places to visit in sri lanka one day

The Best 12 Places for One-Day Trips in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, the paradise in the Indian ocean, the tiny island full of beauty and fortune has become a tourist landmark on the world map. With its mostly known natural beauty which extends up to historical values along with its man-made monuments, the island indeed is a paradise hidden in the enormous Indian ocean. Hence, Sri Lanka has been the finest place for travelers all over the world where one can get all opportunities in one place. The most important thing is that there are dozens of places to visit and some of them do not belong to the one-day trip category as well. Yet, despite the fact whether you are a foreigner or a local, having a plan for one-day trips in Sri Lanka before starting to travel around will make you travel throughout the island in a brief time.

So, we thought of helping you out with some of the best suggestions for one-day trips to Sri Lanka. Continue reading for a full overview with regard!

Best Places for One-Day Trips in Sri Lanka

Our suggestion for one-day trips in Sri Lanka covers a wide range of places starting from nature visits to mountain hiking extending up to ancient places and city tours. Here is a list of such places that you can explore within a single day!

• Yala National Park
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Nuwara Eliya
• Adam’s Peak
• Anuradhapura
• Polonnaruwa

Excited to know more about these places? Continue reading!

Surrounded by green hills and a blue water body, Kandy remains highly significant in Central Sri Lanka. Besides, the charming scenic surroundings and the relaxing climate out there attract tourists in thousands each day. However, if you are planning a one-day trip to beautiful Kandy, there are a few places that you should certainly visit. The most important among them is the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya .

The white building complex of the Temple of the Tooth Relic stands with majesty in the town. Further, this palace enshrines the left tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. Hence, Buddhists consider this one of their main religious attractions. Besides, its architectural features, statues, paintings, and murals, which belong to the Kandyan Era , make it more special. Owing to these reasons the Temple of the Tooth Relic gets a huge crowd daily.

However, the best time to visit this sacred place is between July and August. The reason why we say so is that there is this vibrant procession of the temple – Esala Peradera festival , during that period.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic is indeed an ideal place for a one-day trip, and a few hours would be sufficient for you to explore this place. Next, you can visit the Royal Botanical Garden, if you wish to.

The Royal Botanical Garden is situated just a few miles away from Kandy, and it is simply a land of natural beauty. The colorful blossoms, huge trees, and the beautiful landscapes out there are sure to fascinate your eyes. You can spend a few hours amidst the nature in this place, and end your one-day tour in Kandy with a city tour around this bustling, yet charming area.

2. Yala National Park

Nature is one of the most integral parts of the Sri Lankan territories. Being a justice to this statement, one can find numerous wildlife and nature-preserved areas all around the country. Among these dozens of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Sri Lanka , Yala is the most famous wildlife hotspot. In fact, one can find a wide array of animals, birds, and reptile species endemic to Sri Lanka along with a larger variety of migrant species within its territories. 

You may wonder how this becomes the best place for one-day trips in Sri Lanka. Keep calm, we are ready to explain to you why!

Yala National Park is the best place to have a full day safari through the woods of its area in order to explore the beautiful nature in Southern Sri Lanka. Besides, this national park is well-known for Leopards, hence spotting leopards is obvious. However, the true fun is in exploring Yala three times a day. It allows you to spot every single animal in the jungle including buffalos, elephants, monkeys, crocodiles, and birds. The bottom line is it is the ideal place for nature and wildlife lovers to witness what they adore within a day. 

3. Arugam Bay

Being an island surrounded by the Indian ocean indeed makes Sri Lanka special beyond a doubt. Also, without just having the sea, but with bays, lagoons, and everything related to the sea it has become more alluring.

However, one of the most significant and charming shores that Sri Lanka has is Arugam Bay. It is located towards the dry part of the island. The splendid environment, vibrant beach, and chilling vibe it provides are equally incredible. Besides, Arugam Bay is known for surfing more than anything. It has perfect surfing points for both beginners and experts.

Further, the presence of Kumana National Park within the vicinity of its location is an added advantage. So, Arugamy bay is the right place to enjoy the beach vibe to its fullest within one whole day. If you need a break from your busy day, get a day off, and visit this incredible place. Then breathe to let out all your stress while hearing the song that the ocean sings. 

4. Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Have you heard about the UNESCO world heritage sites ? Do you believe that Sri Lanka has its eighth heritage? Yes, it is true! Sri Lanka has its eighth heritage towards the Northern Central part of the country. This place is known as the Sigiriya Lion Fortress and it had been a castle back in the past.

The fortress is on the top of a huge rock that has the entrance of a giant lion’s paw. Being a creation that combines natural and man-made amazement is the specialty of Sigiriya. Climbing the Sigiriya rock would approximately take around one and half hours, and the views it offers at the top are simply impressive. Besides, the world-famous Sigiriya frescoes, the mirror wall, ancient palace ruins on the top, and the water garden further enhance the significance of this wonderful place. Moreover, it is an incredible creation that reveals the cultural heritage, as well as the advanced architectural and drainage systems of ancient times.

Hence, this is a place where one can have a vintage vibe while exploring the beauty of ancient garden and pool structures. Most people dedicate half of their day to exploring the Sigiriya world heritage site and choose to hike Pidurangala in the evening hours, which is just a few miles away from Sigiriya. However, Sigiriya is an ideal place for a one-day trip in Sri Lanka, for anyone who loves history and hiking!

5. Nuwara Eliya

Moving a little bit from the Sri Lankans and history, now we have come to a destination where people do not believe their eyes seeing in Sri Lanka. To prove that point, locals call this area, ‘Little London’.

Nuwara Eliya is the coldest part of the country. However, the beauty of the city is in its climate, surrounding, and architecture. Believe us, you will be in another world after reaching Nuwara Eliya.

This city has a strong bond with colonizers since it has ancient European building structures and city formations. Still, the natural beauty of Sri Lanka with its waterfalls , hills, and tea plantations have marked the ownership of the country. Further, the city is surrounded by many more landmarks. Therefore, it is indeed a must-visit. Read our article on ‘ Nuwara Eliya, the Fascinating Misty Mountain Town of Sri Lanka! ‘, to get to know about the best places to visit in this charming town. Above all, remember to take a train ride to Nuwara Eliya since it adds up to the vibe that the city gives even before arriving. 

6. Galle Fort

Every corner of Sri Lanka is filled with wonders. From North to South, from East to West, it is filled with beauty and splendor in its own way. Galle Dutch fort provides evidence to the above statement since it has its own beauty while being a part of the history of the country. It is also one of the places where you can find colonizer reminiscence but in a positive way.

The fort is very old yet stands still. The area is structured according to Dutch architecture and still gives out the feeling of Sri Lanka. The delightful sea view and the washing-out waves add more glamour to the vintage picture it gives while making visitors more than satisfied. The fascinating atmosphere impresses the visitors and makes them live a quality moment there. 

Including this incredible monument, the Galle city is a place full of beauty with many more landmarks around. Also, do not forget to have a set of quality photos there since Galle Fort is a place that photographers often choose.

After all, it indeed is best for a one-day trip where you can have a variety of experiences related to the sea and nature. Read our article on ‘ Galle, the Most Surprising Paradise of Southern Sri Lanka ‘ to get to know more about this wonderful city.

7. Adam’s Peak

Adam’s Peak or the Sri Padaya is one of the important religious places that thousands of pilgrims visit per year. To be specific, it is a mountain that goes up to a great height and preserves a huge footprint that each religion believed to be their own religious leader’s. Hence, without an exception, every single individual in the country is determined to visit the place even once in their lifetime. So, it is also a place of unity and harmony, and that fact makes it more special.

Being an exceptionally significant religious place for more than a thousand years, Adam’s Peak has become an important landmark in Sri Lanka. The journey up to the mountain is no less than a hike where you can find a proper path.

However, it is said that choosing nighttime to make this journey is more effective. It will take around 2-4 hours to reach the summit and then 1-2 hours for the way back. So, be ready to face any hardship during this period since it is not worth returning before reaching the summit. Therefore this is a journey that one can make within even less than a day. If you are willing to visit, remember to go during the Adam’s Peak season, which is from December to April.

Now, we are ready to take you once again to the Down South area of Sri Lanka in order to show you another wonder. As you might already know, the southern sea is associated with many beauties and thus there are dozens of places to visit. And yes, one of them is Mirissa which is a place that makes you forget the rest of the world.

In fact, Mirissa is a small village with wonders and many consider it a paradise for travelers. It is a place that stops both breath and heartbeat for a few seconds due to the incredible beauty it possesses. Since this is one of the best beach areas in Sri Lanka there are many reasons why you should visit Mirissa . Here are some of them!

This beach area is very clean and geographically beautifully formed. Other than that, this area is famous for water sports and delicious seafood items as well. Besides, the most important thing that this beachside offers you is whale watching and that is simply a super amazing experience. How could someone come back from a place like that? So, remember to leave your footprints there, not your heart!

9. Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is the capital city of the ancient Anuradhapura kingdom , and thus, a city with a bunch of historical values. Once you arrive at this ancient town, you can either use private transportation or hire a bicycle and roam around. Many of the attractions are located closer to each other. Owing to this reason exploring the city is never an issue. Besides, since the city houses several religious and cultural attractions , you can choose what to visit according to your preferences, and the time available.

You can read our article on ‘ The Most Significant Places to Visit in Anuradhapura ‘ to get to know about the attractions out there. However, most of the people definitely choose to visit the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi , Ruwanweli Seya , the Samadhi Statue, and climb the Mihintale rock or relax by a lake in the evening hours, if they go on a one-day trip to Anuradhapura.

10. Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka is an island that shifts from beauty to history and then to nature. Among many, Polonnaruwa is a city filled with historical monuments and ruins that have been preserved thousands of years back. This is one of the best places where one can learn about the history of Sri Lanka , particularly the kingdoms, kings ruled, and their contribution to the development of certain sectors. Other than that, the Polonnaruwa city is filled with prosperous lakes, chains of paddy fields, and lush greenery. So, this city takes you to heaven of peace with its atmosphere.

One day will serve you a full tour around the city along with the knowledge and amazement. The best thing one can find among the ruins belongs to the glorious history of the island, is the archaeological system prevailed at the time. It is an unbelievable meticulous technology that no one believes to be there. You will realize it by exploring the dozens of ancient structures, tombs and temples, and stupas in Polonnaruwa. So, if you are a person who has an urge to walk through the pages of history, this is an ideal place for you to explore!

11. Dambulla

Located in Central Sri Lanka, Dambulla is a charming city with many historical values. And yes, many consider it a cultural treasure trove owing to the rich heritage it reveals to the world.

However, the most significant attraction in the city of Dambulla is its cave temple. This temple consists of five caves, and it is believed to be the best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka as well. The murals and paintings, statues of Lord Buddha, and the rest of the statues of the deities in these caves hold amazing artistic and historical values. Hence, many visitors spend some good hours studying these valuable artifacts in these caves.

Apart from that, the Dambulla area is very famous among travelers for village tours and hot air balloon rides. So, after exploring the cave temple, many dedicate their day to such activities. Meanwhile, some choose to head to Sigiriya to climb the rock fortress as well. All in all, Dambulla is one of the best places for a one-day trip in Sri Lanka, that would delight you with many amazing experiences!

12. Colombo

Sri Lanka is not all about culture, heritage, nature, and history. Yes, it is about modernization and development as well. It is evident through the largest city of Sri Lanka, Colombo .

As you may know, Colombo is the most developed, most crowded, and most urbanized city in the country. It is still under development, yet sophisticated. However, the city houses several important landmarks that are not second to world landmarks. Therefore, it is a great place to have a tour around and explore both new and old monuments. 

Colombo has been famous as the all-to-go option for all matters of the country for so long. Besides, it is also considered the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. It is not that the city does not value nature, but it preserves the value of both the country and nature. The full city tour is worth having in order to explore the diversity and the lifestyle of the Sri Lankans. So, without a doubt, Colombo is one of the best places for one-day trips in Sri Lanka!

The Bottom Line

The world knows Sri Lanka especially due to its attraction. In fact, every inch of the country is filled with a different specialty. Thus, it as a whole is a paradise full of wonders. Owing to these reasons, Sri Lanka has now become a place that one should visit to witness its beauty and culture even once in a lifetime. Besides, even the locals have so much to explore on this island. Therefore, traveling in Sri Lanka is a favorite of many. However, when planning a trip, many prefer to go on one-day trips. Hence, we believe that this read gave you some perfect suggestions to plan your one-day trips, here in Sri Lanka. Explore this island, and delight yourself. Happy and safe traveling!  

You may be excited for a tranquil beach vacation along a gorgeous stretch of golden sand. If not, you might be thrilled to experience the exhilaration and thrill of the incredible wildlife among the breathtaking scenery. Going further, you can even be anticipating learning about the splendor of the historical tales entwined with the island's customs. Similarly, your dream could be anywhere in these boundaries or outside of them. Nevertheless, we cherish your dream and pledge to turn it into a reality. Indeed, the Customized Tour Packages we provide serve as evidence that we honor our commitments.

Lead Traveler

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Continue reading...

Hikkaduwa, the Beautiful Coastal Town in Sri Lanka!

Sri Lanka has a diversified landscape from place to place and the most fabulous part of it is indeed the seaside. Mountains, plains, and slopes…

The Wonderful Kaudulla National Park

Many people crave tropical weather, beaches, and forests for a much-needed vacation. That’s why Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination all around the world….

Privacy Overview

connect with us

• explore stories

Best Destinations for Your Honeymoon in Sri Lanka

Best types of retreats in sri lanka, one day trip in sri lanka: best & most beautiful places to visit, best times & seasons to visit sri lanka, how to hike the pekoe trail (hanthana) & find your stay in kandy, a comprehensive travel guide to sigiriya, a travel guide to dambulla: things to do & must see places, 5 best things to do in pottuvil & arugam bay, 5 best beaches and vacation spots in sri lanka, honeymoon guide: best romantic getaways and places in sri lanka, leaping towards a sustainable future by tripling our reliance on solar energy, a colombo city tour in an electric tuk tuk – jetwing colombo seven, family itinerary in sri lanka: discover the best places to visit and things to do, exploring maskeliya, sri lanka: the top 5 things to do and places to visit, sri lanka in april: climate, activities and more, travel spots: 10 uncommon places and hidden attractions in sri lanka, exploring kebiliththa siyambalawa devalaya – a spiritual retreat amidst nature’s beauty, a perfect family beach day in panadura, sri lanka, exploring the mysteries of fa-hien caves, kalutara, sri lanka, gourmet beachside dining in negombo’s paradise, a 4-day adventure on sri lanka’s enchanting south coast, a guide to unforgettable excursions in colombo, sri lanka, top wildlife photography destinations in sri lanka, sri lanka’s enchanting train ride: colombo to ella, most popular cultural festivals in sri lanka that you shouldn’t miss, best instagrammable destinations in sri lanka, best season for whale watching in galle, sri lanka, exploring negombo bliss: a perfect day out with friends, a traveller’s guide to the must-visit places in nuwara eliya, martin wickramasinghe museum: a journey through sri lanka’s literary and cultural heritage, exploring hantana mountain trails for a thrilling hiking experience, jetwing: story behind our logo, chatham street colombo: where culture and commerce meet, must-visit beaches in galle, 6 things to explore while you are in jaffna, 5 tips families should consider before travelling to sri lanka, a guide to surfing on east coast of sri lanka in 2022, complete guide for glamping in yala, tips for solo female travellers visiting sri lanka, must-visit places during a short stay in sri lanka, things to do around kandy, unique parks around yala to explore the next time you visit yala, places to visit in galle for couples, exploring the north of sri lanka, top five things to do in sigiriya, four uncommon places to visit in nuwara eliya, exciting day trips from colombo, things to do in negombo, what to do in colombo; a business traveller’s guide, things to do in kandy, luxury airport hotels in sri lanka, the ultimate guide for whale watching in sri lanka, fun things to do in ella, on the trail with jetwing – culture, on the trail with jetwing – food, on the trail with jetwing – wildlife, nuwara eliya beyond tea, round trip b.c., the great gathering, the faith of yalpanam, a procession of colours, heroes in a hard shell, clean conscience, sri lanka: east coast road trip, 48 hours in the cultural triangle, slender is the night, new balance, rising stars, the island kitchen: hoppers, galle: to the lighthouse, 48 hours in colombo, a slow train to hill country, the insider guide to yala, chasing waterfalls, in the land of giants, the island kitchen, field to fork, perfect catch.

Get ready to fast-track your way through the wonders of Sri Lanka on a thrilling one-day journey. From cultural hotspots to sun-kissed beaches, ancient temples to bustling markets, these are the best and most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka for a one day trip. Take your pick, there’s a bit of everything in store.

This city in the central province is packed with history and beautiful sights, including being a filming location for “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Start your day with a serene stroll around Kandy Lake, located in the heart of the city, built by the last Sri Lankan King. Then, at the end of your stroll, you’ll be met with the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, where Buddhists from all over come to pay their respects. It’s an impressive structure, dating back to the late 16th century, and it houses a real tooth of Buddha and is considered a national treasure. And no visit to Kandy would be complete without exploring the Royal Botanical Gardens, renowned as the largest botanical garden in Asia. You’ll get to see and learn about a large variety of around 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal herbs, and palm trees. End your day on a high note at Jetwing Kandy Gallery , tucked away in the heart of Kandy, this cosy boutique hotel is the perfect retreat. Enjoy its relaxed atmosphere, enjoy some great food, and treat yourself to a spa session.

Galle is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for a one day trip. You can wander through spots like the Dutch hospital, which used to be a hospital but now is bustling with bars, restaurants, and shops. Make sure you don’t miss out on exploring Galle fort – it’s like stepping back in time with its old-school Dutch architecture. You will also be able to see the iconic Lighthouse, the first ever built in Sri Lanka back in 1848. While you’re in Galle Fort, make your way to Galle Fort Market, where you can shop in a sea of stalls, selling everything from local crafts to souvenirs to jewellery. And if you’re up for it, learn all about Galle’s rich history at the National Museum. You also have Unawatuna Beach nearby for some sun and sand. Or head to Jungle Beach for a peaceful dip in the water or snorkelling. Wrap up your day at Jetwing Lighthouse and soak up all the rich history Galle has to offer including easy access from other destinations, including Colombo.

When planning a trip to Sigiriya, you can first explore the charms of Dambulla, making it one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka to visit on a one-day trip. Here, you’ll get to venture through Dambulla Cave Temple. Through its collection of art and sculptures, this cave pays homage to Buddhism, capturing its spiritual essence. Inside, two main caves await: one showcasing a 48 foot reclining Buddha statue and ancient wall paintings depicting Lord Buddha’s life from centuries ago. The second cave has over 150 statues reflecting Buddhism’s influences at the time.

After exploring the charms of Dambulla and once the sun eases up, continue your journey to Sigiriya Rock, translated to “Lion Rock” in English. Some consider it to be the eighth wonder of the world. Legend has it that King Kashyapa built this fortress in the 5th century to escape his brother’s wrath. During the climb, you’ll be able to see colourful paintings of women adorning the rock, who supposedly lived in the palace with the king. After exploring the stunning sights of Dambulla and Sigiriya, keep the adventure going with a stay at Jetwing Vil Uyana. Tucked away in its own nature reserve, this place is all about luxury in unity with nature. Surrounded by wildlife, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the beauty of the great outdoors.

One day in Kandy, Sri Lanka (Guide) – Top things to do (onedayitinerary.com) Royal Botanic Gardens – Department of National Botanic Gardens Autentic travel and mindful living blog – Nina Botzen Sigiriya Day Tour | Best of Lanka Sigiriya Sri Lanka | Official Travel Website (sigiriyafortress.com)

Make this happen

Sri Lanka’s culture is vibrant and unique. In this edition of On the Trail with Jetwing, we explore the island from its ancient past to modern times to find out what makes us truly Sri Lankan.

Few facets of society can become as truly an ambassador for the identity of a country as its cuisine.

Sri Lanka provides multiple habitat niches for a stunning collection of fauna and flora

Harking back to Sri Lanka’s colonial past, the hill country of Sri Lanka still preserves in its quaint towns and villages, the architecture and idiosyncrasies of a European past.

In drawing together elephants from across the north-central dry zone, it functions as an intermingling event for genes of different elephant groups.

In the heart of Jaffna, the resplendent Nallur Kandaswamy Temple holds its sacred, annual 27-day long Nallur Festival, the island’s longest festival.

Experiencing the island’s most colourful procession- a fusion of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and culture.

Creating a safe haven for the humble beginnings of an eternal journey

Welcome to the 7-day luxury eco-tour of Sri Lanka that doesn’t cost the earth

A 7-day guide to the beaches, temples, wildlife and surf spots on the undiscovered side of Sri Lanka

The ultimate two-day tour, taking in Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temples

From night walks to see slender loris to the elephant gathering at Minneriya – the wildlife wonders of Jetwing Vil Uyana

Discovering the secrets of Ayurveda on a life-enhancing tour of Sri Lanka

How the Jetwing Youth Development Programme is changing young people’s horizons in Sri Lanka

Learn how to make amazing egg hoppers with our authentic Sri Lankan recipe

Combine cultural wonders and incredible wildlife watching in this definitive 4-day guide to Galle

From secret street food spots to historic city walks, discover the best of Colombo with this two-day city guide

The many natural and cultural highs of train travel from Colombo to Ella

From leopard spotting to diving shipwrecks – expert tips on Yala National Park safaris and Sri Lanka’s southeast coast

From meeting pluckers to tasting Ceylon Tea’s finest flushes – a tea lover’s trip through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country

Getting wet in Wellawaya – home of Sri Lanka’s finest waterfalls and wild swimming spots

Sea turtles, blue whales and Sri Lankan elephants on a three-day wildlife tour of the south coast

Five authentic Sri Lankan ‘Rice & Curry’ recipes you have to try

Experiencing the life, culture and home-cooking of traditional Sri Lankan paddy farmers

Calling Geoffrey Bawa’s masterpieces home on an architecture tour of Sri Lanka

From crab curry to beach cricket – a taste of the real Negombo on Sri Lanka’s west coast

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Bandaranaike International Airport Guide
• Top Destinations in Sri Lanka
• Things to Do in Sri Lanka
• Things to Do in Colombo
• Things to Do in Galle
• Where to Safari
• Best Beaches
• Adventurous Things to Do
• Top Dishes to Try
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations

The Top 10 Destinations in Sri Lanka

Jamie Hergenrader is the Commerce Director of the Travel Group at Dotdash Meredith where she leads the content strategy of product reviews and recommendations for the company's travel brands. She joined the company in 2018 and has nearly a decade of experience writing and editing for travel and lifestyle publications.

