Sri Lanka 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Colombo

Places to Go:

  1. Galle Face Green - A seafront park offering views of the Indian Ocean and a bustling atmosphere.
  2. Pettah Market - A lively marketplace where you can find anything from textiles to electronics.
  3. National Museum of Colombo - The largest museum in Sri Lanka, showcasing the country’s rich history and culture.

Activities:

  1. Explore local street food at Galle Face Green.
  2. Bargain for souvenirs at Pettah Market.
  3. Visit the Viharamahadevi Park to experience a peaceful oasis in the city.

Things to Know:

  • Colombo operates on GMT+5:30.
  • Tuk-tuks are a common and affordable mode of transport within the city.

Visa Requirements:

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required for most nationalities. You can apply online at least 48 hours before your arrival. The cost is approximately $35. Check the latest requirements on the official government website before your travel.

Day 2: Dambulla & Sigiriya

Places to Go:

  1. Dambulla Cave Temple - A complex of five cave temples containing over 150 Buddha statues and murals.
  2. Sigiriya Lion Rock - An ancient rock fortress and palace ruins offering panoramic views from the top.

Activities:

  1. Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock (entrance fee is approximately $30).
  2. Explore the cave temples of Dambulla.
  3. Visit the nearby Polonnaruwa archaeological site (additional day trip if time allows).

Things to Know:

  • The climb up Sigiriya can be quite challenging, but the views are worth it!
  • There are many guesthouses and hotels in the area catering to various budgets.

Day 3: Kandy

Places to Go:

  1. Temple of the Tooth - A Buddhist temple housing a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
  2. Royal Botanical Gardens - The largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, featuring a vast array of tropical and subtropical plants.
  3. Kandy Lake - A scenic lake located in the heart of Kandy city.

Activities:

  1. Attend a cultural show in the evening to experience traditional Sri Lankan dance and music (usually takes place at hotels or dedicated venues).
  2. Visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens if you didn’t make it on Day 2.
  3. Explore local markets for souvenirs, such as Batik fabrics, silver jewelry, and Ceylon tea.

Things to Know:

  • Kandy operates on GMT+5:30.
  • Tuk-tuks are available for transport within the city, but it’s also walkable with some hills.

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya

Places to Go:

  1. Gregory Lake - A picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and Victorian architecture.
  2. Tea Plantations & Factory Tours - Visit tea estates for a guided tour of the processing methods and sample different varieties of Ceylon tea.
  3. Sita Temple - A beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, set amidst verdant hills.

Activities:

  1. Take a boat ride on Gregory Lake (boat rentals are available).
  2. Visit a tea factory and learn about the traditional tea-making process.
  3. Drive along the scenic road to World’s End for breathtaking views (be aware of road conditions and safety).

Things to Know:

  • Nuwara Eliya operates on GMT+5:30.
  • The climate is cooler than other parts of Sri Lanka due to its high elevation, so pack appropriate clothing.

Day 5: Ella

Places to Go:

  1. Little Adam’s Peak - A shorter and easier alternative to the famous Adam’s Peak. Offers stunning views of the surrounding hills.
  2. Nine Arch Bridge - An iconic brick bridge built during British colonial rule, offering picturesque views of tea plantations below.
  3. Ella Rock & Ravana Falls - Hike to these scenic spots for breathtaking vistas and waterfalls.

Activities:

  1. Take a train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella through the scenic hills and tea plantations (highly recommended, book in advance).
  2. Visit local tea shops and try different blends of Ceylon tea.
  3. Explore the charming town of Ella with its colorful houses and friendly locals.

Things to Know:

  • Ella operates on GMT+5:30.
  • Some hikes may require good walking shoes and a moderate level of fitness, but the views are worth it!

Day 6: Yala National Park & Tangalle

Places to Go:

  1. Yala National Park - One of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks, home to leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species.
  2. Tangalle Beach - A beautiful stretch of sandy beach with opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing.

Activities:

  1. Go on a safari in Yala National Park (arrange a guided tour or rent a jeep).
  2. Relax at Tangalle Beach or participate in water activities.
  3. Visit the nearby Rekawa Turtle Sanctuary for a chance to see sea turtles coming ashore to lay eggs.

Things to Know:

  • Yala National Park operates from 6 AM to 6 PM daily, and it’s recommended to go on early morning or evening safaris for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Tangalle operates on GMT+5:30.

Day 7: Galle & Return to Colombo

Places to Go:

  1. Galle Fort - A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring well-preserved colonial buildings, museums, and shops.
  2. Unawatuna Beach - A popular beach resort town with a laid-back atmosphere and beautiful sea views.

Activities:

  1. Walk around the historic Galle Fort and explore its architecture, museums, and boutique shops.
  2. Relax at Unawatuna Beach or participate in water activities such as snorkeling or swimming.
  3. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda for stunning views of the coastline.

Things to Know:

  • Galle operates on GMT+5:30.
  • Tuk-tuks are available for transport within the town, and it’s also walkable.

After completing this 7-day itinerary, you can return to Colombo to catch your flight home or continue exploring other parts of Sri Lanka according to your travel plans!