Sri Lanka is a hidden gem that boasts adventurous pursuits, wellness escapades, and cultural experiences. With so many things to do and see, you’ll want a Sri Lanka itinerary to make the most of your vacation.
Sri Lanka is the largest island off the southeastern coast of India. It’s located in the Indian Ocean and was historically called Ceylon.
Thanks to the Sri Lanka America Chamber of Commerce (SLACCOM) and Lyfetraveller, I spent nearly three weeks exploring this island nation. From devouring the best dairy-free curry and rice to Ayurvedic spa treatments and breath-taking safaris, I got you covered with the best guide to Sri Lanka. All opinions in this piece are my own.
Keep on reading to find the best things to do in Sri Lanka for wellness, adventure, and culture.
Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. That means I will receive a small commission on the purchase at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support friend!
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The ultimate 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary
After spending nearly 3 amazing weeks in Sri Lanka during October, I curated the ultimate Sri Lanka itinerary for 10 days. Feel free to use this guide below to customize your itinerary!
Itinerary preview:
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Day 1 – Arrive in Colombo -
Day 2 – Weligama and Marissa -
Day 6 – Sigiriya – Kaudulla National Park -
Day 7 – Sigiriya – Sigiriya Rock -
Day 10 – Depart from Colombo
When is the best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is hands-down one of the best countries to visit anytime of the year! Why? Because the island is home to numerous microclimates, each shaping the weather in different regions. Ultimately, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is dependent on your preferred travel style and activities.
Fall and early spring: wildlife and nature seekers
Autumn and April are a prime time for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to visit. It’s the shoulder season, offering drier weather and lower prices.
From August to September, get ready for the annual “gathering” where hundreds of elephants congregate at Minneriya National Park. If you’re visiting during this time, I recommend packing an umbrella, rain jacket, and your camera to capture the baby elephants. It’s cuteness overload!
Late October and November tend to welcome random bouts of downpours and thunderstorms, but you can expect them to clear up in no time. Keep in mind it’s still warm outside! When I visited in late October, I was pleasantly surprised by how hot it was and I often opted for quick-dry shorts or leggings when I hiked.
Winter: surfing and beach lovers season
Winter in Sri Lanka is the dream for beach lovers! It’s the driest season of the year on the west and south coasts, offering up prime conditions for surfing and relaxing on the beach. This usually lasts from November to March.
With that in mind, the north and east coast are extremely wet during winter due to the Maha monsoon season. This monsoon season typically last till January.
Late spring and summer: wellness enthusiasts and budget-conscious travelers
If you’re looking for fewer crowds, late spring and summer are calling your name. From May to August, monsoon season is in full swing. Regardless of the rain, many famous festivals and major processions take place around the country. For instance, in Kandy, a large-scale procession with stilt walkers, dancers, and drummers happens every July/August.
Additionally it’s an excellent time to relax and recharge at the numerous wellness resorts found on the island. One of my favorites resorts on the island is Santani Wellness! It’s set amongst two beautiful mountain ranges and has a tea farm nearby.
Is a visa required to visit Sri Lanka?
Yes – to visit Sri Lanka as a U.S. citizen you will need to obtain a visa. I found the process to be fairly easy and straightforward. The cost for a tourist visa was $50 and this grants you access into the country for 30 days.
I recommend applying for a visa at least 1 month before your trip to mitigate any delays. You can apply for a visa here.
10-day Sri Lanka itinerary & the best the things to do
Day 1 – Colombo
Colombo is the financial capital of Sri Lanka and the largest city in the country. Due to it’s size, it can act a one-stop wonder for Sri Lankan culture with amazing museums, temples, and markets. The food scene is outstanding!
Some of the best things to do in Colombo include:
Pettah Market: This is the biggest marketplace in Sri Lanka, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Due to the big crowds and tuk-tuks, it’s hard to navigate. But if you’re craving a down-to-earth local experience, a visit to this market is a must. You’ll also find the Old City Hall near the market. I’ve heard on the second floor you’ll even find wax figures depicting the first council meeting in Sri Lanka.
