Looking for Sri Lanka itinerary for 2 weeks?
Sri Lanka is an island country whose beauty is palpable. From its golden-beach coastline and lush green tea plantations littered with saree-clad pickers to the diverse biodiversity and wildlife, every inch of this hilly country depicts its rich cultural and religious heritage.
Enjoy the tropical island filled with fascinating landscapes, golden sandy beaches, smiling locals, and mouth-watering cuisines. Watch elephant herds walk through the mangrove trees. This hilly country offers an irrepressible adventure-filled enthusiasm at the prospect of unraveling the history and traditions deep within it by embarking on a 2 weeks journey that will begin in Negombo.
Days 1-2: Negombo
Most international airports in Sri Lanka are either in Colombo or Negombo. Although Negombo is not as large and bustling as Colombo, it is quite eye-catching, with many comfortable accommodation options and the perfect place to rest and recuperate from your long flight. Most importantly, Negombo is just a 15-minute ride from Colombo International Airport.
Start your second day with a delicious Sri Lankan breakfast before going out for some sightseeing. There’s too much that Negombo has to offer; chill on the beachside as you enjoy a fascinating sunset view. If you’re a swimming fanatic, it’s time to immerse yourself in the blue Indian Ocean.
Some accommodation options in Negombo include The Panorama, Camelot Beach Hotel, and Pledg escape Negombo.
Day 3: Sigiriya
From Negombo, your first stop is Sirigiya, a city that undoubtedly lets you experience the culture and tradition of Sri Lanka. The journey from Negombo to Sirigiya is approximately a four-hour drive.At the heart of the city is an ancient Lion Rock that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The archeology and frescos exhibited by this rock will fascinate you, but perhaps the highlight is the incredible views from the top of the rock. What’s more, you mightsee elephants as they wander through the jungles.
Some of the best hotels at Sirigiya include Hotel Sigiriya, Sigiriya Village, and Sigiriya Lion Lodge.
Day 4: Dambulla
Dambulla is a cultural and religious site in Sri Lanka, and it is home to the famous Dambulla Cave Temples. Dambulla is a 30-minute drive from Sigiriya and a must-add to any Sri Lankan itinerary. The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and, needless to say, one of the most sacred grounds in the country. Explore the temple and monastery and learn more about the Buddhist religion – you’ll be amazed by the ancient paintings and 150+ statues in the cave temple.
The best hotel accommodations in Dambulla include the Gimanhala Hotel, Hotel Tinaya, and Girilena Resort.
Day 5: Kandy
From Dambulla, It is time to enter the hilly Kandy. It is only about an hour’s drive from Sirigiya, and as you get closer to your destination, you’ll begin to feel the temperatures drop. The major highlight of Kandy is the temple of the tooth relic. It is among the most sacred temples in Sri Lanka and holds a revered item of the Buddhist religion – a tooth of the Buddha himself. Attend their evening ceremony and see the tooth (in a golden casket) alongside a large crowd of worshippers, which is an unforgettable experience.
Other activities in Kandy include visiting the Bahirawakanda Vihara (the Big Buddha Statue), taking a stroll along Kandy Lake, and the late afternoon cultural dances.
Some reputable accommodations in and around Kandy City include the Thailanka Hotel and the Mount Blue Kandy.
Day 6-7: Nuwara Eliya
Start your day with the most revered train ride in Sri Lanka: the Kandy to Ella train ride! Although it takes about 7 hours to get to Ella, Nuwara Eliya is nearer, and you’ll take just about 4 hours. Nevertheless, the journey may take longer considering the fact that the train might also turn up late.
There’s nothing special about the train’s interior; the highlight is the ride itself. After about an hour into the ride, you’ll be transfixed by the amazing views – from the rolling tree plantations, lush jungles, and valleys, you’ll enjoy a cooling wind, especially near the window or door. After arrival, rest, and recuperation, there’s still a whole day of adventure in Nuwara Eliya tomorrow.
The next morning, kickstart your day by savoring the tasty Ceylon tea. After all, everyone goes to Nuwara Eliya for the tea. Next, enjoy epic views at the Damro Tea Plantation. Still have time? Visit the Pedro tea Estate and learn how tea is processed.
Hotels where you can stay in Nuwara Eliya include The Golden Ridge Hotel, Araliya Green Capital, and Huddle.
Days 8-9: Ella
After the highlights of Nuwara Eliya, hop on the train to Ella. The train ride to Ella is as scenic as everyone claims it to be, if not better. In just about three hours, you’re all set in Ella town.
There’s plenty of sightseeing in Ella, so start your adventure by visiting the Nine Arch Bridge. It is an iconic landmark in Sri Lanka with a fascinating archeology style that dates back to the early 1900s.In the evening, hike up the little Adam’s Peak to enjoy the panoramic views atop the highest spot. That marks the end of your first day in Ella.
Conclude your Ella adventure the next day with a hike at the Ella Rock. If you are in time, you might just make it in time for the beautiful sunrise. You can also visit the historical Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, about 6 km from Ella.
Accommodations in Ella includeMorning Dew Hotel, Mountain Heavens, and Lakshmis Hotel.
Day 10-11: Yala National Park
Are you a safari enthusiast? If so, Yala is the place to be. While there are many safari options in Sri Lanka, visiting Sri Lanka is worth your time and money. In this itinerary, we’re giving it a two-day safari. Yala is about a 3-hour drive from Ella. Explore Yala National Park, renowned for the rarely spotted leopards among other wildlife in Sri Lanka.
Accommodations here include Leopard Safaris Yala, Cinnamon Wild Yala, and Safari Lodge Yala.
Days 12-14: Mirissa
After an unforgettable Safari at Yala, it is time to visit the coast town of Mirissa – a hidden gem revered by most travelers. It is the perfect spot to conclude your Sri Lankan trip. You can relax around the beach as you enjoy watching the waves and the seaside delicacies. After resting, you can travel to the famous Coconut Tree Hill and enjoy beautiful views from the hilltop.
Mark your final day by going Blue Whale watching and enjoy the colorful fireflies flitting from tree to tree in the evening. Accommodations here include Dcanal House Mirissa and Bird House Mirissa.
Contact Sri Lanka Tour Guides to get Sri Lanka itinerary for 2 weeks.
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