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Sri Lanka 7 Days Itinerary (for First Timer)
For first-time visitors with limited time, a 7-day trip to Sri Lanka can be an action-packed whirlwind journey that covers almost all of the country's highlights. From the sacred city of Kandy to the breathtaking train ride, wildlife safaris in national parks, and leisurely beach time, this itinerary has something for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and beach seekers alike.
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, transfer to Kandy
Day 2: Kandy
Day 3: Nuwara Eliya
Day 4: Nuwara Eliya - Ella train ride
Day 5: Yala National Park Safari, Galle Dutch Fort
Day 6: Unwatuna
Day 7: Departure
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Kandy, Kandyan Dance
- Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, transferred to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.
- In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant Kandyan culture with a traditional Kandyan dance performance, featuring captivating drumming and graceful dances.
Day 2: Kandy - Temple of the Tooth, Royal Palace of Kandy, Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy Lake
- Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a sacred Buddhist site that houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
- Explore the Royal Palace of Kandy, which was once the residence of the Kandyan kings and now serves as a museum showcasing artifacts and history.
- Wander through the enchanting Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya, renowned for its diverse plant species and picturesque landscapes.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the city.
Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Ramboda Falls, Tea Plantation, Gregory Lake
- En route to Nuwara Eliya, make a stop at Ramboda Falls, a majestic waterfall cascading amid lush greenery.
- Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about the process of tea production and savor a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
- Enjoy the cool climate and scenic surroundings.
Day 4: Nuwara Eliya - Ella - Horton Plains, Scenic Train Ride, Nine Arch Bridge, Yala
- Embark on an early morning hike to Horton Plains, a stunning national park known for its dramatic landscapes, including the famous World's End viewpoint.
- After the hike, board a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, passing through picturesque tea estates, misty mountains, and charming villages.
- Make a quick stop at the iconic Nine Arch Bridge
Day 5: Yala - Galle - Yala National Park Safari, Stilt Fishing, Galle Dutch Fort
- Rise early for an exhilarating safari experience in Yala National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species.
- Witness the traditional stilt fishing technique practiced by local fishermen, a unique spectacle where they perch on stilts in the shallow waters.
- In the afternoon, head to Galle and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort
Day 6: Galle - Unawatuna - Galle
- Take a day trip to the nearby coastal town of Unawatuna, known for its palm-fringed beaches and vibrant coral reefs.
- Relax on the golden sands, swim in the turquoise waters, or engage in water sports such as snorkeling or diving.
Day 7: Departure
Related: How to Spend 7 Days in Sri Lanka (for First Timer)
Sri Lanka 10 Days Itinerary (for Families & Honeymoon)
We've discovered that Sri Lanka is indeed one of the world's top destinations for family vacations and honeymoon getaways. You can plan a dream trip of approximately 10 days to make the most of your time here. The key is to maintain a comfortable pace and incorporate some unique experiences into your itinerary.
Option 1: 10 Days Sri Lanka Itinerary for Families
Sri Lanka offers unforgettable experiences for both parents and children, creating a memorable Sri Lanka family trip.
From bathing elephants at the Elephant Orphanage to participating in traditional village activities like paddy field cultivation and bullock cart rides in Hiriwadunna village, and enjoying the delights of whale watching in Mirissa and building sandcastles on Bentota Beach, your family and children can create beautiful moments and enjoy a wonderful time together.
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, and transfer to Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo - Dambulla
Day 3: Sigiriya: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Day 4: Kandy
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya
Day 6: Nuwara Eliya - Ella train ride
Day 7: Yala National Park Safari Morning Safari
Day 8: Galle Fort
Day 9: Bentota: Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project.
Day 10: Bentota - Colombo, Departure or Coastline Train Experience.
On day one: Arrival in Colombo, settle in and transfer to Negombo, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fish market. Take a stroll along the beach and immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere.
On day two: Start your day by visiting the Elephant Orphanage, where you and your family can witness these gentle giants up close and even participate in the bathing ritual. Head to the magnificent Dambulla Cave Monastery, marveling at the ancient rock temples adorned with stunning Buddhist murals.
On day three: Embark on an exciting adventure to Sigiriya, home to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb to the top and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Immerse yourself in the rural village of Hiriwadunna, engaging in traditional activities such as paddy field cultivation and bullock cart rides.