Sri Lanka’s rich culture and history, gorgeous landscape and scenery, and plentiful wildlife-spotting opportunities are the main reasons the country tops many travelers’ bucket lists. And due to its relatively small size, many of the best attractions and destinations are within only a couple of hours of each other. In one day, if you’re on a tight schedule, you could spend the morning at one of the country’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, go on a safari in the afternoon, and then in the evening, relax and enjoy a cup of tea from one of the hill country plantations. Or, with more time, allow the opportunity for spontaneous exploration—road tripping throughout the country offers scenic views almost everywhere, and you might pull over for an elephant sighting or two along the way!

 Jamie Hergenrader

Kandy, a major city in Sri Lanka’s hill country, is one of the most popular tourist destinations and one corner of the country’s Cultural Triangle. It’s surrounded by mountains of rainforest and tea plantations and is home to a beautiful lake within the city. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred temple that houses Buddha’s tooth; wander the city’s colorful streets, and admire the architecture while sampling food from the many street vendors; walk around the lake for scenic views of the lake itself and also the colorful buildings that dot the hillsides around it; and make the quick drive outside of the city to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens to visit its orchid house and its spice garden, the latter of which will take you on an olfactory tour of the country’s native spices. 

This massive rock formation is not only a breathtaking sight to take in as you approach, jutting up from the flat lands that surround it but also a place of cultural and historical significance. The UNESCO World Heritage site was a fort and palace that dates back to the fifth century. A network of winding staircases and paths will lead you to the top of the rock if you’re game to do the 1,217-step climb. Along the way, you’ll get panoramic views of the valley around you, you’ll pass ancient paintings by monks on the rock walls, and learn about the kingdom that once called this rock home. If you plan on making the entire climb (which we highly recommend), arrive at the park at opening time—you’ll avoid the afternoon heat and beat most of the crowds.

Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura, one of the three corners of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and the current capital city of the North Central Province, was the first ancient capital in Sri Lanka, thriving for more than 1,300 years until it was abandoned in 993. Tourists visit this UNESCO World Heritage site to explore the well-preserved ruins and significant Buddhist history. Several dagobas, distinctive dome-shaped memorials, remain in the city, one of which is said to house Buddha’s collarbone. Another important site is the Bodhi tree found in the Mahamewna Gardens —it’s the oldest known human-planted tree in the world, and it grew from the southern branch of a sacred fig tree in India, the tree under which Gautama Buddha was said to have gained enlightenment.

Polonnaruwa

Jamie Hergenrader 

The third corner of the Cultural Triangle , Polonnaruwa became the second capital after Anuradhapura was abandoned. Like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is a draw for visitors interested in touring the city’s history and ruins, including those of the royal palace and other royal spaces, the quadrangle (a raised, walled-off area of monuments and Buddha statues), and dagobas. You’ll undoubtedly spot many monkeys (toque macaques) in the area, and that population of native, endangered monkeys was featured in Disney’s nature documentary, “Monkey Kingdom.” 

Yala National Park

Yala National Park, located along the southeastern coast of Sri Lanka, is the most visited national park in the country, primarily because of the chance to spot the leopards in the area—it is home to one of the largest concentrations of leopards in the world. (The land became a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and then a national park in 1938.) Although it comprises five blocks, only two of them are open to the public for safari to preserve and protect the majority of the land. Between February and July is the best time to visit; during these months, the lower water levels bring more animals out in the open searching for water. However, the park can get crowded in these peak months, and higher traffic through the park can lessen your chances of spotting one of the elusive leopards. Even so, you’ll still have the opportunity to see elephants, crocodiles, and water buffaloes.

Minneriya National Park

TripSavvy / Lauren Breedlove

Sri Lanka has plenty of safari opportunities, but Minneriya National Park is known for having the world's largest gatherings of Asian elephants. Previously an elephant sanctuary, the land was converted to a national park in 1997, and Asian elephants still freely roam the grounds in large herds. While you'll likely get a glimpse of several whenever you visit, the dry season from June to September is the best time to visit. This is when the elephants (sometimes as many as 300) will congregate around the reservoir. It might be most famous for these elephant sightings, but the park is also home to more than 170 species of birds, leopards, monkeys, and other wildlife.

Many tourists skip Colombo to set off for the country’s beautiful nature destinations, but the capital city deserves some of your time . Colombo comprises several distinct neighborhoods that showcase the old and new—from ancient temples and colonial architecture to modern skyscrapers and city parks. It’s easy (and recommended) to wander and simply take in the sights as you go. One impressive architectural sight you won’t be able to miss is the Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid (also known as the Red Mosque), a red and white mosque in Colombo’s Pettah neighborhood. Admiring it from the outside is intriguing enough, but if you want to go inside, ensure you’ve dressed appropriately; women need to cover their hair, arms, and legs. 

This fortified old city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka is another of the country’s impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the best things to do is walk along the fort’s ramparts that give you a view out to the water and inward toward the fort and city. You can also take a self-guided tour of the fort to learn about its history and architecture. Although the fort is the main attraction for visitors to the area, Galle is a prime destination for shopping as well; wander the pedestrian-friendly streets to check out the many art galleries, upscale markets, and boutique stores selling clothes, jewelry, souvenirs, and home goods.

Nuwara Eliya

Tea is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest exports, so a trip to the rolling hills of tea country is well worth your time. Nuwara Eliya boasts hundreds of acres of tea plantations and several tea production facilities you can visit to learn about the entire tea-making process, from planting to picking and steeping at home. Once you’ve had your fill of tea, be sure to explore the other gorgeous surroundings of Nuwara Eliya, such as the manicured and well-maintained Victoria Park, Lake Gregory for a day on the water, or a lakeside picnic, or the beautiful, 350-foot tall Ramboda Falls.

As one of the main beach destinations in the country, Mirissa attracts those looking for a laid-back, leisurely vacation of days lounging on the sand and nights out on the town. Among the gorgeous beaches in Mirissa, Mirissa Beach and Secret Beach are two of the best for their beauty and seclusion, but neither one gets too crowded. If you’d rather be out on the water, Mirissa is a surfer’s paradise, especially from October to April, and it’s also a popular destination for whale watching tours to spot blue whales. After a day in the sun, hit some of the casual but lively restaurants and bars, some of which are right along the beach, making them a perfect setting for a sunset cocktail. 

Related Articles

More related articles.

How to Spend One Day in Colombo: Best Things to Do

As Sri Lanka’s largest city, Colombo is the gateway to the beautiful island nation. With so many great places to visit in Sri Lanka, your first instinct might be to skip over Colombo, but dig a little deeper and you’ll find it definitely worth exploring. I had one day in Colombo and found that to be a really good length of time. With such a rich history and the number of times it has changed control, Sri Lanka has ended up becoming a melting pot of cultures. As I found, you can be visiting an intricate Hindu shrine one minute, an historical government building the next, followed by a Muslim mosque. There’s some incredible diversity in Sri Lanka.

If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka, spend your first (or last) day discovering the best things to do Colombo. Stay somewhere central (within spitting distance of Fort and Beira Lake ideally), walk to the spots nearby, and get tuk-tuks everywhere else. My Colombo experience was on my last day in Sri Lanka and this is everything I saw. If you’re not sure what to do in Colombo, I hope this guide is helpful.

Sri Lankan Parliament Building

My morning actually began in Bentota, as I was staying at the Vivanta by Taj. My guide and I left at around 8:15 and headed north for Colombo for about an hour on the A2 Highway. The reason I include that useless piece of information is because by going that route you go through Kotte. I almost wrote in my intro that Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka but this is not quite accurate. It is actually the city of Kotte. Kotte is not far, but it is distinct from Colombo.

Going on the A2 highway meant that we could go via the capital, which also meant a drive-by of Parliament House. Since I was pretty keen to get into the city we didn’t stop but it was very cool to see. The Sri Lankan Parliament Building is set out on an island in a lake connected by a thin strip of land. The building might not look like much if you compare it to the US Capitol Building or even Australia’s Parliament House, but the setting of the Sri Lankan version, I’d say, is up there.

Independence Square

Independence Square was a real stop as this is a place I wanted to see. It’s a large open, concrete hall erected to celebrate independence from the British in 1948. Fronted by a statue and an admittedly ageing pond, the columns stand tall surrounded by beautiful, green park.

Town Hall and Dawatagaha Jumma Mosque

Town Hall was a genuine car park tour because we happened to be driving past and I asked for a photo. Interestingly, the building is modelled after St Paul’s in London.

Next door was the Dawatagaha Jumma Masjid, photos of which were taken from the car window. I’ve seen quite a few mosques in my travels , mostly in the Middle East, and now a few more in Sri Lanka, and it has struck me how different the architecture of the Sri Lankan ones are to these. Maybe it’s to do with money — because they aren’t near as grand — or maybe just different influences, but the main difference I’ve seen is that mosques I’m familiar with are dominated by domes, usually one major one and maybe some minor ones plus some minarets. With the exception of this one, most Sri Lankan mosques I saw either lacked domes/minarets completely or they just weren’t emphasised.

All these stops so far were pretty well just because they were on the way to downtown so neither myself nor Thushith — my guide — really put much thought or effort into seeing them and I was happy with that. The best places to visit in Colombo were yet to come.

Gangaramaya Temple and Seema Malakaya

Gangaramaya Temple is an active Buddhist temple and like most, it is made up of many seemingly disparate parts. We started the little tour in the shrine room, which is jammed full of brightly coloured statues of Buddha and his pals as well as a wall completely covered in equally bright paintings of similar religious significance.

We walked out through a courtyard and up to a museum of largely donated artefacts and objects significant to Buddhism including the world’s tiniest Buddha statues. It’s seriously tiny and there’s a magnifying glass next to it to get a closer look. It’s a bit of a gimmick, but I got a pretty good kick out of it, which will be a surprise to some but not to others.

Downstairs some kind of ceremony was beginning with the drums and the horn, as well as the bringing of food. The people who had donated the food had pride of place on chairs where a monk was about to give a message. It’s times like these when I really wish I could understand the local language.

Included in the ticket price (that’s right, temples usually have entrance fees) was a visit to Seema Malakaya. I’m not sure how they are related, but Thushith said they are so I took his word for it. The Seema Malakaya is built out on a small lake on a pier-like structure. It’s a very peaceful setting and nice to walk around for about 10 minutes in socks. This was quickly becoming a shoes-on-again-off-again tour of Colombo.

Sri Kailawasanathan temple

The Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Temple is a Hindu temple in the backstreets of Colombo not far from the Cinnamon Lakeside , the hotel at which I was staying. Unfortunately, it was closed this day, so I had to suffice with a car park tour and just took a few photos of the entrance from the outside, all the while dodging tuk-tuks and motorbikes as it faces a reasonably busy backstreet. Just look at the intricate design of the entrance tower.

Drive or walk through Fort

Fort is the historic district of Colombo with many buildings having been built by the English  in the 17th Century, as many of the Portuguese and Dutch buildings were razed over time. Fort is the central and financial business district of Sri Lanka as it contains such companies as the Colombo Stock Exchange, the Bank of Ceylon, and many government buildings.

We drove through Fort because even the buildings are beautiful and historic, it is mostly government and administration buildings, that actually aren’t terribly interesting on the inside. Many of the buildings remaining are from both the Dutch and the British eras of control so there’s an incredible mix of architecture from the last 400 years. This included the Grand Oriental Hotel — the oldest hotel in Sri Lanka.

Dutch Hospital

Nearby was the old Dutch Hospital, which has also been converted into a restaurant precinct with everything from casual eats and upscale seafood in the form of the Ministry of Crab. The Ministry of Crab is a seafood restaurant specialising in crab (obviously) owned by former international Sri Lankan cricketers Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. This probably isn’t interesting to others, but I grew up watching these guys lose to Australia so I found it mildly interesting.

The Dutch Hospital at the time was pretty dead, as we visited in the early afternoon on a Wednesday. However, this will come alive on the weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights, where young people will split a small keg with mates, get wrecked and listen to live music.

By now we were well and truly ticking off some items on my Colombo sightseeing list and we were ripping through them fast because we’d been driving. It’s not overly necessary to have a car, but since this was part of my tour of Sri Lanka it was a nice convenience. I do like exploring cities on foot though, so thankfully we were about to start some actual walking as we entered the Pettah district. We parked near some of the markets and headed down towards the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, otherwise known as the Red Mosque.

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

I’m not going to lie, I was probably most excited about seeing this mosque above everything in Colombo. I had come across an image of it from a blog post from another blogger and made sure it was top of the priority list to see. The Red Mosque was like no building I had ever seen. I mentioned above that mosques in Sri Lanka have been quite different to most other mosques I’ve ever visited, this one was even more so. It was astounding. Squeezed in on both sides from some uninteresting buildings, the mosque stands tall and skinny, walls bounding a courtyard in front, and a wall to the footpath. Over the door was a curved archway with 4 tiers of paired columns reaching all the way to the roof. And covering everything was a perfect red and white candy stripe. It was so creative. So unusual. So unexpected.

As we arrived, no sooner had I pulled out my camera did someone call out to me. I turned around and this lady seemed sorta angry and had her hand out asking for money. “Money” seemed to be the only English word she knew.

If I’m being honest I thought she was from the mosque and I needed to pay to take a photo, or there was an entrance fee or something like that. I gave her 100 rupees (about $1.00) and, witnessing this success, another lady came up with a little pad that looked like raffle tickets. She started saying something and lady number 1 still had her hand out for more money. I was getting confused and so I asked Thushith so intervene.

He told them to go away and then confirmed that they were beggars. This was probably obvious to you, but you weren’t there, man! I’m used to my beggars being on the ground with a cup, maybe a little sign, not walking around harassing people. What is this place?!

Anyway, I quickly crossed to the other side of the road to continue taking photos and had a bit more success. But since the road on which the Red Mosque is situated is actually quite a busy thoroughfare — there are many cars, tuk-tuks and scooters zipping by on the road, and hundreds of people walking by on the footpath — I had to dodge these somehow through my viewfinder.

Indian for lunch

Anyway, I rushed through taking my shots and Thushith and I headed along the road in search of an Indian food place that is supposed to be really good. We walked past a fruit stand and Thushith bought me a mangosteen — yet another fruit I’ve never heard of. It was very sweet with a big seed and a thick skin. We found the Indian restaurant across from the New Kathiresen Temple. We ordered a masala dosa each, which is a giant roll of thin dough, though it has the consistency and sort of taste of grilled cheese. Delicious.

The dosa is rolled into what looks like a giant burrito and you tear off a piece and dip it into one of three sauces. Don’t ask me what the sauces were though, that was too much to retain. Inside the dosa was the masala, which was potato in a similar sauce to the dipping sauces. The bizzarre thing about the meal is that utensils are not given, you wash your hands before the meal and then proceed to just eat everything with your hands. And that’s not because of what I ordered, that’s everyone in the restaurant. My meal leant itself to hand-eating so it wasn’t too bad. I’m just glad I didn’t get a curry!

Pettah Markets

When you read about the Pettah markets you might confused because there’ll be “Pettah markets” and “Pettah Floating Markets” and any number of other variations. The neighbourhood is Pettah, let’s get that’s straight first and foremost, and there are in fact a couple of different markets I wandered.

The first was a fruit and veg market, exploding in a sea of colour, in the air the subtle scent of whatever fruit was closest. At the current point in time, it was from the huge pile of pineapples on the ground. Shortly thereafter it changed dramatically to fish as I passed a stall with piles of tiny fish for sale. At the other end of the open air hall, there was a man in a booth talking loudly and continuously into a microphone. He was selling scratchies for 25 rupees a pop. Thushith bought a roll and furiously scratched them, winning a free ticket in the process. This ended the way most forays into scratchies do; 30 seconds of fun followed by regret and failure.

The next set of markets was more enclosed and in closer quarters, if that was possible. This time it was all about garments, bags, and a smattering of electronics. I kept an eye out for anything that might score me some points with my kids but there really wasn’t anything. Remember what I said last week about the markets in Singapore and Japan? About how I wasn’t really interested. Well, these markets were considerably better but I still didn’t find anything I wanted enough to enquire about price.

That’s the only thing I loathe about markets. You have to ask the price, the price is never the price until the negotiation ends, but I don’t know at what price I might want it . For example, in the Kandy market, I was happy to buy a shirt for 1400 rupees, but he started at 2200 which was not going to happen. I then asked if he had any dirt cheap sarongs, because I’d be going to some temples and I didn’t want to keep wearing my skinny jeans in 30 degree heat . He brings out this whole fancy thing and didn’t understand that I just want something cheap. He starts at 2500, which is just ridiculous. I mean, I wanted to buy something, anything for under 500 so I didn’t even both negotiating. Anyway, that’s a story for another blog post.

Anyway, back to the Pettah markets. Yeah I didn’t find anything worth wasting money on.

Pettah Floating Markets

Across the road are what they call the floating markets. This was another example of something that’s probably really good in the busy times, but most stalls here were actually shut today so it was pretty unexciting. A quick stroll past the Fort Railway Station and we got back in the car, headed for the Cinnamon Lakeside hotel to check me in for a stay of a grand total of 5 hours, only slightly shorter than my previous stay of 7 hours earlier that week.

I put my legs up and had a rest. Even though the walking schedule had been pretty light so far, the heat and the weak was starting to catch up to me. I had a swim in the pool, relaxed, and took advantage of happy hour to recharge the batteries.

Galle Face Green

Sufficiently refreshed, I headed back out in search of Galle Face Green. It was only a 20-minute walk from the hotel and I did this as briskly as possible without looking like a weirdo. I got there just in time to watch the sun dip behind the clouds for what turned out to be a magnificent sunset.

Galle Face Green was absolutely nothing like I imagined. It was one of those wonderful moments when I hadn’t seen pictures online, so what I’d read gave me a picture in my mind’s eye, which was completely different to reality. I pictured a wide beach lined with buildings housing local restaurants and bars, a little like St Maarten . It was none of these things. The beach is there but it’s not wide by any stretch, and you have to actually drop down off a wall a metre or two to get to the water, I got the impression people don’t really swim there.

The buildings I imagined turned out to simply be little green huts selling soft drinks and snacks, with a few larger tents set up with tables and chairs with a fuller menu of local foods like various devilled meats kuththu, whatever that is. There was also a smattering or push carts selling fried seafood snacks like prawn scallops and similar variations. I had two variations and ate it while watching the sunset. He deep fried it for a minute or two and it was done; two whole prawns on a potato cake type things and a potato cake filled with tiny prawns. Delicious. How good is street food?

I caught a tuk-tuk back to the hotel and packed my gear. Even though I’d only checked in at 2 pm, I was getting ready to check out by about 9 pm because my flight was at 1 am. Normally I wouldn’t do this but Aitken Spence hooked me up with a room, just to refresh before the flight!

Where to Stay in Colombo

I mentioned I stayed at the Cinnamon Lakeside Hotel , and this was perfect for what I needed. First of all, it was central and it was an easy to walk to places in Colombo like the Pettah Markets and Galle Face Green. It was also pretty luxurious; my room was spacious, my bed was really comfortable, and the pool was enormous. The service was top notch and the buffet was to die for. In particular, the array of pastries on the breakfast buffet was one of the best I’ve seen.

History, culture, local food, and architecture: Colombo surprised me. Promise me you won’t just head straight out into the jungles or the beaches. Spend some time getting to know the gateway to Sri Lanka. Colombo deserves it.

All flights, transport and accommodation were provided by  Singapore Airlines  in association with  Aitken Spence Travels  but the fun I describe is 100% real and genuine.

Did you enjoy this post?

Plenty more where that came from. Make sure to sign up for the mailing list to never miss the next one.

Want to save this for later? Pin these, just hover.

Related posts

An afternoon in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s second city

An Afternoon exploring historic Galle, Sri Lanka

Hiking Pidurangala Rock Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress in one day

One day in Colombo itinerary – Top things to do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo is a city on the rise – newly cosmopolitan, with chic restaurants and hotels springing up all over the place next to sleek luxury apartment towers. Things have really changed – in 2009, after more than 25 years of war between the LTTE (Liberation Tamil Tigers of Eelam) and the Sri Lankan government, Colombo wasn’t an attractive city. Armed soldiers and security checks made the place feel intimidating, and only a thin trickle of tourists passed through. Today, however, these times are becoming a distant memory, with tourist numbers up nearly 40% in two years. Indeed, one day in Colombo will show you the city’s newfound energy and confidence.

GUEST POST BY SARAH CRAKE BLOG: Peacock Eye Images

What’s the best time to visit Colombo?

Any month: the tropical climate means it’s always hot and humid. Average temperatures are 31 °C (87.8 °F). Monsoon seasons are from May to August and from October to January, although these are never exact and there is year-round rainfall. But overall, the best months to spend a day in Colombo could very well be February and March .

A few facts about Colombo

The city’s history goes back more than 2000 years, so you can be sure that there will be plenty of places to visit in Colombo, especially if you’re here for only one day. The city was known to numerous ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, the Chinese, the Romans and so many others.

Today, this is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka and that country’s largest city with more than 5.5 million people living in its metropolitan area. Actually, Colombo served as the country’s capital all the way to 1978. Over the centuries, this was also a colony that belonged to the Dutch, the British and the Portuguese, and the influence of those cultures is still felt in the city today.

One Day in Colombo Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Colombo.

Enjoy the city’s street life

Despite its new contemporary veneer, authentic street life is still easy to find. A good place to put at the top of your Colombo itinerary, especially if you really want to absorb Sri Lankan culture, is Pettah Market . Pettah is a neighborhood in the northern part of the city, organized like a traditional bazaar. Each street is dedicated to a different kind of goods, from tantalizing exotic fruits to glittering gold and textiles, to household items and electronics. With the crush of people and searing heat, Pettah can be an overwhelming experience, but underneath all the chaos, you’ll find a relaxed vibe and welcoming locals.

The most fascinating thing about Pettah is the seamless cultural mix. Hindu temples (kovils) line the Sea Street and are encrusted in cartoon-like Hindu deities. Venture inside the dark and cavernous interior of Colombo’s oldest Hindu kovil Sri Ponnambalam and watch Brahim priests make elaborate pujas (offerings) to the myriad of gods and goddesses. One of the coolest things to do in Colombo during your day.

Another interesting place to visit in Colombo is the famous Catholic Shrine of St Antony ; it’s well-known for miracles and draws crowds of devotees. Just round the corner is the unique Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque with its tiers of candy-striped arches.

Stop for a tasty lunch

With all that sensory overload, a late lunch will definitely be high on the agenda, so head back down south to Barefoot Café . An enduring haunt of both tourists and expats, Barefoot is known for its homely menu, vibrant hand-loomed textiles and art exhibitions. It’s still one of the best spots to chill out during a hot afternoon or socialize in the evening. Park Street Mews is also worth mentioning as another excellent place for lunch. After lunch, take a tuk-tuk, (or from Park Street you can walk) to leafy Victoria Park for a leisurely stroll in the gardens, perhaps followed by a spot of souvenir-shopping at the well-known (and air-conditioned!) Odel department store.

Check out some Buddhist beauties

Alternatively, you could tour some of the Buddhist temples, and there are loads of those places to visit in Colombo.

