Sri Lanka 9 Day Itinerary (October – April)
This itinerary is a good mix of culture and natural beauty. Also, Furthermore this for those who plan to visit between October and April. Due to the monsoon rain patterns in Sri Lanka, this period is the best time to visit the southern coast. It is best to use a hired car for this trip. But you can also use public transportation.
Day 1
Arrive at Colombo International Airport, Katunayake.
Drive from Katunayake to Negombo (13 Km, 30 min).
Visit Negombo Beach if time permits.
Stay in Negombo
Day 2
Drive from Negombo to Sigiriya (150km, 4h).
Visit Sigiriya, the most popular world heritage site in Sri Lanka. Arguably the 8th wonder of the world.
Drive from Sigiriya to Habarana (17km, 30 min).
Elephant Safari in Habarana. (Evening safari could start from 3pm). Costs about LKR 5000 for a 3 hour safari. Stay in Habarana
Day 3
Visit Dambulla Cave Temple a world heritage site.
Drive from Dambulla to Kandy (70km, 2h).
Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a world heritage site.
Stay in Kandy
Day 4
Take the train from Kandy to Ella to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery (Highly recommended, 7h) or drive (140km, 4h).
If you drive to Ella visit famous Dunhinda Falls on the way. Stay in Ella
Day 5
Visit Dambethenna Tea Estate and Lipton Seat. (30km, 1h 30m)
Stay in Ella
Day 6
Drive from Ella to Mirissa (200km, 5h 30min).
Ravana Ella is beside the road on the way from Ella to Wellawaya.
Diyaluma Falls is a 15km detour from Wellawaya. It is the 2nd tallest and arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Sri Lanka.
Stay in Mirissa
Day 7
Enjoy the beach or Take a Whale Watching Cruise.
Surfing is possible from November to March.
Stay in Mirissa
Day 8
Drive from Mirissa to Galle (41km, 1h).
Visit Galle Fort, a world heritage site.
Drive from Galle to Negombo (160km, 3h).
Stay in Negombo
Day 9
Leave for the next destination from Colombo International Airport, Katunayake.