Sri Lanka 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Traveling in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Colombo & Galle

Places to Go:

  1. Colombo - The commercial capital city with a rich history and diverse culture. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, National Museum, and Pettah Market.
  2. Galle - A historic city on the southwest coast known for its Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture. Explore the Galle Fort, Old Town, and Lighthouse.

Activities:

  • City tour in Colombo
  • Visit the Galle Fort
  • Enjoy local seafood in Galle

Things to Know:

  • Colombo’s traffic can be chaotic; allow extra time for travel.
  • Haggling is expected at markets like Pettah Market.
  • Respect religious and cultural sensitivities when visiting places of worship.

Visa Requirements:

For most nationalities, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required to enter Sri Lanka. You can apply online before your trip. Check the latest requirements on the Sri Lanka Immigration and Emigration Department website.

Transportation:

  • Take a taxi or tuk-tuk within the city in Colombo.
  • Hire a private car/driver for travel between cities.

Day 2: Unawatuna & Mirissa

Places to Go:

  1. Unawatuna Beach - A beautiful crescent-shaped beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  2. Mirissa - Famous for whale watching (November–April) and dolphin watching.

Activities:

  • Swimming and snorkeling at Unawatuna Beach
  • Whale watching tour in Mirissa
  • Visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda (on the way to Mirissa)

Day 3: Yala National Park & Tissamaharama

Places to Go:

  1. Yala National Park - One of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife spots, home to elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species.
  2. Tissamaharama - A small town near Yala National Park offering several accommodations and restaurants.

Activities:

  • Early morning safari in Yala National Park
  • Visit the Ruhuna Museum in Tissamaharama to learn about the region’s history and culture

Day 4: Ella & Nuwara Eliya

Places to Go:

  1. Ella - Famous for its scenic beauty, tea plantations, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
  2. Nuwara Eliya - Known as “Little England,” this highland town features colonial architecture and a cool climate.

Activities:

  • Hike the Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak trails
  • Visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls en route to Nuwara Eliya
  • Explore the tea plantations and factories in Nuwara Eliya

Things to Know:

  • The climate in Ella and Nuwara Eliya can be chilly, so pack warm clothing.
  • Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka; around 10% of the bill is appropriate.