On day four: Journey to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Visit the Kandy Royal Botanical Garden, where you and your family can explore the beautiful flora and fauna. Take a stroll around the serene Kandy Lake and witness a captivating Kandyan dance performance. End the day with a visit to the revered Temple of the Tooth, home to the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha.
On day five: Embark on a scenic journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England." En route, stop by the stunning Ramboda Falls and visit a tea plantation to learn about the art of tea production. In Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Gregory Lake and soak in the picturesque surroundings.
On day six: An unforgettable hike at Horton Plains, where you and your family can witness the breathtaking beauty of World's End and Baker's Falls. Continue your journey to the charming town of Ella, known for its scenic train ride and the famous Nine Arch Bridge. In the afternoon, drive to Yala, the home of thrilling wildlife safaris.
On day seven: Morning safari in Yala National Park, where you and your family can spot various wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. In the afternoon, experience the unique fishing technique of stilt fishing along the coastline. Later, drive to the historic city of Galle.
On day eight: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort, a fascinating blend of colonial architecture and vibrant culture. Afterward, head to the beautiful Bentota Beach, where you can relax, swim, and soak up the sun.
On day nine: Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project, where you and your family can learn about the conservation efforts to protect endangered sea turtle species. Enjoy some leisure time on the pristine beaches of Bentota, indulging in water sports or simply unwinding by the sea.
On day ten: On your final day, you can choose to either transfer to Colombo for departure or embark on a memorable coastline train experience from Bentota to Colombo, enjoying scenic vistas of the coast along the way.
Related: Sri Lanka Itineraries 10 Days (for Family & Honeymoon)
Option 2: 10 Days Sri Lanka Itinerary for Honeymoon
Congratulations on your upcoming honeymoon in Sri Lanka! This tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
For 10 days, you and your partner will have the opportunity to explore ancient cities, relax on pristine beaches, embark on wildlife safaris, and immerse yourselves in the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting island. Get ready to create lifelong memories as you embark on this magical Sri Lanka Honeymoon journey together.
Here is a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo, transfer to Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo - Sigiriya - Dambulla. Transfer to Sigiriya and visit the Elephant Orphanage. Continue to the iconic Lion Rock in Sigiriya and marvel at the ancient rock fortress.
Day 3: Dambulla - Kandy. Explore the Dambulla cave monastery and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Kandy by attending a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
Day 4: Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site that houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth. Explore the Royal Palace of Kandy and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Kandy Lake. Later, visit the Royal Botanical Garden, home to a wide variety of exotic plants and trees.
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya tea culture. Visit a tea plantation to learn about the art of tea production. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Gregory, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Day 6: Nuwara Eliya – Ella train ride. Experience a scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, soaking in the breathtaking views of the tea plantations and mountains. Visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge in Ella.
Day 7: Yala National Park safari. Embark on a morning wildlife safari in Yala National Park, where you can spot various wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and exotic birds.
Day 8-9: Bentota. Enjoy two days of leisure time in Bentota, where you can relax on the pristine beaches, take a refreshing swim in the sea, or indulge in water sports. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of this coastal paradise.
Day 10: Bentota - Colombo, Departure, or Coastline Train Experience.
Related: Sri Lanka Itineraries 10 Days (for Family & Honeymoon)
Sri Lanka 12-14 Days Itinerary (Wildlife & Combine)
With 12-14 days, you can have a more immersive experience in Sri Lanka. For wildlife and nature enthusiasts, exploring multiple national parks for safaris is a delight. Additionally, the combined journey from India to Sri Lanka has always been a popular route among global travelers.
Option 1: Sri Lanka 12 Days Itinerary for Wildlife Lover
Embark on an exciting 12-day wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka, immersing yourself in the country's stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Get ready to discover pristine rainforests, embark on thrilling safaris, and enjoy scenic train rides. Here's a breakdown of the itinerary:
Day 1: Upon your arrival in Colombo, you will be transferred to the captivating town of Kitulgala.
Day 2: In Kitulgala, begin your wildlife exploration with an exhilarating rainforest trek. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery and keep an eye out for exotic birds and other wildlife. Afterward, get your adrenaline pumping with an unforgettable white-water rafting experience.
Day 3-4 Explore Nuwara Eliya Highlights: In Nuwara Eliya, take a stroll around Gregory Lake and soak in the serene atmosphere. Delve into the world of tea as you visit a tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya. Learn about the tea-making process and indulge in a cup of freshly brewed tea. Then, embark on a hike in the scenic Horton Plains, where you can witness panoramic views and encounter unique wildlife.