Gangaramaya is the most famous one, and Seema Malaka Temple on Beira Lake (feature image), with its iconic Buddha-studded pavilion, is also one of the top places to visit in Colombo, even if you’re here for one day, and especially at sunset.

If you have any energy left, or if you’re heading back down the Galle Road again, take a look inside the beautiful Ashokaramaya Temple . There you will marvel at the Sistine Chapel-like ceiling depicting the life of the Buddha.

Spend an evening on Galle Face Green

As dusk falls, Galle Face Green gets packed with local families and groups of boys playing cricket and flying kites, it’s a great place to mingle with friendly locals. Opposite, the old colonial stalwart The Galle Face Hotel is strikingly illuminated at night and dominates the Green. Famous for sophisticated elegance, the iconic hotel is still undisputedly the best place in Colombo for an evening G&T, while gazing at the tequila hues of an Indian Ocean sunset.

Go on a dinner date

For dinner, try the stunning Dutch Hospital , a legacy of the Dutch colonists, recently converted into an arcade of stylish boutiques and restaurants. Here you’ll find the renowned restaurant Ministry of Crab , the brainchild of two former Sri Lankan cricket captains (booking essential). Independence Arcade , another piece of historic heritage transformed, has shops and contemporary bars such as Asylum which dishes up great tapas and live jazz. Another good choice for dinner is Gallery Café . Housed in the former offices of stellar Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, it serves fabulous fusion food and delicious cocktails (try the chilli and tamarind martini for a local twist).

Cool down at a roof-top bar

If you fancy cooling down with an ice-cold Lion beer, try out one of the city’s new rooftop bars. The large space at Colombo Courtyard above the rooftops of Duplication Road offers a welcome breeze. Cloud Red on the 26th floor of the boutique Cinnamon Red Hotel also boasts a gorgeous infinity pool. Sleek Ozo Hotel ’s stunning rooftop bar is bang on the seafront at Bambalapitiya, another great place to relax and cool down and the cherry on top of your Colombo itinerary.

With its compelling history, tropical modernism, great hotels and laid back island atmosphere, Colombo is now starting to make a name for itself as a cosmopolitan destination in its own right.

Where to stay in Colombo?

Villa Key 2 Ceylon

No 64,Muhandiram E. Dabare Road,Narahenpita

Another new budget place which has good facilities for travellers, including a dining area, kitchen and spacious rooms with new fixtures and fittings is the Villa Key 2 Ceylon . The location, east of Colombo 5 / Thimbirigasaya, perhaps suits travelers who’ve been to the city before. However bear in mind it’s just off one of the main throughfares, Baseline Road and near to Narahenpita train station so with those landmarks, it’s not that hard to find.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Galle Face Hotel

2, Galle Road, Kollupitiya

If you want something more swish for your one day in Colombo, the options are plentiful. Old favourite the Galle Face Hotel has been refurbished and its atmospheric sunset-facing location continues to draw in guests.

Mövenpick Hotel Colombo

No. 24, Dharmapala Mawatha, Kollupitiya

For guaranteed comfort and luxury book the Mövenpick Hotel Colombo , which comes highly recommended by business travellers and also features a gorgeous rooftop bar, infinity pool and enticing ocean view gym.

Day trips from Colombo

Should you decide to stay here for a while, you really should consider organizing one or two day trips from Colombo. Sri Lanka is an absolutely fascinating country, so you will have plenty to explore. Here are a few great destinations both near and not so near the city.

Sigiriya and Dambulla

The fortress in the ancient city of Sigiriya dates back to the 5th century and is on UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list. It is also sometimes referred to as the 8th wonder of the world , so it will be the highlight of your visit to this fascinating place. After that, head to the town of Dambulla to see its Golden Temple , another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cave temple dates back to the first century B.C. and will surely leave you speechless.

Among all of the day trips from Colombo you can make, this one is probably the most beautiful one. Galle is on the south-west coast of Sri Lanka and has so much to offer. You can visit the local turtle hatchery , for example, and learn all about these endangered animals. Or you can see the local stilt fishermen in action. Or just visit the fort of Galle, another site on UNESCO’s esteemed list.

To wrap up this list of day trips from Colombo, we will say that you should definitely consider visiting Kandy, a sacred city for the Buddhists. The main thing to see here is The Temple of the Tooth Relic, which is said to contain a tooth of the Buddha himself! Additionally, you can learn a lot about Sri Lankan spices and tea here, which have a long tradition and are among the country’s main exports.

Extra tips for visiting Colombo

Local buses are complicated and conductors tend not to speak English, so stick to metered tuk-tuks or 3-wheelers as they are known locally. This is a cheap and convenient way to get around the city and its convoluted one-way systems. Avoid getting pressured into a fixed price: unscrupulous drivers hang around expensive places such as Crescat Mall and the big hotels. Ensure the driver re-sets the ‘per km’ on the meter to a fair price of around 40 rupees.

New App Pick Me enables users to pre-book a tuk-tuk, mini, car or van from any location in the capital.

Call Kangaroo Cabs for local taxis, they also offer reasonable fixed prices to Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport.

Beat the heat

At only 7° north of the equator, Colombo is HOT! Stay hydrated – always carry water . Despite the heat, women should try to dress modestly, especially in the traditional district of Pettah, hot pants and vest tops are a bit too revealing, although perfectly fine at a modern rooftop bar.

What number?

Colombo has a numbered districts – Colombo 1 to Colombo 15. Tourists mainly visit 1-4 and maybe 7 (Cinnamon Gardens) and 11 (Pettah). It’s useful to have a rough idea which number you’re staying in.

Short eats or long eats?

Hole-in-the-wall traditional Sri Lankan eateries offer 100 rupee (50p) take-away rice and curry lunch packets and dishes like the famous kottu , which literally means chop – an appetizing combo of roti bread, eggs, vegetables and spicy gravy all thrown together and noisily sliced up on an enormous steel board. Kottu is an evening dish and not available in the day. Also available at night (and early morning) are egg hoppers – a delicious rice pancake made with coconut milk with an egg at the bottom; without doubt one of the best street foods in Asia. Street snacks are known as “short eats” such as isso wade (deep-fried shrimp cakes) an egg roll or a cone of spicy chick peas. No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without trying the most classic snack of all, the much-loved vegetable roti – a triangle wrap filled spicy veg, available 24 hours, it’s the perfect late-night bite!

Pin for later!

If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Colombo Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below!

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

Sarah Crake

Sarah Crake is based in the UK and has worked in publishing, PR, and higher education. She is an experienced solo traveler and passionate about all things Asian and Middle Eastern. Sarah has spent extended periods in Asia, including two years in Sri Lanka. She loves traveling with a camera and is particularly inspired by vivid colors in photography, as well as art, culture and eastern religions.

Wonderful post about the things to do in Colombo. I am sure, your post will be helpful for tourists to explore the entire Colombo city well. Cheers!

Thank you! 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

11 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka for First-time Visitors

• 196 Pinterest

Defined by many as one of the finest islands in the world, Sri Lanka has seduced travelers for centuries. It has so much variety to offer and is definitely a place you must visit once in a lifetime. In this charming island, you will have the opportunity to experience and see so many different things. From beautiful beaches to ancient ruins, from picturesque cities to local temples, not to mention the amazing diversity of its wildlife. The good news is that  Sri Lanka entered in travelers radar only lately. It means that now is the perfect time to get on a plane and go there! Here is a list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for first-time visitors that will transform your travel into a life-changing experience.

TourScanner is the largest website to search for tours & travel activities. Search over 300,000 products and  find your ideal travel activity at the best price .

• Visit TourScanner

1 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Check out the recommended hotels in Sigiriya

?  Sigiriya and the Lion Rock

2 – Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth

Check out the recommended hotels in Kandy

Directions to Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth

3 – Adam’s Peak

According to the Buddhist tradition, it is a footprint of Lord Buddha. For Christians instead, it is Adam’s first step after being exiled from the Garden of Eden. Hindus believe, on the other hand, that is Lord Shiva’s footprint.

Check out the recommended hotels near Adam’s Peak

?  Adam’s Peak

4 – Yala National Park

Yala National Park

Check out the recommended hotels in Yala National Park

5 – Arugam Bay

Check out the recommended hotels in Arugam Bay

6 – Galle and his Dutch Fort

The city hosts another Unesco World Heritage , Galle Dutch Fort, a walled enclave surrounded on three sides by the ocean. Built by the Portuguese and finished by the Dutch in the 17th century, this fort really deserves his reputation!

Check out the recommended hotels in Galle

7 – Mirissa

Check out the recommended hotels in Mirissa

8 – Nuwara Eliya and Tea Plantations

Nuwara Eliya

Check out the recommended hotels in Nuwara Eliya

9 – Polonnaruwa

?  Polonnaruwa

Check out the recommended hotels in Polonnaruwa

10 – Dambulla Golden Cave Temple

This beautiful Royal Rock Temple complex sits about 160m above the road in the southern part of Dambulla. From the caves there are superb views over the surrounding countryside; Sigiriya is clearly visible some 20km distant.

?  Dambulla

Check out the recommended hotels in Dambulla

11 – Colombo

Rich history, eclectic culture and buzzy culinary scene, the Sri Lankan capital deserve to be more than just a side note to the rest of the country. Discover all the activities and tours of Colombo . Visit the National Museum, grab a tuk-tuk, go to the spectacular Gangaramaya Temple and to the Beira Lake. These are just a few things you can do to visit this beautiful and controversial city where you never get bored!

• Recommended Hotels in Colombo

We hope this list of places to visit in Sri Lanka has inspired you. Did we miss something? Please do not hesitate to leave a comment if you know more wonderful places to visit! Enjoy your Trip!

18 of the best things to do in Sri Lanka

Jul 29, 2024 • 12 min read

Experience the best of the island nation of Sri Lanka with these top things to do, like visiting the Sigiriya rock fortress.

Sri Lanka may only be small, but thanks to its jungle-clad mountains, golden sandy beaches , abundant wildlife in their natural habitats, and spice-laden cuisines, this island nation ensures visitors are never bored.

From remarkable train rides and fine dining across the capital Colombo to world-class surfing and chic beachside cafes in the south of the country, here are 18 of the best things to do in Sri Lanka.

1. Watch sunrise over Little Adam’s Peak

Not to be confused with Adam’s Peak, the sacred mountain near Hatton that involves an arduous 5000-step climb, Little Adam’s Peak is a popular, easy-to-do hike for those visiting the tourist hub of Ella. Start your one-hour hike early in the morning when it’s dark outside so you don't miss the sunrise from the summit. Hikers wanting more can then trek Ella Rock and follow a path leading to Nine Arch Bridge.

Ella itself is a laid-back place. Many stay outside the town, but travelers should immerse themselves in the cafe scene at Cafe Chill . Adventure buffs can go ziplining. While Ella deserves the hype, there are other quaint mountain towns that are also worth visiting nearby: Ohiya, Idalgashinna, Haputale, and Wellawaya.

2. Taste the world's best cinnamon on Ganduwa Island

Southern Sri Lanka produces some of the world's best cinnamon, a lighter, more sweeter variety than is found in Indonesia and Vietnam. Travelers can learn about the highly prized Ceylon cinnamon by visiting Ganduwa Island on Koggala Lake , just south of Galle , by boat.

Generational peelers spend their days here skillfully shaving thin layers of the tree’s inner bark to create quills of cinnamon. You can buy these plus small packets of cinnamon powder and cinnamon oil here. The boat then takes passengers to some of the other islands. Grab a glass of fresh kirala (mangrove apple) juice from a local vendor on the jetty as you leave.

3. Bird-watch in Bundala National Park

Home to nearly 200 species of native and migratory birds, Bundala National Park is a Ramsar-recognized wetland in the south of the country. Bird-watching tours start at 6am and run for 3 to 4 hours as the park comes alive with brahminy kites, hundreds of storks, families of whistling wild ducks, Asian green bee-eaters, dancing peacocks, and resting crocodiles. Come the afternoon, wild Asian elephants, spotted deer and wild boar roam amongst the Weera, Neem and Palu trees.

Planning tip: For the best chance of spotting wildlife, arrange a 4WD safari with a tour operator. Look for offices just outside the park in Bundala Junction.

4. Climb Pidurangala to see the sunrise over the jungle

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without visiting the Sigiriya , a massive rock fortress with ruins of an ancient palace, water gardens, and frescos near the giant rock Pidurangala . Early birds should buckle up their hiking shoes and climb up Pidurangala at 5am for sunrise, but if you are not a morning person, head here for sunset before the ticket office closes at 6pm.

Planning tip: The entrance fee is US$36 for this 45-minute climb. The summit overlooks the majestic lion-shaped Sigiriya rock surrounded by tropical jungles and artificial lakes. To reach the top you’ll pass through a Buddhist temple, so carry a shawl or a sarong to cover up.

5. Go kitesurfing on the remote Kalpitiya Peninsula

With numerous flatwater lagoons and plenty of steady wind, Sri Lanka’s northwestern coast offers some of the best kitesurfing in the world. A 3.5-hour drive north of Colombo is the lesser-explored Kalpitiya Peninsula, which is still relatively new to many overseas tourists. The region is home to sandy beaches and small fishing hamlets with droves of wild donkeys strolling around large grasslands.

Stop in Kappalady on the Indian Ocean for kitesurfing lessons with local instructors at Kite Center Sri Lanka . The kite school can arrange kitesurfing safaris (tours) to nearby spots such as Donkey Point, Dutch Bay and Vella Island for more experienced kiteboarders.

Other activities in Kappalady include exploring the lagoons by kayak and ethical dolphin-watching tours where large pods of spinner dolphins swim in their hundreds. Note: Good operators will only charter small boats, keep their distance from the pods, and avoid feeding the animals.

Planning tip: There are a few accommodation options by the beach in Kappalady.

6. Camp in the Haputale mountains

An hour by bus from Ella are the misty mountains of Haputale, a region dotted with tea plantations and icy-cold streams. Stay in a local family-run campsite, such as the Eco Lodge Haputale run by the Dias family. After a few cups of sugary milk tea at their home, they will walk you through a tea garden to their campground made up of several tents with a small kitchen and a dining area that opens up to the Haputale mountains. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and enjoy the sunrise – it’s the highlight of a stay here.

7. Take a train ride from Colombo

When it comes to experiences in Sri Lanka, taking a train journey is a must . For mountain views coupled with tea gardens, British colonial-era railway stations, and gushing water bodies, take the Colombo to Ella train journey, which also passes through the Instagram-famous Nine Arch Bridge. There are several trains that pass through the route, but since it’s quite popular among travelers, make sure you reserve your tickets beforehand.

But don't just stop there. Hop on a coastal train heading south towards Galle from Colombo for the views of the Indian Ocean and swaying palms. Next, board a train riding up north to Jaffna – you will notice changing landscapes as you go past Anuradhapura when green rice fields and coconut trees are replaced by palmyra palms, shrubs, and barren soil.

Planning tip: Other than local families, travelers, and daily commuters, you'll find plenty of vendors on the trains selling cups of tea, instant coffee, chili-sprinkled fresh fruits, roasted peanuts, yogurt, and even mobile top-up cards.

8. Feast on Sri Lankan crabs

Sri Lankan crabs sell fast in Singapore’s fine-dining restaurants, and rarely make it to the menu back home. But that’s starting to change: for an upmarket taster in Colombo, head to the Ministry of Crab inside the Dutch Hospital Complex . For something more local, you can’t beat the Mayura Hotel in Pettah Market .

Planning tip: If you’re in the north of the country, you must try the Jaffna crab curry from Cosy Restaurant near the Jaffna Railway Station, which comes with a punchy, spicy kick.

9. Look for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard at Wilpattu National Park

Most visitors to Yala National Park want to see the endangered Sri Lankan leopard. However, overcrowding is common and safari 4WDs have been known to scare the animals away.

For a better and more conscientious safari experience, head to Wilpattu National Park in the northwest of the island and book with a responsible operator like Leopard Trails . Their guides don't chase after possible sightings, but they do turn off their vehicle engines near animals. They will also whisper near any sighting so as not to disturb the animals. As well as leopards, the park is also home to Asian elephants, sloth bears, and bark deer all in their natural habitats.

Alternatively, Kumana National Park , in the eastern part of Yala, is a good place for bird-watchers. If luck prevails, you may just come across a leopard napping on a rugged boulder too.

10. Witness the largest wild Asian elephant gathering in the world

Sri Lanka is home to an estimated 4000 wild Asian elephants, best seen in their natural habitats, the country’s national parks . During the dry months from July to September, the large reservoirs in Kaudulla and Minneriya National Parks draw herds of wild Asian elephants where they graze on grass, bathe and play together. Hot days see elephants sheltering in the nearby jungles, but in the afternoon, around 4pm, they slowly emerge. This is your chance to see hundreds of the creatures hanging out by the lakes, the largest gathering of wild elephants in the world.

Planning tip: Skip places where elephants are held in captivity – except for the Elephant Transit Home in Uda Walawe . Run by the government wildlife department, with support from the Born Free Foundation , this halfway house takes in abandoned and injured elephant calves and returns them to the wild once they have recuperated.

11. Eat traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry in Unawatuna

Sri Lankans enjoy curry and rice for at least one meal a day – sometimes for all three – and while there are plenty of great places to try the national dish, Mettha's Home Cooked Meals, sandwiched between the cafes and souvenir shops of Unawatuna, in the south of Sri Lanka is among the best. Freshly prepared onsite by Aunty Mettha herself (with a little support from her family), the creamy Sri Lankan dal in coconut milk is a must.

Planning tip: If you fancy learning how to cook curry dishes, head over to the family-run Sea Waves Restaurant in Unawatuna , but don’t leave without trying the whole butterfish cooked in a secret umami-rich homemade sauce.

12. Learn the life of Sri Lanka's indigenous people

The Vedda are the indigenous people of Sri Lanka. Originally forest-dwellers, their numbers have dwindled over the years due to migration, habitat loss, and assimilation into the nation's dominant Sinhala-Buddhist culture. Now scattered across the island in small numbers, some Vedda families still preserve their native language, cuisines and rituals in places like Dambana, an indigenous village and museum in the southern part of Maduru Oya National Park.

Planning tip: For a more immersive experience, head east to Gal Oya where you can take tours with the Vedda to see their ancient caves and hunting grounds. Wild Glamping Gal Oya works closely with the Vedda community to organize ethical encounters.

13. Try kottu roti street food

No other meal captures Sri Lanka quite like kottu roti . This popular street food is a carb-heavy mishmash of fresh vegetables, leftover roti (flatbread), and eggs, plus a choice of meat or seafood. Thrown together onto a metal griddle and chopped into tiny slices using two metal blades, you can often hear the distinct clink-clink-clink of metal on metal from a few hundred feet away. Kottu roti is available across the island, but try it in Colombo from Hotel de Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza (note: Sri Lankan restaurants are often named "hotels").

Planning tip: Don’t get deceived by any Pilawoos or Hotel de Plaza, though – there are numerous holes-in-the-wall with the same name – the originals are on Galle Road in Colombo 03. Order yours with a glass of iced Milo (a popular chocolate malt drink), which goes perfectly with a sizzling hot kottu .

14. Explore the quirky lanes of Galle Fort

Galle Fort is an eccentric mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architectural influences surrounded by spas, luxury hotels, souvenir shops, ice cream parlors and gem boutiques. Come in the morning hours when the Fort lanes slowly open up. First, eat a hearty Sri Lankan breakfast at National Tea Rooms , which is the oldest existing cafe in Galle Fort run by a friendly Sri Lankan family since 1932.

Shop for postcards and wall posters with funky Sri Lankan graphics, tuk-tuks and vintage maps at Stick No Bills . For lunch, don’t miss the peppery black pork curry at Church Street Social . The view from the ramparts is a must-see, especially during sunset.

15. Chase the waves with Sri Lanka’s first local female-run surf club

Surfers of all levels head to Arugam Bay on the east coast. During the season from April to August, this curl of soft, ocher sand comes alive at night with parties, booze and live music. It also has a laid-back surf scene, including the Arugam Bay Girls Surf Club , the first all-women club in Sri Lanka, which holds swimming, surfing and yoga lessons for the community.

Planning tip: The beach shacks that dot the shoreline serve delicious Sri Lankan roti stuffed with chocolate, banana, chicken, cheese and vegetables for a post-surf pick-me-up.

16. Cycle through the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa

Following the fall of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa became the second capital of Sri Lanka from 1070 to 1232, and the ruins of this ancient city are now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Don't miss the Vatadage, a circular relic house with a large Buddha statue. Beyond that, cycle through the ancient city and pay a visit to the ancient Royal Palace .

Other impressive archaeological relics, including the standing Buddha in Lankatilaka Vihara and a series of Buddha statues carved out of granite in Gal Vihara . You can see the South Indian influence in some of the remains – this is because the ancient kingdom faced several South Indian invasions back then.

Planning tip: Arrive early in the morning to beat the sweltering sun and get the best of this wonderful archaeological park to yourself. The Polonnaruwa ruins are crowded during weekends, school holidays, and on the full moon.

17. Get close to nature with a stay in a treehouse

Nature lovers will enjoy the experience of sleeping in a treehouse. Surrounded by the nearby jungle, these houses are built on a wooden platform up the tree. Book one of the treehouses at Back of Beyond in Sigiriya if you don’t mind visiting lizards and monkeys.

For those who are in the far south of Sri Lanka, Tangalle is a mix of rugged sandy beaches, lagoons and shrublands. Here, Jaywa Lanka has a treehouse next to the mangroves; you’ll only hear the faint hum of crashing waves and twittering of birds. Occasional visitors include wild peacocks trying to charm their peahens.

18. Snack on hoppers

If there’s one thing to try before you leave Sri Lanka, it’s hoppers ( aappa in Sinhala; appam in Tamil), bowl-like pancakes made from rice flour batter. With crispy edges and fluffy centers, plain hoppers are eaten with curries or a spicy sambal (chili paste) called lunu miris made with onions and dried red chili.

Walk into a street joint in the evenings and you’ll often find plain hoppers topped with an egg. If you are in Colombo, head to Palmyrah Restaurant in Renuka Hotel for some Sri Lankan fine dining; the dinner menu includes both savory and sweet hoppers with milk or jaggery. Or, if you don’t mind long lines, try some hoppers from Aunty Radhika in the Wellawatta neighborhood. Walk past the bank on WA Silva Mawatha to find this small, but popular, hopper stall.

This article was first published Feb 6, 2022 and updated Jul 29, 2024.

Explore related stories

Jul 23, 2024 • 9 min read

There is no better way to experience your 20s than by seeing the world. Our writers share their favorite destinations to visit.

Jan 21, 2020 • 5 min read

Sep 9, 2019 • 5 min read

Jun 29, 2019 • 4 min read

Sep 6, 2018 • 7 min read

Jun 8, 2018 • 6 min read

Aug 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Oct 16, 2023 • 8 min read

15 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka

Written by Freddy Sherman Updated May 3, 2023

Writer Freddy Sherman visited Sri Lanka and spent time exploring Colombo, the Hambantota area, and Udawalawe National Park.

