Sri Lanka isn’t usually a destination high on people’s bucket lists. But with it’s magnificent landscapes, elegant wildlife and heavenly food, it really should be! Discover how to see this enchanting country of Sri Lanka in 10 days.
Previously known as Ceylon, and situated just south of India, Sri Lanka is often overlooked as a holiday location. Spanning only 65,000 km² (compared to the United Kingdom’s 240,000 km²!), you’d be forgiven for thinking that you might be stuck for things to do on the island.
However, you can spend more than a week here and have a completely full Sri Lankan itinerary. Start in Colombo, and make your way round so that you can truly experience the diverse and captivating Sri Lankan culture!
We spent 10 days in Sri Lanka, and although we didn’t explore the whole country, we felt that we saw plenty!
We’ve included some recommendations for places to stay too, as well as the best companies to book your trips with.
Our trip began and ended in Colombo. We lived on a budget of around 12,000 Sri Lankan rupees per day between two of us (not including accommodation).
Day 1: Colombo
You only need to stay in Colombo for 1 night. There’s not much to do, but you’ll more than likely fly into Bandaranaike International Airport. Take a simple wander around Colombo or check in to your hotel and chill out before an early start tomorrow.
TIP: Colombo airport is actually closer to Negombo, but as the train to Kandy leaves before 9am, it’s best to stay closer to Colombo town centre.
Budget Accommodation – Port View City Hotel
Mid-range Accommodation – Ramada Colombo
Luxury Accommodation – Fairway Colombo
Day 2 – 3: Kandy
Famous for historical Buddhist attractions, Kandy is the perfect place to learn about the local culture. It’s also home to the Ceylon Tea Museum, where you can be guided round. There’s a cafe at on the top floor – choose a tea and enjoy a free cup here.
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, the Temple of the Tooth and Kandy Lake.
Budget Accommodation – Hipsters Hideout Lounge
Mid-range Accommodation – Villa Jumeriah Four Seasons
Luxury Accommodation – King’s Pavillion
Day 4 – 5: Ella
The journey from Kandy to Ella is meant to be one of the most gorgeous in the world! Depending on the time of year, you’ll encounter some unbelievable views.
Unfortunately, if your trip falls in the winter, the mist might ruin the scenery so think about that when you’re planning! It takes around 6 and a half hours, and prices start from £3 for a second class seat.
Tip: A second class seat is better than a third because you get given a seat number. It’s also better than first because you can open the windows and get great photos!
There are a few shops and restaurants in the centre, but be careful about travelling back to your hotel. Tuk-tuks don’t tend to run too late into the night – the restaurant owners had to give us a lift when we lost track of time!
Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock are the most popular hikes in Ella. Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan breakfast and then spend a morning climbing.
Budget Accommodation – 7th Hill Guesthouse
Mid-range Accommodation – Lizzie Villa Ella
Luxury Accommodation – Morning Dew Hotel
Day 6 – 8: Tissa
Have you ever seen a wild leopard? We definitely hadn’t before we went to Sri Lanka, but we were incredibly lucky and saw THREE! Yala National Park has one of the highest leopard densities in the world, but you still usually have to look really hard to spot one.
Book a private tour – our advice would be to take a 12 hour safari. It sounds very long but the time just flies when you’re seeking out new animals every minute!
TIP: Book with Shehan Safari – we had a brilliant time and the lunch was incredible too!
You’ll probably arrive in the evening so relax and prepare for the long day and early start the next morning. Catch a bus or get a private car – share it with other travellers if you can. Leave early on Day 8 as you’ll need to get another bus to Mirissa!
Budget Accommodation – Villa Champagne
Mid-range Accommodation – Yala B&B
Luxury Accommodation – Ekho Safari Hotel
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