Sri Lanka Itinerary: 10 Epic Days All the Way

Jordan Campbell

12 months ago

The image showcases the famous Nine Arches Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka, an architectural marvel surrounded by lush, dense greenery. The curved railway bridge, built with stone and concrete, elegantly cuts through the tropical forest, leading into a dark tunnel in the hillside. The vibrant green foliage of tall trees and shrubs, coupled with the rolling hills in the background, creates a serene and picturesque setting. This iconic landmark is a popular highlight in many Sri Lanka itineraries, offering both historical significance and stunning natural beauty.

Sri Lanka Itinerary, Start to Finish

There are tons of different ways to enjoy and explore Sri Lanka, but I like to think my alternative, off-beat approach is hard to beat. Here’s a basic outline of a 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary, which you can take and customize to best suit what you want to do:

Fly into Colombo. Tour for two days.
Scenic train ride to Ella. Tour for three days.
Transfer to Udawalawe. Tour for two days.
Transfer to Galle. Tour for one day.
Day trip to Balapitiya for the Madu River Boat Safari.
Transfer to Negombo. Tour for one day.

PLANNING A TRIP TO COLOMBO, SRI LANKA SOON?

Below are some of the best tours, hotels, and more to kickstart your plans!

Popular tours/activities in Colombo:

Lotus Tower
Lunuganga Estate
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Top places to stay in Colombo:

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Start Exploring Sri Lanka in Colombo

Getting Around Colombo

Colombo is home to Sri Lanka’s biggest international airport, so this is where you’ll most likely end up when you fly in. Fortunately, there are plenty of options in terms of public transportation.

By Tour/Private Driver: This is the method I chose. I usually don’t shy away from rental cars, but Sri Lanka’s a special case. Sri Lanka’s roads are crowded, confused, and poorly maintained. Leave the driving in the hands of locals familiar with the terrain.
By Taxi: If you can’t afford a private car the whole way (understandable), taxis are a good alternative for things like transferring from the airport to your hotel. Buses are usually too crowded to accommodate luggage, and a taxi is quicker and more comfortable—a 35-minute ride from airport to city center vs. a 90-minute bus ride.
By Bus: Colombo has both public and private buses. Both are cheap, but public buses are crowded, bumpy, and lack A/C. But hey, that’s what windows are for, right? Meanwhile, private buses tend to be much more comfortable and much less crowded.
By Tuk-tuk: Tuk-tuks are motorized rickshaws—the modern version of the old school one-man man-powered carriages, great for short trips. Maybe not the best transportation—no seatbelts, no A/C, cramped. But if you’ve never hopped on one of these puppies before, you’ve gotta try it at least once!

Busy urban intersection during sunset with cars, a motorbike, and pedestrians navigating the area, framed by power lines, traffic lights, and storefronts. The scene includes a prominent overpass and colorful advertisements, capturing the hustle of city life.

Quiet urban street with a red and black tuk-tuk parked along the sidewalk, set against a backdrop of a white multi-story building with balconies and blue-tinted windows. The scene captures a calm moment in a city environment, with minimal traffic and clean surroundings.

Bright urban scene featuring a red tuk-tuk parked under the shade of trees, with a vibrant red multi-story building in the background. The setting includes a parking area with cars and lush greenery, creating a lively yet relaxed city atmosphere.

Where To Stay in Colombo

Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams is a brand new hotel that hits that sweet spot of awesome service, luxurious accommodations, and super convenient location. Reviewers praise the staff up and down for their genuine care in making your stay a good one.

The image depicts a luxurious, modern bathroom in a high-end hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, featuring sleek and elegant design elements. The space is illuminated by soft lighting and includes a large marble vanity with dual sinks and a mirror with integrated lights. A freestanding black-and-white bathtub is centrally placed, with glass partitions enclosing a walk-in shower area. The glossy surfaces, contemporary fixtures, and muted tones create a sophisticated ambiance, making it an ideal addition to a premium Sri Lanka itinerary focused on luxury accommodations.

The image shows a sleek and modern hotel reception area in Colombo, Sri Lanka, exuding elegance and sophistication. A long, angular front desk is staffed by attendants in formal attire, with large floor-to-ceiling windows in the background that offer views of the city skyline and cloudy skies. The polished marble floors reflect the geometric lighting fixtures on the ceiling, creating a spacious and luxurious atmosphere.