Sri Lanka is an amazing travel destination offering a wide range of places to visit and things to do. This island, located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of India, presents visitors with an incredible array of environments and tourist attractions to enjoy and experience.

This relatively compact island boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites where that history is preserved. The best places travelers can trace the island's fascinating history, from ancient times through the colonial period to the present, are in cities like Colombo and Kandy .

Incredible outdoor landscapes and safari experiences can be found in the country's large elephant- and leopard-filled national parks, like Yala, Minneriya, and Udawalawe. Sri Lanka is also a beach-lover's paradise , ringed by some of the world's most beautiful beaches, and home to a number of luxury beach resorts.

The Hambantota area is the best place to visit for a resort vacation experience. This is also one of the best places to visit for families, as many of the resorts are all-inclusive and there is a lot to see and do without having to leave the property.

When planning a Sri Lankan adventure, keep in mind that the country experiences its rainy season from May through August, making December through April usually the best time to visit. The shoulder season, September, October, and November, is a good time to visit as well.

Plan your travel itinerary with our list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka.

Udawalawe National Park

Hikkaduwa beach, galle face green, yala national park, anuradhapura, pollonnaruwa, bundala national park, adam's peak, minneriya national park, map of places to visit in sri lanka.

The capital city combines modern urban amenities with the country's colorful indigenous and colonial history. As a key stop on the world spice trade routes, Sri Lanka has long held strategic importance for European trading powers.

The country has been a colony of Portugal, the Netherlands, and most recently the British, and all these cultures blend with the Indigenous culture to form a wonderful hybrid. You can taste these influences in the food, see them in the architecture and the arts, and you can really feel them in Colombo.

Too many visitors simply use Columbo for its international airport (CMB) and immediately head out to the resort areas on the coast. The city is well worth a visit of at least a few days, even if you plan to head to a beach resort.

The city is also filled with museums and other things to do that can help connect you with Sri Lankan culture. Colombo sits on the coast, and there's a large green space and beach area right in the heart of the city separating an area called Fort from the Indian Ocean. It's the city's public playground and a fun place to visit, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.

The city's new mega-tower, the Colombo Lotus Tower , is a great place to visit. The tallest free-standing tower in Southeast Asia, it provides amazing views of the city. Aside from indoor and outdoor observation areas, there's a fancy restaurant at the top and a popular food court in the mall at the tower base.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Sri Lanka

Kandy is where you go to learn about and experience Sri Lankan history. Located in central Sri Lanka, the city is the former capital city of the Sri Lankan royal dynasty, the country's main capital before the colonial period.

The high point of what's called the "Kandian Era" was between the 15 th and 18 th centuries, when the area remained independent while most of the coastal regions were colonized by European powers.

Be sure to visit the city's National Museum of Kandy , as it illustrates the story of the region and its people via exhibits and artifacts. Nearby, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a very holy Buddhist shrine, part of the royal palace complex. If you visit in August, there is a huge festival celebrating the temple and relics.

Kandy Lake is at the heart of the city and offers a peaceful refuge from the heat. There are hiking paths that circle the lake, dotted with temples and shrines. Venture out to the nearby suburb of Peradeniya and its amazing Royal Botanical Gardens.

Kandy is surrounded by mountains, which are home to many tea plantations. Some can be visited and offer tours and tea tastings. It's also surrounded by rainforests. The Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a forest park located within the city limits. The forest reserve has miles of hiking trails, as well as an excellent nature center with educational information.

This large wildlife park is in the southern part of the country, about an hour's drive from the resort area of Hambantota. The terrain and environment vary, as the park is on the border of the country's wet and dry zones.

Visitors to the park can see elephants, as there's a large population of them, along with crocodiles, water buffalo, and more. In fact, it's one of the best places in the world to see elephants in the wild outside of Africa .

There are leopards there, too, but they can be very hard to track or spot. There are also monkeys and a large assortment of deer and small mammals. It's also an excellent place for bird-watching.

There are some small accommodations and guesthouses across from and even inside Udawalawe. You can also visit as a day trip, the best times to visit are very early in the morning or very late in the afternoon.

The city of Galle is about a two-hour drive from Colombo via one of the country's first modern superhighways. This ancient trading port reflects its colonial history and is focused around a large, 17 th -century seafront fort.

Galle Fort is an entire preserved walled town, now filled with boutique hotels, shops, and restaurants (along with real residents). The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is a great place to explore on foot – the entire Fort area is car-free. It's hard to get lost, as you're surrounded on three sides by the sea. It's one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka for families, as the area is compact and filled with tourist-centric businesses.

Aside from and outside the fort, the city is surrounded by some amazing beaches . Like others in the country, the wide sand beach leads into clear, turquoise water. There's even a beach right beneath the iconic Galle lighthouse.

Only 90 minutes from Colombo, this beach is all about water sports, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, and scuba diving. All the gear is easily available for rent from one of the beachfront stands. It's one of the country's most popular surfing areas , with the best waves between November and March.

The beach is large, so it never feels too crowded. There are a lot of beachfront stands selling all kinds of delicious local street food and a good number of small hotels and guesthouses if you want to stay overnight. It's also becoming home to more beach resorts, catering to foreign visitors with appropriate levels of luxury and amenities.

It's also known for its coral. The Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary is a preserved marine area and part of Hikkaduwa National Park , located just off the shoreline. It was created to protect the area's coral reefs and educate visitors about coral. It can be explored on a guided boat tour or even by snorkeling.

• Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's version of LA's Venice Beach and NYC's Central Park isn't the place to get away from it all, but it is the place to relax, people watch, and have some fun with other Sri Lankans, whether it's day or night.

Aside from the beach, there's a large grass area where people picnic and play games. For the best energy, visit on a Friday or Saturday night. Come hungry, as every night there is a market with incredible street food to enjoy.

You can enjoy the beach and water or maybe fly a kite in the ever-present wind. You can play some football (soccer) or cricket as there are always pick-up games going on. The beach is fronted by vendors and restaurants, and the area beyond it is filled with hotels ranging in price from budget to luxury.

Be sure to visit the historic Galle Face Hotel, a beachfront colonial remnant that first opened in 1864. Galle Face Green is in the heart of downtown Colombo, just in front of Fort. You have the skyline behind you and the sea in front of you. It's the area between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean.

Located on the island's southeast coast, this national park is known for leopard safaris . Leopards are very rare, but the park has a large population and it's possible to spot them even on a day trip. The park is also home to a large population of Asian elephants, which are endemic to Sri Lanka.

Aside from the fauna, the park is home to some incredible, varied environments and ecosystems. You can visit the marine and beach environment of the coastal areas, follow leopards across vast grasslands, or explore tropical rainforests.

There are also some important Buddhist temples and shrines within Yala, which is not far from the resort area of Hambantota.

A visit to Anuradhapura, one of the country's ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rewards visitors with a glimpse into the past. The area is unique, as there's a thriving, modern town adjacent to an ancient one — you're not just visiting ruins. The current population makes it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places on earth (starting in the 4th century BCE).

The ruins are awesome, with many crumbling temples, statues, pools, and other structures. There are modern structures, too, and the temple remains an active place of worship. The core of the complex is a very old tree. The Sri Maha Bodhi is believed to be the world's oldest living tree planted by a human.

Anuradhapura is a fun place to visit, as there are a lot of small guesthouses and cheap places to eat, along with bike rental, tour guides, and other businesses catering to tourists.

This is an important ancient city ruin site, another one of the country's World Heritage Sites . Pollonnaruwa was Sri Lanka's second capital city, after Anuradhapura, thriving about a thousand years ago.

The garden-city is completely preserved, although most of the structures are in ruins. There are gardens, palaces, and temples, and while it's rather compact, it's best explored by bicycle. A bonus, the ruins are inhabited by a large troop of macaque monkeys, also residents of the area since ancient times. Duran Duran fans will recognize the site, as their Save a Prayer video was filmed here in the 1980s.

There's a small, modern town a few miles from the ruins, with guesthouses, bike rentals, cafés, and other tourist services. The town is close to Minneriya National Park, a great place to elephant-watch.

As an island, Sri Lanka is surrounded by beaches, and there really is something for everyone. For a diverse range of beach experiences, head to the Tangalle area. It's in the center of the southern coast of the island and is a popular resort destination.

You''ll find a wide range of beaches, from tropical coves to wide, windswept, seemingly endless stretches of open sand. You can also find beaches with services, vendors, and beachfront stands, as well as remote beaches where you're almost certain to find yourself alone.

At Rekawa Beach , just east of the town, there's a big sea turtle nesting area and conservation center.

This national park and wetland sanctuary, with its dunes, lagoons, and large freshwater bodies of water, is one of the world's best places to visit for bird-watching . There are many species of birds here; some are endemic to Sri Lanka. Many of the birds migrate here seasonally from as far away as Siberia.

Aside from the birds there are many crocodiles, which like to eat the birds, as well as a large population of elephants. The beaches are a popular place for four of Sri Lanka's five species of sea turtles to lay their eggs.

The Bundala park area is along the southern Sri Lankan coastline between Kirinda and Hambantota.

Sometimes it's as much about the journey as it is about the destination. An example of this is Ella, a small, hill-country town set among Sri Lanka's lush tea plantations. It's filled with small guesthouses, amazing food, and very friendly people. It's a fun getaway from the city or a way to enjoy a few days of leisurely hiking in the countryside.

A big reason people visit Ella is to ride the train from Kandy. Slowly, it winds its way up and down hills, through small towns, across green tea fields, until finally arriving in the small mountain town after about six hours. The ride is considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world . You can also start the journey in Colombo, which adds three hours to the trip.

Another one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka that's also all about the journey is Adam's Peak. This mountain is topped by a sacred rock formation, and pilgrims traditionally climb to the summit at night in time to watch the sunrise.

The popular hike (which is great for families and children, too) generally takes about three hours, and there are rest stops and food vendors along the path. After the hike, you'll be rewarded by seeing a rock with a footprint-shaped indentation where some believe Adam made his first step. Others believe it's the footprint of Buddha, and some believe it was made by the deity Shiva.

The Adam's Peak hike begins in the village of Nallathanniya in central Sri Lanka. The best times to make the climb are between December and May when the weather is somewhat mild.

Like Machu Picchu or Masada, Sigiriya impresses visitors just with the absurdity of its construction. It's a huge rock formation that's been carved and transformed into a palace. The ruins are near the town of Dambulla in the central part of the country.

Built about 1,500 years ago, the palace complex sits atop a 660-foot (220-meter) rock with sheer walls. Those walls have ancient painted frescoes and carvings transforming the whole structure into a work of art. In the middle of one rock wall, there's a giant gateway carved in the shape of a lion.

Aside from the palace above, the area below is an intricate city complex with gardens and residential and commercial areas. It's a very important surviving example of early city planning from this era.

If you're looking to see elephants in their natural environment, Minneriya National Park near the town of Polonnaruwa , is the best place to go. The lush, protected landscape means the park is a dry-season (May through September) feeding area for the elephants who live in the region's forests. The park is in Sri Lanka's Dry Zone, which sees far less rainfall than the other parts of the island.

Minneriya is a much better option to see elephants than some of the country's elephant orphanages and sanctuaries, which can be tourist traps that mistreat the animals. Various operators offer full- and half-day jeep safaris where you can explore the vast space. You could also visit the park on a day trip from Colombo; it's about three hours away by car.

40+ Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka (Including Destinations You’ve Probably Never Heard Of)

The A to Z of all the best destinations in Sri Lanka – start your Sri Lanka travel planning right here!

Sri Lanka is a teardrop-shaped island in the tropical Indian Ocean with a variety of landscapes and cultural attractions scattered across the country. Tourist arrival numbers have multiplied several-fold in recent years, with travelers flocking to Sri Lanka to visit Kandy, Galle, Colombo, Ella and so on.

Though the island is compact, there are a myriad of tourism destinations in Sri Lanka to satisfy even the most discerning traveler. Wondering where to go in Sri Lanka? Here is a comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka – I hope this list encourages you to look beyond the obvious destinations!

Looking for more Sri Lanka travel tips and destination guides? Click here for everything you need to help plan your trip to Sri Lanka including a detailed 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary for first-time visitors, things you should know before you visit , the best places to stay in Sri Lanka and much much more.

1. Ahangama

Ahangama is a very happening coastal town in south Sri Lanka popular with those who appreciate easy access to the nearby beaches and plenty of surf spots. While it used to be quiet, it can now be very busy – especially during the peak travel season between December and February.

Head inland and you’ll be met with traditional craftspeople and lush rice paddies, or venture to the coast for hipster cafes and restaurants.

Don’t miss: The Kip for brunch, sunset drinks at Lighthouse Ahangama or Ceylon Sliders, coffee at Black Honey Cafe, beach hangs at Kabalana Beach, lazy pool days at PALM Hotel, Handunugoda Tea Estate tour.

2. Anuradhapura

The sacred city of Anuradhapura is an ancient capital in Sri Lanka and part of the country’s Cultural Triangle . This city is a living heritage site and remains a pilgrimage destination for devout Buddhists in Sri Lanka and around the world, which makes it one of the most important historical places in Sri Lanka.

Today, the sprawling ruins of Anuradhapura features monasteries, shining stupas and remnants of the ancient city. Click here to read more about visiting Anuradhapura.

Don’t miss: Ruwanwelisaya stupa, the Sri Maha Bodhi shrine, the twin ponds, Thuparamaya.

3. Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is a famous surfing destination on Sri Lanka’s east coast, though more and more non-surfers and families are flocking to the small town from May to October for its long sandy beaches, proximity to lesser-visited national parks and budget-friendly hotels.

Don’t miss: Arugam main beach, Peanut Farm (if you are an avid surfer), Kudumbigala Monastery, Gal Oya National Park.

Bentota is a classic resort town in southwest Sri Lanka, easily reachable from Colombo or Galle. It offers sandy beaches and quiet lagoon tours through the mangroves. Its name comes from a mythical story which dates back to ancient Sri Lanka where legend is that a demon named “Bem” ruled the river.

Don’t miss: Ventura Beach, Bentota River.

Sri Lanka’s major commercial hub, Colombo is a bustling city that blends rich traditional architecture and culture with the colonial, and features pockets of vibrant and up-and-coming neighborhoods, restaurants, rooftop bars and cafes.

It is the main transportation gateway in Sri Lanka with more to offer than meets the eye. Click here for how to spend 24 hours in Colombo!

Don’t miss: Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah and the Red Mosque, the Dutch Hospital.

6. Dambulla

Dambulla is a small city in central Sri Lanka known for being home to the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex on the island.

A sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site for 22-plus centuries, the Dambulla Cave Temple complex consists of 5 caves covered in colourful frescoes and more than 150 Buddha statues.

Ella is an enchanting mountain town that has quickly become a must-visit tourist destination in Sri Lanka. It offers some of the best views in Sri Lanka – a seemingly endless sprawl of lush tea plantations and rocky mountain ranges.

Visitors can indulge in luxurious massages and tea factory tours and tastings, or adventurous hikes and waterfall treks. Click here to read more about visiting Ella!

Don’t miss: Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, Nine Arch Bridge, Mini Adam’s Peak, Ravana Falls.

Galle was an important port city when the country was occupied by the Portuguese in the 16th century, and was later fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. It served as an important military stronghold before the arrival of the British, and today features the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and old world architecture.

Even after 400 years, Galle Fort has maintained its traditional appearance after extensive reconstruction following the tsunami that devastated parts of the island in 2004. Click here to read more about visiting Galle.

Don’t miss: The Galle Fort ramparts, Galle Lighthouse, Old Dutch Hospital.

9. Hambantota

Hambantota is a rural town in southeast Sri Lanka and part of the ancient Kingdom of Ruhuna. The city served as an important port city in the past, and continues to play an important role in Sri Lanka’s trade and commerce today. It is also now home to one of Sri Lanka’s biggest beach resorts, the Shangri-La Hambantota .

Don’t miss: Bundala National Park, river safari on Walawe River, Godawaya, ancient Tissamaharama stupa.

10. Haputale

Haputale in Sri Lanka’s hill country is a small town surrounded by tea estates, and is most well known as being a convenient launch point for visitors heading to the picturesque Lipton’s Seat viewpoint.

Don’t miss: Dambethenna Tea Factory, Lipton’s Seat, Thangamale Sanctuary.

11. Hikkaduwa

One of Sri Lanka’s most famous and popular beach towns, Hikkaduwa is lined on either side by shallow coral reef and lush palm trees. It is popular with divers and snorkelers alike who flock to its shores to see the rich marine life.

Don’t miss: Peraliya Tsunami Memorial, Hikkaduwa Beach.

12. Hiriketiya

Hiriketiya is an idyllic horseshoe-shaped bay in Dickwella town in south Sri Lanka. It is one of the best beaches in south Sri Lanka and is protected from wind and swell throughout the year, which makes it a wonderful swimming spot all year round – it has quickly become one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka.

For easy access to Hiriketiya beach, check out Sam & Lola’s (my property named after my beloved dachshunds)! The twin private villas each feature a private plunge pool and beach-inspired decor. You can book via AirBnb here and here . Click here to read more about visiting Hiriketiya Bay.

Don’t miss: Surfing in the bay, spa treatments at Tonic, brunch at Verse Collective and Mond, yoga at Salt House or Jasper House, cocktails at Smoke & Bitters.

13. Horton Plains

Horton Plains National Park is a national park in the highlands of Sri Lanka featuring lush grassland and evergreen forests, as well as endemic flora and fauna including the graceful Sri Lankan sambar deer. World’s End is one of the most spectacular clifftop viewpoints in the country, or you can venture along one of the many hiking trails that traverse through the park.

Jaffna is a small city located at the northernmost tip of the island with a predominantly Tamil population. Though it was rebuilt after the Civil War that ended in 2009, tourists are slowly venturing north from Colombo to explore the city’s rich Sri Lankan and colonial landmarks and history.

Don’t miss: Jaffna Fort, Nallur Kandaswamy temple, Vaitheeswaran Kovil Pond.

15. Kalpitiya

Kalpitiya is located in the Puttalam district approximately 4 hours by car northwest of Colombo. You might not have heard of Kalpitiya but it is one of the most famous places in Sri Lanka for water sports. It is bordered by the Gulf of Mannar on one side and the Puttalam lagoon and Dutch Bay on the other, which makes it a very popular destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Click here to read more about visiting Kalpitiya.

Don’t miss: Kitesurfing lessons, dolphin and whale watching, Kalpitiya Dutch Fort.

Kandy is one of the most famous destinations in Sri Lanka: it was the last capital of the Sinhala kings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, it is one of the most important cultural and religious epicenters in Sri Lanka and home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Read more about visiting Kandy here .

Don’t miss: The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, International Buddhist Museum, Kandy Lake, Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha.

17. Kaudulla National Park

Kaudulla National Park in Central Sri Lanka is one of the best places to see wild elephants in Sri Lanka . The park is narrowly separated by a jungle corridor from Minneriya National Park, and is a popular safari destination on the island. Click here for more information on how to watch the annual Elephant Gathering in Kaudulla and Minneriya National Parks.

18. Knuckles Mountain Range

Named after the ridges along the mountain that resemble knuckles of a closed fist, the Knuckles Mountain Range in Central Sri Lanka is a UNESCO Heritage Site that features viewpoints with sheer drops, dense cloud forests, roaring waterfalls and hiking trails.

It won’t take you long to see why Knuckles is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka! Read on for a guide to planning the perfect Knuckles day trip.

Don’t miss: Mini World’s End, Sera Ella waterfall, local village visit and lunch.

19. Koggala

Koggala is a small coastal town in south Sri Lanka featuring the sprawling Koggala Lake on one side, and long golden beach on the other. The town is also well known for the stilt fishermen who are often found straddling precariously thin wooden stilts by the beach.

Don’t miss: Koggala lake and lagoon boat tour, stilt fishermen, Kathaluwa Old Temple.

Madiha is a small town close to the city of Matara in south Sri Lanka with a growing number of beach cafes and restaurants. It is especially popular among surfers who flock to its shores for consistent reef breaks.

Don’t miss: The Doctor’s House, Madiha Beach, Polhena Beach.

Matara near the southernmost point of Sri Lanka is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest cities. It was ruled by Sinhala kings for thousands of years is currently a transportation and commerce hub in the south. As it was occupied by the Portuguese and the Dutch it also features colonial architecture and landmarks.

Don’t miss: Paravi Duwa temple, Dondra Lighthouse, Star Fort.

22. Midigama

Midigama is a tiny town sandwiched between Ahangama and Weligama in south Sri Lanka. Though it is not as well known as its neighbours, it is popular among surfers who head to Midigama to ride Lazy Left’s, Ram’s and Lazy Right’s. Non-surfers can also visit the Yakinige Duuwa tombola and snorkel around its shallow reef.

Don’t miss: Yakinige Duuwa, Animal SOS Sanctuary.

23. Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, like its neighbour Kaudulla, is one of the best places to see wild Asian elephants in Sri Lanka . Large hordes of elephants trek to the reservoir during the dry season to play, bathe, drink and socialize, and visitors can watch these gentle giants from afar in their natural habitat. Click here for more information on how to watch the annual Elephant Gathering in Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks.

24. Mirissa

Mirissa is one of the top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, famous for being the hub for dolphin and whale watching in the south coast. Before you embark on a whale watching adventure, make sure you choose an ethical tour operator that does not chase or harass the marine mammals. I have heard good things about Raja & the Whales ( read more reviews here ) and I also recommend Sail Lanka’s luxury catamarans for a more intimate experience.

Don’t miss: Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, morning fish market at Mirissa Fisheries Harbor.

25. Negombo

Negombo is a small beach-side town on the west coast of Sri Lanka with a large Catholic population. Though I personally think Negombo Beach is not the best for swimming, lounging or surfing, you can walk along the sandy shoreline and watch the fishermen at work. It is an extremely convenient town to stay in if you need a place before a late-night or early-morning flight, as it’s only a 15-20 minute drive from the main international airport.

Don’t miss: St. Mary’s Church, St. Sebastian’s Church, Negombo Beach.

26. Nilaveli

Nilaveli is a coastal town in eastern Sri Lanka best known for its long pristine beach and access to the coral reef-laden Pigeon Island Marine National Park. Perfect for visitors to Sri Lanka looking for a quiet beach experience.

27. Nuwara Eliya

Also known as “Little England”, Nuwara Eliya high up in Sri Lanka’s hill country is strangely reminiscent of a small British village with its colonial-era heritage bungalows and houses.

It is a popular starting point for people looking to hike up Adam’s Peak or visit World’s End, or you can simply take a gentle stroll around Lake Gregory to take in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka – no judgment here! Tea lovers will appreciate the many factories which graciously open their doors to allow visitors to witness first-hand the tea production process and sip on world-famous Ceylon brew.

