8 day itinerary for Sri Lanka

Itinerary

Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and beautiful beaches. With your constraints in mind, let’s craft an offbeat coastal road trip itinerary that will take you through some hidden gems while soaking up the sun and surf. Buckle up for an adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival in Colombo & Drive to Kalutara

• Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Pick up your rental car and hit the road!
• Afternoon: Drive to Kalutara (about 1.5 hours). Check into a cozy beachside guesthouse.
• Evening: Stroll along Kalutara Beach, visit the Kalutara Bodhiya (a sacred fig tree), and enjoy a sunset dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

## Day 2: Kalutara to Bentota

• Morning: After breakfast, take a leisurely drive to Bentota (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Explore the Bentota River with a boat safari. You might spot some exotic birds and maybe even a monitor lizard!
• Evening: Relax on the beach, and if you’re up for it, try some water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides. Dinner at a beach shack with fresh catch of the day.

## Day 3: Bentota to Hikkaduwa

• Morning: Depart for Hikkaduwa (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Check into a beachfront hotel and head to Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary for some snorkeling. The vibrant marine life will leave you in awe!
• Evening: Enjoy a laid-back dinner at a beach bar, perhaps with some live music. Don’t forget to try the local arrack!

## Day 4: Hikkaduwa to Galle

• Morning: Drive to Galle (about 30 minutes). Explore the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the charming streets, and don’t miss the lighthouse!
• Afternoon: Visit the National Maritime Museum and then relax at Unawatuna Beach, just a short drive away.
• Evening: Dinner at a restaurant with a view of the fort, soaking in the history and ambiance.

## Day 5: Galle to Mirissa

• Morning: Head to Mirissa (about 30 minutes).
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Mirissa Beach, known for its stunning sunsets and laid-back vibe. You can also opt for a whale-watching tour if you’re feeling adventurous!
• Evening: Enjoy a beach bonfire or dine at a local restaurant with fresh seafood and tropical cocktails.

## Day 6: Mirissa to Tangalle

• Morning: Drive to Tangalle (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Check into a boutique hotel and explore the quiet beaches like Silent Beach or Goyambokka Beach. Perfect for some relaxation!
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying some traditional Sri Lankan curry.

## Day 7: Tangalle to Hambantota & Yala National Park

• Morning: Early morning drive to Yala National Park (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Go on a safari to spot leopards, elephants, and a variety of birds. It’s an offbeat experience that combines wildlife with the coastal charm of Sri Lanka.
• Evening: Return to Tangalle for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a quiet dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.

## Day 8: Tangalle to Colombo

• Morning: Start your journey back to Colombo (about 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you can explore Colombo’s vibrant markets or visit the Gangaramaya Temple.
• Evening: Drop off your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and road conditions, especially if you’re traveling during the monsoon season.
• Keep your camera handy; the coastal views are breathtaking!
• Try to interact with locals; they often have the best recommendations for offbeat spots.

This itinerary balances relaxation with adventure, allowing you to experience the beauty of Sri Lanka’s coastline while avoiding the more touristy spots. Enjoy your trip! 🌊🏖️