Real talk, two weeks simply won’t be enough to explore and experience Sri Lanka. However, with good planning, you can soak up the best of the island and head home with a golden tan and a happy heart.
If we were you, here’s how we’d spend our holiday in Sri Lanka.
Days 01 and 02
Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. It is the only place on the island to give you the big-city-life vibe. The streets are bursting with energy and it is almost contagious. Visit the Independence Square, Miller’s Building and Dutch House Museum to see colonial-style architecture. The National Museum is a must-visit. It has a galore of ancient relics and colonial artefacts to wander through for a good 5 hours. (Here are a few other museums for the history buff in you.)
Pettah Market is the heart of Colombo. It is packed with action and within that maze, you can find anything under the sun. Conclude your stay by watching the sunset at Galle Face Green and trying out some delicious isso-wadey.
Days 03 and 04
The trip from Colombo to Anuradhapura takes around 4 hours. The town is scattered with relics that date back to the 4 BC. Ruwanweli Seya, Jethawanaramaya, Kuttam Pokuna, and the Isurumuniya Rock Temple are iconic locations in the area. Book one of the budget hotels in Anuradhapura to save cash on the trip.
It will take almost 02 hours to reach Polonnaruwa from Anuradhapura. Polonnaruwa is a part of the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka. You can find remnants of the ancient kingdom and more locations such as Lankathilake Viharaya and Gal Viharaya. Both these cities are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites and hold the pride of the country.
Days 05 and 06
The city of Kandy is the cultural hub of the country and home of the Temple of The Tooth Relic. The garden is spread across 56 hectares and is an ideal way to spend your day. Wander across the city in the night – you might find the cosiest restaurants on your way!
In the morning visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the ever so beautiful Hanthana Mountain Range.
Days 07 and 08
From Kandy take the train to Ella and you will be eternally grateful you did so. It is one of the most beautiful train rides you can take in Sri Lanka. Sightseeing the vistas when hiking to Little Adam’s Peak is an amazing experience.
Days 09 – 12
Your journey down the Southern Coast can start with golden beaches of Tangalle. Following your dive into the deep South, make your way back up West touching the coastlines of Dikwella, Mirissa, Weligama and Unawatuna. If it’s in season, be sure to book a whale watching trip while in Mirissa or surf the waters of Weligama. From Unawatuna, surf your way into the beautiful city of Galle, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
Days 12 and 13
This will be the final destination of your trip. The city of Galle carries a historic and rustic charm with the chic Galle Fort, cute boutiques and restaurants. Rent a bicycle and cycle your way across the city. Spend some chill-time at the Galle Dutch Hospital and don’t forget to buy handloom and coconut shell trinkets from the souvenir shops.
Take the train to Colombo along the coast and it will be the perfect serene ending for your holiday in the paradise of Sri Lanka. Holidays cannot be get any better!