Don’t miss: Lake Gregory, Bluefield Tea Gardens, Mackwoods Tea Museum, Bomburuella Waterfall.

28. Pasikudah

Pasikudah is slowly gaining popularity as a beach destination in eastern Sri Lanka after the civil war and tsunami. Like Nilaveli, the beach is near-pristine and far quieter than the famous beaches in the south, though the tourism infrastructure is still being improved upon.

29. Polonnaruwa

These ruins cannot be left off your Sri Lanka sightseeing itinerary: Polonnaruwa served as Sri Lanka’s ancient capital city for nearly 2 centuries between the 11th and 13th centuries.

The sprawling city is a UNESCO Heritage Site that can be explored on foot, by bicycle or by car – the ruins, temples and shrines are impeccably preserved. Read more about visiting Polonnaruwa by clicking here.

Don’t miss: Sacred Quadrangle, Rankot Vehara, Lankathilaka, Gal-vihara.

30. Sigiriya

Sigiriya is one of the top tourist attractions in Sri Lanka – the massive, awe-inspiring monument is an ancient fortress that dates back to the 5th century.

The ancient city of Sigiriya features a Sky Palace that sits atop of the humongous 200-metre-tall rock. Read more about climbing Sigiriya Rock here.

31. Sinharaja Forest Reserve

Sinharaja Forest Reserve is a national park in south Sri Lanka and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. It is “ the last remaining relatively undisturbed remnant of tropical humid evergreen forest in Sri Lanka ” and home to a huge array of threatened, endangered and rare species. You can do guided tours or day trips around the forest reserve, and it is especially popular with avid bird watchers and wildlife lovers.

32. Talalla

Talalla is a small, somewhat “secret” town in south Sri Lanka offering a laid-back beach that stretches along for more than a kilometre. For those seeking some serious downtime, set up shop at Talalla Retreat and sign up for daily Yoga and meditation classes, or head to the local spa for a massage or Ayurveda treatment. After a few days, I’m sure you’ll agree with me that this is one of the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka!

Talpe is an often overlooked south coast town nestled between Unawatuna and Koggala. The main road is lined with boutique hotels aplenty, but if you cross over to the other side you’ll find popular beaches and Instagram-famous rope swings.

34. Tangalle

Tangalle is one of the largest towns in southern Sri Lanka, not far from Hambantota. It offers an array of unspoiled beaches and tends to be much quieter than its counterparts on the southwest coast. It’s also home to the luxurious Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort if you’re looking for a relaxing, upscale stay in south Sri Lanka.

Don’t miss: Mulkirigala Rock Temple, Hummanaya blowhole, Goyambokka Beach, Unakaruwa Beach.

35. Trincomalee

Trincomalee, or “Trinco” as the locals call it, is a port city on the east coast of Sri Lanka. The community is predominantly Tamil, and is one of the oldest settlements on the island. Trinco has long, idyllic beaches to offer, and its shores are graced by the presence of whales and dolphins from May to about September during the east coast’s “peak season”.

Don’t miss: Koneswaram temple, Fort Fredrick, Uppuveli Beach.

36. Udawalawe National Park

Udawalawe National Park is located in the south of Sri Lanka and is a popular destination for those hoping to spot wild elephants. It is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see elephants throughout the year as there are a few hundred elephants living within the park.

Elephant lovers must also visit the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe to watch orphaned baby elephants get fed and nurtured back to health, before being released back into the wild. Click here to read more about visiting Udawalawe National Park.

37. Unawatuna

Another one of Sri Lanka’s most famous tourist beaches , Unawatuna is a coastal town with a number of beaches and tourist attractions on offer. The small town is extremely developed with many restaurants and cafes available for the large hordes of tourists that flock to its golden shores. Alternatively, you can rent a snorkel or try your hand at diving off its shallow reef.

Don’t miss: Japanese Peace Pagoda, Jungle Beach, Dalawella Beach.

38. Weligama

Weligama is the poster child for beaches on the island, and one of the top tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. The former fishing village embraced visitors very early on, so offers many restaurants and well-established tourist infrastructure.

The beach is almost always densely packed with tourists as well as up to a hundred surfers learning to surf in white water.

Don’t miss: Sunset drinks at Cape Weligama , Taprobane Island, brunch at Ceylon Sliders, surfing at Weligama Beach.

39. Wilpattu National Park

Nearly sixty lakes and tanks are found throughout Wilpattu National Park in northeast Sri Lanka, as well as the rare sloth bear and an unknown population of the Sri Lankan leopard.

Wilpattu is one of the largest and oldest National Parks in Sri Lanka but tends to be far less crowded than its counterparts in the south. Read more about visiting Wilpattu National Park by clicking here.

40. Yala National Park

Yala National Park is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka and receives the most number of visitors each year. It is located in the south and is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist destinations – visitors head to the park in the hopes of spotting leopards as it boasts one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Click here to read more about visiting Yala National Park.

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? Here are some quick logistics must-knows:

✈️  To get into Sri Lanka by air you will fly into Bandaranaike International Airport  (airport code: CMB).

🛂  Most visitors will need to  apply for a Sri Lanka e-visa  (except for nationals of Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles) but can be done online. It usually takes 24-48 hours for the visa approval to come through via e-mail. Here is my step-by-step guide to using the new Sri Lanka electronic visa website. ( Note that as of April 17th 2024 the old electronic travel authorization (“ETA”) website has been decommissioned as the government moved to a new e-visa website. ) You can also get a Sri Lankan visa upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport.

💱  The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee  (different from the Indian Rupee), and the official exchange rate currently varies from approximately 300-330 LKR: 1 USD/Euro or 200 LKR: 1 AUD. Exchange some money upon arrival or withdraw some from ATMs in major cities like Colombo and Galle.

📱  Local SIM cards and data packages can be picked up at the airport . You can  buy a 30-day Sri Lanka SIM card from Mobitel here  (the booth is located in the arrivals hall after you pick up your luggage) and top it up during your stay at any Food City supermarket or local Mobitel shop.

👚  The primary religion in Sri Lanka is Buddhism , so be mindful of your attire when you visit temples. While there is no strict dress code it can be considered culturally offensive to walk around towns and villages wearing extremely revealing outfits – the same goes for men and women. Read more on what not to do in Sri Lanka here.

💵 In general there is no need to tip if your hotel or restaurant has included a service charge. However, a small tip is always appreciated by people in the service industry (such as porters, housekeeping staff, waiters etc.) and tuk tuk drivers.

🛏️  There are a variety of hotel options suiting every budget : budget hotels can cost anywhere from US$30-50/night, mid-range hotels from US$75-120/night and luxury hotels from US$150-200/night and upwards. l always recommend booking hotels in advance when you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka, as popular hotels fill up quickly –  click here for some of the best tried-and-tested boutique and luxury hotels to stay at in Sri Lanka or explore more Sri Lanka hotel options here .

Ready to see some of the most beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka? What are some other must-visit destinations in Sri Lanka? Tell me about them in the comments section below!

You might also find these guides helpful :

• Get started with these important things to know before you visit Sri Lanka
• Wondering what NOT to do in Sri Lanka? Here are some  common Sri Lanka travel mistakes you’ll want to avoid
• Get trip inspiration with this  classic 2 weeks in Sri Lanka itinerary or plan your trip with my express 7 days in Sri Lanka guide
• Headed to Sri Lanka as a solo female traveler ? You’ll want to read my top tips first
• I love experiencing boutique and luxury hotels around the island. Here are some of my favorite  hotels in Sri Lanka

Did you find these Sri Lanka travel tips helpful? Join the Sri Lanka Travel Inspiration Facebook group for even more tips, recommendations and advice!

Liked this post? Pin it for later!

This article contains affiliate links. If you choose to book using these links, I will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Thank you for supporting my website by using these links.

Share this article!

Enjoyed reading this article? Subscribe to the mailing list!

* Unsubscribe at any time. Your e-mail address will only ever be used to send the occasional Yoga, Wine & Travel newsletter.

Similar Posts

1 Day in Siena: Explore the Historic Tuscan City On Foot

Visit the incredible UNESCO-listed city in Tuscany, Italy – read on for an easy one day Siena itinerary! Siena is a stunning city in the heart of Tuscany that has preserved its medieval charm and architecture. Though many return visitors to Italy opt to stay a few nights in the historic centre of Siena, it…

7 Socially Responsible Restaurants & Cafés to Visit in Siem Reap, Cambodia

The food at these ethical eateries in Siem Reap will blow your mind. Cambodia has come a long way over the past few decades, and an increasing number of social projects and initiatives have arisen to help drive sustainable development in the country. In particular, there are many restaurants, cafés and training facilities in Siem…

Experience India’s White City: The Best Things to Do in Udaipur

The city of Udaipur (pronounced Oo-day-poor) in Rajasthan goes by many names: “The White City”, “The City of Lakes” and “The Venice of the East” are just a few of its beloved monikers. Just as Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City because of the surrounding yellow sandstone and Jodhpur is known as the Blue…

7 Tried-and-Tested Luxury and Boutique Hotels in Singapore

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Singapore? Here are my first-hand experiences with some of the best luxury and boutique hotels in the city.The options are endless for where to stay in Singapore, and it can be hard to narrow down the choices – especially if it’s your first time to the Lion…

13 Amazing Places to Visit in Karnataka State in South India

Get off the beaten track in India and discover hidden gems away from the crowds! Although India is perhaps most well known for the Golden Triangle, a route encompassing Delhi, Agra and Jaipur in the north, few venture beyond the beaten path and head down south to the lesser-known state of Karnataka. South India tourism…

Discover the Ancient Sanctuary of Delphi in Greece in 1 Day

Visit the place that was once considered to be the centre of the world! Read on for how to plan an Athens to Delphi day trip. You can’t talk about Greek mythology and history without referencing Delphi. Once considered the centre of the world, Delphi was home to the most famous oracle (no, they probably…

Excellent article. Very informative. Well written. This is just the tip of the ice burg for the paradise which became the Lonely Planet’s #1 destination.

Dr ARUNA KONDASINGHE

Hi Dr. Aruna, thanks for taking the time to read this article, and glad that you enjoyed it!

Oh I love this!! This makes me want to plan a trip to Sri Lanka right away! Definitely some places on this list I’ve never heard of before. 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© 2024 Yoga, Wine & Travel. Disclaimer and Website Policies.

Exclusive Member of Mediavine Travel

Seerendipity Tours and Travels

Best of Sri Lanka holidays

10 BEST ONE DAY TRIP PLACES FROM COLOMBO AND 10 EASY DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO

Looking to get out of Colombo during your short stay in Sri Lanka? Here are eight killer ideas to organize your day trips from Colombo. These 8-day tours from Colombo introduce you to the 8 best one-day trip places from Colombo by considering many factors such as connectivity from Colombo, distance to cover on the trip, and importance as a tourist attraction. Most importantly, these eight trip destinations can be easily reached from any beach resort on the west coast of Sri Lanka. These eight one-day trip places feature wildlife reserves, seaside towns, cultural and historical places, and adventure sites in the beautiful countryside of Sri Lanka.  

Table of Contents

Click here to see 15 one-day trips from colombo, prices starting from us$ 55 p.p., 1. kitulgala, 2. yala national park, 3. mirissa south coast beach, 6. hikkaduwa, 7. rathnapura, 8. sinharaja rain forest, 9. sigiriya rock fortress, 10. bentota beach, what are the most popular one day trips from colombo, distance and travel time:, transportation options:, start time:, weather and season, attraction opening hours, clothing and equipments, entrance fees and activity cost, local customs and etiquette, return time, 6 easy one-day trip places from colombo opened up due to the central expressway, 6 places in the cultural triangle for one-day trips from colombo, when is the best time to visit the above-mentioned one-day trip destinations from colombo, what time should i start my day trip from colombo, places to visit on the kitulgala day tour from colombo, what are the places to visit on the nuwara eliya day trip from colombo, whale-watching in mirissa, beach hopping in mirissa, what are the places to visit on the mirissa day trip from colombo, one-day trips from colombo, places to visit in kandy, 5 places to visit on galle city tour, 10 places to on one day trips from colombo >> galle, what are the places to visit on the hikkaduwa day trip from colombo, what are the places to visit on the rathnapura day trip from colombo, places to visit in sinharaja on day trips from colombo, places to visit on a day trip to sigiriya from colombo, places to visit on a day trip to bentota from colombo, the best price guaranteed for your sri lanka trip, plan your best sri lanka trip with-expert, one-day trips from colombo.

Are you tired of Colombo? This is the perfect moment to leave behind the hustle and bustle of Colombo and head to a perfect spot, where you can enjoy peace and serenity, of course, with a few activities. From time to time, everyone needs a change of scene but definitely without too much faffing.

So, it is immaterial whether you are in the mood for a forest frolic or embracing the sea breeze. Here are 8 sweet spots for unforgettable one-day trips from Colombo, complete with plenty of activities, restaurants, and pubs, that are close to Colombo to get there and back in a day.   

WHAT ARE THE 10 BEST PLACES FOR ONE-DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO?

If you are looking for interesting places for one-day trips from Colombo and are exploring some interesting places, I highly recommend the below-mentioned 8 trip places. Most of these places can be reached within 3 hours of driving from Colombo, except Yala and Kandy. All these places are not only reachable within a short period of time, but there are also many other places to see on your way there, such as forts, beaches, temples, stupas, museums, shopping and many other things.

Kitulgala is located in the western province of Sri Lanka and is just a 2-hour drive from Colombo

Yala National Park offers top-notch wildlife holidays and is included in Sri Lanka’s south coast itinerary. A four-hour drive from Colombo.

Mirissa is a popular beach holiday destination on the South Coast. This south coast beach holiday destination offers opportunities for whale and dolphin watching

Kandy is located in the central province and offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from temples to botanical gardens, tea plantations and many more

Galle is a popular tourist attraction in the south, with pristine beaches and an old fort

Hikkaduwa is located on the south coast and offers the opportunity for watersports, diving, snorkelling, boating and many other activities

Rathnapura is located near Colombo and can be reached within two-hour drive from Colombo, offers rain forests, waterfalls, rivers and many ancient sites

Sinharaja rain forest is popular for its rain forest and it is very popular among nature lovers

Sigiriya is tucked away in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka and well over 170 km from Colombo.

better known as a golden mile in Sri Lanka, Bentota is the most popular beach holiday destination in Sri Lanka, with gold-colored sandy beaches, swaying palms and torque of the Indian Ocean.

• Kandy one day tour from Colombo with Pinnawala
• One day trip to Sigiriy and dambulla
• Galle one day tour
• Bentota beach and river safari from Colombo
• Udawalawe safari from Colombo
• Colombo city tour with gangarama
• One day whale-watching tour with Galle Fort
• White water-rafting in Kitulgala with jungle trekking
• Sinharaja rain forest tour from Colombo
• One day trip to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo

15 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN PLANING DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO

When planning one-day tours from Colombo, consider the following factors:

• Choose destinations within 3-4 hours drive from Colombo
• Account for traffic, especially when leaving and returning to Colombo
• Private car with driver (most convenient)
• Public transportation (buses or trains, may limit your flexibility)
• Organized tour packages
• Plan for an early start to maximize your day
• Consider sunrise tours for popular sites like Sigiriya
• Check weather forecasts
• Be aware of monsoon seasons affecting different parts of the island
• Verify operating hours of sites you plan to visit
• Some attractions may close earlier than expected
• Dress appropriately for religious sites (covered shoulders and knees)
• Bring sun protection, insect repellent, and comfortable walking shoes
• Plan for lunch stops or pack food if visiting remote areas
• Carry water to stay hydrated
• Check if advance booking is required for popular attractions
• Carry sufficient cash for entrance fees and small purchases
• Research basic cultural norms and respectful behavior
• Plan your return to avoid late-night driving
• Consider Colombo’s evening traffic
• Allow some buffer time for unexpected delays or spontaneous stops
• Tailor the itinerary to suit your group’s interests and physical capabilities
• Balance sightseeing with relaxation to avoid exhaustion
• Consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide for enhanced experience
• Keep important phone numbers and your hotel information handy

By considering these factors, you can plan a more enjoyable and stress-free day trip from Colombo.

The infrastructure is been improved rapidly in Sri Lanka, especially the road network. With the improved road network, especially with newly built highways, it has become easier to reach far-flung places from Colombo. Yala and many other tourist places, such as Kataragama, were not viable day trips from Colombo in the past, due to the long drive, however, Yala and all other tourist attractions in the southern province are now just a 2-hour drive away from Colombo, due to the newly opened southern expressway.

A large number of important historical and natural tourist attractions in the north-central province have become convenient one-day trip places from Colombo with the opening of a part of the central expressway (Mirigama to Kurunegala, 40km) in January 2021. Using Mirigama to Kurunegala on the central expressway, travellers can save as much as 1 hour on their trip from Colombo to Sigiriya and the cultural triangle. Iconic tourist attractions Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla golden temple, Pidurangala, and Minneriya national park are some of the important places that have become easy one-day trips from Colombo due to the central expressway. Earlier, it took around 5 hours to travel from Colombo to Sigiriya. With the new expressway, travelers can now reach Sigiriya within 4 hours from Colombo. However, if you start the trip early in the morning from Colombo at around 05.00 (Am), you are able to reach Sigiriya, Dambulla, within 3 hours.

• Sigiriya rock fortress
• Dambulla golden temple
• Pidurangala temple
• Minneriya national park
• Ibbankatuwa ancient site
• Pinnawala elephant orphanage

The above-mentioned 8 one-day trip places in Sri Lanka are located in the western province, the southern province and the central hill country of Sri Lanka. These regions are coming under the wet zone, which is under the influence of the southwest monsoon. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rain from April to November over most parts of Sri Lanka, including the west zone. Therefore, travelling to the above-mentioned places from April to November may affect your holiday activities, specifically, it may obstruct outdoor activities with sudden heavy rain.

A large part of the wet zone sees bright and sunny weather during the north-east monsoon (from November to April), therefore, 6 months from April to November is the best time of the year to visit these 8 places from Colombo, which is also the peak holiday season on the island. Most beach resorts in Sri Lanka attract a large number of travellers from November to April and therefore the cost of holidays in Sri Lanka is also considerably heightened during this period due to the increasing demand for accommodation, transport and other facilities.

The unprecedented impact incurred on the tourism industry due to COVID-19 has been able to reduce holiday costs in Sri Lanka by more than 50% for a short period of time. However, by the time this article is published, the cost of travel in Sri Lanka is back to its usual level and in some areas, it has been pushed upward due to the high demand.

Goooooood question, because it is very important to save time for the interesting activities that you plan on the trip. Reducing the time spent on travel is one of the best ways to save time for activities. Having private transport (a private vehicle with a local driver) is strongly recommended to save time on travel. Never resort to public transport; it really sucks your time. Public buses and trains are behind schedule most of the time.

Even with your private vehicle, it is recommended to start the day trip from Colombo as early as possible. If you can start the trip at around 04.00 or 05.00 AM, it is better because you can avoid traffic along the way and reach the destination early.

It is highly important to start the trip early from Colombo if you are visiting faraway tourist attractions like Kandy, Sigiriya, and Dambulla. Usually, it takes a few hours to reach the most leading tourist attractions in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and southern Sri Lanka, as well as the cultural triangle.

As per my experience, the early start of the trip from Colombo is always rewarded, It allows you to save a lot of time because you can curtail the travel time as you drive on roads with less traffic congestion. For example, if you start the 1-day Sigiriya trip from Colombo at around 04.00 a.m, it takes only 3 hours to reach Sigiriya. But if you start the journey after 6 a.m., it takes around 5 hours to reach Sigiriya.

• 5 Most Popular Day Tours From Kandy
• 8 ONE DAY OUTING PLACES IN GALLE FOR GALLE DAY TOURS
• Bentota To Galle Day Tour
• ONE DAY IN COLOMBO ITINERARY WITH COLOMBO WALKING TOUR
• 4 Alternative Places to Visit Near Colombo and Colombo Food Tour-One Day
• 17 BEST PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR
• 6 Places to Visit on a Colombo walking tour

1-DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> KITULGALA

Kitulgala lies at the foothills of the central mountain range, towards the western slope of the hill country. It lies on the Colombo-Nuwara Eliya main road and you come across Kitulgala as you travel to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo via Hatton or vice versa. Kitulgala is laid back city with a calm and quiet neighbourhood, Kitulgala is ranked among the best places for a peaceful holiday with a twist of adventure .

The most striking natural attraction of Kitulgala is undoubtedly the Kelaniya River, which is the main reason for its popularity among travelers. The river keeps the adjoining forest alive and maintains the healthy green cover by supplying plenty of water. the rugged terrain of Kitulagla supports many adrenaline-pumping activities such as hiking, trekking, mountain climbing and jungle trekking. Kiutlgala is also popular for rainforest exploration due to the Makandawa rainforest. Kitulgala is home to a number of waterfalls, some of which support waterfalls abseiling and many travellers venture into this exciting activity every day.

• Kelaniya River (Kitulgal water rafting)
• Rain forest

Transportation: The travel time between Colombo and Kitulgala would be around 2 hours if you had your own transport. If you travel to Kitulgala from the west coast, southern, coast or Kandy, it might take around 3 hours. You can reach Kitulgala only by road, and the road that leads to Kitulgala is in very good condition and there is not much traffic on the road as well.

Things to do in Kitulgala: most things that you can do in Kitulgala are adventure activities such as Whitewater rafting, Kayaking, mountain climbing, trekking, rainforest exploration, etc. Therefore, if you are a traveller fond of beaches, city life, cultural sites, etc., there is no point in going there. On the other hand, if you like to experience some adrenaline-pumping activities and live in a place, where you are fondled in the lap of mother nature, there is no better place than Kitulgala.

How much does cost this trip:  Approx. US$ 250 per couple

Interesting Tips:   The cost of this largely varies depending on the activities you do. Usually, the accommodation in Kitulgala is not that costly but the activities are. Usually, most activities cost between 10 and 40 dollars per person.

Sri Lanka 3-day tour with Sigiriya rock fortress, Dambulla golden temple Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya

2-DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> NUWARA ELIYA

Nuwara Eliya is the hill-country capital of Sri Lanka, which sits 1800 meters above sea level. Nuwara Eliya is one of the most beautiful cities on the island and is surrounded by tea plantations and green-capped mountains. Nuwara Eliya is one of the most visited cities on the island and it attracts many thousands of travellers every day. Nuwara Eliya offers many interesting places to visit, such as historical sites, rainforests, trekking sites and temples.

Nuwara Eliya is a historical city closely connected to Ramayana. Nuwara Eliya is only 175 km from Colombo and usually, travellers need only 4 hours to reach Nuwara Eliya from Colombo. A one-day trip to Nuwara Eliya from Colombo is well worth money and time as it allows travellers to visit many interesting places.