The image captures a stunning rooftop infinity pool at a luxury hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, with breathtaking views of the city and a vibrant sunset on the horizon. The pool stretches along the edge of the building, seamlessly blending with the skyline, while stylish lounge chairs and private cabanas line the deck. The modern architecture of the hotel, adorned with geometric patterns, complements the sleek design of the pool area. This rooftop oasis offers a serene retreat, making it an ideal feature in any upscale Sri Lanka travel itinerary focused on relaxation and luxury.

The image showcases a contemporary hotel room in Colombo, Sri Lanka, featuring two neatly made beds with crisp white linens and vibrant orange accent pillows. A large floor-to-ceiling window offers a stunning view of the ocean and nearby palm trees, flooding the room with natural light. The decor is minimalistic yet elegant, with wall art, a sleek workspace with a red chair, and a cozy seating area by the window.

The image depicts the striking exterior of a luxury hotel in Colombo, Sri Lanka, set against a vibrant cityscape and surrounded by waterways. The modern architecture features geometric patterns and glass façades, with a prominent rooftop infinity pool overlooking the city. The hotel's unique design blends futuristic aesthetics with urban sophistication, while the surrounding area includes lush greenery, iconic landmarks, and the bustling city skyline.

PHOTO CREDITS: CINNAMON LIFE AT CITY OF DREAMS VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees in Colombo

To be honest, there’s not a ton I’d recommend in Colombo. Don’t get me wrong, there are a few sites that are 100% worth it, but there’s a lot of over-promoted meh as well. My two favorites were Lotus Tower and Lunuganga Estate. I didn’t visit the other two, but they’re both gorgeous sites unique to Sri Lanka.

Lotus Tower	Lunuganga Estate
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque	Gangaramaya Temple

A Taste of Sri Lanka Mountain Life in Ella

Getting Around Ella

By Train: Sri Lanka’s trains are best for traveling between towns and cities, but expect hour-long delays and for the ride to take 2-4 hours longer than it says on route maps. To get to Ella from Colombo, you’ll need to take the Colombo–Kandy train and connect to Kandy–Ella. The trip is known for being gorgeous, though the second leg alone is 8-10 hours long.
By Tour/Private Driver: Booking a tour or private driver once you leave the city is extremely useful. You can book a driver for each city, OR you can book one to travel with you your whole trip. The latter will be a lot more expensive since you have to pay for the driver’s food and accommodations too, but it’s the most reliable option.
By Tuk-tuk: Again, great for short distances, but Ella is popular, so you want to book your tuk ride ahead of time.

An off-road adventure scene with a group of people in a black open-top jeep driving along a dirt trail through a lush forest. Surrounded by tall trees and rocky terrain, the group appears to be enjoying the rugged, natural environment of the hillside.

A rustic train station platform at Bandarawela, with passengers seated on benches under an overhang adorned with flowers. The sign prominently displays the station's name in multiple languages, while train tracks stretch into the distance surrounded by greenery and a serene rural landscape.

Close-up view from inside a tuk-tuk, showcasing its black leather seat and handlebars, with glimpses of other colorful tuk-tuks parked nearby. The vibrant reflections and lush greenery in the background add a dynamic and lively feel to the scene.

A vibrant green tuk-tuk with a "Gotuwala Tuk Tuk Society" banner on the windshield parked on a dirt road, surrounded by lush greenery and tall palm trees. The scene includes a rustic house with a tiled roof in the background, capturing a rural and charming atmosphere.

Where To Stay in Ella

If you’re going to stay in Ella, you have to take advantage of the mountain views here. And as it turns out, there’s no better place for that than The Cubes Ella.

Though technically in Kumbalwela, it’s a short taxi ride from Ella train station. Set up in the hills with stunning views of the surrounding forest, this hotel offers fantastic meals, spacious balconies, and simple but beautiful furnishings.

The image shows a beautifully arranged breakfast table at an outdoor dining area at The Cubes Hotel in Ella, Sri Lanka, set under warm sunlight. The table features plates of hearty breakfast items, including sunny-side-up eggs, sausages, and fresh vegetables, alongside a basket of toasted bread. Accompanying the meal are glasses of tea, small bowls of butter and jam, and white teapots, all placed on elegant gray placemats atop a wooden table.

