10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary: History & Wildlife Adventure

This itinerary explores Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and diverse wildlife. It balances ancient history with exciting safaris, bird watching, and beach relaxation.

Transport : Embark on an unforgettable journey spanning over 1,500 km across Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations. To ensure your comfort and ease, we provide a premium vehicle and a professional, experienced driver for the entire tour— all for just $990 USD!

Day 1: Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) → Wilpattu National Park

Activities:

• Drive to Wilpattu National Park (3.5 hours): Witness the beauty of Sri Lanka’s largest national park, known for its dense wilderness and natural lakes.
• Afternoon Safari at Wilpattu ($40 entrance, $50 jeep hire): Kickstart your adventure by spotting elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and shy sloth bears.

Accommodation:

Meals: $50-$70 (Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with options for local favorites like rice and curry or fresh seafood).

Day 2: Wilpattu → Anuradhapura

Activities:

• Morning Safari at Wilpattu (optional for more wildlife encounters).
• Explore the Sacred City of Anuradhapura ($25): Wander through one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, the iconic Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and the impressive Jetavanarama Monastery.

Accommodation:

Meals: $40-$60 (Savor the flavors of local street food and traditional Sri Lankan dishes).

Day 3: Anuradhapura → Polonnaruwa

Activities:

• Drive to Polonnaruwa (2.5 hours).
• Explore Polonnaruwa Ancient City ($25): Delve into the magnificent ruins of this medieval capital. Discover the intricate carvings of Gal Vihara, the incredible Royal Palace, and the well-preserved Thuparama Image House.

Accommodation:

Meals: $40-$60 (Try famous Sri Lankan dishes like Pol Sambol and egg hoppers).

Day 4: Polonnaruwa → Dambulla & Minneriya Elephant Gathering

Activities:

• Drive to Dambulla (1.5 hours).
• Visit Dambulla Cave Temple ($5): Marvel at stunning murals and Buddha statues in the atmospheric cave temples.
• Evening Safari at Minneriya National Park ($40 entrance, $50 jeep hire): Witness the incredible elephant gathering by Minneriya Tank.

Accommodation:

Meals: $50-$70 (Enjoy lake-side dining with breathtaking views).

Day 5: Dambulla → Kandy

Activities:

• Drive to Kandy (2.5 hours).
• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic ($10): Explore the sacred temple that houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth.
• Royal Botanical Gardens ($5): Take a leisurely stroll amidst orchids, towering palm avenues, and colorful flower beds.
• Kandy Lake Walk: Enjoy a peaceful walk around the picturesque Kandy Lake.

Accommodation:

Meals: $40-$60 (Enjoy traditional Kandyan cuisine or explore local cafes).

Day 6: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya

Activities:

• Scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (4 hours, $10).
• Tour tea plantations and factories ($10): Learn about the art of tea-making and sample fine Ceylon teas.
• Walk around Lake Gregory ($5): Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and take a boat ride.

Accommodation:

Meals: $40-$60 (Savor English-style afternoon tea and treats).

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya → Ella

Activities:

• Scenic train ride to Ella (2.5 hours, $5).
• Visit Nine Arches Bridge: Witness the iconic bridge set amidst lush greenery.
• Hike Little Adam’s Peak (free): Enjoy panoramic views of tea plantations and valleys.
• Explore Ravana Falls (free): Take in the beauty of one of Sri Lanka’s most famous waterfalls.

Accommodation:

Meals: $40-$60 (Try Sri Lankan roti at local cafes).

Day 8: Ella → Yala National Park

Activities:

• Drive to Yala (3 hours).
• Safari at Yala National Park ($40 entrance, $50 jeep hire): Spot leopards, elephants, and various wildlife.

Accommodation:

Meals: $50-$70 (Dine under the stars with a bush dinner).

Day 9: Yala → Hikkaduwa Coral Reef → Galle Fort

Activities:

• Drive to Hikkaduwa (3.5 hours).
• Snorkeling at Hikkaduwa Coral Reef ($15 rental): Explore vibrant corals and marine life.
• Explore Galle Fort (free): Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.

Accommodation:

Meals: $50-$70 (Enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants).

Day 10: Galle → Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery → Colombo → Departure

Activities:

• Drive from Galle to Colombo via Kosgoda (3.5 hours).
• Visit Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery ($5): Learn about sea turtle conservation and release baby turtles into the ocean.
• Colombo City Tour: Discover landmarks such as Gangaramaya Temple and Independence Square. Shop for souvenirs at Pettah Market.

Accommodation:

Meals: $50-$70 (Indulge in a final feast of Sri Lankan delicacies).

Estimated Costs (Per Person)

Let me know if you’d like further adjustments or additional details!