Sri Lanka 2-Weeks Itinerary

Post spending your Day One in Colombo we will start journeying towards one of the sacred destination cities in Sri Lanka –Anuradhapura. On Day Three we will travel to Polonnaruwa which is another sacred city in Sri Lanka. We will wrap up Day Three as we travel to Sigiriya to witness the infamous Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

After exploring the most visited sacred landmarks in Anuradhapura, on Day Five we will take our leave from this historic city and head towards another must visit destination city in Sri Lanka–Jaffna.

Anuradhapura Tour

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Anuradhapura is one of the capitals of ancient Sri Lanka. The historical and religious stories embedded with the sacred locations in Anuradhapura are what make this destination a must visit city in Sri Lanka.

Day Two will be entirely dedicated to witnessing the historical archaeological locations such as stupas, monasteries and ruins of palaces including:

• Sri Maha Bodhi
• Ruwanweliseya
• Thooparamaya
• Mihinthale

Polonnaruwa Tour

Another UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka is Polonnaruwa–an ancient capital during the 11th and 13th centuries. Similar to Anuradhapura all the archaeological sites in Polonnaruwa are embedded with an interesting historical story, thereby giving the sites more pride and significance.

On Day Three you will be traveling to Polonnaruwa to explore all the ancient sites in order to get a glimpse of the proud history of Sri Lanka:

• Royal Palace
• Gal Viharaya
• Parakrama Samudraya
• Polonnaruwa Watadageya

Sigiriya Tour

Sigiriya -also known as Lion Rock Fortress -is a popular historical hotspot located in Dambulla. Dating back to the 5th century, this huge rock has been the fortress of King Kashyapa. The spectacular architecture, smart irrigation systems and the artistic value of this pure rock fortress is worth of high praise. Climbing the Rock Fortress may seem challenging, but once you reach the top you will not be disappointed, as the site offers breathtaking views of the vicinity.

As we end exploring the ancient capitals and kingdoms in Sri Lanka we will be driving to the destination cities nestled in the hill country –Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella. Within the span of these five days you will witness how the climate differs from one city to another.

Before reaching Kandy we will be making a stop at another city–Dambulla- to explore another popular historic location in Sri Lanka. You will be spending two nights in Kandy, one night in Nuwara Eliya and the next two nights in Ella.

Here are the must visit locations you will be visiting in Kandy and Nuwara Eliya:

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple–also known as “Golden Temple of Dambulla” –is a temple comprising Buddha statues, colourful paintings and other religious artefacts. The fact that the temple is a collection of five caves, makes this religious premises a significant one. Moreover the location is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in Sri Lanka. The huge gold adorned seated Buddha visible to the main road is a spectacular view.

Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy

Also known as ‘Sri Dalada Maligawa”, nestled in Kandy, is a prominent religious location in Sri Lanka. Millions of tourists visit this peaceful location for its historical, archaeological, artistic and especially for its religious significance. Carvings, frescos and the well maintained gardens surrounding the temple are worthy of high praise. Also this has been named as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka.

Peradeniya Botanical Garden and the Hakgala Botanical Garden

Sri Lanka owns some beautiful botanical gardens such as Peradeniya Botanical Garden and the Hakgala Botanical Garden. You will encounter the Peradeniya garden on the way to Kandy and the Hakgala garden on the way to Nuwara Eliya. Both gardens are homes to a wide variety of flowers, plants and trees. The variety of roses, orchids, spices, medicinal plants are the highlights of these gardens. Also the two gardens are perfect locations for visitors to relax while spending some quality time enjoying the beautiful views of the surroundings and do not forget to click some beautiful photos using nature as a beautiful backdrop.

Ambuluwawa Tower

Ambuluwawa Tower–nestled near Gampola –is a multi religious location with an observation deck providing panoramic views of the surrounding. The tower is built on top of Ambuluwawa mountain and therefore the 360 degree views offered by this tower are magnificent. The unique stair case built around the tower is another highlight of the tower. At a glance the climb may look daunting but the views from above are worth a try.

Tea Estate and Tea Factory at Nuwara Eliya

Another unique experience you will enjoy in Nuwara Eliya is a visit to a tea estate and a tea factory. Tea-an export industry in Sri Lanka-is another industry that brings in foreign revenue to this island and the best location to witness the long stretches of lush tea plantations is Nuwara Eliya. Also you will get the chance to enjoy tea plucking and explore the process associated with tea production and finally, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea.