The image captures a serene outdoor seating area with wicker chairs and a small table, set on a wooden deck overlooking the misty mountains of Ella, Sri Lanka, during a vibrant sunset. The soft hues of orange and pink in the sky create a warm, tranquil atmosphere, contrasting beautifully with the lush greenery and silhouetted mountain peaks in the background. A glass railing surrounds the space, enhancing the panoramic view, while the partially covered roof adds a cozy touch.

The image features a stylish and cozy hotel room in Ella, Sri Lanka, designed with modern minimalism and natural tones. A large bed with crisp white linens and patterned pillows is the focal point, framed by warm wooden furniture and hanging pendant lights. The room opens to a private balcony through sliding glass doors, offering stunning views of lush green hills and the surrounding landscape. A simple desk with a mirror, tea-making facilities, and a wall-mounted television complete the amenities, making it an ideal place to unwind while exploring Sri Lanka.

The image showcases a compact and modern bathroom in Ella, Sri Lanka, featuring a clean and minimalist design. A sleek white countertop supports a square basin sink with contemporary chrome faucets, complemented by a simple mirror mounted above. Beside the vanity is a pristine toilet, with neatly placed toiletries and a towel holder adding functional elegance. The warm-toned walls and efficient layout create a welcoming and practical space, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience as part of their Sri Lanka itinerary.

The image captures a striking view of a modern villa, The Cubes, in Ella, Sri Lanka, illuminated beautifully against a deep blue evening sky. The architectural design features elevated structures with glass walls and wooden accents, offering an open and airy aesthetic. A set of lit stone steps leads through a landscaped garden to the building, enhancing the ambiance with a touch of elegance. Surrounded by lush greenery and perched on a hillside, this accommodation combines contemporary style with natural beauty.

PHOTO CREDITS: THE CUBES VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees in Ella

Take a look at some all-inclusive Ella tours if you want some easy travel getting to these sites. Nearby villages also have some great attractions, like the Adisham Bungalow.

Ella Rock	Ravana Falls
Demodara Loop	Little Adam’s Peak
9-Arch Bridge	Adisham Bungalow
Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory

Elephant Watching in Udawalawe

Getting Around Udawalawe

By Bus: There are no direct buses from Udawalawe to Ella, but you can make the trip with one or two transfers. The ride will take 5-6 hours and the driver’s reckless pace will likely have you questioning your life’s decisions, but it’s cheap.
By Private Driver: As mentioned before, booking a private driver is the easiest way to navigate a Sri Lanka itinerary. It will also shorten the trip between Ella and Udawalawe to only 2 hours.
By Tour: Since Udawalawe is such a popular destinations, quite a few places offer tours that includes city-to-city transfers and intracity travel.

Close-up of a bright green tuk-tuk with a license plate reading "AAJ 2397," set against a lush backdrop of dense greenery and a guardrail. The tuk-tuk's windshield features a decorative sticker, adding a touch of personality to the vibrant scene.

A red tuk-tuk parked beside two motorcycles near a rocky cliff covered with lush green vegetation. A bright yellow and green signboard stands in the background, blending into the natural setting, creating a serene roadside scene.

Where To Stay in Udawalawe

Waraka Udawalawe is near the Udawalawe National Park, so it’s the perfect place to stay if you want to see the elephants bright and early, first thing in the morning. This hotel’s bright, safari atmosphere is only topped by its eco-friendly approach.

Coming here guarantees a stay both luxurious and beautiful.

The image showcases a serene outdoor lounging area by a tranquil river at Waraka, near Udawalawe, Sri Lanka. A wooden deck is lined with sleek black lounge chairs, shaded by a large tree, whose branches provide dappled sunlight and a cool retreat. A hammock hangs invitingly from the tree, adding to the relaxed ambiance. The calm water reflects the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape, creating a peaceful and picturesque spot, perfect for unwinding after exploring Sri Lanka’s natural wonders as part of a thoughtfully planned itinerary.

The image depicts a charming outdoor kitchen setup at Waraka, near Udawalawe, Sri Lanka, showcasing traditional culinary practices. A rustic clay stove with earthen pots and utensils is set against a thatched roof and mud wall, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Adjacent to the stove is a modern serving counter lined with clay pots filled with various Sri Lankan dishes, each labeled for convenience. The lush greenery in the background enhances the authentic and eco-friendly ambiance.

