Planning your next adventure? This 11-day Sri Lanka travel itinerary is your chance to explore the best of this small yet incredibly diverse island. Though compact in size, Sri Lanka offers a rich mix of culture, nature, history, and coastal charm — and this journey brings all of it together in one unforgettable trip.
Begin with ancient wonders in Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa, then dive into the sacred sites of Trincomalee. Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, explore royal cities, and enjoy warm cultural experiences like village tours and temple visits.
Travel to the lush hills of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, where waterfalls, tea plantations, and Ramayana trail temples await. Take a breathtaking train ride to Ella, and enjoy treks and scenic viewpoints before heading south for a thrilling wildlife safari in Yala National Park.
Unwind on Sri Lanka’s golden coastline with time in Mirissa and Bentota, where you’ll enjoy whale watching, beach fun, and water sports. Wrap up with a city tour of Colombo, a perfect finale to this all-in-one Sri Lanka escape.
A compact and comprehensive Sri Lanka itinerary that blends history, nature, and beaches.
Visit 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa & Galle Fort.
Explore the Ramayana trail – Seetha Amman Temple, Ashoka Vatika & Hanuman Temple.
Scenic train ride to Ella with treks to Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.
Jeep safari in Yala National Park, known for leopards, elephants, and birdlife.
Whale watching in Mirissa (seasonal), plus Madu River boat safari and water sports in Bentota.
Walk through tea gardens, visit spice plantations, and explore charming hill towns.
Perfect mix of cultural sites, natural beauty, and coastal relaxation.
Ideal for families, couples, and culture lovers seeking a Sri Lanka tour in December or winter months.
Day 01 – Colombo Airport to Dambulla (180 KM / 4.5 Hrs)
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival in Colombo, begin your journey to Dambulla with a scenic drive. En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a heartwarming experience with rescued elephants. Later, explore the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient murals and statues. Conclude your day with a peaceful village tour in Hiriwadunna, featuring a bullock cart ride through the countryside. Check in to your hotel and relax amidst the cultural richness of Dambulla.
Day 02 – Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa Exploration
After breakfast, visit the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Climb this ancient citadel to explore royal gardens, rock frescoes, and stunning views. Later, drive to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka. Discover its impressive ruins, including the Royal Palace, Vatadage, and Gal Potha, and visit the excellent Archaeological Museum. This day brings together UNESCO-listed landmarks, history, and fascinating architecture. Return to Dambulla for a restful evening.
Day 03 – Excursion to Trincomalee
Today, embark on a full-day excursion to Trincomalee, a coastal gem rich in history and spiritual energy. Visit the revered Koneswaram Temple perched on Swami Rock, offering stunning views of Trincomalee Harbour. Explore Fort Frederick, echoing stories from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras. Stop by the vibrant Pathirakali Amman Temple with its vivid Dravidian architecture. Don’t miss Ravana’s Cleft/Lovers’ Leap, a spot steeped in legend. Return to Dambulla with a heart full of coastal culture and stories.
Day 04 – Dambulla to Kandy (85 KM / 2 Hrs)
Leave for Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. On the way, stop at a spice garden to discover the herbs and spices that flavor Sri Lankan cuisine. In Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most sacred shrines. Explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens and stroll by Kandy Lake. Enjoy a cultural dance performance, and browse local gems and handicrafts. Kandy’s charm lies in its mix of history, faith, and natural beauty.
Day 05 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (85 KM / 2 Hrs)
Begin your scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, the “Little England” of Sri Lanka. En route, stop at the cascading Ramboda Falls and tour a tea plantation and factory, where you’ll learn how world-famous Ceylon tea is made. Visit the sacred Sri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, linked to the Ramayana Trail. Once in Nuwara Eliya, enjoy the lakeside charm of Lake Gregory and a walk through Victoria Park. The fresh mountain air and green hills make this a refreshing escape.
Day 06 – Nuwara Eliya and Surroundings
Spend a full day exploring the enchanting beauty of Nuwara Eliya. Start with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO site home to stunning highland views, cloud forests, and the dramatic drop of World’s End. Explore Haggala Botanical Garden, believed to be the Ashoka Vatika from the Ramayana epic. Pay homage at the Seetha Amman Temple, dedicated to Princess Sita. This day blends spirituality, mythology, and natural wonders in Sri Lanka’s misty highlands.
Day 07 – Train Ride to Ella & Drive to Yala
Board one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Nanu Oya to Ella, passing through tea gardens, misty valleys, and hills. In Ella, admire the cascading Ravana Falls, trek to Little Adam’s Peak, and marvel at the iconic Nine Arches Bridge a masterpiece of colonial railway engineering. Later, drive to Yala, home to Sri Lanka’s most famous national park. Check into your hotel, preparing for the wild adventures that await tomorrow.
Day 08 – Yala Safari & Transfer to Mirissa (150 KM / 3 Hrs)
Start early for a thrilling jeep safari in Yala National Park, a top destination for spotting leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and exotic birds. After your wildlife adventure, return for breakfast and then continue south to the beach paradise of Mirissa. Visit the picturesque Coconut Tree Hill and the adventurous Parrot Rock Bridge for stunning sea views. Unwind by the ocean and enjoy the tropical vibe. Check into your Mirissa hotel for a relaxing night.
Day 09 – Whale Watching & Galle En Route to Bentota (100 KM / 3 Hrs)
Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching tour from Mirissa (seasonal: Nov–April). Spot blue whales, dolphins, and more in the Indian Ocean. Later, drive along the south coast to the historic city of Galle. Walk the ramparts of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its charming streets and colonial architecture. Continue to Bentota, a serene coastal town perfect for rest and beach fun. Check into your beachside hotel.
Day 10 – Bentota: Beach, Nature & Adventure
Experience the best of Bentota today. Cruise through the mangroves of the Madu River, a tranquil ecosystem teeming with birdlife and tiny islands. Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, where you can learn about marine conservation. If you crave adventure, try water sports like Jet Skiing, Banana Boating, and Tubing on the Bentota River. Or simply relax on the beach. It’s a day of nature, excitement, and rejuvenation along Sri Lanka’s sun-kissed coast.
Day 11 – Bentota to Colombo & Departure (90 KM + 35 KM)
After breakfast, drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s lively capital. Enjoy a city tour covering colonial-era sites like the Fort area, Independence Square, and the beautiful Galle Face Green. Visit the Colombo National Museum, explore the colorful Pettah Bazaar, and see iconic landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple and Lotus Tower. Soak in the city’s energy and cultural blend before heading to the airport for your departure — taking home unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka.
What is included in the tour
- 10 Nights Accommodation at the mentioned hotels or similar category properties.
- Daily Meals: Breakfast and dinner at the hotel, lunch at local restaurants or during excursions.
- Sightseeing and Inter-Hotel Transfers as per the itinerary in a comfortable, private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Return Airport Transfers in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
- Services of a professional English-speaking national guide throughout the tour.
- Tips & Portage included for your convenience.
- Travel Insurance (basic international cover).
- Train Ride from Nanu Oya to Ella (standard class ticket).
- Entry fees and activity supplements for all sights and experiences listed in the itinerary.
- All applicable local taxes and service charges.
What is NOT included in the tour
- International Airfare (return tickets).
- Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Tax Collected at Source (TCS).
- Sri Lanka Tourist Visa fees.
- Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone, room service, mini-bar, etc.
- Camera and video permits at monuments and wildlife parks (if applicable).
- Early check-in or late check-out at hotels unless specified.