Seetha Amman Temple

Sri Lanka is a multi religious country and you will notice this as soon as you enter Sri Lanka. So we will not let you leave Sri Lanka without visiting a religious place that is sacred to the Hindu community. Seetha Amman Temple, in Nuwara Eliya, holds historical, religious and architectural significance. This will be a good opportunity for you to get a glimpse into the Hindi religious practices in one of their own temples.

Gregory Park

After all the traveling and sight seeing you will need some time to relax and enjoy an evening in front of a lake either relaxing, binging on some street food or engaging in some fun activities. Gregory Lake would be the ideal location for that. Spend some time relaxing or opt for some water activities like jet skiing, boat riding, duck boat paddling. Or else you can spend time walking, sitting or going for a horse ride.

Horton Plains National Park

This mesmerizing National Park-located in Nuwara Eliya- is popular for its unique ecosystems, a wide array of wildlife species, diverse bird varieties and spectacular landscapes. Climate at Horton Plains is cool and misty making it favourable for all its visitors to comfortably walk along the trails. The beautiful grasslands, jungles and the mountains inside this National Park surely attract the eye of anyone entering to this park. If you nature lover Horton Plains is a must visit place in Sri Lanka.

Nine Arch Bridge

One thing you will never miss at Ella is the Nine Arch Bridge –a railway bridge famous for its unique architecture and especially for the scenic views surrounding this specific location. Built in 1921, during the colonial period, the architecture elegantly portrays the colonial engineering abilities that prevailed those days. The fact that the bridge was only made using bricks, stone, cement and without using steel is what gives this railway bridge its popularity.

Little Adam’s Peak

If you are a trekking lover the Little Adam’s Peak will be one of the fun activities in Sri Lanka for you. The hike is relatively easy so those who are not into hiking can also opt for this journey in order to enjoy the beautiful 360 degree views from the top of the peak. Sunset and sunrise views are the best to experience. Also you get the chance to walk along long stretches of green tea plantations, making the journey more appealing to nature lovers.

After spending two chilling nights at Ella you will start journey from the misty hills to a hot climatic destination –Yala. On the way you will encounter one of the most beautiful cascading waterfalls in Sri Lanka known as the “Ravana Falls.

Since the previous days were full of fun and adventure we kept Day Ten as a rest day to relax until you reach the next destination city. Next day we will start early morning as you will have a fantastic Safari Jeep Ride awaiting you on Day Eleven.

 Yala National Park

If you are a nature lover or a wildlife explorer the Yala Safari Jeep Ride will be an ideal experience for you. Firstly the sunrise you will witness while you are already traveling to the National Park will give you a good first impression. The beautiful natural landscapes surrounded by varieties of trees and plants will definitely give you a good experience. Presence of diverse ecosystems, open grasslands, water spots, wildlife and bird varieties make this ride more adventurous and thrilling.

Last two days of the Sri Lanka Tour will be all about having beach vibes. After bidding farewell to Yala we will start our journey towards Mirissa on Day Twelve. We will spend two nights in Mirissa and then visit Bentota on Day Fourteen–our final day of the tour.

Let’s take a look at the fun and adventure that awaits us at these beach cities :

Whale Watching

Another adventurous experience for all nature lovers is the whale watching experience at Mirissa. On the day of whale watching, you will have to step out early morning from the hotel to sail a few kilometres into the deep blue ocean on a double decker boat. Apart from blue whales you will get a chance to spot dolphins, orcas and other types of water animals.

Coconut Hill Visit

We will be escorting you to a place in Mirrisa that offers stunning ocean views. Coconut Hill Visit requires a small hike to reach the top but you need not worry because the hike is relatively short and easy. Once you reach the top after a 15 – 30 minute walk you will have picture perfect views all around you. Reaching this place during the sunset or a sunrise will be the most ideal if time allows you to do so.

Madhu River Boat Safari

An interesting adventure awaits you at Bentota–a safari boat ride along the Madhu River. Scenic views along the river banks coupled with the serene and calm atmosphere in the area will definitely give you an unforgettable experience. Also during the boat ride you will see traditional fishing practices and you can spot different bird species hovering above the river.

Turtle Hatchery

Once you reach Bentota, you will get the chance to visit another premises purely dedicated to the conservation and care of adult and baby turtles. Perfect location to learn about turtles and witness the procedures associated with the turtle conservation process. One interesting activity you can do here is to release baby turtles into the ocean.

Once you reach Bentota, you will get the chance to visit another premises purely dedicated to the conservation and care of adult and baby turtles. Perfect location to learn about turtles and witness the procedures associated with the turtle conservation process. One interesting activity you can do here is to release baby turtles into the ocean.