The Red Mosque: Also known as the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, this is one of the oldest mosques in the city. It was completed in 1909 and a must-visit spot for history buffs. The façade color is red and white striped and reminds me of a candycane-inspired fairytale.
Gangaramaya Temple: Located on Beira Lake, this is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo dating back to the late 19th century. It’s famous for its relics and a mix of architectural styles influenced by Sri Lankan, Chinese, Thai, and Indian cultures.
National Museum of Colombo: Step back in time as you explore the history and heritage of Sri Lanka. From Sri Lankan arts and crafts to sculptures, carvings and paintings, this museum is a treasure trove of royal artifacts. It’s also the largest museum in the country.
Best beaches to visit in Sri Lanka (along the southern coast)
After visiting the financial capital, Colombo, it’s time to head to the beach!
Sri Lanka is well-known for it’s numerous stunning beaches. You can try your hand at surfing, take a romantic stroll, relax beach side, practice yoga, or enjoy the bustling nightlife. Below is a rundown of beaches I recommend checking out for wellness and adventure.
Day 2 – Weligama
If you’re a surfer, October can be a wonderful time to visit the Weligama because it’s Maha monsoon season. During this time there’s consistent swells aka great surfing conditions. For beginner surfers, consider checking out Weligama Beach for gentler waves. For surfers in search of massive waves, Coconut Beach is a great option.
Besides surfing, consider a relaxing beach day or visiting the Buddhist Temple, Agrabodhi Raja Maha Viharaya. There’s also snorkeling with turtles which is on my bucket-list for my next visit!
Day 2 – Mirissa
Mirissa is small beach city close to Weligama that’s famous for it’s wildlife and nightlife. Some of the best things to do in Mirissa are whale watching, observing green turtles at Turtle Point Beach, climbing parrot rock, beach rotting for the day, and visiting the not-so secret beach called Mirissa’s Secret Beach.
If you have extra time you can also book a safari to Yala National Park from Marissa. Yala National Park has one of the highest leopard densities in the world, making this your best shot to see one of these stunning creatures on the safari.
Day 3 – Tangalle
Tangalle is the most relaxing, quiet beach of the three. Here you’ll find more stunning tranquil beaches, fewer crowds, and Sri Lankan restaurants serving up freshly caught seafood.
If you’re looking for a soulful escape, the Kayaam House offers curated wellness experiences meant to heal, balance, and restore. Hop in a kayak to explore the mangroves in the Rekawa Lagoon, schedule an Ayuverdic therapy or a book private gourmet dinner beneath the palm trees on the beach.
Day 4/5 – Kandy
After spending a couple days at the beach, you’ll want to head to Kandy – a major city surrounded by lush mountains. The biodiversity here is unlike anything I’ve seen before. From tea plantations to cascading waterfalls, verdant rain forests, and rich heritage sites, there’s something for everyone here to add to their Sri Lanka itinerary.
The best things to do in Kandy
Some of the best things to do in Kandy are:
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: This is the number one attraction in Kandy, and for good reason too. Designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Buddhist temple is greatly revered as a symbol of culture, spirituality, and history. Inside, you’ll find the sacred tooth relic of Buddha.
Keep in you mind to enter you’ll need to cover up your legs. Luckily I borrowed a cute sarong from my friend Autumn when we visited the temples!
Kandy Lake: Nestled in a backdrop of lush greenery, this picturesque lake is a serene spot to unwind with a stroll at sunset. Kandy Lake is located in the city center.
Grab tea or food from a hilltop restaurant: With all that greenery around and a gorgeous lake, visiting a hilltop restaurant is the best way to soak up the views.
Enjoy traditional food: Being in a major city means you have prime access to traditional Sri Lankan food. Some of my favorite dishes I recommend you trying are egg hoppers, coconut roti, and any type of rice and curry you can find. Dhal curry is my favorite!
