One Month Sri Lanka Travel Plan

Week 1: Colombo & Galle

Day 1-3: Colombo

• Stay: Cinnamon Grand or Shangri-La Hotel – Approx. $150-$200/night.
• Day 1 Activities:
  • Gangaramaya Temple & Seema Malaka: One of Colombo’s most iconic Buddhist temples with a unique mix of modern architecture and cultural heritage. Don’t miss the serene lakeside Seema Malaka designed by Geoffrey Bawa.
  • Pettah Market: A vibrant market with bustling lanes offering everything from spices and textiles to electronics. Perfect for capturing the essence of local trade.
  • Galle Face Green: A historic urban park stretching along the coast, popular for evening strolls, kites, and street food.
• Nightlife:
  • Ministry of Crab: A world-renowned seafood restaurant specializing in Sri Lanka’s famous mud crabs.
  • Sky Lounge: A chic rooftop bar offering panoramic city views, live music, and signature cocktails.

Day 4-6: Galle

• Stay: Fort Bazaar or The Fortress Resort & Spa – Approx. $150-$200/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Galle Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, and museums. Walk along the ramparts for spectacular sea views.
  • Unawatuna Beach: Relax on the golden sands or enjoy water sports like snorkeling.
  • Koggala Lagoon: A boat ride to explore mangroves and small islands.
• Nightlife: Beach bars and restaurants at Unawatuna.

Week 2: Yala & Arugam Bay

Day 7-9: Yala National Park

• Stay: Jetwing Yala – Approx. $200/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Yala Safari: Embark on a jeep safari to spot Sri Lanka’s famous leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. Safaris start early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
  • Kataragama Temple: A sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus.
• Evening: Relax at the resort or enjoy a beach dinner.

Day 10-12: Arugam Bay

• Stay: The Spice Trail or Hideaway Resort – Approx. $150/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Surfing: Ideal for beginners and experienced surfers.
  • Lagoon Safari: Explore Pottuvil Lagoon and spot crocodiles, birds, and elephants.
  • Muhudu Maha Viharaya: Visit ancient ruins by the beach.
  • Nightlife: Chill at beachside cafes and bars.

Week 3: Ella, Kandy & Habarana

Day 13-15: Ella

• Stay: 98 Acres Resort – Approx. $250/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Little Adam’s Peak: A moderate hike offering stunning views of tea plantations and valleys.
  • Nine Arches Bridge: A marvel of colonial engineering surrounded by lush greenery. Perfect for photography.
  • Diyaluma Falls: Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall, where you can swim in natural pools at the top.

Day 16-18: Kandy

• Stay: The Kandy House – Approx. $200/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: A significant Buddhist site housing a tooth relic of the Buddha. Attend the evening pooja for a spiritual experience.
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the lush gardens in Peradeniya.
  • Cultural Dance Show: Witness traditional Kandyan performances.
  • Transport: Train ride from Ella to Kandy – Approx. $10 (1st class).

Day 19-21: Habarana & Sigiriya

• Stay: Water Garden Sigiriya – Approx. $250/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A magnificent ancient palace atop a 200-meter-high rock. Marvel at the frescoes and water gardens.
  • Minneriya National Park: Witness the “Elephant Gathering” during the dry season.
  • Village Tour: Experience rural Sri Lanka with bullock cart rides and cooking demonstrations.

Week 4: Trincomalee, Anuradhapura, Wilpattu & Negombo

Day 22-24: Trincomalee

• Stay: Jungle Beach by Uga Escapes – Approx. $200/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Whale Watching: An unforgettable experience to spot blue whales and dolphins.
  • Koneswaram Temple: A revered Hindu temple offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
  • Nilaveli Beach: Pristine sands and turquoise waters ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Day 25-26: Anuradhapura

• Stay: Ulagalla Resort – Approx. $250/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Sacred City of Anuradhapura: Explore ancient stupas, monasteries, and the sacred Bodhi Tree, believed to be the oldest in the world.
  • Isurumuniya Temple: Known for its exquisite carvings and tranquil surroundings.

Day 27-28: Wilpattu National Park

• Stay: Leopard Trails Wilpattu – Approx. $300/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Wilpattu Safari: Known for its leopards, sloth bears, and serene natural lakes.
  • Bird Watching: Spot rare migratory and resident species.

Day 29-30: Negombo & Departure (BIA)

• Stay: Jetwing Lagoon – Approx. $150/night.
• Day Activities:
  • Negombo Lagoon: Enjoy a boat ride and fresh seafood.
  • Fish Market: Visit the bustling morning market to see local trade in action.
  • Shopping: Purchase souvenirs and last-minute gifts.
  • Departure: Drive to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)

Approximate Total Costs (Per Person)

• Accommodations: $4,500-$5,500 (based on luxury hotels).
• Transportation: $1000 (private car from TaxiDo.lk).
• Activities & Entry Tickets: $700-$1,000.
• Meals & Nightlife: $800-$1,000.

Let us know if you’d like further adjustments or additional details for any specific destination!