The image shows a vibrant and spacious loft-style hotel room at Waraka in Udawalawe, Sri Lanka, blending modern and rustic elements. The room features a stylish canopy bed adorned with bright yellow and green accent pillows, complementing the deep green walls. A mezzanine level is accessible via a sleek staircase, offering additional sleeping space and a cozy, elevated view. Artistic elephant-themed wall art adds a local touch, while minimalistic furniture and natural wood accents enhance the warm and inviting atmosphere.

The image captures the serene ambiance of Waraka in Udawalawe, Sri Lanka, at night, with a glowing infinity pool surrounded by lounge chairs on a wooden deck. The pool is illuminated with soft, colorful lights, reflecting the lush trees and creating a tranquil atmosphere. In the background, a warmly lit building with large windows adds a cozy and inviting feel, while the silhouettes of palm trees and a vibrant evening sky complete the picturesque setting.

The image showcases the stunning Waraka property in Udawalawe, Sri Lanka, glowing warmly against the deep blue hues of the night. The building's modern architecture features expansive glass walls, revealing a brightly lit and inviting interior, surrounded by lush tropical trees and tall palm silhouettes. A well-maintained grassy lawn leads to the property, with a quiet, ambient atmosphere enhanced by soft exterior lighting. The combination of nature and contemporary design makes this an enchanting destination.

PHOTO CREDITS: WARAKA UDAWALAWE VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees in Udawalawe

The highlight here is obviously Udawalawe National Park, a refuge for wild elephants. Unless you just so happen to be a Sri Lankan wildlife expert, you definitely want to book a guide for the safari to get the most out of your trip.

Udawalawe National Park	Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
Mankada Pottery Village

Galle: a Colonial Architecture Hotspot on your Sri Lanka Itinerary

There’s evidence of colonialism all over Sri Lanka, but it really stands out here. Reminded me a little bit of Macau in that way, even though that was Portuguese and this was British.

Getting Around Galle

By Bus: Galle has a decent public bus system that will get you to any major attraction and then some. Like Colombo, bus fare varies depending on route, but overall is pretty cheap.
By Tour/Private Driver: Fastest and most convenient method, but again, can get expensive.
By Taxi: If you don’t want a private driver the whole time you’re in Galle, taxis offer a comfortable, less crowded alternative to buses.
By Rideshare: PickMe is Sri Lanka’s equivalent to Uber and is available in many cities, including Galle. If you prefer rideshares to taxis, be sure to download the app before your trip.
By Tuk-tuk: Galle is relatively small, so tuk-tuks are a good option going between attractions.
By Bicycle/Moped Rental: If you’re not going too far, some places in Galle offer bicycle or moped rentals. Don’t know if I’d recommend this—haven’t tried it myself—but it’s an option.

A cheerful man waves while sitting on a bicycle with a wooden tray displaying items for sale, parked in front of a boutique shop. The storefront features mannequins dressed in vibrant clothing and is surrounded by lush potted plants, creating a lively and welcoming scene.

A green tuk-tuk drives down a cobblestone street in Galle, Sri Lanka, with the iconic lighthouse and swaying palm trees visible in the background. The scene is framed by colonial-style buildings and a clear blue sky, capturing the charm of this coastal town.

A red tuk-tuk and a parked motorbike rest under the shade of a leafy tree along a brick-paved sidewalk. The vibrant green foliage contrasts with the clear blue sky, creating a tranquil urban street scene.

Where To Stay in Galle

Whether you love the water or just want to cool off, Jetwing Lighthouse in Galle is ideally located next to the ocean. Expect beautiful, peaceful views and top-tier service from staff that give personalized, attentive service.

A serene poolside scene featuring a staff member walking with a tray near a crystal-clear swimming pool, with palm trees, white umbrellas, and lounge chairs in the background. The vibrant blue sky and ocean enhance the tropical, relaxing atmosphere.

Sophisticated bar and lounge area with leather armchairs and wooden furniture, overlooking the ocean through large panoramic windows. The space features a warmly lit bar, artistic ceiling details, and a cozy ambiance perfect for relaxation with a coastal view.