• Spice garden
• Tooth relic temple
• Tea plantations
• Lakes, rivers
• Botanical gardens

Transportation: The travel time between Colombo and Nuwara Eliya will be around 4 hours with private transport. The duration of the journey from Colombo to Kandy can last between 5 and 6 hours if you opt for public transport such as trains and buses. If you travel to Nuwara Eliya from the west coast or southern, coast, it might take around 5 hours.

Things to do in Nuwara Eliya: There are many dozens of interesting things to do and see in Nuwara Eliya. Visiting temples, and historical monuments, visiting botanical gardens, exploring wildlife, visiting waterfalls, trekking in the rain forest, and hiking and trekking through the tea plantations are some of the main activities.

Mountains surround Nuwara Eliya, making it an intriguing playground for adventure seekers. Some of the popular adventure activities in Nuwara Eliya are mountain climbing, trekking, hiking, and whitewater rafting.

How much does cost this trip:  Approx. USD 250 per couple

Interesting Tips:   The cost of the Nuwara Eliya one-day trip from Colombo largely varied depending on the activities included in the trip. However, Nuwara Eliya one day trip includes only a few important activities due to time constraints. If you wish to have a more lengthy trip and visit other interesting places that are not included in the one-day trip, it is recommended to take the 2-day Nuwara Eliya trip or the 3-day Nuwara Eliya trip.

3- ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> MIRISSA

Watching blue whales is the talk of the town, watching whales has become a novel experience for travellers who spend holidays in Sri Lanka. The whale-watching day tour is a very easy, short trip for travelers who stay on the west coast and southern coast. Therefore, this one-day trip from Colombo is mostly booked by beach holiday lovers, who stay in beach areas such as Colombo, Negombo, Kalutara, Bentota, Hikkaduwa and Galle.

Sri Lanka is the best whale-watching spot in the region and allows you to see blue whales off the southern coast at any time of the year. Unlike most other whale-watching destinations, where you can see whales only during a few months of the year (during the season), in Sri Lanka, you can spot whales throughout the year. It is due to the resident whales, which live permanently in the Sri Lankan water. So, you have the opportunity to be close to the largest sea creature in the ocean, which can be as big as a multi-day fishing craft.

Mirissa is also one of the best beach holiday destinations on the island, with the water temperature averaging 27 Celsius all year long, allowing you to stick your toes in the sea on Mirissa’s powdery sandy beaches. In Mirissa, you can take advantage of the sun, sea, and sand while unwinding at a secluded, less crowded beach or swimming in the pristine, turquoise-blue waters with magnificent, swaying palms lining the shore.

If you like swimming with sea turtles around a multitude of tropical fish, it’s turtle beach, which is only a few kilometres from Mirissa you need to reach. But it is not only the seafront activities that you can perform.

The beachfront locality around Mirissa is home to one of the biggest fishing harbours on the island and the locality around Mirissa produces the raw material for the most popular alcoholic drink on the island, which is known as toddy, extracted from the coconut bud. Make sure you tingle your taste buds with a plate of fresh seafood and a glass of arrack.

• Mirissa Beach
• Turtle Beach
• Sea turtle conservation project
• Madu estuary

Transportation: The beaches of Mirissa can be easily reached from most cities on the island as it is located close to the city of Matara. You can use public buses, trains or a private transport mode such as a taxi to reach Mirissa. Mirissa is one of the most popular beach resorts on the island and here you get plenty of accommodation facilities. However, Matara is popular as a destination for budget travellers, where you get a large number of guest houses, rest houses, and dormitories, as well as a few middle-class-star hotels.

Things to do in Mirissa: Most importantly, Mirissa is a beach holiday destination, therefore, most travellers are glued to the beaches of Mirissa. Whale watching, visiting a natural fountain known as the blowhole, the Matara star fort (built by the Dutch in the 18th century), and the Weherahena Buddhist temple are noteworthy activities for tourists here.

How much does cost this trip:  Approx. US$ 200 per couple

Interesting Tips:   The period from October to May is considered the best time to travel to Matara and Mirissa. During this period, you get very good weather for outdoor activities with only casual rain, The sea is also calm and safe for a sea bath.

So pack yourself and join the ride and take in some of the most incredible sights, from adventurous whitewater rafting to religious rituals. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on any of the above-mentioned tours and activities.

4. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> KANDY

Kandy is one of the best cities for travellers in Sri Lanka, surrounded by lofty peaks, tea plantations and patches of forests; Kandy offers some of the most scenic landscapes on the island. Kandy is a beautiful city with many leading tourist attractions, such as a tooth relic temple, the Royal Botanical Garden, and the Elephant Orphanage Pinnawala .

• Royal botanical garden
• Udawattekele sanctuary

Transportation: Land transportation, air travel and land travel are viable options for every traveler who wishes to travel to Kandy. The city lies 115km from Colombo and it takes around 5 hours to reach Kandy by public bus or trail. Having private transportation, such as taxis, can cut travel time by about an hour.

Places to visit: Kandy is on the bucket list of every traveller in Sri Lanka, due to the large concentration of tourist attractions in the city. A trip to Kandy allows you to explore many must-visit places for tourists on the island. Important places include the tooth relic temple, the Royal botanical garden, the Pinnawala elephant orphanage, Kandyan cultural show , tea plantations, Embekke, Gadaladeniya, and Udawattakele  Sanctuary.

Travel Calculation:  Approx. US$ 230 per couple

Interesting Tips: Stroll across the Kandy market to experience the typical Sri Lanka shopping culture and buy some of the exquisite Sri Lankan handicrafts, gems and jewelry, batik, spices and textiles.

5. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> GALLE

By far, Galle City is the most popular destination for tourists on the island, who are heading to the southern coast. If you wish to experience a bit of the colonial heritage of Sri Lanka, there is no better place than Galle Fort. The Dutch built Galle Fort, a colonial city, in the 16th century. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a heaven for tourists. The setting within the Galle Fort is very suitable for holiday lovers, which features restaurants, bars, pubs, shops, galleries, museums, hotels, dormitories and great beaches. Venturing on a Galle city tour is the best way to start the exploration of the Galle.

• Spice/herbal garden
• Koggala wetland
• Turtle conservation project
• Unawatuna beach

Here are the 10 best places to visit on a one day trip to Galle from Colombo. However, it may not be possible to visit all these 10 places on a one day trip to Galle from Colombo due to a lack of time. Therefore, it is advisable to prioritize the places to visit if you undertake a one day trip to Galle from Colombo. Thereby, you visit the most important places and leave the least important places.

• Gangatilaka temple Kalutara
• Kande Vihara temple Aluthgama
• Spice garden Bentota
• Madu River estuary
• Sea turtle conservation centre
• Bentota beach
• Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary
• Mask Museum
• Moonstone mines

Transportation: Galle Fort lies 100 km south of Colombo, near the Galle harbour. The travel time from Colombo to Galle would be between 2 and 5 hours, depending on the transport. If you travel by private vehicle, it will take around 2 hours to reach Galle, with the train, it will be around 4 hours; and if you travel by public bus, it will take around 5 hours.

Things to do: visiting the Martin Vikramsinghe Museum, visiting the maritime museum, taking a boat tour in the Koggala lagoon and watching stilt fishermen can be recommended to visitors of the Galle Fort. All of these places are in the immediate surrounding area of the fort and it does not take much time to reach any of them.

Travel Calculation:  Approx. US$ 300 per couple

6. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> HIKKADUWA BEACH

Hikkaduwa Beach is topping the chart due to its pristine beaches, water sports centres, luxurious hotels, pubs, bars, seafood restaurants and many many more. There is no other beach on the island so popular among beach holiday lovers. Most importantly, Hikkaduwa is a beach resort for any type of budget, with a wide range of accommodation facilities; here you find accommodation facilities from cheap dormitories to luxurious boutique hotels. Therefore, Hikkaduwa is not only a popular beach resort but it is also one of the most affordable beach resorts in Sri Lanka and fits within the budget of all.

Transport: the cost of the up-and-down journey differs based on the way you travel. Even though it is a bit expensive, a taxi might be the best option to travel to Hikkaduwa. Train and Public buses are the next viable option for you to reach Hikkaduwa. The journey from Colombo to Hikkaduwa takes around 2-3 hours and it would cost around US$ 1 on Public transport the up-and-down journey will cost around US$ 80 by Taxi.

• Hikkaduwa beach

Hikkaduwa is very popular as a destination for seafood. So, there are a large number of restaurants selling seafood dishes at an affordable rate. A good budget seafood meal would cost here around $5.

Activities: There are many things to do and see in Hikkaduwa, but most activities are closely associated with the ocean. Out of all activities, exploring the Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary would be the favourite of all visitors. And you simply can’t miss this ecological habitat, because it is one of the 2 marine sanctuaries on the island and gives you the opportunity to look into a wide range of exotic fish species, endangered sea turtles, coralreefs,s etc. Boating, fishing, visiting Buddhist temples, beach hopping and sampling fresh seafood are some of the other things to do here.

Travel Calculation:  Approx. US$ 250per couple

Interesting Tips:  Explore the “Marine Sanctuary”, make a boat tour, visit Hikkaduwa fishing harbour during the early hours, and sample fresh seafood.

7. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> RATHNAPURA

This will be one of the cheapest Sri Lanka Budget tour packages from Colombo. Ratnapura is one of the closest trip places for travellers that reside in Colombo. Ratnapura is a beautiful hill station located at the foothills of the central mountain range. Ratnapura is the most popular locality on the island for the gem industry, with hundreds of gem mines to be seen in paddy fields and valleys.

Rathnapura offers a wide range of tourist attractions, from ancient temples to museums, rainforests, waterfalls and magical countryside with opportunities for trekking, hiking, caving, and mountain biking. A large tract of this rain-rich region is bestowed with very high yearly rainfall, therefore, Ratnaoura possesses large tracts of green cover. Recently (Jan 2022), the Warnagala forest was declared a conservation zone by the Ministry of Environment, due to its importance.

Warnagala forest is a lowland evergreen rainforest and has very high ecological importance. The forest is located in Kuruvita. The Warnagala forest harbours a wide range of fauna and flora. It is reported that there are 383 species of plants and animals in this forest reserve, consisting of 219 species of animals and 164 flowering plants. Podochilus warnagalensis, an endemic species in our country, has also been recorded in this reserve. It is reported that there are 383 species of plants and animals in this forest reserve, consisting of 219 species of animals and 164 flowering plants. Podochilus warnagalensis, an endemic species in our country, has also been recorded in this reserve.

Ratnapura is the starting point of the popular Admas peak trek, which is a well-known pilgrimage among Sri Lankan Buddhists. A large number of foreign travellers are also making the pilgrimage, not because of the religious significance but due to the magical views that they can have from the pinnacle of Adam’s Peak on the surrounding hills, valleys and jungle. One of the most visited temples on the island, known as Samana Devala, is also located here. Museums, gem galleries, temples, waterfalls, and rainforests are among other popular places to visit in Ratnapura. Trekking and mountain climbing are activities that can be performed in Ratnapura. There is a distance of 31 km to cover from Ratnapura in order to reach the starting point of the Adam’s Peak trek. Usually, the upward journey starts at around midnight due to 2 reasons.

• In order to avoid the heat of the sun.
• In order to catch a glimpse of the rising sun

A four- to five-hour trek is on the cards for any person who undertakes this long trek. You will finish your trek at an elevation of 2300 meters above sea level. The temperature is low on top of the mountain, so prepare your journey with the necessary things that you need when it is cold.

• Saman Devala temple
• Bopath Ella Waterfalls
• Warnagala Forest

Transportation: Rathnapura lies 113km eastward from Colombo. The travel time from Colombo to Ratnapura will be around 2–3 hours, depending on the mode of transport. If you travel by private taxi, it will take around 2 hours, and with the public bus, it will be around 3 hours.

Things to do: Exploring the fascinating mountains, patches of forests, rivers, lakes and waterfalls are the most popular activities to do in Ratnapura. The rugged terrain with green-capped mountains and rain forests of Ratnapura offers a large number of places that are suitable for trekking, hiking, rainforest exploration, bird watching, mountain climbing, water rafting and many other adrenaline-pumping activities.

8. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> SINHARAJA RAINFOREST

The travellers do not need to go far from Colombo to find a fascinating landscape, decorated with evergreen rainforests and some trekking sites with a green canopy. Sinharaja rain forest fulfils all conditions elaborated in the previous paragraph and Sinharaja rain forest offers many dozens of different trekking conditions. The rain forest resides on the border of Sabaragamuwa and the western province, giving easy access to travellers from all major tourist resorts on the west coast, south coast and Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Sinharaja Rainforest is warm and greener, but it offers great trekking routes in a magical setting where isolated mountains, huge boulders, waterfalls, and streams mix with the evergreen rainforest. The buffer zone of the rain forest is equally beautiful, with considerable forest cover mixed with the fertile valley of rubber, tea, coconut, pepper, and many varieties of spices and remote small hamlets.

The terrain may vary depending on the route chosen; however, if you wish to take a Sinharaja rainforest tour, it is highly recommended to start the trek from the Weddagala entrance, which is also the most popular route. This trekking makes for gentle trekking, but it still offers some challenges and plenty of rewards.

• Sinharaja rain forest

Traveling on a one day trip to Sinharaja: Sinharaja Rainforest is tucked about 160 km away from Colombo. It is easy to reach from Colombo and it is just a 2-hour journey in a private vehicle. However, if you stick to public transport like buses, you may have to spend 4-5 hours on the road. Rail transport is not available on this one-day tour from Colombo.

Things to do on the day trip: explore one of the oldest rain forests in the world; at the same time, Sinharaja Rainforest is a biodiversity hot spot on a global level. Sinharaja also offers opportunities for bird lovers and the rainforest harbours hundreds of avian fauna species and dozens of endemic bird species.

9. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS

The iconic historical monument Sigiriya rock fortress is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Sri Lanka. perhaps Sigiriya is the most popular tourist attraction in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya is tucked away in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, about 170 km from Colombo. Most tour operators like Seerendipity Tours offer one day trip to Sigiriya from Colombo. However, this trip starts early from Colombo (around 05.00). This fascinating one-day trip not only includes Sigiriya rock Fort but also many other interesting places such as Dambulla golden temple, Monneriya Safari and Pidurangala Temple. Unlike most other day trip, this one-day trip to Sigiriya is packed with many interesting places, therefore, it has become a very popular activity among travellers, especially among foreign travellers.

The places to visit on a day trip to Sigiriya from Colombo are endless. However, you may be able to visit only a few of them due to the time restriction. Here is a list of places that you can visit on a day trip to Sigiriya from Colombo.

• Pinnawala Elephant orphanage
• Dambulla Megalithic tomb
• Pidurangala ancient temple
• Spice/Herbal garden
• Habarana village

10. ONE DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO >> BENTOTA BEACH

Bentota is a coastal town in the western province of Sri Lanka. A beach holiday is an integral part of every trip to Sri Lanka and rarely does a guest miss the palm-fringed beaches during their Sri Lanka trip. Bentota Beach is the most popular beach in Sri Lanka and the majority of beach holiday lovers choose Bentota Beach as their destination for beach holidays. Bentota is not only ideal for beach stays; it also offers many interesting activities for travelers, such as watersports, boat tours, and visiting national parks and historical monuments.

• Bentota river
• Kande vihara ancient Buddhist temple
• Moonstone mine

WHY BOOK YOUR ONE-DAY COLOMBO TRIP WITH SEERENDIPITY?

Serendipity Tour is an entirely locally owned travel company with a head office in Colombo. The highly experienced local staff is a key strength of Serendipity Tours, and they can plan your dream holiday to Sri Lanka .

When you book a tour with Serendipity Tours, you directly book the tour with the local company, which means there are no middlemen and therefore you can guarantee the best price. Simply get in touch with us and let us know when you travel and what you like to see.

Our staff makes a personalised program for you, which you can change until you find the best Sri Lanka trip package for you. Visit www.sirilaktours.com to browse our existing tour packages, which you can customise to meet all your expectations. Write to us at [email protected] , tel. 0094-77-440977, WhatsApp 0094-77-4440977.

Please support us

We have put a lot of time and effort into compiling this blog post. Please be kind enough to leave your very own comments.

Share this:

21 thoughts on “ 10 best one day trip places from colombo and 10 easy day trips from colombo ”.

It seems a lot of people have enjoyed your article on Sri Lanka one day trip places. So, I thought I should also leave some comments. Very nice article and full of information. Thanks.

We undertook a Sri Lanka trip few years back with our kids. We had the opportunity to visit many places that you mentioned in the article about “ONE DAY TRIP PLACES FROM COLOMBO: EASY DRIVE TO 8 PLACES FROM COLOMBO”. All the places that we visited were very impressive tourist places.

We like surfing and diving. Can you recommend us few places for one day tour for diving/snorkeling from our hotel in Colombo? We stay in Colombo for another 5 days

Dear Mr ricardo Please drop us an email at [email protected] Thanks

Wonderful article and helped us to plan many Sri Lanak day trips during our stay in Sri Lanak last month

Wonderful article. We will be heading to Sri Lanka for 2 weeks tour in the near future. The article gave us a good idea about planning a few Sri Lanka one-day trips from our beach hotel.

Wonderful piece of information, great work. We will be traveling to Sri Lanka in October and your article “one day Trips places Sri Lanka”, gave us a good idea of how to plan activities for our upcoming Sri Lanka.

Nice article and we are ready to take couple this day trips from Colombo, but how? we are stranded at home due to COVID-19 restrictions.

What is better, doing a trip around the island while exploring different parts of the country along the way or stay in Colombo and plan few one day trips from the hotel in Colombo.

Thanks for the comment. My recommendation is to plan a tour, so-called Sri Lanka round tours. It allows you to cover more ground within a short period of time. With day tours from Colombo, you spend a lot of time travelling, a lot more time than you required on a round tour.

Very well written article, thank you for sharing

We booked Sinharaja day trip from Colombo on our 2nd day of Sri Lanka tour. Never been to such a fantastic forest. It was an amazing experience.

I travelled to Kandy last month on a day trip from our beach hotel (Bentota). But it was very tiring, I feel Kandy is a bit far for day trip from Colombo. Infact there are many places to visit on the way, therefore it is best make a 2 days trip to Kandy from Colombo.

Dear Ms Belinda I agree with you. It is better if you can visit Kandy on a 2-day trip rather than on a day trip. However, Kandy day trip is available from Colombo and you should start the trip early morning (05.00) if you start the trip before the traffic build-up, you can save a lot of time travelling.

We are still planning our trip to Colombo in the next year. This post is very useful. very nicely done.

After reading this article we decided to take the day trip to Mirissa from Colombo. It was a nice excursion with a lot to see. The whale watching trip was the best.

The article suggests a couple of good places for a Day trip from Colombo. Nice article for a traveller to arrange few intersting trips in Sri Lanka

Very useful article, it helped us a lot planning our day trips in Sri Lanka

The article makes the clear picture on Sri Lanka day trip from Colombo. The suggested day trips are very easy to do and we have done some of them already.

We did not book any of the day trips from Colombo suggested in this article. but, the article led us to find a fantastic Sri Lanka trip organizer. Thanks.

The article makes a clear picture about Sri Lanka day trips from Colombo, it is not only suggesting a few best trips to do in Sri Lanka but also give all essential information that travellers should know about.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Email address:

Get the Best Travel Deals by Experts

Our CRM team analysis your requirements and assign to destination expert. Assignment happen as soon as possible on best effort basis.

CRM team sends first response to you which includes advisors contact details and response time etc.

Sales advisor gives quotation to you with in 4 hrs for FIT (1-10 people) 24 hrs for group (more then 10 people)

Note: We work from mon - fri 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM

15 Gorgeous Cities in Sri Lanka to Visit

Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is an all-round holiday destination, full of culture, history, and scenic charm. It has a myriad of places to visit, romantic landscapes to capture, dramatic mountains to explore, and beautiful tea gardens. Today, we are going to share the best cities to visit in Sri Lanka so you can go on a vacation there. Once you see this beautiful country, you will not stop loving its ambiance and magnificence. Exploring Sri Lanka is nothing short of magic. With soulful temples, exotic locations, picture-perfect vistas, history & culture, and sparkling beaches, you will get a pinch of every experience here. If you are on a hunt to jot down the spectacular places to visit in Sri Lanka for your upcoming trip, you have come to the right post. Go through the list of cities you can see in Sri Lanka below. 1. Kandy

• Cities in Sri Lanka
• Cities in Sri Lanka to Visit
• Cities to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Best Cities to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka
• Best Places to See in Sri Lanka

Recent Blogs

Sep 23, 2024 - by Dook

Naryn: Discover the Unspoiled Gem of Kyrgyzstan

Sep 17, 2024 - by Dook

Plovdiv, Bulgaria: Explore the Ancient European Aura

Sep 16, 2024 - by Dook

Kundasang Sabah: Unwind in a Beautiful Mountain in Malaysia

Sep 12, 2024 - by Dook

20 Top Things to Do in Helsinki

Sep 10, 2024 - by Dook

15 Cities in Finland You Must Visit

Sep 06, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Places to Visit in Singapore

Sep 04, 2024 - by Dook

European Food: Top 20 Cuisines to Try in Europe

Sep 02, 2024 - by Dook

Unveiling Sheki: A Cultural Capital of Azerbaijan

Aug 30, 2024 - by Dook

CIS Countries - A Brief Introduction

Aug 29, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Cities in South Korea to Visit

Aug 26, 2024 - by Dook

Ala Archa National Park: An Off-the-beaten Location to Natural Paradise

Aug 20, 2024 - by Dook

Alpaca Azerbaijan: Tour a Land of Beauty in Shamakhi

Aug 14, 2024 - by Dook

Ile Alatau National Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Aug 12, 2024 - by Dook

Song Kul Lake: Travel to Untraveled Paths in Kyrgyzstan

Aug 09, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Beaches in Sri Lanka to Unwind Soulful Experience

Aug 07, 2024 - by Dook

Shopping in Dubai: Explore Famous Dubai Shopping Malls & Centres

Aug 05, 2024 - by Dook

Lankaran Azerbaijan: An Unexplored Marvel on the Caspian Sea

Aug 01, 2024 - by Dook

15 Countries Indians Can Travel Without Visa

Jul 30, 2024 - by Dook

20 Best Cities in Vietnam: Unwind a Tranquil Holiday Experience

Jul 26, 2024 - by Dook

4 & 5 Days International Trip from India – Explore Top Destinations

Jul 24, 2024 - by Dook

10 Traditional Tajikistan Food & Cuisine You Shouldn’t Miss

Jul 22, 2024 - by Dook

15 Easy Visa Countries for Indians to Travel & Explore

Jul 18, 2024 - by Dook

30 Best Things to Do in Dubai UAE

Jul 17, 2024 - by Dook

Kolsai Lake: Discover a Marvelous Gem in Kazakhstan

Jul 15, 2024 - by Dook

Altyn Arashan: Experience the Untamed Natural Beauty in Kyrgyzstan

Jul 12, 2024 - by Dook

Langkawi Malaysia: Savour the Beauty & Adventure All At Once

Jul 10, 2024 - by Dook

Gabala: An Off-Beat Treasure of Azerbaijan

Jul 09, 2024 - by Dook

20 Spectacular Places to Visit in Sabah, Malaysia

Jul 05, 2024 - by Dook

Dook Reviews

Dook international.

