DAY 2 – 3 | GALLE FORT, A COLONIAL SEASIDE FORTRESS

After experiencing the hustle and bustle in Colombo, its time to embark on a scenic train journey in the direction of Sri Lanka’s spirited south coast.

During this 3-hour journey from Colombo Fort to Galle, you’ll get spoiled by views of vivid sceneries, as well as authentic local villages and the island’s golden-sanded coastline.

Once you arrive in Galle, you’ll quickly come to realize why it is such a beloved destination. The seaside town was once of significant importance and is still largely visited for its historical Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to amaze travellers.

The Dutch Colonial fort in Galle has a rich and captivating character. With lively, narrow streets, decaying colonial buildings, trendy contemporary cafés, and an appealing, tropical ambience, Galle Fort is, in my opinion, a must-see in any Sri Lanka itinerary.

GALLE FORT | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Galle Fort Lighthouse | The Galle Fort Lighthouse is framed by tropical palm trees and is one of the many picture-perfect scenes in Sri Lanka. For that reason alone, it’s one of the things that shouldn’t be missed within the ramparts of the historical Galle Fort.

The Galle Markets | Just outside Galle Fort, you’ll notice several authentic markets that sell a wide variety of fruit, fish and spices. By visiting these local markets you have an excellent chance to taste delicious tropical fruits, and stock up on high-quality spices – plus you become familiar with Sri Lankan culture.

Galle Fort interior | Taking a stroll through the narrow, colonial streets of the fort was by far one of the best things I did during my time in the Galle Fort. By doing so, you come across a collection of decaying colonial buildings, which makes it seem as if you’re living during the VOC era.

GALLE FORT | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Galle Fort, Galle

Where to stay in Galle Fort | Galle has no shortage of good accommodations, both in and outside the fort. I would highly recommend Yoho White House Apartment and The Bungalow – Galle Fort. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Galle.

How to get from Colombo to Galle Fort | The easiest and most scenic travel option is from Colombo Fort to Galle by train. The direct train operates frequently (about 10 times a day) and takes around 2.5 – 3 hours.

How to get around Galle Fort | Galle Fort is easily explored by foot. If your accommodation is slightly remote, make usage of the accessible tuk-tuks.

DAY 4 – 5 | UNAWATUNA, SRI LANKA’S BACKPACKER BEACH TOWN

Situated at only a 10-minute drive from Galle lies Unawatuna, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular coastal towns and the first proper beach destination in this itinerary.

Unawatuna has rapidly become a fixture for travellers who visit Sri Lanka, and trust me, that’s for a good reason. The trendy beach town is home to a laidback backpacker vibe and has no shortage of palm-fringed beaches, contemporary cafés, and irresistible beachfront restaurants.

Accordingly, I would recommend spending a few nights here, it has some of the island’s most beautiful beaches after all.

UNAWATUNA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Dalawella Beach | Dalawella Beach is an extremely picturesque stretch of beach and without doubt one of my favourite beaches in Sri Lanka. The charm that defines Dalawella Beach is realized by a scenic rock formation, exciting beach swings and plenty of low bending palm trees. Make sure you visit early morning or during sunset.

Skinny Tom’s Deli | Only head over to Skinny Tom’s Deli, if you’re keen on tasting the best brunch in town. This European-style café has a great reputation on the southern coast and serves life-changing bacon, dhal & egg hoppers, fresh eggs benedict toast, and delicious artisanal cakes and desserts.

Jungle Beach | Although it’s located slightly off the beaten path, Jungle Beach is an exceptional place for an afternoon of relaxing, swimming and tanning. Make sure you take a look at the Japanese Peace Pagoda, which is situated in the lush jungle right above the secluded beach.

UNAWATUNA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Unawatuna

Where to stay in Unawatuna | Unawatuna has great accommodations in every price range and I would highly recommend Bedspace Beach and Cantaloupe Levels. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Unawatuna.

How to get from Galle Fort to Unawatuna | Take a 10-minute drive by local bus from Galle Fort to Unawatuna. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk.

