Hike Horton Plains National Park: Explore this protected area, home to many endemic species like the Sri Lankan sambar deer and the Sri Lankan leopard.

Things to Know

  • The weather in Nuwara Eliya can be quite cool, so pack warm clothing.
  • Horton Plains National Park requires a permit, which can be obtained at the park entrance.

Enjoy your trip to Sri Lanka! This itinerary offers a mix of culture, nature, and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to try local delicacies like kottu roti, hoppers, and Sri Lankan curries during your stay.