Customer Rating

From 8863 travelers

• Enquire Now
• Get a Call Back

Send us a query

Ready to venture out into the world? Fill the form below and start your brand new journey with us

Data collected by Dook International is used for internal purposes to process and respond to your request.

Login or Register

Lost your password?

Forgot Password

Ultimate 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary (& 5-day option)

Table of Contents

Sri Lanka , a tear-shaped island in the Indian Ocean, is a country that has a lot to offer to any kind of traveler. It’s home to vast tea plantations, it has a rich history, interesting culture, beautiful nature, and vibrant wildlife. In addition, you’ll find world-class surf breaks around the coast.

After spending 14 days in this beautiful country, we were sad to leave. We realized there’s so much to see we will need another visit to fully get to know the island. Due to the little time we had allocated for Sri Lanka, we only managed to visit the southern parts.

Now we’d like to share with you some of our best tips to make your trip planning a piece of cake. We also provide our personal 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary, as well as a shorter option for a 5-day trip.

Practical tips before your trip

No time to read now?

Save this post for later!

How many days do I need in Sri Lanka?

Many people have the impression that this tear-shaped island is easily visited on a short trip. But in reality, you will realize that it has so much to offer even one month would not feel like enough! Sri Lanka is home to incredible beaches, world-class surf, vibrant wildlife and mesmerizing nature.

I suggest planning around 14 days here to see the best of Sri Lanka. This gives you enough time to get to know the country better and to visit all of its best attractions. But if you’re short on time, our 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary covers the basics.

Is Sri Lanka safe?

Especially after events in recent history, many tourists ask themselves whether it’s safe to visit the country. In 2022 a severe economic crisis hit the island, causing shortages of food, medication, fuel, and more. Furthermore, this led to a lot of unrest on the streets.

As of 2024, Sri Lanka is on its way to recovery with tourism flourishing once again. As no travel warnings have been issued, it’s considered safe to travel here. But as always, take care of your belongings.

Getting visa

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter the country. A few different types are available, but all you need for a short stay is a 30-day tourist visa. The fee is 50$. You can obtain the visa both in advance and on arrival.

To speed up your arrival, we recommend getting the visa before. As of now, the official website for visa application is no longer working ( srilankaevisa.lk ). It seems like you can only get the visa in advance using a different third-party provider, such as ivisa.com .

How to get around

While Sri Lanka has a relatively huge network of public transport, it might take some time to get around using trains and buses. They’re also not in the best condition, often without AC. And of course, delays are rather common.

But it’s an adventure! When setting the right expectations, we enjoyed riding Sri Lankan trains and buses so much. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the surrounding environment and meet locals. Another benefit is that it’s the most affordable way.

An adventurous option many people choose is riding around Sri Lanka in a tuk-tuk! Thanks to a rental service, anyone with a valid driving license is eligible to do so. For example, tuktukrental.com is a reliable company that can help you with everything.

If you dare, you can also rent a car ! It might be very convenient and provides a lot of freedom, but you should be a confident driver.

Lastly, you can also hire a private driver for your whole trip. This is a great option especially if you’re short on time and want to have the whole trip personalized according to your needs. But this will also be the most expensive option.

Best time to visit

Answering this question is not that easy since the Southwest and Northeast both have different climates. The dry season lasts from December to March in SW, and from May to August in NE. On the other hand, the rainy season lasts from December to March in NE, and from May to August in SW.

April, September, and October are known as the shoulder months in the whole country. So if you’re planning a trip to both parts, it might be best to plan it during these months. The weather is mostly stable and dry, with occasional rains.

10 day Sri Lanka itinerary

Day 1: colombo.

Colombo is the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka and most likely your entry point. It is the country’s economic and cultural hub, which is clearly noticeable from the minute you enter the city.

We are personally not big-city people, so we decided to skip exploring Colombo and dedicate the extra time to the natural attractions.

Therefore we can’t comment on the things to do based on our own experience, but below are the most popular attractions you shouldn’t skip.

In case you’re looking for a hassle-free experience, we recommend the Colombo City Tour by private tuk-tuk. In 4 hours you will visit all the main attractions in the city!

Things to do in Colombo

Visit the national museum.

As the largest museum in Sri Lanka, the National Museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including ancient relics, historical document, and royal regalia. So if you’re a history buff, there’s no better way to learn about rich history of Sri Lanka.

Stroll Along Galle Face Green

Looking for a place to escape all the chaos? Then head to Galle Face Green, an oceanfront promenade perfect for a peaceful walk. Enjoy stunning sunset views, street food vendors, and the vibrant atmosphere created both by locals and tourists.

Explore the Colombo Fort Area

A historic district with colonial-era buildings like the iconic Clock Tower and the Dutch Hospital. But don’t think this place is all about history. You can expect various dining options as well as shopping opportunities.

Admire the Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque)

We fell in love with this place at first sight! We tried to make a stop at least on this one place, but we didn’t manage at the end.

You can’t possibly walk by without noticing the mosque’s stunning architecture. The facade consists of striking red and white stripes. Luckily, it’s also open to non-muslim visitors.

Discover the Gangaramaya Temple

The intricate architecture and a serene lake attract many tourists to the Buddhist temple Gangaramaya. It also houses a museum with valuable artifacts.

Visit the Pettah Market

Who else is a huge market lover? Anytime we hear about local markets, we make sure not to skip them. You can buy everything from textiles to spices at this place. Also, don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs.

Check Out the Colombo Lighthouse

Located near the harbor, the Colombo Lighthouse is a historical landmark that offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a picturesque spot not only for photography but for enjoying the coastal scenery, too

Where to stay

Best hotels in colombo.

Drop Inn Hostel

Lavonca Boutique Hotel

Hilton Colombo 5*

High budget

Day 2: Pidurangala & Yapahuwa

NOTE: You will either need to sacrifice some time in Colombo or skip one of the two destinations. The journey to either of those places is gonna take at least half a day.

Pidurangala is a striking rock formation located near the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. You can climb to the summit which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The site is also home to the ancient Pidurangala Vihara, a Buddhist temple from the 5th century. Inside you will find impressive Buddha statues cut in rocks.

Yapahuwa is an ancient rock fortress and one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, you will love this place. In the 13th century, it was a royal capital.

Nowadays you can marvel at impressive ruins and the lion-shaped staircase which leads to the summit. From the top, you can also enjoy panoramic views of the lush landscape below.

Getting to Pidurangala

First, you will need to reach Sigiriya when traveling from Colombo. Take the local bus to Dambulla first (3-4 hours), and then change to a bus which will take you to Sigiriya (30-45 minutes).

Another options is to take a rather long 6-7 hours train to Habarana and continue either by bus or a taxi to Sigiriya.

Getting to Yapahuwa

When traveling from Colombo, you can first take the local bus to Kurunegala, and then change to a local bus to Yapahuwa.

From Sigiriya, it takes around 1 hour, and your best option is to organize a private tuk-tuk or other transfer.

Day 3: Kandy

Kandy is also known as the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. Until 1815, when the country was conquered by the British, it was the seat of the last monarchy, the Kingdom of Kandy.

Nowadays, it’s a historically significant place of interest surrounded by lush green nature. Its cultural importance is highlighted by the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

But we loved its vibrant streets and markets the most as it is the perfect place to learn more about Sri Lankan culture and local daily life.

Getting to Kandy

We chose one of the most scenic ways to reach Kandy – by train from Colombo (can be taken from Ella, too). The train journey offers breathtaking views of tea plantations and picturesque valleys.

The ride from Colombo takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, while the trip from Ella is around 6 to 7 hours.

Buses are another budget-friendly option. The frequent services between Colombo and Kandy take about 3 to 4 hours. The main bus station in Kandy is conveniently located near the city center.

If you prefer to drive, renting a car or a tuk-tuk can be a great option. The drive from Colombo to Kandy takes approximately 3 hours via the A1 highway.

Things to do in Kandy

Visit the temple of the tooth relic.

Visit the golden temple with the most important Buddhist relic in the country. It’s been declared a part of UNESCO and it’s a popular pilgrimage site.

Stroll around the Royal Botanical Gardens

Take the local bus #652 and explore vast and impressive botanical gardens housing more than 4000 different species of plants. You can see orchids, spices, but also medicinal plants.

Explore the streets of Old Town

The small area around the Clock Tower is home to colonial architecture, local markets, and numerous cafes and eateries. Don’t skip a visit to the Red Mosque of Kandy and the oldest building in town called Giragama Walawwa.

Walk around Kandy Lake

Since it’s located right next to the Temple of Tooth relic in the city center, you can’t miss this lake. Enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and take a walk along its shores. You’ll also meet a few locals selling snacks and souvenirs here.

Visit Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya temple

The temple houses a majestic 27-meter-high Bahirawakanda Buddha statue. You’ll notice the temple when walking along the streets of Kandy. While you can come here any time, we recommend sunset hours. The temple also offers panoramic views over the town, which combined with the lovely pinky sky make for an amazing experience.

Try Masala Dosa at Balaji Dosai

The most famous restaurant in town that is known for having the most delicious Dosas.

Take a half-day trip to Ambuluwawa Tower

A unique landmark, but it requires around 5 hours to visit from Kandy. A super narrow and spiraling staircase climbs up around the tower and takes you to the top with panoramic views.

To see the best of Kandy easily in one day, check out this full day tour which takes you to Ambuluwawa Tower, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Royal Botanic Gardens, and Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

Best hotels in Kandy

Tree Breeze Inn

Colonial Residence

Grand Serendib 5*

Day 4: nuwara eliya.

Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is a charming hill station. It’s famous for its cool climate, never-ending tea plantations, and colonial architecture.

Since it’s located in the central highlands, the mountains surrounding it are often covered in mist. Since the city is rather cool, it is an amazing escape from the tropical heat. Nuwara Eliya is a must-visit stop for any nature lovers following this 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary.

Things to do in Nuwara Eliya

Walk to lovers’ leap waterfall.

A pretty waterfall not too far from this city. It took us a short 30-minute walk to get here. From the waterfall, we were also rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding tea country.

Visit tea plantations

As soon as we entered Nuwara Eliya, we were welcomed by never-ending tea gardens all around. Visiting one of them should definitely be a part of any Sri Lanka itinerary. For example, we combined the Lovers’ Leap with a visit to a nearby Pedro Tea Estate.

Join a tea factory tour

We found a few different tours, but we opted for PTE. Friendly staff took us through the whole process of tea making – from the seed to the cup.

Visit Nuwara Eliya Post Office

In the center of the town lies a beautiful colonial building made of red bricks. It’s the oldest post office in the country.

Enjoy a Royal High Tea at the Grand Hotel

If you have extra money to spend, experiencing an afternoon High Tea is an incredible opportunity to taste some of the finest Sri Lankan tea. However, this is not for those who are traveling on a budget.

Best hotels in Nuwara Eliya

Mount Marry Inn

The Montfort

Oliphant Villa 4*

Day 5: train to ella.

Known as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, riding the train to Ella was on our bucket list for a long time. The train took us through stunning landscapes, lush jungles, misty hills, charming villages, and rolling tea gardens.

What we love the most is that it’s not only an attraction; it’s a very convenient way to travel, too. In addition, it’s also budget-friendly. It’s a highlight of this 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary.

We wrote a complete guide taking you through each step of the journey. So if you want to know more details about this trip, check the post about the Colombo to Ella train .

Where to book tickets

The first option is booking offices that are located in every major town near the train station. But the downside is that buying at the last minute is almost impossible. Since the train route is very popular, tickets sell out fast.

So unless you have a chance to visit a booking office well in advance, we recommend choosing an online reservation.

We got our tickets on the official Sri Lanka Railways website . However, it might be unreliable at times, with the booking system not working properly.

So in case the website doesn’t load or you’re not able to pay, we recommend 12Go . Last time we checked, they even offered lower prices than the official website.

Practical tips

Ensure you choose the right class , as it is gonna have a huge impact on your experience. While the first class has AC, you can’t open any windows or doors.

As you might know, enjoying the ride while sitting in the open doors is the best part of this trip. Hence we recommend going for the second class. Moreover, if you’re on a budget, the third class is great for more interactions with locals!

While locals often sell snacks when the train stops, we recommend having enough water and food with you. Trains are often delayed, and staying hydrated is important.

Bringing your own toilet paper is also essential.

Don’t expect any power outlets or wifi in the second or third class.

Furthermore, between Kandy and Ella, the right side of the train offers better views.

Day 6: Ella

Imagine a lovely small town surrounded by lush green jungles and picturesque hills. That’s exactly what Ella looks like. Since it’s located in the central highlands, it provides a cool climate and plenty of hiking opportunities for nature lovers.

The most popular attractions are the Nine Arch Bridge and a hike to Little Adam’s Peak . But if you’re after something more unusual, we recommend adding some extra time for a day trip to Diyaluma Falls .

We also recommend the Ella tour , which includes a 4-hour hike to Ella Rock, Nine Arch Bridge, and Little Adam’s Peak.

Things to do in Ella

Walk to the nine arch bridge.

The icon of Ella which attracts a number of tourists each day. The 24-meter high and 91-meters long bridge is built entirely of rocks and bricks, with no metal used. Trains pass the bridge around five times per day.

Hike to Little Adam’s Peak

A medium difficulty hike to an incredible viewpoint called Little Adam’s Peak offers views of Ella Gap valley. We recommend hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to watch the sunset. It took us over one hour to get to the top.

Flying Ravana Zip Line

Finish your hike to Little Adam’s Peak with a thrilling zipline ride to 98 Acres Resort. Fly over the iconic tea plantations overlooking the famous Ella Gap.

Have a day trip to Diyaluma Falls

After a lot of hesitation, we are glad we did not give up on this hike. Visiting Diyaluma Falls was the highlight of our whole trip! The area is full of natural pools, water slides, cliff-jumping opportunities, and an infinity pool at the top of a 220m tall cliff!

Hike to Ella Rock

Slightly more difficult than the Little Adam’s Peak hike, but you will be rewarded with the best views! You can either hike alone or take a guide with you. We recommend reading this blog post for all the instructions. It takes 3 hours round trip.

Best hotels in Ella

Winsome & Tree House

Sky Garden Ella

98 Acres resort

Day 7-8: weligama.

What we loved about Weligama the most was how vibrant it is. The coastal town is mostly known for its excellent surf conditions for every level. The relaxed laid-back atmosphere and ocean views made it our favorite coastal town.

The wide selection of different kinds of restaurants makes it a food lovers’ paradise.

Things to do in Weligama

Try scuba diving.

Sri Lanka is home to some rare species, and it boasts crystal-clear waters. This combined with cheap prices makes it a great destination to get PADI certified!

Sri Lanka is a surfers’ paradise! Weligama Bay is an incredible spot for both beginners and intermediates. But if you’re looking for a challenge, you’ll find many spots nearby!

Relax at Good Spa

One of the most popular SPAs in the area is Good Spa. We recommend trying their Ayurvedic massage!

Go whale watching

Whale Watching tours are organized daily from Mirissa. The best time to meet the whales is from April to November.

Visit Mirissa

Apart from whales, Mirissa is home to beautiful beaches and the famous Coconut Hill viewpoint.

Enjoy the parties at Doctor’s House

Weligama has a few nightlife options, the most visited being the Doctor’s House. It’s located near Mantara. The club has a spacious terrace with lovely sunset views, good cocktails, and tasty food.

Go on a safari day trip

One of the activities you should certainly not miss is heading out for a safari day trip. You can visit either Yala or Udawalawe National Parks from Weligama. More on that below.

Best hotels in Weligama

Marriott resort

Day 9: Safari day trip (Udawalawe or Yala)

An adventure we couldn’t miss. Planning a safari day trip is a unique chance to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. The most popular parks are Udawalawe and Yala.

With options for both morning and evening safaris, you can choose the one that suits your needs better or visit both parks in one day. The trips are organized in the form of a guided jeep tour.

Yala or Udawalawe?

It might be hard to choose between the two parks if you only have time or budget for one. Let us highlight a few key differences to help you make a decision.

Yala is mostly known for its leopard sightings. While their population is high, they’re often hiding. The chances of seeing one are higher than in Udawalawe, but it can never be 100% guaranteed.

Apart from that, Yala is home to elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and a variety of birds.

Best Yala Day Tour

On the other hand, Udawalawe is known for its huge elephant population, often seen in herds. So if that’s your main focus point, this park is a better option. But you can also meet water buffalos, crocodiles, different bird species, and deer.

Udawalawe also offers a less crowded and more tranquil experience.

Best Udawalawe day tour

How to organize a safari day trip.

Organizing a safary day trip to any of the above-mentioned parks couldn’t be easier. If you’re staying in one of the coastal towns, Ella, or Nuwara Eliya, you’ll find a few different local companies offering jeep tours.

We personally opted for Udawalawe National Park and decided to stay in Udawalawe village. Since we booked a guesthouse in the area, we didn’t book any trip prior to that. Instead, the owners of the guesthouse helped us organize the whole trip.

I can’t comment if you can also do something similar in Yala National Park.

Another option is to choose one from many well-reviewed safari trips online. We love to use GetYourGuide when booking any experiences worldwide. You can read the reviews to avoid scammers and you’re also covered by GYG if something goes wrong.

Above are the best-reviewed safari day tours.

Day 10: Unawatuna

The picturesque beach town south of Galle offers a completely different experience than Weligama. It’s not as much of a surfers’ destination, making it popular among families with kids on vacation.

We loved the huge variety of restaurants, vibrant markets, fresh seafood options, and the nearby beaches. If you plan to explore the Galle Fort, Unawatuna is a great base.

Things to do in Unawatuna

Relax on unawatuna beach.

Lined up with sunchairs, restaurants, and bars. It has a different vibe compared to Weligama Bay.

Plan a day trip to Galle Fort

The huge fort that shows influences of Portuguese, Dutch, and British. It’s a great sunset spot, too.

Not as popular as Weligama, it might be a good spot if you’re trying to avoid the crowds. Ahikava Surf School provides lessons, surf rental, and SUP rental.

Meet sea turtles at Wijaya Beach

The beach is a popular spot for meeting the Giant Sea Turtles! Enjoy snorkeling with them in their natural habitat.

Best hotels in Unawatuna

Anara Villa

Green Escape 4*

Agnus Unawatuna 5*

5 day sri lanka itinerary.

If you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of Sri Lanka, this 5-day itinerary is perfect for you. We’ve handpicked the must-visit destinations you shouldn’t skip.

From exploring ancient temples to relaxing on pristine beaches, this condensed itinerary ensures you make the most of your trip, without missing out on the highlights.

Day 1: Colombo + train to Nuwara Eliya

Start your adventure in Colombo, exploring the bustling city before hopping on the iconic train ride to Nuwara Eliya. Soak in the breathtaking landscapes as you journey through lush tea plantations and misty hills.

It’s gonna be a long ride, so make sure to start your day early.

If Nuwara Eliya didn’t capture your attention as much as Kandy, feel free to change your plans accordingly. From Kandy, you can take a direct train to Ella while skipping NE completely.

Day 2: Nuwara Eliya + train to Ella

Spend your morning exploring the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its cool climate and colonial charm. Then, take the scenic train ride to Ella, one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world, offering stunning views of mountains, tea plantations, and villages.

Day 3: Ella

Discover the picturesque hill town of Ella, with its lush tea estates and famous hikes. Visit the Nine Arches Bridge, hike up Little Adam’s Peak, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Both can be done in one day.

Day 4: Weligama

Head to the southern coast and relax in the laid-back beach town of Weligama. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, take a surf lesson, or witness the unique stilt fishermen at work.

Day 5: Safari day trip (Udawalawe or Yala)

End your trip with an exciting safari adventure. Choose between Udawalawe for elephant herds or Yala for spotting leopards, and get ready for a day of thrilling wildlife encounters amidst stunning landscapes.

You can organize a Safari Jeep Tour with transfer from Weligama area or from other coastal towns.

Suggested budget for 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary

It is almost impossible to say exactly how much you should expect to spend. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to dining options, accomodation and choice of activities.

But we can provide approximate costs in different sections:

Accommodation (for 2)

Budget:  $10–$15 per night (guesthouses, budget hotels) Mid-range:  $20–$40 per night (boutique hotels, 3-star hotels) Luxury:  $80+ per night (high-end resorts, 4-5 star hotels)

Budget:  $2–$5 per meal (local food, street food) Mid-range:  $5–$12 per meal (mid-range restaurants) Luxury:  $12+ per meal (upscale restaurants, resort dining)

Transportation

Train Rides (Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, Nuwara Eliya to Ella) :  $10–$15 per ride (2nd/3rd class) Private Driver for Day Trips:  $50–$80 per day (shared between group if applicable) Tuk-tuks (short rides):  $1–$2 per trip Public Buses:  $1–$3 per ride

Total Estimated Budget for 5 Days (per person when traveling in 2):

Budget:  $90–$145 Mid-range:  $155–$300 Luxury:  $400+

Total Estimated Budget for 10 Days (per person when traveling in 2):

Budget:  $180–$290 Mid-range:  $310–$600 Luxury:  $800+

As you can see, these are only the inevitable costs. All the optional activities, such as snorkeling, surfing, jeep safari, etc., are not included.

Altogether, we spent 23 days in Sri Lanka, and on average, we spent around 18$ per day per person on these basic needs.

When I include all the other spending of ours, it makes 25$ per day per person. This includes a sim card, visa, activities, and shopping.

We traveled on a budget and stayed in the cheapest, well-reviewed places possible. Mostly, we tried to eat local but failed and ended up in more expensive restaurants most of the time. But we’re still talking 5-8$ per meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

The currency is Sri Lankan rupee. 1€ is approximately 330 LKR, while 1$ is around 300 LKR. Keep in mind that it’s not possible to exchange ruppes outside of Sri Lanka, so make sure you won’t leave with too much cash.

Sri Lanka is becoming a more and more touristy place, and there’s no need to go around covered all day long. Feel free to wear anything you find comfortable. But when visiting the temples, you should always have your knees and shoulders covered.

Bikini is not a problem, but only as long as you’re on the beach. You should never wear in along the streets or in the shops.

Sri Lanka has two official languages – Sinhala and Tamil. The former is spoken in the SW and central parts of the island while the latter is only used in the NE.

Sri Lankan food has some common signs with Indian cuisine. One of them is the spiciness. Normally local food was very spicy to our liking. But after requesting no chili, we found that we were always given non-spicy food in Sri Lanka, unlike in India.

Traditional meals include fried rice, samosas, roti, and curries.

Regarding vegetarian options, you’ll find there’s a nice variety of different meals.

To have the most options available, it’s better to book your accomodation in advance. But you should always be able to find something last minute. We were surprised how many hotels and guesthouses there were even in the smaller towns.