How to get around Unawatuna | Unawatuna is easily navigated by foot. If you’re keen to explore the surrounding towns, make use of the affordable tuk-tuks, or rent a scooter.

DAY 6 – 7 | MIRISSA, A TRANQUIL BEACHSIDE PARADISE

After unwinding at one of the tropical beaches in Unawatuna, it is time to continue your journey along the island’s beloved south coast.

Mirissa is an energetic beach town that has not gone unnoticed by backpackers and travellers alike. It has, in fact, become quite an unmissable destination in Sri Lanka itineraries.

The beach town is all about riding waves, paradisiac stretches of beach, trendy cafés and the tranquil ambience that characterizes it. But what really highlights Mirissa is that it’s deemed to be one of Sri Lanka’s best places to get up close and personal with Blue Whales.

MIRISSA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Coconut Tree Hill | Coconut Tree Hill is without a doubt among the most iconic things to see in Sri Lanka. The tangerine-coloured cliff is extremely popular and well-known for its sea of swaying palms and views over the shimmering Indian Ocean. I’d recommend stopping by earlier in the day or during a glorious sunset.

Parrot Rock | Only just of Mirissa’s main beach is Parrot Rock, a small secluded rock-island that provides the most stunning views over the town’s golden-sanded shoreline. Make sure you climb to the summit, it’s one of Mirissa’s best spots to sit and watch the world go by.

Surfing in Weligama | With decent waves rolling in year-round, Mirissa is one of the leading surf destinations on Sri Lanka’s south coast. The vibrant town is home to excellent surf schools that provide lessons and board rental. The waves in Mirissa are perfect for beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers.

MIRISSA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Mirissa

Where to stay in Mirissa | Mirissa has many excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Satori Beach Hostel, Triple O Six and Mirissa Heights. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Mirissa.

How to get from Unawatuna to Mirissa | Jump aboard a direct train from Unawatuna to Mirissa that operates frequently (about 5 times a day). Expect the journey to take around 0.5 – 1 hour.

How to get around Mirissa | Walking around town is your best option as the distances are quite short. For surfing in Weligama, I would recommend taking a tuk-tuk.

DAY 8 | YALA NATIONAL PARK, SRI LANKA’S BEST SAFARI DESTINATION

From the moment I booked my flight to Colombo, I was excited about one specific thing, travelling to the wildlife-rich jungles of the Yala National Park to experience my first-ever safari.

The incredible Yala National Park, situated on the island’s south-eastern coastline, is famed as Sri Lanka’s most popular national park and is unquestionably a must-see on any Sri Lanka itinerary.

The park is home to dense jungles, sandy dunes, wide stretched grasslands and several lakes and lagoons. This distinct landscape is the perfect habitat for a great variety and density of wildlife, which results in the potential sighting of leopards, elephants, Black Sloth bears, Fishing cats, Red Slender loris and crocodiles.

In totality, the national park is home to 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds and 46 species of reptiles, which makes an excellent reason to jump aboard a jeep and roam around the jungles of the park. Believe me, it’s one of the most fulfilling adventures in Sri Lanka.

It’s easy to book your Yala National Park safari through your accommodation in Tissamaharama. I would recommend joining a morning safari, this increases the potential of leopard sightings.

YALA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Yala National Park

Where to stay in Yala National Park | Tissamaharama has great accommodations (both in and outside the park) and I would highly recommend Hotel River Front, Thaulle Resort and Cinnamon Wild Yala. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Yala National Park or Tissamaharama.

How to get from Mirissa to Yala National Park | For this journey, the local bus is the easiest and cheapest option. Head to Matara, here change to a direct bus to Tissamaharama. The journey can be quite intense and takes around 3.5 hours.

Entrance fee | 4.000 LKR ($21.50).

Half-day jeep safari costs | 5.000 – 6.000 LKR ($24,00 – 32,25) per jeep, with a maxi of 6 people.

