15-Day Sri Lanka Adventure: Tea, Temples & Tropical Beaches
Explore Sri Lanka in 15 days! Visit tea plantations, ancient temples & pristine beaches. Spot wildlife, hike scenic trails & savor local flavors. Plan now!
ADVENTUREASIACHEAP
About
Expect to explore lush tea plantations in the hill country, wander through ancient temples, and relax on pristine beaches along the coast. The warmth of local hospitality is a constant, making you feel at home wherever you go. You’ll encounter diverse wildlife in national parks, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards. Be prepared to indulge in delicious street food, including spicy curries and fresh seafood, while sipping on aromatic Ceylon tea. Each day brings new adventures, whether it's hiking through scenic trails, exploring bustling markets, or witnessing a mesmerizing sunrise at Sigiriya Rock. With a blend of adventure and relaxation, this trip will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for this beautiful island nation.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Arrive in Colombo, transfer to budget guesthouse. Explore the city center and local market
DAY 2 - Anuradhapura
Visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, with temples and historical monuments
DAY 3 - Mihintale
Hike to Mihintale, a sacred Buddhist site with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape
DAY 4 - Sigiriya
Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO site, surrounded by history and nature
DAY 5 - Dambulla - Habarana
Explore the Dambulla Cave Temples, known for their ancient frescoes. Afternoon relax in Habarana
DAY 6 - Polonnaruwa
Tour the ruins of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's medieval capital, with temples and archaeological remains
DAY 7 - Kandy
Travel to Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth, and stroll around Kandy Lake
DAY 8 - Peredeniya
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, full of lush greenery and local flora
DAY 9 - Nuwara Eliya
Take the scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, passing tea plantations and enjoying the cool mountain air
DAY 10 - Horton Plains
Hike in Horton Plains National Park, trekking to World’s End for stunning views and wildlife
DAY 11 - Ella
Take an easy hike to the little Adam's Peak
DAY 12 - Yala
Go on a safari in Yala National Park, spotting leopards, elephants, and other wildlife
DAY 13 - Galle
Arrive in Galle, explore the colonial-era Galle Fort, and enjoy the seaside views
DAY 14 - Return to Colombo
Return to Colombo for last-minute shopping and relaxation before your flight home
DAY 15 - Flight
Based on your schedule, Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$400
$665
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $8-15 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Taxi, drivers, ecc..
Experiences
Parks, Tours, and other attractions
$90-180
$110-195
$70-90
$130-200
How are prices calculated?
GALLERY
When To Go
December to March
This is the peak travel season for western and southern Sri Lanka, including Colombo, Kandy, and the southern beaches. The northeast monsoon affects the opposite side of the island, leaving this region with dry, sunny weather. Temperatures range from 24°C to 31°C in Colombo and the south, while Kandy is slightly cooler, between 18°C and 28°C. This is the best time for beach activities, cultural exploration, and hiking in the central highlands around Kandy.
April
April is a transitional month, with warm temperatures across the island. Rainfall begins to increase slightly, but it remains a good time to travel, as showers are usually brief. This is a festive month in Sri Lanka, with New Year celebrations (mid-April) adding a cultural highlight to the trip. Temperatures remain high, with Colombo and the south around 25°C to 32°C and Kandy slightly cooler.
May to September
The southwest monsoon brings heavy rainfall to Colombo, Kandy, and the southern coast during this period, particularly from May to July. Kandy and the surrounding hill country receive frequent showers, and humidity levels are high. Coastal areas experience choppy seas, limiting water activities like swimming and diving. However, breaks in the rain allow for cultural exploration and tea plantation visits in the central highlands. Temperatures range from 22°C to 31°C.
October to November
This is another transition period, with the inter-monsoonal rains affecting the entire island. Torrential rain can occur unpredictably, but these months are less crowded, and lush greenery is abundant. While travel is possible, outdoor activities might be disrupted by sudden downpours. Temperatures remain consistent, with Colombo and the south around 24°C to 31°C and Kandy cooler.
Summary Recommendations
Best Overall Period: December to March
Dry, sunny weather makes this the perfect time for exploring Colombo, Kandy, and the southern beaches. Ideal for cultural experiences, hiking, and beach relaxation, with calm seas and clear skies enhancing the experience.
Alternative: April
Warm temperatures and lighter rains, combined with Sri Lanka’s vibrant New Year celebrations, make this a great alternative. The landscapes remain green, and travel conditions are favorable despite occasional showers.
Avoid if Possible: May to September
The southwest monsoon brings heavy rain, high humidity, and rough seas to this region. While cultural and indoor activities are still possible, outdoor adventures may be disrupted, and coastal conditions are less favorable.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
On the first day of your Sri Lanka trip, you'll arrive at the airport, ready to start your adventure. After a smooth check-in, you'll head to your accommodation, where you can settle in and take it easy. Enjoy a simple, tasty local meal and spend the rest of the day relaxing, soaking up the surroundings, and preparing for the days ahead
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
Check out some places to stay
We recommend some options in the Colombo city centre to enjoy the life of the city
DAY 2
Rise early and take a private driver or local bus to Anuradhapura (approximately 4-5 hours). Anuradhapura is one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ancient Buddhist temples, stupas, and historical monuments. The city is home to the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred tree believed to be a cutting from the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Spend the day exploring the vast ruins, such as the impressive Ruwanwelisaya Stupa (one of the largest stupas in Sri Lanka) and Isurumuniya Temple with its ancient rock carvings. You can rent a bicycle or tuk-tuk to get around the expansive archaeological site more comfortably. Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening, take some time to relax at your guesthouse.