Relax at the first luxury wellness resort in Sri Lanka: Santani is more than a luxurious wellness retreat, it’s a private sanctuary that blurs the lines between nature, luxury, and wellness. From nourishing gourmet wellness meals to adventurous mountain treks and waterfall discoveries, it stood out as one of the most indulgent and nature-filled experiences I’ve had.
Ceylon Tea Museum: Sri Lanka is famous for growing Ceylon tea! If you’re a tea lover, a visit to the Ceylon Tea Museum is a must add to your Sri Lanka itinerary. Located in the abandoned Hantane Tea Factory, this museum highlights the legacy of different tea pioneers.
Related post: 12 Amazing Things to Do in Kandy, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya & the best things to do
Next stop is Sigiriya! It’s a little more than an hour and half drive by car or taxi. Get ready for scenic views as you journey to the heart of Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya is one of my favorite places to visit in Sri Lanka!
Deep in the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka, this area offers remarkable outdoor adventures and rich cultural experiences that let you truly connect with the local heritage. With that in mind, I recommend staying at least 2 days in Sigiriya to fully immerse yourself.
I stayed at the beautiful Aliya Resort & Spa for a charming wellness getaway in the countryside. It was the perfect location from all the must-see sights in Sigiriya – not too far from the sites, and not too close to the city bustle.
Below is a list of the best things to do in Sigiriya for two days!
Day 6 – Kaudulla National Park and herbal bath
Visiting Kaudulla National Park was hands-down one of my favorite adventures in Sri Lanka! I experienced my first elephant safari, and being in the presence of such gentle giants was nothing short of magical.
Established in 2002, this national park is famous for it’s large elephant gatherings from August-December. If you’re visiting in September or October, great news! This period attracts the greatest number of wild Asian elephants.
During my October visit, I was able to see more than 5 elephant babies with our naturalist. It was an unforgettable experience with illegal levels of cute. Our safari lasted half a day and I booked my tour with Aliya Resort & Spa in Sigiriya.
Relax in an herbal bath (Awagaha Sweda): Also known as an Ayurvedic flower bath, these baths can be an excellent way to promote detoxification and relaxation. After a long day of adventuring, I knew an Awagaha Sweda was calling my name.
Within minutes of entering the spa, the staff at Aliya Resort & Spa drew me a bath filled with various herbs and flower petals. It is a deeply relaxing and rejuvenating experience—unlike anything I’ve felt before. This was the most relaxed my body felt during the trip and I was rewarded the deepest sleep.
Day 7 – Sigiriya Lion Rock, Sigiriya Museum, and Pidurangala Rock Hike
Another one of my favorite adventures was scaling the ancient rock fortress, Sigiriya Lion Rock. Deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982, this fortress boasts of a collection of staircases emerging from rocks, galleries, and scenic views.
With every step I climbed, I grew more and more nervous. I’ve climbed plenty of mountains, but this one was different. It was an exhilarating yet nerve-wracking ascent, with every step steeped in history. Some of the steps emerged naturally from the rocks, while others were reinforced with sturdy planks, offering dizzy glimpses of the hundred-foot plunge below.
The daunting climb to the top will test even the bravest of souls and their fitness levels. But, its 100% worth it for the views and history! The best advice I can give – take deep breaths and don’t look down.
It’s best to go in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. The total climb takes about 30 minutes to one and half hours.
Sigiriya Museum: Woohoo — you conquered the rock fortress (or at least watched someone else do it like a champ)! Either way, great job. After exploring the Lion Rock, I recommend visiting Sigiriya Museum. It’s located on the grounds and will give you insight into the historical significance of this fortress.
Pidurangala Rock Hike: North of Sigiriya is Pidurangala Rock – a ginormous rock with a unique formation that offers extraordinary views of Lion Rock. It’s about 1000 LKR to visit. While I wasn’t able to visit during my trip, this sacred site is a great activity for hikers and adventurous travelers.
