Sri Lanka is a tropical island paradise in South Asia known for its palm-lined beaches, ancient ruins, flavorful cuisine, scenic train rides, and wildlife-filled national parks.
I recently spent an unforgettable week exploring its magic, including world-famous attractions, hidden gems, and breathtaking landscapes throughout the country.
Read on for my ultimate one week itinerary to enjoy the highlights of Sri Lanka in just 7 days.
Day 1 : In Colombo
Spend your first day in the bustling capital city of Colombo. Wander through the markets of Pettah to barter for spices and fabrics as locals do.
Get lost in the colonial Fort District, packed with historic buildings dating back to the Portuguese. Relax at Galle Face Green at sunset and watch locals fly hundreds of kites along the shore.
Enjoy a riotous tuk tuk ride back to your hotel for a good night’s rest before setting off early the next morning.
Day 2 : To Kandy via train
Depart Colombo by train to enjoy stunning views of Sri Lanka’s countryside, including lush tea plantations and small villages.
Arrive in the royal city of Kandy and visit the Temple of the Tooth, one of Buddhism’s most sacred sites.
In the evening, take in a colorful show of traditional Sinhalese dance and music with intricate costumes.
Day 3 : Dambulla & Sigiriya
Rise early to climb the towering 5th century Sigiriya Fortress, built atop a colossal 200 meter high rock known as “Lion Rock” for its gateway guarded by giant lion’s paws.
Gaze out over the jungle canopy that spreads to the horizon.
On the way back to Kandy, stop at Dambulla Cave Temple to see ancient Buddhist statues and shrines nestled inside of immaculately preserved cave paintings dating to the 1st century BCE.
Day 4 : To Nuwara Eliya
Wind through the Hill Country aboard a train to Nuwara Eliya. Nicknamed “Little England,” this charming city is set amongst emerald tea fields and known for its colonial architecture.
Hike through Horton Plains National Park to “World’s End,” an awe-inspiring sheer cliff with views that seem to go on forever.
Visit Seetha Amman Temple to learn the legend of Sita from the Ramayana epic before capping it all off with Ceylon’s famous tea.
Day 5 : Ella & Yala Safari
Hop from Nuwara Eliya to Ella by car or train to take in gorgeous mountain views of terraced farmlands in Sri Lanka’s central highlands.
Get an adrenaline rush while white water rafting along the Kelani River. Then trade mountains for wildlife by taking a jeep safari in Yala National Park, where you can spot wild elephants, buffalo, monkeys, jackals, and even leopards if you’re lucky.
Spend the night in basic thatched roof huts near the park’s edge to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Day 6 : Galle & Southern Beaches
Drive down the coast to the Dutch colonial seaside fort city of Galle to explore its colorful streets and landmarks like the National Maritime Museum.
Browse boutiques and art galleries as you walk along the city walls right beside the ocean.
Continue west to relax on the stunning beaches of Mirissa or Unawatuna where you can surf, snorkel with sea turtles, spot blue whales (seasonal), or simply unwind at a beachfront bar.
Day 7 : Colombo & Departure
Wrap up your Sri Lankan sojourn with more time to discover Colombo at your own pace. Shop for souvenirs like precious gems and handicrafts.
Explore diverse religious sites like the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque and Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple. Wander down alleys revealing street art like the Vegan Mural Project.
Then savor one last flavorful Sri Lankan curry dinner before your departure home.
Conclusion
An itinerary covering Sri Lanka’s highlights is possible to accomplish in just one week thanks to the country’s modest size and excellent transportation infrastructure.
In 7 unforgettable days, I uncovered ancient sites, cosmopolitan cities, mountain vistas, wildlife safaris, beach bliss, and mouthwatering cuisine across this island nation that feels like multiple countries packed into one adventure paradise.
Hopefully this Sri Lanka travel guide has shown you how easy and magical discovering the highlights here can be!