DAY 9 – 10 | ARUGAM BAY, A LAIDBACK SURFER TOWN

Travelling to Arugam Bay requires quite a long and exhausting journey, as it is pretty off the beaten path compared to other destinations on this Sri Lanka itinerary. That being said, I truly believe that the detour is worth every minute of it.

Slightly hidden on Sri Lanka’s untouched east coast, with Yala National Park as its neighbour, lies Arugam Bay: one of the island’s leading surf destinations. With great bays, excellent surf breaks, stunning natural sceneries, and trendy cafés, there’s enough to see and do in Arugam Bay, therefore, I would recommend staying at least two days.

ARUGAM BAY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Kudumbigala Monastery | Just 45 minutes of Arugam Bay’s spirited main street is the Kudumbigala monastery, a sacred place where locals come to practise deep meditation techniques. In addition to those mysterious, spiritual vibrations, you’ll find a viewpoint that provides the most stunning panoramic views of the entire region.

Muhudu Maha Viharaya | Known as the temple of the ocean, Muhudu Maha Viharaya is a charming white Buddhist stupa, overlooking Pottuvil’s sandy dunes and shimmering ocean. Fortunately, the temple is out of range of the regular tourist area, so it gives an authentic glimpse of Sri Lanka’s daily life. As always, follow religious customs and visit in a respectful manner.

Elephant Rock  |  Acknowledged as one of the best surfing breaks in the area, and a great place to sit and watch the world go by, especially during the golden hour. Elephant Rock gives a marvellous view over the bay and its wave riding surfers, certainly a must-see in Arugam Bay.

ARUGAM BAY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Arugam Bay

Where to stay in Arugam Bay | Arugam Bay has no shortage of great accommodations. For surfing, I’d highly recommend Upali Beach Surf Resort – other excellent options are The Spice Trail and Arugam Bay Roccos. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Arugam Bay.

How to get from Yala National Park to Arugam Bay | Local bus is the cheapest option. Do keep in mind that this is one of the most exhausting bus journeys in Sri Lanka – plus it requires changing bus up to three times. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with the PickMe app. The journey can take up to 6.5 hours.

How to get around Arugam Bay | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, walk or make use of tuk-tuks.

DAY 11 – 13 | ELLA, SRI LANKA’S EXTRAORDINARY HILL COUNTRY

After learning to ride the waves in Arugam Bay, it’s time to head for Sri Lanka’s mysterious mountains and one of my favourite places in the country, the sleepy town of Ella.

Around 1,041 metres above sea level and hidden in Sri Lanka’s peaceful hill country is Ella: a small town that is encircled by charming tea plantations, towering mountains and rushing waterfalls.

If you’re a nature & adventure enthusiast like me, Ella’s incredible sceneries will surely blow your mind. I enjoyed this town so much, that I’ve ended up staying slightly longer than initially planned. Therefore I’d always recommend adding some flexibility to your Sri Lanka itinerary.

ELLA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Ella Rock | It is no surprise that Ella Rock is one of the must-see attractions in Ella as it provides breathtaking views of Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Gap and the mysterious hill country of Ella. If you’re a seasoned hiker, you certainly feel hyped for the somewhat challenging Ella Rock hike. Do bear in mind that the best time to hike up Ella Rock is around sunrise.

Nine Arch Bridge | The now-famous Nine Arch Bridge is single-handedly responsible for the largest part of travellers that come and visit Ella. Tucked away between the dense jungle and tea plantations; this stunning piece of architecture impresses both travellers and locals on a daily basis. The scene becomes even more remarkable when the famous blue train slowly navigates its way across the bridge.

Little Adam’s Peak | As the name implies, Little Adam’s Peak is named after its taller and better-known brother, Adam’s Peak. The hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak guarantees the most excellent overview of both Ella Rock and the infinite-looking Ella Gap. It’s therefore little wonder that it’s such a popular attraction in Ella.

ELLA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Ella

Where to stay in Ella | Ella has some of Sri Lanka’s finest accommodations and I would recommend Rawana Den, 98 Acres & Spa and Mountain Heavens. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Ella.

