Complete 7-Day Sri Lanka Travel Guide: For An Unforgettable Experience

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1 month ago

Complete 7-Day Sri Lanka Travel Guide: For An Unforgettable Experience

Sri Lanka is a complete package for tourists. It offers breathtaking views, rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, lush rainforests, abundant wildlife, thrilling water activities, and countless adventures. If you’re a foodie, Sri Lanka is a paradise with its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Despite being a small island, exploring Sri Lanka fully in just seven days can be challenging. However, this guide ensures you cover the top attractions efficiently.

Planning Your Trip

Booking Flights
Sri Lanka is easily accessible from major Indian airports. Direct flights are available from Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru at affordable rates. Round-trip tickets from India to Colombo typically cost around ₹13,000–₹15,000.
Tip: Book a flight that lands in Sri Lanka late at night. I’ll explain why shortly.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka

Depends on the region you plan to explore. The southwest coast, including Colombo and Galle, is ideal from December to March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. For the northeast regions, such as Trincomalee, the best months are May to September. The country’s central hill stations, like Nuwara Eliya, are best visited in the dry season from February to April. Overall, Sri Lanka offers year-round travel opportunities, with regions alternating between wet and dry seasons.

How to Reach Sri Lanka

If you want to visit Sri Lanka, the best way is to take a flight to Colombo, the capital city. Nearly 90% of flights from India land in Colombo. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, with a travel time of 2-3 hours.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka?

Since you’ll be traveling across the country, you’ll need to book accommodations in different cities:

Days 1–2: Stay in Kandy. Look for accommodations near Kandy Lake.
Day 3: Stay in Nuwara Eliya, ideally near Victoria Park.
Day 4: Stay in Ella. It’s a small town, so pick a place that fits your budget.
Day 5: Stay in Mirissa. Book a beachfront stay for the best experience.
Day 6: Stay in Galle, near Dixon Road.
Day 7: Stay in Colombo, close to Galle Face Green.

From budget hostels starting at ₹1,000 to luxurious hotels, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Visa Process

Visa Requirements for Sri Lanka

Obtaining a Sri Lankan visa is simple:

Visit www.etv.gov.lk and fill in your basic details.
Pay a visa fee of $20 (approximately ₹1,600-1,700 per person).
The visa, valid for 30 days, will be issued instantly.
Ensure you have a valid passport and return flight ticket before applying.

At immigration, you’ll need to complete an arrival card.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Personal Information: Name, date of birth, gender, passport details, etc.
Travel Details: Arrival date, airline name, and flight number.
Contact Details: Address, email, and phone number.
Accommodation Details: Address of your first-day hotel.

Once submitted, you’ll receive the visa within 15 minutes via email. Print it and keep it with your travel documents.

Transportation Tips

Trains: Book scenic train journeys online. Links to booking websites can be found on official travel portals.
Local Transport: Use tuk-tuks for short distances. They’re affordable and convenient.
Buses: Opt for buses to travel between cities when trains are unavailable.

Currency Exchange & SIM Cards

Exchange USD at the Colombo airport for better rates. Avoid exchanging Indian Rupees in Sri Lanka.
Buy a Dialog SIM card at the airport for 20

7-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo, Transfer to Kandy

Arrive late at night in Colombo and catch the early morning train (5:55 AM) to Kandy.
Check into your hotel or leave your luggage at reception if early check-in is unavailable.
Visit Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves, known for its diverse ecosystems and wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and a variety of birds. Enjoy a safari tour and spot animals in their natural habitat.
Explore Kandy Lake and feed the ducks, swans, and turtles.
Visit the Royal Botanical Garden, a vibrant historical garden with over 4,000 plant species (₹300 entrance fee).
In the evening, visit Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), a sacred Buddhist temple (₹400 entrance fee). Wear attire covering your knees and shoulders.
End your day at the bustling Kandy Market. Stroll around Kandy Market for local shopping and dinner.

Day 2: Kandy to Sigiriya

Morning: Catch the 7:30 AM bus to Sigiriya (direct from Clock Tower Bus Station). If missed, take a bus via Dambulla (~₹200).
Activities:
1. Explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Ravana’s Lanka) (~$15, ₹1200). Bring your passport for ticketing.
2. Trek to Pidurangala Rock (~₹100). Catch the sunset from this viewpoint.
3. Optional: Try hot air ballooning, national park visits, or cycling tours.
Return to Kandy: Take a bus via Dambulla.
Overnight in Kandy.

Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Morning: Catch the 8:47 AM train from Kandy to Nan Oya. The train journey takes about 4.5 hours, and you’ll arrive at Nan Oya by 12:37 PM.
From Nan Oya station, take a tuk-tuk to Nuwara Eliya, which will take you to your hotel for check-in.
Nuwara Eliya is known for its cool climate and scenic tea plantations, so take some time to admire the lush, green landscapes around you.
Sita Eliya: After settling in, visit Sita Eliya (Ashok Vatika), where, according to the Ramayana, Ravana held Sita Mata captive. This sacred place includes Hanuman ji’s footprints and beautiful gardens, offering breathtaking views of the mountains. It’s a serene spot and completely free to visit.
Gregory Lake: In the late afternoon, head to Gregory Lake, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Here, you can enjoy activities like boat rides, horse rides, and a children’s play area. The lake also offers a spectacular view of the sunset, and there’s a small Rs. 200 entry fee.
Nuwara Eliya Central Market: After sunset, take a stroll through the Nuwara Eliya Central Market where you can shop for local goods, snacks, and souvenirs.
Dinner at Ambas Veg Restaurant: If you’re looking for vegetarian cuisine, head to Ambas Veg Restaurant, a popular choice among tourists. Enjoy a delicious meal in this cozy spot.

