15 day itinerary for Sri Lanka

Itinerary

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich tapestry of culture, stunning beaches, and incredible wildlife. With your interests in mind, here’s a relaxed 15-day itinerary that balances beach time, Buddhist sites, elephant experiences, and temple visits. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

• Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport. Take a taxi to your hotel in Colombo.
• Afternoon: Relax and recover from your journey. Stroll along Galle Face Green and enjoy the sunset.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry!

## Day 2: Colombo to Negombo

• Morning: Visit the National Museum and the Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo.
• Afternoon: Head to Negombo (about 1 hour drive). Check into your beach hotel.
• Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk on Negombo Beach and have dinner at a beachside restaurant.

## Day 3: Negombo to Sigiriya

• Morning: Depart for Sigiriya (around 4 hours). Stop at a spice garden in Matale on the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and relax.
• Evening: Visit the local market in Sigiriya and enjoy a traditional meal.

## Day 4: Sigiriya Rock Fortress

• Morning: Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress early to avoid the heat. The views are breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Evening: Return to your hotel and unwind by the pool.

## Day 5: Polonnaruwa

• ## Day Trip: Take a day trip to Polonnaruwa (about 1.5 hours). Explore the ancient ruins and temples, including the Gal Vihara rock carvings.
• Evening: Return to Sigiriya for dinner and a relaxing evening.

## Day 6: Sigiriya to Kandy

• Morning: Depart for Kandy (around 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Temple of the Tooth, an important Buddhist site.
• Evening: Enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dance.

## Day 7: Kandy

• Morning: Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
• Afternoon: Explore Kandy’s local markets and perhaps buy some souvenirs.
• Evening: Relax by Kandy Lake and enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

## Day 8: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

• Morning: Take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya (around 4 hours). The views of tea plantations are stunning!
• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and explore the town, known as "Little England."
• Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 9: Nuwara Eliya

• Morning: Visit a tea factory and learn about the tea-making process.
• Afternoon: Take a stroll around Lake Gregory or visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel and enjoy the cool climate.

## Day 10: Nuwara Eliya to Ella

• Morning: Depart for Ella (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Hike to Ella Rock or visit the Nine Arches Bridge.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the mountains.

## Day 11: Ella to Yala National Park

• Morning: Depart for Yala National Park (around 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your lodge and relax.
• Evening: Go on a safari in Yala National Park to see elephants and possibly leopards!

## Day 12: Yala to Mirissa

• Morning: Enjoy a morning safari if you wish, then head to Mirissa (about 2 hours).
• Afternoon: Check into your beach hotel and relax on the beach.
• Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach.

## Day 13: Mirissa

• ## Day Trip: Spend the day at the beach! You can also go whale watching (seasonal) or just relax and soak up the sun.
• Evening: Enjoy a beach bonfire or a quiet dinner.

## Day 14: Mirissa to Galle

• Morning: Depart for Galle (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Explore the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the lighthouse.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the fort area.

## Day 15: Galle to Colombo

• Morning: Relax in Galle or do some last-minute shopping.
• Afternoon: Head back to Colombo (around 2 hours) for your departure.
• Evening: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a farewell dinner in Colombo before heading to the airport.

Tips:

• Always check the local weather and adjust your plans accordingly.
• Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen, especially on beach days!
• Embrace the local cuisine; Sri Lankan food is delicious!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic and memorable trip to Sri Lanka! If you have any questions or need adjustments, feel free to ask! 🌴✨