Trip Highlights
Planning your first trip to Sri Lanka? This 7-day itinerary covers the island's must-see highlights, from ancient kingdoms to misty hills and golden beaches. It's the perfect introduction to our beautiful country, balancing culture, nature, and relaxation.
At a Glance
| Day | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombo → Sigiriya | Arrival, transfer to Cultural Triangle |
| 2 | Sigiriya | Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala sunrise |
| 3 | Sigiriya → Kandy | Dambulla Cave Temple, Kandy |
| 4 | Kandy → Ella | Scenic train ride through tea country |
| 5 | Ella | Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam's Peak |
| 6 | Ella → Mirissa | Via Yala (optional safari) |
| 7 | Mirissa → Colombo | Beach morning, departure |
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo, Transfer to Sigiriya
Distance: 170 km (4-5 hours)
Welcome to Sri Lanka! After landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, your driver will meet you and begin the journey north to Sigiriya, the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle.
What to Expect
- The drive takes you through rural Sri Lanka with paddy fields and small villages
- Stop for a traditional Sri Lankan lunch along the way
- Arrive at your hotel in time for sunset
Where to Stay
- Budget: Back of Beyond Pidurangala (from $30/night)
- Mid-range: Kassapa Lions Rock (from $80/night)
- Luxury: Jetwing Vil Uyana (from $200/night)
Pro Tips
- Book your driver/vehicle for the entire 7 days – it's easier and often cheaper
- Don't exchange too much money at the airport; rates are better in town
Day 2: Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Pidurangala
The highlight of the Cultural Triangle
Morning: Pidurangala Rock (Sunrise)
Wake up early (5:00 AM) for the sunrise climb up Pidurangala Rock. It's a 20-minute hike to the top, where you'll get the most iconic view of Sigiriya Rock glowing in the morning light.
The iconic sunrise view of Sigiriya from Pidurangala Rock
- Entry fee: 500 LKR (~$1.50)
- Difficulty: Moderate (some rock scrambling at the top)
- What to bring: Flashlight, water, camera
Afternoon: Sigiriya Rock Fortress
After breakfast and some rest, tackle the main event – Sigiriya Rock Fortress itself. This ancient palace built on a 200-meter rock column is truly breathtaking.
- Entry fee: $30 USD for foreigners
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
- Highlights: Mirror Wall, Sigiriya Frescoes, Lion's Paw entrance, summit palace ruins
The majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress rising from the jungle
Evening
Relax at your hotel or explore the local village. Many hotels offer cooking classes or village walks.
Day 3: Dambulla Cave Temple & Kandy
Distance: 115 km (3-4 hours with stops)
Morning: Dambulla Cave Temple
Start early and visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 150 Buddha statues and ancient murals.
- Entry fee: 1500 LKR (~$4.50)
- Time needed: 1-2 hours
- Note: Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered)
Afternoon: Drive to Kandy
Continue to Kandy, Sri Lanka's cultural capital nestled in the hills. Stop at a spice garden along the way to learn about Ceylon cinnamon, pepper, and other spices.
Evening: Temple of the Tooth
Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic during the evening puja (prayer ceremony) at 6:30 PM. The atmosphere with drummers, incense, and devotees is magical.
The sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
- Entry fee: 2000 LKR (~$6)
Where to Stay in Kandy
- Budget: Freedom Lodge (from $25/night)
- Mid-range: Theva Residency (from $90/night)
- Luxury: Earl's Regency (from $150/night)
Day 4: Scenic Train to Ella
The most beautiful train ride in the world
Morning
Take the famous train from Kandy to Ella. Book your tickets in advance for reserved seats, or enjoy the experience from the open doorways (carefully!).
- Train options: 8:47 AM or 11:10 AM departures
- Duration: 6-7 hours
- Ticket: First class reserved (
$10), Second class ($3) - Book at: Sri Lanka Railways
What You'll See
- Lush tea plantations cascading down hillsides
- Dramatic mountain views and waterfalls
- The famous Nine Arch Bridge (the train passes over it!)