Regarding train tickets, book those ASAP. They sell out quickly and you might find it hard to purchase a ticket even two weeks before your trip.

Absolutely not. You can buy plastic water bottles. We recommend buying 5l bottles. You can refill in some restaurants, but it’s not common. Another option is to use a water filter for the tap water.

Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s expected in the service industry, especially in tourist areas. Plan to tip around 10% , or more if you’re exceptionally satisfied.

We also often met with a 10% service charge on our bill. This is not the same as tipping.

Plan with us

Ready to start planning your next trip? If you use our referral links, you pay the same and we earn a little commision. It helps us run this blog. Thank you! ❤️

Hotels: Booking.com

Car rental: Discover cars

Tours: Get your guide

Insurance: Safety Wings

Hostels: Hostel world

Bus, train: 12.Go Asia

Tours: Viator

Visa: iVisa

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

[email protected]

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

World Rhino Day

World Scenic Rivers

Jungle Safaris India

Schengen Visa

World Tourism Day

Scenic Villages Himalayas

5 spots to bookmark as Sri Lanka goes visa-free for Indians from Oct 1

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , SRI LANKA / Created : Aug 28, 2024, 16:11 IST

You're Reading

This beautiful island nation is all about rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant wildlife. If you have never been to this place, this is the right time to be. So, here are five must-visit spots to bookmark for y … Read more

This beautiful island nation is all about rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant wildlife. If you have never been to this place, this is the right time to be. So, here are five must-visit spots to bookmark for your Sri Lankan adventure. Read less

Cheap international destinations near India that offer easy visas

More from travel news.

Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth

Yala National Park

Comments (0)

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

9 sacred destinations along the River Ganga for those looking for spiritual retreats in India TRAVEL TRENDS , INDIA

6 unhappiest cities in the US; find out why TRAVEL TRENDS , UNITED STATES

Rameswaram’s island life and cultural wonders you need to experience TRAVEL TRENDS , TAMIL NADU

Trending stories.

5 places in India that are akin to international dream destinations

• 8-day long 'Spectacular Saudi' event kickstarts in Mumbai with exclusive VIP showcase

Delhi to prepare for Odd-Even and artificial rain this winter; firecrackers ban to continue this year as well

24 hours in Srinagar: Places to cover and things to do

The must-visit UNESCO heritage sites in Maharashtra

• 1 5 spots to bookmark as Sri Lanka goes visa-free for Indians from Oct 1
• 2 5 national parks to explore in India the are also UNESCO Heritage sites
• 3 What's inside Yellowstone National Park, the world's oldest national park?
• 4 Ranthambore National Park: A complete guide to safari booking, best zones, and more
• 5 5 quintessential Jodhpur experiences: Discover the charms of Rajasthan’s Blue City

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• The Pyramids of Giza are NOT the oldest pyramids in the world—this one is

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

This beautiful island nation is all about rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant wildlife. If you have never been to this place, this is the right time to be. So, here are five must...

Whirlwind 7-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary. The Best of Sri Lanka in One Week

Trying to figure out exactly how to spend 7 days in Sri Lanka isn’t an easy task for one obvious reason. With only 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary, it’s virtually guaranteed you’ll need to leave some of your Sri Lanka bucket list items unchecked.

That being said, you can absolutely have an amazing trip to Sri Lanka in 1 week and walk away feeling like you’ve enjoyed a fantastic taste of the country. Literally and figuratively!

I’ve put together this guide to seeing Sri Lanka in one week to help you choose the best 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary for you, offer some guidance on your trip planning, and give a realistic overview of what spending a week in Sri Lanka can look like.

I’ve written a few posts that will hopefully help you always know how to travel cheaper, longer, and smarter in Sri Lanka. In this post, you’ll find a Sri Lanka itinerary for 7 days exploring. It’s quite a whirlwind but it pretty much mirrors what I did so it is very doable. Of course, if you have more time or just like to take things more slowly then do spend more time in each place. Accordingly, I will definitely be back to see more of Sri Lanka as 7 days is really nowhere near enough.

How to Plan Perfect 7 days in Sri Lanka Itinerary

How much time should i spend in sri lanka.

Sri Lanka is only about 270 miles tall and 140 miles wide. But don’t let its relatively small size fool you. Since the country is a unique blend of the cultural aspects along with the wildlife and the attractive beaches it can take hours upon hours to travel from place to place. Sri Lanka offers plenty of different things to do. From the heritage sites in central Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle and green hill country with a patchwork of rolling, seemingly endless tea plantations to the beaches along the south coast of Sri Lanka – the list goes on.

Planning your Sri Lanka itinerary and wondering how long to spend in each city? If you truly want to get the most out of your trip, I’d recommend spending at least 3 weeks on the island. Clearly, not everyone can up and leave their home or job for weeks at a time, nor might you want to.

The 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary you’re about to read is based on what I did on my trip and includes my favorite places that I think should be visited during a trip to Sri Lanka. The drawbacks? While this one-week Sri Lanka itinerary includes a variety of places that hold the particular grace and significance in the culture and the history of the country, you should know it is very rushed. You will visit fewer cities, and there will be no long sleeps. However, if you have some extra time and want to explore sights at a little more leisurely pace, make sure to spend at least 10 days in Sri Lanka.

For example, if you are eager to take the iconic train journey from Kandy to Ella, feel free to customize the itinerary to better suit your needs. You may want to either take the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, or Nuwara Eliya to Ella rather than the full length between Kandy and Ella. By doing so you simply make your trip more predictable because train struggles and long delays are still common.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an exciting place to visit at any time of the year. However, the climate is influenced by monsoons and it is a major factor that may affect your Sri Lanka trip. When the Maha Monsoon (October to January) is in full swing in the east and north, the south and west remain fairly clear. When the Southwest Yala Monsoon wind starts blowing into the west and south coast (from May to August), the north and east coasts see drier weather.

While this one week Sri Lanka itinerary focuses primarily on destinations in the southwest and center of the country, December to March is generally considered the best time to visit the hill country of the Central Province. It includes Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. You may still experience some rain but it’s not as torrential as at other times of the year.

Sri Lanka Tourist Visa Information

You will need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Most travelers will need to organize it online via ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to arrival, fill in their info, and pay $35 USD with a credit card. Nationals of Singapore, Maldives and Seychelles are exempted for visa requirements up to 30 days. It usually takes 24-48 hours for the visa confirmation to come through via e-mail.

Alternatively, you can get a Sri Lankan visa upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Although lines can be long and you will pay a higher fee of $40 USD.

What to Pack For 7 Days In Sri Lanka

Given the variety of climate and terrain, you need to be ready for both beaches and temples. Packing for Sri Lanka is really dependent on what kind of trip you’re about to embark on. After traveling three weeks in Sri Lanka, I can now say the country seems to be quite strict when it comes to dress code in temples; way stricter than Thailand, for example. I’d say keep it light. Pack athletic and casual.

You must cover your knees and shoulders when entering temples or other sacred sites. Unlike Thailand , there is no possibility to buy or borrow some extra coverage. So it’s best to bring long sleeves and pants or shorts past the knees. To stay cool and avoid heatstroke, you’ll want to reach for lightweight clothes in natural fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk. Always wear a hat or a cap! Naturally, you will have to remove it before entering the temple. Up in the hills temperatures can dip much lower so you will need to bring a waterproof jacket and some warm layers as well.

It would be wise to bring two backpacks with you. A roomy sized backpack that stores a lot while being comfortable to wear and not too large, and a smaller daypack for all of your valuables.

A trip to Sri Lanka is easily doable in a sturdy pair of sandals. While culture-related adventures can be found all around Sri Lanka there are also a lot of sharp, slippery surfaces too. If you plan on doing any serious hiking, a great pair of breathable trekking boots will keep your feet from getting cut up on stone or any other unforgiving surface the is death to sharp. To prevent blisters on your feet make sure to wear them beforehand at least a couple of times if you’re buying new ones.

My Sri Lanka Packing List

Regardless of the time of year, here’s a packing list of travel essentials for your 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary.

• Comfy shoes or Sandals
• Hiking shoes
• A water bottle
• Mosquito repellent
• Dry shampoo
• Hand sanitizer
• Rain gear (jacket, dry sacs)
• A sweater or sweatshirt
• Warm weather clothing
• Bathing suit
• Sarong or quick-dry towel
• Camera, charger, power bank

Even if you forget any of these things, you can easily buy most of what you need in Colombo, for example.

Listed Below is Sri Lanka Itinerary for 1 week.

Colombo – Habarana – Sigiriya – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Negombo – Colombo

Day 1: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport / Colombo

What better way to kick off your 7 days in Sri Lanka than by exploring Colombo, a city with a historic past and a rich culture? Colombo is an easy place to travel to since Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is situated some 20 miles north in a suburb of Negombo. Take a UBER ride (much cheaper than a taxi) or bus into Colombo and get a good night’s rest. A taxi ride to Colombo from the airport these days should cost around 2,400 LKR ($13 USD), UBER is around 1,800 LKR ($9 USD) and buses will set you back 130 LKR (<$1).

Although Sri Lanka capital is the transportation hub to the rest of the island, it has plenty of vibrant neighborhoods to explore. As well as many smaller neighboring areas that are popping up with chic hang out places every now and then. You can easily see the best of Colombo in one day. This is an excellent place to start your 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary or unwind towards the end of your trip.

You May Also Like: Two Weeks In Thailand. The Perfect 14-Day Itinerary

Unfortunately, the major sights are spread across the city and the distances between the Colombo sights are pretty big and not exactly walkable. If you want to visit the city on your own, there are plenty of tuk-tuks that can take you around. Hopping aboard a tuk-tuk is an experience in itself and quite fun. Just make sure you agree in advance on the price to avoid disappointment. Generally, Colombo is a safe place to travel, but tourist scams targeting tourists happen there.

Alternatively, you can visit Colombo with a local guide to just fit in as much a possible. Consider taking a small-group tuk-tuk tour with a local guide . You will explore the city for 4 hours on a tuk-tuk, without having to negotiate the price. If you have more time, there is a full-day sightseeing tour of Colombo , too.

Make sure to visit the Gangaramaya temple. It is not only one of the most prominent Buddhist temples in Colombo city but also features amazing views, as it overlooks Beira Lake.

Among many temples in the city, this 19th-century Buddhist temple is quite different and a must-visit place on your first day in Colombo! The temple is Buddhist, featuring an unusual blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture.

The highlight of the temple is an enormous Buddha statue in meditation pose flanked by statuettes of heavenly creatures. The exterior is special, too. It’s boldly decorated in elaborate designs and golden adornments with the golden Buddha statues at the entrance. Another interesting thing is the tiny Buddha statue (visible through a magnifying glass). It is said to be the smallest one in the world. There is no entry ticket to the temple per se, but there is a small fee of 200 LKR for entering the museum.

Where To Stay In Colombo

Budget: Colombo Downtown Monkey | Mrs Pepperpots | A One Hotel The Marine | Midrange: Colombo Orchid Villa | Renuka City Hotel | Higher End: Taj Sumurda | Hilton Colombo Hotel |

Day 2: Dambulla Cave Temple and Minneriya Safari

After a day in Colombo, it’s time to head north-east and experience the true charm of Sri Lanka. The next stop is Habarana. A small town in central Sri Lanka with a perfect location. It allows exploring all the cultural sights around the area. I recommend leaving Colombo pretty early in the morning or even split your day 2 in two if you can add a day.

There are also a few other towns like Kandy, Anuradhapura, or Dambulla to base yourself in. But Habarana offers a bit more tranquil vibes and is relatively off-the-beaten-path place. Habarana sits less than 30 minutes drive from the famous Sigiriya rock and in one hour drive from the ruins of Polonnaruwa.

On your way to Habarana make sure to pay Jumbukola Vihara (Dambulla Cave Temple) a visit. There are five caves that make up the temple, each with a different interior, Buddha statues and ancient paintings. The temple itself is a UNESCO site and built 160m above the surrounding plains, so you need to walk up a steep hill to visit it. This is unquestionably the most popular religious and historical attraction in Dambulla and after spending some time here for myself, it’s easy to see why. It literally took my breath away!

A moderate hike up to the top can take around 15 minutes to 30 minutes and the entrance to the temple is 1,500 LKR ($8 USD).

Another (and the last one for today) highlight of day 2 is a Safari at Minneriya National Park some 10 km (6 miles) from the city of Habarana. A relatively new national park, Minneriya is home to 160 species of birds, 24 species of mammals, and several dozen butterfly species.

However, most people come to Minneriya to see Asian Elephants. There a few dozens of these beautiful animals and the best way to spot them is to take a safari tour . Watch the elephant gathering in the grasslands around the tank or, if you’re lucky enough, spot many other animals such as axis deer, sambar deer, purple-faced langur, lorises, leopards, and sloth bears.

If you’re looking for a place to stay near Dambulla, then take a closer look at Jetwing Lake hotel .

Day 3: Sigiriya

Get another early start and head to Sigiriya, which is some 30 minutes away from Dambulla. Sigiriya “Lion Rock” is an important historical site in Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle”. It is also home to the imposing fortress measuring nearly 200-metres tall. Lion’s Rock is one of the most popular tourist things to do in Sri Lanka.

Since 1982 the Sigiriya Rock fortress is on the UNESCO list and the attraction is quite touristy. Make sure to visit it early in the morning, before the midday suffocating heat and massive (mainly Chinese) tourist groups invade the place. Following my 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary, you still have a long trip to Kandy ahead.

Keep in mind that Sigiriya Museum is included in the entrance ticket and well worth a visit after the climb. It is very interesting to visit the museum so you’ll get more insight into what you’ve seen. You will learn about the way Sigiriya Rock Fortress looked like back in the days of King Kasyapa, the history of the land, the paintings and more! Set aside at least 45 minutes to see everything at the museum.

It’s noteworthy that climbing Sigiriya rock is almost ten times more expensive (5,600 LKR) than climbing the nearby Pidurangala rock. Located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya, Pidurangala is a great alternative. It allows getting that same 360 degrees view together with a beautiful view on the Sigirya rock. The entrance fee for Pidurangala rock is 500 LKR.

Where To Stay In Habarana

Budget: Green Garden Resort Midrange: Priyavimana resort Higher End: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana

Getting from Habarana to Kandy

There are no trains that connect Habarana/Dambulla to Kandy. So you will have to catch a bus to get to Kandy. This is a big city and there are several buses coming from Jaffna and Vavuniya. There is at least one AC Express bus as far as I know. If you are not sure which bus you need, ask the hotel staff or simply ask people at a bus stand in Habarana. It usually takes around 3 hours to get to Kandy depending on the traffic and the road condition.

Day 4: Kandy

The next stop on our 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary is Kandy.

After spending the morning sightseeing in Sigiriya head back to Habarana or Dambulla to hop on a bus to Kandy. Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy is a cultural capital and the second-largest city on the island. It’s dotted with many interesting and important landmarks, and without a surprise, it enjoys UNESCO World Heritage Site status since 1988. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon to witness a traditional Kandyan dance show and watch the sunset over Kandy Lake.

In a nutshell, there are 3 essential things to do in Kandy: the Temple of the Tooth, the city markets, and a traditional Kandyan dance.

First of all, the Temple of the Tooth. This impressive Buddhist temple houses a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. It can be seen twice a day during a special ceremony. It’s a must-visit but, be advised: It’s swarming with tourists at all times of the day. If you are skipping the traditional dance, then make sure to visit at night. This is when the candles are lit outside and the entire sight has an exquisite atmosphere.

Read Next: The Ultimate Travel Guide to El Nido, Palawan

Other places that are definitely worth your time are Kandy Lake and the city markets. Moreover, Kandy serves as a great starting point for one of the world’s most scenic train rides.

For the afternoon, I’d recommend hitting the markets or taking a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake. Kandy Market Hall, which is right in the center of town, next to the clock tower and bus station. Upon entering, you will notice all sorts of sweets for sale. A little bit further you’ll find the fruit and spices section! All kinds of dried food items, meat, vegetables, and spices. Upstairs is more for shopping for clothes, shoes, medicine, and crafts. Many of the clothes in the US are made in the local garment factories. So you can get a good deal on branded clothes.

If you happen to be in Kandy during Esala (July or August) lunar month on the Sinhalese calendar, you will most probably stumble upon the Perahera religious celebration. Also known as the Festival of the Tooth, the Perahera Festival is a magnificent annual procession in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Gautam Buddha – the founder of Buddhism. Celebrations involve numerous musicians, dancers, singers, acrobats and other performers in elaborate outfits.

Where To Stay In Kandy

Budget: Comfort Homestay | La Colina Kandy | Charlton Kandy City Rest Midrange: Kandy City Hotel | Sevana City Hotel | Cafe Aroma Inn Higher End: King’s Pavillion | OZO Kandy | The Radh Hotel

Take a Kandy City Tour

Day 5: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Train Ride

Traveling by old-fashioned blue train from Kandy to Nanu Oya (the closest station, 8km from Nuwara Eliya) offers the best views in all of Sri Lanka. This is also an incredibly cost-effective and scenic way to get around Sri Lanka. Many travelers rightfully believe it’s an integral part of the overall Ceylon travel experience.

The lush green scenery is purely breathtaking. The train runs through Sri Lanka’s Hill Country (at 1,868m), through dense forest, tunnels and dreamy tea fields. Expect plenty of twists and turns as the route soars over bridges and valleys, crossing a dozen of bridges along the way. If you look closely every so often you’ll notice the colorfully dressed tea pickers pop their heads up amongst the tea plantations as they carry on with their work.

The train trip from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is not only taken by foreigners but also by locals. This isn’t just a tourist attraction, it is an everyday reality for the people of Sri Lanka and I’m sure they must find it somewhat humorous how excited foreign travelers are about a casual train ride. But after all, nobody’s perfect, right?

Three trains a day (at 3:30 am, at 8:47 am, and at 11:10 am) make the 3-hour journey between Kandy and Nanu Oya. Ticket prices start at around $7 for 2nd class seats and $16 for a 1st class seats. Tourists who want to splurge and are looking at luxury travel should keep in mind that the 1st class carriages have A/C and windows are shut at all times.

To fully appreciate the train experience I’d recommend traveling on the second class where windows are open. Temperatures remain comfortable due to mountain setting outside. The first-class tickets are available to buy at train stations a day before or right on the day of departure.

Day 6: Nuwara Eliya Hills

Nicknamed ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya has a colonial charm and feels like far away from civilization. Somehow it is. The internet signal is weak and hotels sometimes have issues with hot water. I am speaking from my own experience here! Of course, I’m not going to blame anyone because Nuwara Eliya is all about nature, hills, and tea. If you love nature and idyllic surroundings, you might even wish to stay longer.

On day 6 in Sri Lanka, I visited an organic tree plantation in Nuwara Eliya. Certainly, exploring the area around Nuwara Eliya is an unmissable experience every visitor should add to this 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary. The architecture of the region owes much to the influence of British colonial rule, and many estates keep in their name traces of the past.

Many hundreds of thousands of trees that provide an essential shadow to the plants dominate the landscape. After a healthy and filling lunch at Calamander Lake Gregory admiring the lovely lake, I ended my explorations in Nuwara Eliya.

Take a Tea Plantation Tour in Nuwara Eliya

Day 7: Back To Negombo

The final leg of my trip was the 5-hour drive back to the West Coast. Depending on flight times, you could set off early and fly the same day. Or do what I did and arrive late, stay overnight in a local hotel (I stayed in Jetwing Lagoon has this time), and then fly out first thing in the morning.

If you wish to catch a glimpse of beaches in Negombo, palm trees around and the occasional traditional fishing boat, make sure to base yourself further from the fort and lagoon area, where the resorts are. Water is cleaner there, you can even do water sports and enjoy the beach at the fullest. Consider hitting Negombo Beach Park if you have extra time.

Where To Stay in Negombo

Budget: Hill4 Residence Midrange: Tropical Villas Luxury: Villa Hundira

Extending The Sri Lanka Itinerary To 10 Days

For those looking for a 10-day itinerary, I would highly recommend adding Yala National Park, down in the southeast corner of the country, and the old fort town of Galle. Unfortunately, I ran out of time to visit Yala National Park. But Galle’s Dutch colonial fort and Galle lighthouse are definitely worth including on your itinerary.

I’d recommend spending at least two nights in Yala. Simply because it takes 2 hours to reach Yala from Colombo, and 4 hours from Yala to Galle, and probably one night in Galle, before the 2.5-hour drive back to the Bandaranaike airport.

There you have it – the whirlwind one-week itinerary for Sri Lanka! If you’ve never visited Sri Lanka, then you are missing out on an incredible adventure. Nicknamed Serendib, Ceylon, Teardrop of India, Resplendent Isle, and the Island of Dharma, Sri Lanka is an amazing and affordable destination that has something for everyone.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and it will help you to plan your 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary. Let me know in the comments below what you would do!

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. By booking through these links I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). It allows me to keep MindTheTravel up to date and expand on the resources.

PIN FOR LATER!

JOIN THE FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER!

Email Address *

YOU WILL ALSO LIKE

What to Know Before You Climb Adam’s Peak, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Travel Tips: What to Know Before Visiting Sri Lanka

Insider Tips for Traveling to Hong Kong

14 comments.

Hi Ivan. Love your sense of humour and non pretentious style. Would you like to do a guest post for my blog Unstuck? Its themes are freedom, creativity and transformation.

Wow, amazing list! Makes me want to go there even more 😉 Especially, the “Sri Lanka has the annual temperature range of little more than 5 °C”. The range is Belgium must be around 30 degrees 😮

That was so funny and informative at the same time! 😀 I love reading a text somebody thought through and yours is like that 😀 awesome!

MindTheTravel

Thank you for your kind words, Karolina!

You learned a whole lot in just one month! I’ve learned from your experience too!

http://www.positiveimpartation.com.ng

Hey, Lawson! I’m really excited to know my experience come in handy!

Bryan Carey

It’s amazing how culture differ around the world. Immersing yourself in the culture by actually living there is the best way to discover what things are really like, and it sounds like you’ve learned quite a bit!

My friend went to Sri Lanka and had the best time. Love this post.

Thank you for reading the post!

When we go to Sri Lanka, I will refer back to your tips. Bookmarked page. Thanks!

Coralie Grassin

Love all the places and charming cities you have here! And of course STUNNING pics…

This is a lovely compilation. There are so many interesting points in there and I am sure short trip tourists would never realize some of these points. Its a fruit of your 1-week long stay. Hope you enjoyed it

PossesstheWorld

Wow this looks like a one helluva itinerary! Love your style, looking forward to the next destination

Deidre leshay

Great information! I really liked this Sri Lankan itinerary!

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

My website uses cookies so that I can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to my website and helping me to understand which sections of Mind The Travel you find most interesting and useful.

You can adjust all of your cookie settings by navigating the tabs on the left hand side.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that I can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, I will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit my website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.