I’ve heard hiking Pidurangala Rock at sunrise or sunset is striking!
Day 8 – Anuradhapura
Just a bit over a 1.5-hour drive from Sigiriya is Anuradhapura – a major city in the north central part of Sri Lanka. Most of this city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to ancient Buddhist monuments.
Whether you’re spending 1 or 2 days here, be sure to add these activities to your Sri Lanka itinerary.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: The sacred bodhi tree is the oldest human-planted tree in the world. It was planted in 288 BC from a cutting of the tree under which the Buddha became enlightened. I highly recommend visiting the Tree of Enlightenment as locals and tourists pay homage to Buddha through harmonious chants and prayers.
Ruwanwelisaya: Also called the Great Stupa, this Buddhist temple with a glistening, giant white dome is a sacred site for Buddhists globally. The site dates back to 120 AD and houses cherished relics of Buddha.
Dambulla Cave Temple: The biggest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka is the Dambulla Cave Temples. Inhabited since the 3rd century, this sacred site is home to five cave shrines adorned with striking murals, carvings, and sculptures of Buddha.
Day 9 – Negombo
Negombo was my last stop on my tour around Sri Lanka. It’s less than a 40-minute drive south to Colombo, which, in my opinion, makes it the perfect final stop on your itinerary. Keep in mind if you are taking the bus or train, it takes about an hour to reach the city.
Since we arrived in Negombo pretty late, we didn’t have much time to explore the city before we called it a night. We spent some time soaking up the rosy sunset on Negombo Beach, then had the most incredible beach front dinner at Jetwings Hotel with flavorful curries, fluffy rice, and more.
Other things to do in Negombo: Wander the colonial Dutch canals, visit the Buddist Angurukaramulla Temple, walk around the Negombo fish market, and take a tuk-tuk tour to explore the town. I also booked an Ayurvedic foot massage at the Jetwing Hotel for a much needed moment to pause, reflect, and relax before I headed back.
Day 10 – Depart from Colombo
Depending on your flight you might have more time to explore Colombo. If so, I highly recommend taking the morning or afternoon to see some major sights you didn’t see previously and devour some yummy food.
Starting off with Independence Square, this historical monument celebrates the national heroes and shares the hardships Sri Lankan endured as they fought for their independence from Britain. It’s found in a beautiful garden that also house the Independence Memorial Hall and a museum.
If you’re looking for last minute shopping and want to grab a bite to eat, the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct and Aluthkade Street Food Market are excellent choices. Here you can devour street food such as spicy curry, rice, and roti or shop for souvenir at one of the many boutique stalls.
More of the top things to do in Colombo can be found here.
Best hotels in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is brimming with incredible hotels and resorts. Below, I’ve compiled a list of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts to help you plan your dream Sri Lanka itinerary.
Ayurvie, Weligama – Weligama
Price:$
Hidden along the dazzling oceanfront in Weligama is the Ayurveda resort called Ayurvie, Weligama. Here guest can immerse themselves in personalized ancient Ayurvedic therapies meant to restore the mind, body, and spirit.
From spa treatments and vegan-friendly dining to whale watching and exploring cinnamon plantations, this is the perfect getaway for beach lovers and adventure seekers. It’s also great for couples, solo travelers, and families.
Aliya Resort & Spa – Sigiriya
Price: $$
The Aliya Resort & Spa is a 5-star hotel with various properties throughout Sri Lanka. It’s well-known for it’s modern comforts that celebrate the rich culture in Sri Lanka. The Sigiriya property was one of my favorite stays because it’s close to Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO world site and Kaudulla National Park!
