Looking to have the most enjoyable Sri Lanka vacation ever? You’re in the right place! This article guide entails a comprehensive Sri Lanka itinerary for 8 days packed with adventure-filled activities every step of the trip. Packed with detailed info on the location, activities, transport and accommodation, this itinerary will aid you in making the most of your time on the captivating Sri Lankan island.
Let’s dive in!
Day 1 – Colombo
Most of the international airports in Sri Lanka are based in its bustling capital, Colombo. After a long flight, enjoy a rest and recuperate at one of the hotels in Colombo before starting your adventure. Once you’ve freshened up, it’s time to unravel everything the vibrant capital city offers. Colombo is a unique city which offers a blend of history and modern charm. Explore the rich cultural and historical sites andbustling markets before taking the next step on your trip.
The most crucial highlight in Colombo is the Gangaramaya temple, one of the most ancient religious sites in Sri Lanka. With its impressive architecture and numerous Buddha statues, you’ll be mesmerized by the spiritual ambience it offers. Inside the temple premises are a comprehensive library and a museum to explore.
After having a thrilling exploration, enjoy Colombo’s culinary delights at a restaurant of your choice and enjoy your night; a whole day of adventure awaits you tomorrow.
Day 2 – Sigiriya
Embark on a journey from Colombo to Sigiriya. If you are a hiking person, this is probably the highlight of your trip! Climb up the historical Sigiriya rock fortress, and with each step closer to the top, a mesmerizing view will appear–the ruins of an ancient palace complex!
I recommend climbing the Sigiriya rock in the early mornings. That way, you can reach the top just in time to enjoy the incredible sunrise view. Besides, the spot is less congested at this time or in the late evening when you can enjoy the sunset view.
Travelling to Sigiriya is relatively easy, with lots of travel options on your display: taxi, bus or tuk-tuk.
After a tiring and adventurous day of hiking, book a hotel and settle in for a well-deserved night of rest. Accommodations in Sigiriya include Castle Rock Sigiriya and Sunrise Cottage.
Day 3 – Dambulla
It’s time to move to the famous Dambulla, a Sri Lankan city known for its rich cultural and religious heritage. Enjoy a scenic drive as you dive deeper into the city’s iconic site: The Dambulla Cave Temple! As a treasure trove of the Buddhist religion, this is considered one ofthe holiest spots by the locals.
Enjoy jaw-dropping views as you enter the mystical Dambulla cave temple –with countless rock statues and impressive wall paintings. The temple is a Unesco World Heritage site that will undoubtedly expound your understanding of ancient Buddhism.
The Sigiriya-Dambulla trip is relatively short; thus,you can make it there in a tuk-tuk. However, if you are considering a more luxurious and comfortable drive, you can always call a taxi.
After a day’s exposure to a serene Buddhist ambience and immense Asian culture and history, settle into a comfortable accommodation to rest. Hotels in Dambulla include Arika Villa and Jetwing Lake.
Day 4 – Kandy
Kandy is a vibrant city adorned with immense history and tradition. Start your adventure at the spice garden in Matale, where you’ll gain incredible knowledge of Kandy’s spices. You’ll learn about the cultivation and uses of aromatic herbs and spices. Next, you can attend a cultural show in the city where you’ll marvel at the cultural and vibrant dances of Sri Lanka.From the fascinating costumes to the rhythmic beats, the songs will no doubt captivate your senses.
The most important highlight of Kandy City is the Temple of The Tooth. Any Sri Lanka trip is incomplete without a visit to this sacred temple. The temple houses one of the most treasured Buddhist relics–the tooth of the Buddha himself! Attend one of the ceremonies in the temple and get a glimpse of the golden casket in which the relic is kept.
Finally, end your day by taking a leisurely stroll around Lake Kandy. It is a man-made lake with a tranquil ambience amidst the bustling city and market—quite a place to relax and enjoy an incredible sunset view.
Most travellers opt to take a bus from Dambulla to Kandy. While most public buses are congested, interacting with the locals is a great opportunity. If you prefer a more cosy travel option, you can take a private bus with air conditioning or simply go for the taxi option.
Accommodations near and inside Kandy city centre include The Grand Kandyan Hotel and Cinnamon Citadel.
Day 5 – Nuwara Eliya
Also known as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is the highest city in Sri Lanka. Here, you’ll marvel at the endless lush tea plantations, cultivation and every detail of tea processing. If you’re lucky, you can even get a sip of their mouth-watering Ceylon tea that will undoubtedly leave its exquisite flavours lingering in your mouth. Other places to visit at Nuwara Eliya include the Hakgala Botanical Garden, the British-style bungalows, and the manicured lawns.
Hop onto the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. It is the most scenic train ride you’ll probably ever experience. From the rolling landscapes and jungles to the whistling wind that blows through your hair every minute you take your head out of the window, it’s like a magical experience.
After a day of exploring tea plantations, enjoying a scenic train ride and the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya, settle in your accommodation for the night. Some accommodation options include the Araliya Green City and Golden Ridge hotels.
Day 6 – Ella
The real highlight of any Sri Lanka trip is the Kandy to Ella train ride, which takes around seven hours. Although the ride is quite long, every minute is just thrilling. Revel in the picturesque landscapes, lush greenery and rolling hills as the train approaches Ella.
Upon arrival, start your adventure by hiking to Little Adams Peak, where you’ll enjoy the fascinating panoramic views of the misty mountains, lush green tea plantations and numerous valleys. Next, head over to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel located amidst the lush jungles of Ella. If lady luck is on your side, you might just make it in time to witness the popular train pass over the bridge.
Some of the accommodations at Ella include Lakshmis Hotel and Sky Green Resort.
Day 7 & 8 – Galle
After having your fill of Ella City, it is time to move to Galle. As the final destination, you’ll have two days to explore all the ancient Galle offers. Kickstart your Galle adventure with a visit to the Galle fort. It is a historical monument that holds a lot of colonial charm.
On the final day, you can visit Bentota, a beach town in Galle. Enjoy relaxing on the golden sandy beach, and watch the rushing waves as you immerse your entire being in the serenity that this coastal paradise has to offer. Accommodations at Galle include The Fort Printers and Ramfort Galle.
Contact Sri Lanka Tour Guides to get Sri Lanka itinerary for 8 days.
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