Extend your Sri Lankan adventure with an additional day to explore Hikkaduwa , a vibrant coastal town famed for its coral reefs and lively beach culture. This 7-day journey retains all the highlights of the 6-day itinerary while adding a splash of coastal fun and marine exploration. Perfect for travelers seeking deeper immersion in Sri Lanka’s cultural, natural, and tropical wonders!
Itinerary
Day 01 :
Airport to Kandy
- Arrival : Transfer from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy (3.5 hours).
- Elephant Safari : Experience a gentle elephant encounter at a responsible sanctuary near Kandy.
- Spice Garden Visit : Explore a vibrant spice garden, learning about cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.
- Tooth Temple : Marvel at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic , a UNESCO site housing Buddha’s tooth.
- Kandy Lake & Viewpoint : Stroll around the tranquil lake and enjoy panoramic city views from the Kandy Viewpoint .
- Gem Museum : Discover Sri Lanka’s famed gems and jewelry craftsmanship.
- Cultural Dance : End the day with a vibrant Kandyan dance performance over dinner.
Stay : Kandy (Luxury Heritage Hotel or Boutique Resort)
Day 02 :
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
- Ambuluwawa Tower : Ascend to this spiral-shaped tower in a lush botanical garden for 360° views.
- Hanuman Temple : Visit the iconic monkey temple nestled in the hills.
- Ramboda Waterfall : Stop at one of Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfalls en route to Nuwara Eliya.
- Tea Factory & Garden : Tour a colonial-era tea plantation and savor freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
- Nuwara Eliya Post Office : Snap photos at the UK-style “Smallest Post Office in Sri Lanka.”
- Gregory Lake : Enjoy a boat ride or lakeside walk in this picturesque hill station.
- Seetha Amman Temple : Explore the mythological Hindu temple linked to the Ramayana.
Day 03 :
Nuwara Eliya to Ella
- Train Ride : Embark on Sri Lanka’s legendary hill country train journey (Nuwara Eliya to Ella) – voted one of the world’s most beautiful rail routes.
- Nine Arch Bridge : Stop at this iconic stone viaduct surrounded by lush greenery.
- Zip Lining in Ella : Soar above tea plantations for an adrenaline rush.
- Little Adam’s Peak : Hike or bike to this viewpoint for sunset over Ella’s rolling hills.
Day 04 :
Ella to Mirissa
- Rawana Falls : Visit the cascading waterfall linked to the Ramayana epic.
- Coconut Tree Hill : Capture Instagram-worthy views of Mirissa’s palm-lined beach.
- Yala Safari : Jeep safari in Yala National Park to spot leopards, elephants, and peacocks.
- Mirissa Beach : Unwind on golden sands or enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise.
Day 05 :
Mirissa to Hikkaduwa
- Morning : Drive from Mirissa to Hikkaduwa (2 hours), stopping at Galle Fort for a quick revisit or shopping for souvenirs.
- Hikkaduwa Coral Reef : Snorkel or take a glass-bottom boat ride to explore vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
- Hikkaduwa Beach : Relax on golden sands or try water sports like banana boating.
- Evening : Optional visit to the Hikkaduwa Nature Reserve or a seaside seafood dinner.
Day 06 :
Hikkaduwa to Colombo
- Morning : Transfer to Colombo (2.5 hours).
- Colombo City Tour : Visit Gangaramaya Temple , Lotus Tower , and Port City .
- Shopping : Explore One Galle Face Mall or local markets for spices, gems, and handicrafts.
Day 07 :
Colombo to Airport
- Colombo City Tour : Visit Gangaramaya Temple , a fusion of architectural styles, and Lotus Tower for city views.
- Port City : Stroll through the futuristic waterfront district.
- Shopping : Browse luxury brands at One Galle Face Mall or buy souvenirs at local markets.
- Departure : Transfer to the airport for onward flight.