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya to Ella

5:00-5:30 AM: Begin your day early with a trek to Single Mountain, a stunning viewpoint perfect for watching the sunrise. The trek is around 200 meters, but the panoramic view of Nuwara Eliya and Gregory Lake from the top is absolutely worth it.
After the trek, return to your hotel, freshen up, and check out.
Travel to Ella: Take a scenic bus ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, covering around 60 km in 1.5 to 2 hours. This route offers one of the most breathtaking views you will experience in Sri Lanka.
Nine Arch Bridge: Visit this iconic and historic bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photogenic spots. The bridge, still in use by trains, offers a fantastic photo opportunity. It’s a bit of a walk to the viewpoint, but the Rs. 200 entry fee is totally worth it.
Little Adams Peak: After the bridge, head to Little Adams Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Eden Peak and L.S. Swing: Experience the Eden Peak viewpoint, where you’ll find the L.S. Swing—similar to the Bali Swing—perfect for capturing stunning photos. The swing costs around Rs. 800.
Zipline Experience: For an even more thrilling adventure, try the zipline at Eden Peak, which costs about Rs. 1200. You’ll soar over the scenic landscape, taking in magnificent views of the mountains and valleys.
Pool Club: End your day by relaxing at a local Pool Club, where you can unwind in a hot water Jacuzzi, enjoy the beautiful mountain views, and sip on drinks at a world-class pool bar. You’ll also have the option to dine here, but note that the food is not included in the Rs. 3500 INR package. Food must be purchased separately, but the atmosphere and views are priceless.
Overnight in Ella.

Day 5: Ella to Mirissa

Morning: Depart from LSA station towards Matara by bus. The bus ride will offer scenic views and will cost around Rs. 200.
After arriving in Matara, take a tuk-tuk or local bus to your hotel in Mirissa, a well-known beach destination. Check in and settle into your hotel.
Mirissa Beach: Spend your day enjoying the crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches of Mirissa. You can relax, swim, or try water activities such as snorkeling or surfing.
Parrot Rock: Head to Parrot Rock, a small island rock located about 50 feet from the shore. This offers one of the best panoramic views of Mirissa Beach, perfect for photography and relaxation.
Coconut Hill: Next, visit Coconut Hill, a small cliff by the ocean lined with coconut trees. It’s an ideal spot to watch the sunset, offering a tranquil atmosphere with stunning views.
Nightlife in Mirissa: In the evening, explore Mirissa’s nightlife. The area comes alive with vibrant bars, restaurants, and beach parties. Relax and enjoy the lively beach vibes under the stars.
Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 6: Mirissa to Galle

Morning: Catch a bus ride to Galle, a historic and modern coastal town known for its vibrant culture, beaches, and nightlife.
Koggala Turtle Hatchery: Start your exploration with the Koggala Turtle Hatchery, where you can observe the process of turtle hatching and even touch the turtles. The entrance fee is Rs. 1500. It’s a unique experience, especially for nature lovers.
Koggala Beach: After the hatchery, visit Koggala Beach, known for its clean, beautiful shoreline. You’ll find cafes, street food vendors, and water activities, all set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
Thalpe Beach: Head to Thalpe Beach, known for its soft white sand, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling. This beach is also famous for surfing and snorkeling, with natural rock formations creating a private swimming pool experience.
Galle Fort: Visit Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 16th century. Explore the historic fortifications, cafes, restaurants, and shops. The fort offers spectacular views and a mix of colonial and local architecture.
Unawatuna Beach: Finish the day with a trip to Unawatuna Beach, a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Enjoy the nightlife here, which is more laid-back compared to other beach destinations.
Overnight in Galle.

Day 7: Galle to Colombo

Morning: Depart from Galle to Colombo by train. The train leaves Galle at 7:27 AM and arrives in Colombo at 9:40 AM. Once you arrive, check in to your hotel.
Visit Kamo Lotus Tower: After checking in, head to the Kamo Lotus Tower, one of the tallest structures in Sri Lanka, standing at 356 meters. The tower’s unique lotus-shaped design makes it an iconic landmark. It offers observation decks with stunning views of the city and is also home to a shopping complex. The entrance fee is around ₹1,000,000.
Explore Old Hospital Shopping Paradise: Visit what was once one of the oldest hospitals in Sri Lanka, now transformed into a bustling shopping paradise with many cafes, restaurants, and hotels. This area comes alive in the evening, making it a perfect spot to unwind and shop.
Relax at Galle Face Green: End the day at Galle Face Green, where you’ll find a vibrant energy with clubs, restaurants, and various street food vendors. It’s a lively spot to experience Colombo’s nightlife.
Night: Enjoy your final night in Colombo, soaking in the city’s energy before your trip ends.
Overnight in Colombo.