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya to Ella train ride: Take a scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, where you'll have a short visit to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and witness the majestic Ravana Falls.
Day 6: Start your day with a hike to Little Adam's Peak in Ella, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. For thrill-seekers, engage in an exhilarating activity of mega zip-lining.
Day 7: Udawalawe National Park Elephants safari. Witness herds of majestic elephants in their natural habitat, along with other wildlife such as leopards, deer, and various bird species.
Day 8: Yala National Park Leopards Safari. Leopards are the superstars of Yala National Park, with the most concentrated population found in Zone 1, where approximately 30 to 50 leopards can be spotted. There are also opportunities to see sloth bears and elephants.
Day 9: Mirrisa whale-watching. Wake up early for an incredible whale-watching experience off the coast of Mirissa. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 10-11: Bentota boat safari and beaches: Consider embarking on a boat safari to explore the mangroves and encounter unique bird species. Alternatively, indulge in water sports activities or simply unwind on the pristine beaches.
Day 12: Departure
Option 2: 15 Days Sri Lanka India Combine Tour
Combining your Sri Lanka trip with India allows you to experience the rich cultural heritage of India and the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka in one comprehensive journey. Planning for about 15 days would be ideal to explore the highlights of both countries. This itinerary includes India's Golden Triangle: Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur, as well as Kandy, Sigiriya, Yala National Park, and beaches of Sri Lanka.
You'll have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty of both neighboring countries, creating unforgettable travel experiences.
Here is a suggestion itinerary:
Day 1-2: Delhi exploration: Begin your exploration of Delhi with a time travel tour, taking you from the historic lanes of Old Delhi to the modern marvels of New Delhi. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Jama Masjid, India Gate, Qutub Minar, and Humayun's Tomb, immersing yourself in the city's fascinating history.
Day 3-4 Agra highlights: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Agra as you visit its most famous attractions. Witness the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, explore the magnificent Agra Fort, and discover the intricate beauty of Itmad-ud-Daula's Tomb, also known as the Baby Taj.
Day 5: Explore the "Pink City" of Jaipur, starting with a visit to the majestic Amber Fort. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the City Palace, admire the intricately designed Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), and marvel at the astronomical wonders of Jaipur Jantar Mantar.
Day 6: Transfer from India to Sri Lanka
Day 7: Enjoy a leisurely day in Negombo (fish markets, relax on the golden beaches)
Day 8: Sigiriya(Elephant Orphanage, Lion Rock)
Day 9: Dambulla to Kandy (Dambulla cave monastery, traditional Kandyan dance performance)
Day 10: Explore the cultural treasures of Kandy (Temple of the Tooth, Royal Palace of Kandy, Kandy Lake)
Day 11: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Ramboda Falls, Gregory Lake)
Day 12: Train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella (Horton Plains, Nine Arch Bridge)
Day 13: Yala National Park and Galle Dutch Fort
Day 14: Bentota beach
Day 15: Conclude your memorable journey
Related: How to Spend 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka (Itinerary Ideas)
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Sri Lanka
Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka with Asia Odyssey Travel, your trusted companion for an unforgettable journey. Sri Lanka, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and warm hospitality, is a destination that captivates the hearts of travelers from around the world. Navigating through the country's diverse attractions and planning an itinerary can be overwhelming, but fret not, as we are here to make your travel dreams a reality.
With over a decade of experience and a deep understanding of Sri Lanka, Asia Odyssey Travel offers a range of budget-friendly options to suit every traveler's preferences.
Popular Destinations: Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Galle, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka National Parks, Beaches
Tour Packages: Sri Lanka Family Tour, Sri Lanka Honeymoon packages, Sri Lanka and India Tour
Tailored Experiences: Craft your personalized Sri Lanka itinerary with the assistance of our knowledgeable travel experts, ensuring that your journey reflects your interests and desires.
Smooth Logistics: From flights and transportation to accommodations, we take care of all the logistical details, so you can relax and enjoy your trip.
24/7 Support: Our dedicated team is available around the clock to provide assistance and ensure a seamless travel experience. Rest assured, we've got your back.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Asia Odyssey Travel and unlock the treasures of Sri Lanka. Contact us today and let us guide you on a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of this incredible island nation.
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