Elegant bathroom featuring a luxurious marble jacuzzi tub next to a mirrored wall, flanked by wooden paneling and a glass block partition. On the right, a spacious double sink vanity with a large mirror and wooden cabinetry adds warmth to the space, complemented by tiled and wooden flooring.

Bright and airy bedroom featuring a carved wooden four-poster bed with white linens, set against a light green wall. Large glass doors open to a balcony with ocean views, while warm wooden flooring and elegant furnishings complete the inviting coastal aesthetic.

Expansive tropical resort view with a large, vibrant blue swimming pool surrounded by a lush green lawn dotted with palm trees and lounge chairs. Beyond the pool, the shimmering ocean meets a bright blue sky, creating a serene and idyllic coastal setting.

PHOTO CREDITS: JETWING LIGHTHOUSE VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees in Galle

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can’t miss Galle Fort. But if you want adventure, you have to add the Madu River Boat Safari to your Sri Lanka itinerary. Experience the wild first-hand, explore miniature islands, and see the locals’ traditional fishing first hand.

Galle Fort	Madu Ganga Boat Safari
Galle Lighthouse

Sri Lanka Itinerary Final Stop: Relax on Negombo’s Beaches

Getting Around Negombo

Negombo is closest to the international airport, so it’s a perfect last stop before heading home.

By Bus: Galle to Negombo is fairly straightforward since you can take a several-hour-long bus going right up there. Depending on your exact destination, you’ll need to transfer a couple of times, so make sure to do your research if you take this option.
By Tour/Private Driver: Since there’s not a ton to see in Negombo, the only need you’ll have for a driver is the transfer from Galle to Negombo or your hotel to the airport. It’s a nice way to finish off your trip in ease and comfort.
By Tuk-tuk: For visiting attractions, tuk-tuks are probably the best option.

A bustling street scene with colorful tuk-tuks in red and blue navigating through traffic alongside a motorbike and pedestrians. The vibrant backdrop features busy market stalls, signboards, and a mix of urban activity, capturing the lively atmosphere of a Sri Lankan marketplace.

PHOTO CREDIT: DEPOSITPHOTOS.COM

Where To Stay in Negombo

Jetwing Lagoon in Negombo gets bragging rights for having a 100-meter-long pool, the longest in Sri Lanka. That’s 328 feet for my fellow Americans out there.

The neighborhood is pretty quiet (read: not a lot of surrounding shopping and restaurants), but luckily, the hotel has pretty much all the shopping and food you’ll need on-site.

A bird’s-eye view of a resort surrounded by lush greenery, with red-roofed buildings and a large swimming pool at its center. The property is bordered by a tranquil lagoon in the foreground and the turquoise ocean in the background, offering a serene tropical setting.

Elegant dining area featuring wooden tables set with yellow napkins, glassware, and woven placemats, surrounded by cane-back chairs. The space is warmly lit with large windows offering views of the outdoors, creating a welcoming and sophisticated ambiance.

Spacious and airy guestroom featuring a large bed with neutral linens, a cozy seating area with sofas and wooden tables, and a tiled floor. A wide window with views of lush greenery and a glimpse of the water adds natural light and a serene ambiance to the space.

Expansive lawn with a large tree providing shade, adjacent to a building featuring red-tiled roofs, white walls, and outdoor seating areas. The structure's open design and lush surroundings create a tranquil and inviting atmosphere under a bright blue sky.

Long infinity pool reflecting the silhouettes of palm trees and a vibrant sunset sky, bordered by lounge chairs and umbrellas on a grassy lawn. The tranquil setting is surrounded by tropical greenery and modern poolside cabanas, offering a serene evening retreat.

PHOTO CREDITS: JETWING LAGOON VIA HOTELS.COM

Must-Sees in Negombo

Like many islands, Sri Lanka has some great beaches, and you can find one right in Negombo.

Negombo Beach	Negombo Lagoon
Fishing Village & Fish Market	St. Mary’s Church

Want to Add More to Your Sri Lanka Itinerary?

Perhaps you’d like to adjust this itinerary a bit. In that case, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Ella to enrich your time there.

You can also extend your stay in Asia with an epic 15-day Asia itinerary, hitting South Korea, China, and Taiwan, or head up to the land of the rising sun to spend one week in Japan.