On top of its access to prime spots, this hotel has an exquisite buffet. From vegan curries to traditional gluten-free appam, locally known as hoppers, this place has something for every palette. It’s a great choice for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Santani Wellness – Kandy
Price: $$$
If you’re looking for a luxurious mountain getaway with the tiptop eco-standards, you’ll want to check out Santani Wellness. This 5-star luxury wellness resort offers a tranquil escape from everyday living. Imagine starting your morning off with yoga outside, devouring a curated meal from the head chef, and falling asleep to the sound of swaying trees.
What’s more is that Santani Wellness stocked the fridge with kombucha – a probiotic drink to support gut health. To say the least, I was blown-away by the amenities, hospitality, and architecture of this wellness resort. It’s an excellent choice for couples, solo travelers, and wellness enthusiasts.
First timers guide to Sri Lanka: FAQs
✅ Is Sri Lanka safe?
I felt extremely safe in Sri Lanka! In my opinion, it’s one of the safest countries for Black travelers besides Jordan, Croatia, and Romania. I won’t go into detail, but you can read more about traveling safely in Jordan here.
Sri Lankans are extremely warm, respectful, and hospitable. Whenever I visited a new hotel, the staff always bowed and greeted us with a smile and refreshing cold towel to beat the heat. On some occasions, we also received cold coconut water!
✅ How many days do you need to see Sri Lanka?
When it comes to picking you ideal duration, you’ll want to factor in time, money, travel style, the places you want to explore, and who you’re traveling with. For example, I spent nearly 3 weeks in Sri Lanka and wish I had more time in this outdoor adventure paradise.
That said, I recommend spending at least 10 days in Sri Lanka because the island is far from the US. For instance, I traveled from California and it took almost 27 hours, including one 5-hour lay over.
But if your travel plans aren’t flexible – don’t worry! It’s possible to spend 7 days in Sri Lanka and have the most incredible time. Simply use the information above to craft a personalized 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary.
Besides, you can save more of these bucket-list experiences for your next trip to Sri Lanka!
✅ How to get around Sri Lanka?
The best way to get to Sri Lanka is to fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) with Sri Lankan Airlines. Once you arrive, you’ll have access to a safe and well managed transit system composed of taxis, trains, buses, and of course, the famous tuk-tuks.
Taxis, Ubers, and Pick Me’s: You can find these in large and medium-sized cities. Taxis are metered and it’s a good idea to agree on a price beforehand if you’re traveling far. Before you leave, make sure to download Uber, and Pick Me, Sri-Lanka local app for taxis.
Tuk-tuks: This is must-try experience in Sri Lanka! It’s also a convenient way to travel around cities.
Trains: The train network expands across all of Sri Lanka and easily connects you to tourist hot spots. It’s home to one of the most beautiful train route in the world – Kandy to Ella.
Buses: Another transportation option that can connect you to prime destinations is the bus. It’s cheap and reliable, but can be quite bumpy.
✅ What’s the currency and cost to visit?
The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Currently, the US dollar is stronger than the rupee and 1 LKR converts to about .003 USD.
With a great conversion rate, I found travel to Sri Lanka to be extremely affordable, especially if you’re craving a wellness-focused vacation. For instance, Aliya Resort & Spa, a luxurious 5-star hotel I stayed at averages around $155 per night.
For a mid-range luxury trip, you can expect to spend around $1000-1500 per person for 10-days in Sri Lanka with this itinerary.
Keep in mind that this is an estimate. The final cost will highly depend on the activities planned, dining preferences, transportation, and accommodations. The more activities and luxury accommodations you prefer, the higher the cost.
Final thoughts: Building a wellness and adventure based Sri Lanka itinerary
Sri Lanka is truly a one-stop shop for all things wellness and adventure! From herbal baths in the cultural triangle to watching baby elephants roam the grasslands, this Sri Lanka itinerary has you covered.
Ideally, give yourself a minimum of 10 days to explore Sri Lanka—it’s worth it! But even a shorter visit will leave you with lasting memories. Use this Sri Lanka itinerary as a flexible guide to help you tailor your dream trip.
Happy adventuring!
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