- Local life in hill country villages
The stunning tea country landscape around Ella
Evening: Arrive in Ella
Check into your guesthouse and explore the charming town of Ella. Grab dinner at one of the many cafes and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Where to Stay in Ella
- Budget: Ella Flower Garden Resort (from $20/night)
- Mid-range: 98 Acres Resort (from $100/night)
- Luxury: Ella Jungle Resort (from $180/night)
Day 5: Exploring Ella
A day in the misty hills
Early Morning: Nine Arch Bridge
Walk to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge (30 minutes from town). Arrive early (6:00-7:00 AM) to beat the crowds and catch the train crossing at 6:45 AM or 9:20 AM.
Morning: Little Adam's Peak
After breakfast, hike Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views of Ella Gap. It's an easy 45-minute climb through tea plantations.
Afternoon: Options
Choose your adventure:
- Ella Rock – A more challenging 3-hour hike with stunning views
- Ravana Falls – A beautiful waterfall just outside town
- Tea Factory Tour – Visit a working tea factory to see how Ceylon tea is made
- Cooking class – Learn to make authentic Sri Lankan curry
Evening
Watch the sunset from a rooftop cafe, then enjoy Ella's relaxed nightlife scene.
Day 6: Ella to Mirissa (via Yala Optional)
Distance: 200 km (5-6 hours, longer with safari)
Option A: Direct to Mirissa
A scenic drive through the southern highlands, arriving at the beach by early afternoon for maximum relaxation time.
Option B: Yala Safari (Recommended)
Take a detour to Yala National Park for a morning safari. Yala has the highest density of leopards in the world!
- Safari start: 6:00 AM
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Cost: ~$50-80 per person (includes jeep and park fees)
- Best time: December to July
Afternoon/Evening: Mirissa
Arrive at Mirissa beach and unwind. Watch the sunset from Parrot Rock or enjoy fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
Relaxing on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach
Where to Stay in Mirissa
- Budget: Paradise Beach Club (from $30/night)
- Mid-range: Mandara Resort (from $80/night)
- Luxury: Lantern Boutique Hotel (from $150/night)
Day 7: Mirissa & Departure
Morning Options
Whale Watching (Seasonal) If visiting between November and April, take an early morning whale watching trip. Mirissa is one of the best places in the world to see blue whales!
Blue whales can be spotted off the coast of Mirissa
- Departure: 6:00-6:30 AM
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Cost: ~$50-60 per person
Or Simply Relax Sleep in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast, and take a final swim in the Indian Ocean.
Afternoon: Transfer to Airport
The drive from Mirissa to Colombo Airport takes approximately 3 hours via the Southern Expressway. Allow extra time for traffic and last-minute souvenir shopping.
Optional: Galle Fort
If your flight is in the evening, stop at Galle Fort (1 hour from Mirissa) to explore the historic Dutch colonial streets, boutiques, and cafes.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (6 nights) | $150-180 | $500-600 | $1000+ |
| Transport (7 days with driver) | $280-350 | $350-400 | $400-500 |
| Entrance fees | $80-100 | $80-100 | $80-100 |
| Food | $70-100 | $150-200 | $300+ |
| Activities | $50-100 | $100-150 | $200+ |
| Total per person | $630-830 | $1180-1450 | $1980+ |
Essential Tips
Best Time to Visit
- December to March: Dry season on west/south coasts
- April to September: Best for east coast
- Year-round: Central highlands are pleasant anytime
What to Pack
- Light, breathable clothing
- Modest clothes for temples (covering shoulders and knees)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Power adapter (Type D/G plugs)
Getting Around
Hiring a driver for the week is the most comfortable option and surprisingly affordable ($50-70/day including fuel). Alternatively, use a mix of trains and buses for a more local experience.
Food Must-Tries
- Rice and curry (the national dish)
- Hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes)
- Kottu roti (chopped roti stir-fry)
- Fresh king coconut from roadside stalls
- Ceylon tea everywhere!
Ready to Book?
This 7-day itinerary gives you a taste of everything Sri Lanka has to offer. You'll see ancient ruins, misty mountains, wildlife, and beautiful beaches – the perfect introduction to our island paradise.
Have questions about planning your trip? Contact us – we're always happy to help fellow travelers discover the magic of Sri Lanka!
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