ANURADHAPURA
DAY 3
Today, take a short drive (about 30 minutes by private car or tuk-tuk) to Mihintale, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. It is the location where Mahinda, a Buddhist monk from India, is said to have introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. The climb to the top of the hill is steep, but the panoramic view of the surrounding countryside is worth the effort. Along the way, you’ll see ancient monastic buildings, statues, and stupas. At the summit, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and reflect on the spiritual history of this place. Return to Anuradhapura for a peaceful evening, perhaps enjoying a traditional Sri Lankan meal in a local eatery.
ANURADHAPURA - MIHINTALE
DAY 4
After breakfast, take a private driver or bus (approximately 2-3 hours) to Sigiriya, where you'll visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Sigiriya, often referred to as the Lion Rock, is a massive granite monolith that rises dramatically from the jungle below. The climb involves ascending around 1,200 steps, but you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and a chance to explore the fascinating ruins atop the rock, including the Royal Palace, water gardens, and ancient frescoes of beautiful women. Make sure to stop and admire the famous Lion’s Gate, the giant lion’s paws carved into stone that mark the entrance to the fortress. Spend the afternoon relaxing at a guesthouse in the area.
ANURADHAPURA - SIGIRIYA
DAY 5
This morning, head to Dambulla (20-30 minutes by taxi), where you’ll visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient Buddhist paintings and sculptures. The temple is set within a series of five caves on a hilltop and contains over 150 statues of Buddha. The vibrant frescoes covering the walls and ceilings are incredibly well-preserved and tell the story of the Buddha’s life. After the temple visit, take a short drive (about 30 minutes) to Habarana, a quiet town surrounded by lush greenery. Habarana is a perfect place to unwind, whether you decide to cycle through the countryside, enjoy a traditional village meal, or relax by a hotel pool.
SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - HABARANA
DAY 6
Take a private driver or bus (about 1 hour) to Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka, which flourished during the 11th-13th centuries. The ancient city is famous for its well-preserved ruins, including the Gal Vihara, which features stunning rock-cut statues of Buddha, and the Royal Palace complex. Explore the impressive Parakrama Samudra, a vast reservoir built by King Parakramabahu I, and marvel at the ancient engineering techniques. In the afternoon, return to Habarana for relaxation or optional activities such as a jeep safari to spot wild elephants in the nearby Minneriya National Park.
HABARANA - POLONNARUWA
DAY 7
Today, travel to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, by private car or bus (about 3 hours). Kandy is home to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists worldwide, housing a relic of the Buddha’s tooth. Explore the temple complex, which includes ornate halls, shrines, and peaceful courtyards. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake, which offers a serene atmosphere in the heart of the city. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance that showcases local music and vibrant costumes. Stay overnight in Kandy.
HABARANA - KANDY
DAY 8
This morning, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just 30 minutes by taxi or bus from Kandy. These expansive gardens are home to thousands of plant species, including rare orchids, towering palm trees, and giant bamboo. Take your time to explore the grounds, which also house a collection of ancient trees, a beautiful palm avenue, and a Japanese garden. Afterward, you can either relax in the gardens or explore more of Kandy, such as the Kandy Museum or Cultural Centre.
KANDY - PERADENIYA
DAY 9
In the morning, board a scenic train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (around 4 hours), passing through rolling hills, terraced tea plantations, and misty forests. The train ride is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and offers a glimpse into the country’s natural beauty. Once in Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England,” you’ll be surrounded by cool mountain air and colonial-era charm. Visit Gregory Lake, where you can take a boat ride or simply stroll around the lake, and explore the charming town center with its old British-style buildings.
KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA
DAY 10
DGet up early to visit Horton Plains National Park (about 1 hour by car). This UNESCO-listed park is home to World’s End, a dramatic cliff offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains. The hike to World’s End is about 9 km and takes around 3 hours, passing through high-altitude grasslands and forests. If you’re lucky, you may spot wildlife such as deer or the endemic purple-faced langur. Return to Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon to relax and reflect on your adventure.
NUWARA ELIYA - HORTON PLAINS
DAY 11
Drive (about 3 hours) to Ella, a small mountain town surrounded by stunning landscapes. Your first stop is Ravana Falls, a picturesque waterfall with a pool where you can dip your feet or swim. Then, take an easy hike to Little Adam’s Peak, a smaller version of the famous Adam’s Peak, for a stunning view of the surrounding valley. Ella is known for its relaxed vibe, so take some time to explore the village or enjoy a cup of local tea.
NUWARA ELIYA - ELLA
DAY 12
Drive (about 3 hours) to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve. The park is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles, as well as diverse bird species. Take a safari in the early morning or late afternoon when wildlife is most active. You’ll travel through the park in a 4x4 jeep, which gives you the best chance to spot animals in their natural habitat. The park is also known for its stunning landscapes, from savannahs to coastal areas, making it a fantastic place for photography. After the safari, head to your accommodation near the park for a relaxing evening.
ELLA - YALA
DAY 13
In the morning, depart for Galle, a charming coastal city about 3-4 hours by private car or bus. Galle is famous for its Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site with well-preserved colonial architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and old churches. Wander through the fort area, which is a mix of historical sites, quaint boutiques, and cafes with ocean views. Visit the Galle Lighthouse and take a walk along the ramparts, which offer beautiful views of the sea and surrounding coastline. In the afternoon, you can visit Unawatuna Beach for a swim or enjoy a more laid-back experience at Jungle Beach, a quieter spot nearby. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of Galle's historic restaurants.
YALA - GALLE
DAY 14
On your last day, take a 2-hour drive back to Colombo. Depending on your flight time, you can either visit some of the city’s top shopping spots, such as Odel or Cinnamon Gardens, or explore the National Museum or the Gangaramaya Temple, or just stay at the Beach!
GALLE - COLOMBO
DAY 15
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back