How to get from Arugam Bay to Ella | Take a bus to Monoragala, before changing to the bus that heads for Wellawaya. Here take the bus to Ella. If you’re fortunate, you may catch a direct bus between Arugam Bay and Wellawaya. Since the journey is quite chaotic, alternatively hire a tuk-tuk or arrange a taxi with PickMe. The journey can take up to 4.5 hours.

How to get around Ella | Ella is an easy town to navigate by foot. Alternatively, jump aboard one of the many tuk-tuks.

ELLA TO KANDY, THE MOST SCENIC TRAIN RIDE IN THE WORLD

Ask anyone that jumped aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train and they all answer the same – this scenic train journey is one of the absolute highlights in any Sri Lanka itinerary.

Secure yourself a window seat and witness the train meandering through mysterious woodlands, authentic local towns and leafy tea plantations. This seven-hour journey is one of the most spectacular train rides in the world, so make sure you enjoy every moment of it.

ELLA TO KANDY TRAIN JOURNEY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Ella Railway Station

Costs | 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit 12go.asia.

Train times from Kandy to Ella | 06:40, 09:24, 10:57 and 12:48. For up to date timetables, visit the Seat61 website.

DAY 14 – 15 | KANDY, THE CITY OF KINGS

Following the breathtaking train journey, you’ll arrive in Kandy, a vibrant city that is of major significance to Sri Lanka’s rich, captivating culture and history. It is, therefore, more than rightly so named, the city of kings by its locals.

Sri Lanka’s second-largest city is famed for its most important spiritual site, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic; which according to Sri Lankan legends houses a tooth of the Buddha.

Although many travellers tend to visit Kandy in a hurry, I think there are quite a few fascinating places to see and appreciate in Kandy. I would highly recommend spending at least two days exploring the lively city and surrounds.

KANDY | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic | Right at the heart Kandy and next to the Kandy Lake is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine. The best time to visit is during a Buddha Puja ceremony, when pilgrims from all over the world reflect, sing and bring offerings to deepen the appreciation of the Buddha and his teachings.

Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya | For me, it’s always impressive to see a large urban city park in the midst of a lively city, the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya are exactly that. The verdant gardens are home to over 4,000 species of plants, including palm trees, medicinal plants, orchids and spices. A peaceful morning walk is a perfect activity to escape the sizzling heat and chaos of Kandy.

Bahirawakanda Temple | Located atop of the Bahirawa Kanda hill and to be seen from the whole of Kandy lies the majestic Bahirawakanda Temple. The towering Buddha reaches a height of 27 metres and is considered one of the largest Buddha statues in Sri Lanka. Make sure you snap some shots of the panoramic views of Kandy.

KANDY | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kandy

Where to stay in Kandy | I stayed at Range Hotel Kandy and Cafe Aroma Inn. Additionally, I would recommend Dumbara Peak Residence. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Kandy.

How to get from Ella to Kandy | Jump aboard the famous Ella to Kandy train. It’s cheap and considered the most scenic train ride in the world – 2nd class: 270 LKR ($1.50), 3rd class: 180 LKR ($1). If you prefer to book your ticket in advance, visit the 12go.asia website.

How to get around Kandy | Kandy is easily explored by foot. I’d recommend grabbing a tuk-tuk for attractions that are situated just outside the town.

DAY 16 – 17 | SIGIRYA, SRI LANKA’S EIGHT WONDER OF THE WORLD

It’s time to head further North to the Ancient City of Sigiriya, one of my all-time favourite places in Sri Lanka, and an unmissable destination on this itinerary.

It is little surprise that Sigiriya is loved by so many, it has essentially everything a traveller yearns for. The town is surrounded by nature, has no shortage of breathtaking sceneries and houses the authentic ambience of a local village.

The real draw though is the Ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the country’s most famous landmarks, and often stated as the eighth wonder of the world.

It is safe to say that being surrounded by Sigiriya’s idyllic nature has a therapeutic effect on both body and mind. Therefore, I’d recommend spending a few days to explore and unwind in this magnificent area.

