3 day itinerary for Sei Lanka

Itinerary

Sri Lanka is a gem of an island with stunning beaches, lush tea plantations, and the chance to see elephants up close. Let’s craft a delightful 3-day itinerary that fits your interests and budget. Ready? Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Beach Bliss in Unawatuna

Morning:

• Arrival in Unawatuna: Start your day by heading to Unawatuna, a beautiful beach town known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. If you’re coming from Colombo, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive.
• Breakfast: Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try some Sri Lankan hoppers or a fresh fruit smoothie to kickstart your day!

Midday:

• Beach Time: Spend your morning lounging on the beach. Unawatuna is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing with a good book. You can also rent a kayak or go snorkeling if you’re feeling adventurous!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at a beachside restaurant. Try some delicious seafood curry or a classic rice and curry dish.
• Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda: After lunch, take a short hike to the Japanese Peace Pagoda for stunning views of the coastline.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to the beach for a sunset dinner. Many places offer fresh seafood at reasonable prices. Enjoy the sound of the waves while you dine!
• Optional Night Activity: If you’re up for it, check out some local beach bars for a laid-back vibe and maybe some live music.

## Day 2: Elephants and Tea Plantations in Kandy

Morning:

• Travel to Kandy: After breakfast, take a bus or a budget-friendly taxi to Kandy (about 3 hours). The scenic drive through the hills is a treat!
• Visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Once in Kandy, head to Pinnawala (about 30 minutes from Kandy). Here, you can see elephants being fed and bathed. It’s a fantastic experience, and you can often find affordable entrance fees.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby eatery. Try some kottu roti, a popular Sri Lankan street food.
• Explore Tea Plantations: After lunch, visit a nearby tea plantation. The views are breathtaking, and many plantations offer free tours where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample some delicious brews!

Evening:

• Return to Kandy: Head back to Kandy and visit the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a significant cultural site and worth the visit.
• Dinner: Find a local restaurant for dinner. Kandy has plenty of budget-friendly options. Try some traditional Sri Lankan dishes like string hoppers or dhal curry.

## Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast in Kandy: Start your day with a local breakfast. Don’t miss out on trying some pol roti (coconut flatbread) with sambol!
• Explore Kandy: Spend your morning wandering around Kandy Lake and the local market. It’s a great way to soak in the local culture and pick up some souvenirs.

Midday:

• Travel to Nuwara Eliya: After exploring Kandy, take a bus or train to Nuwara Eliya (about 2.5 hours). The train ride is particularly scenic, so if you can, opt for that!
• Lunch: Once in Nuwara Eliya, grab lunch at a local café. The town is known for its cool climate and beautiful gardens.

Afternoon:

• Visit a Tea Factory: In Nuwara Eliya, visit a tea factory to see how Ceylon tea is produced. Many factories offer free tours and tastings, which is a great way to learn and enjoy some tea!
• Explore the Gardens: Spend some time in the beautiful Victoria Park or the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. They’re perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your last night, find a cozy restaurant in Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy a warm meal and reflect on your wonderful trip!
• Optional Night Activity: If you’re up for it, check out a local pub or café for some live music or a relaxed atmosphere.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary that combines beach relaxation, elephant encounters, and the beauty of tea plantations—all while keeping it budget-friendly. Enjoy your adventure in Sri Lanka! 🌴🐘🍃