SIGIRIYA | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Sigiriya Rock Fortress | Sigiriya’s natural beauty is unrivalled – and that is largely by means of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Witnessing this unique, ancient fortress, should be on every Sri Lanka bucket list, whether viewed from Pidurangala Rock or up close and personal.

Pidurangala Rock | The Sigiriya Rock Fortress might be the number one attraction in Sigiriya, it’s the incredible view from Pidurangala Rock that stole my heart. Hiking the summit of Pidurangala Rock has rapidly become a must-do activity for travellers and locals alike. To experience the mesmerizing view in full potential, make sure to visit with sunrise or sunset.

SIGIRIYA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Sigiriya

Where to stay in Sigiriya | I stayed at Wali Kukula Nest multiple times and I felt at home every single time. If you’re a creative like me, this is an inspiring place where you surely want to stay. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Sigiriya.

How to get from Kandy to Sigiriya |  Take a bus to Dambulla, where you change for the bus that heads to Sigiriya. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk from Dambulla to Sigiriya (1,000 LKR – $5.50). The journey takes around 2.5 hours.

How to get around Sigiriya | Walking around town is your best options as the distances are quite short. Do be aware that elephants often roam around the jungles. Alternatively, hire a bicycle to explore the stunning surrounds.

DAY TRIP | KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK, THE GATHERING OF ELEPHANTS

Sigiriya is conveniently located and makes the perfect base for an exciting day trip: a jeep safari in Kaudulla National Park.

Poised between Sigiriya and Trincomalee, Kaudulla National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s best national parks, and home to over 200 wild elephants, including a newborn. The extensive wildlife park is often referred to as; The Gathering, world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants.

It’s easy to book your Kaudulla National Park safari through your accommodation in Sigiriya. I would recommend joining an afternoon safari, right after you spend the morning to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress or Pidurangala Rock.

KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Kaudulla National Park

How to get from Sigiriya to Kaudulla National Park | By safari jeep. A safari tour is always including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation.

Entrance fee | 4,090 LKR ($22).

Half-day jeep safari costs | 6,000 – 7,000 LKR ($32.50 – 37.50) per jeep, with a max of 6 people.

DAY 18 | POLONNARUWA, SRI LANKA’S ANCIENT CAPITAL CITY

Part of Sri Lanka’s glorious cultural triangle and only an hour away from Sigiriya is the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage site that was once a thriving kingdom.

Present-day, this ancient city has no shortage of grandeur, whether it’s the remains of temples and religious buildings, impressive shrines, or elegant Buddha statues. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa features some of the most impressive ruins in Sri Lanka – which is a true pleasure to seasoned travellers.

I’ve heard many backpackers who experience difficulties when choosing between Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa. When I followed my intuition and chose Polonnaruwa, it felt like the right decision, and up until this day, I’m still delighted with it – even after visiting the Angkor temples in Cambodia.

POLONNARUWA | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Polonnaruwa

Entrance fee | Adult 4,550 LKR ($25), children 2,275 LKR ($12.50).

Opening hours | 07:00 – 18:30 daily.

Where to stay in Polonnaruwa | I stayed at Singha Guest House and would additionally recommend Pharo Lake and Mahanuge Hotel Polonnaruwa. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Polonnaruwa.

How to get from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa | Take the local bus to Inamaluwa, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Polonnaruwa. The journey should take no longer than 1.5 hours.

How to get around Polonnaruwa | The most fun way to explore Polonnaruwa is by bicycle. Alternatively, hire a tuk-tuk that guides you around the complex.

DAY 19 – 20 | TRINCOMALEE, SRI LANKA’S UNDISCOVERED EAST COAST

After soaking up all that Polonnaruwa has to offer, venture further east to the pristine, undiscovered beaches of Trincomalee and surrounds.

Trincomalee, often called Trinco by the locals, is a relaxed coastal town that is less frequently visited by travellers and backpackers alike. Even so, I sincerely feel that its beaches aren’t inferior to most of the must-see beaches on Sri Lanka’s beloved south coast.

But what really distinguishes Trincomalee is the fact that it’s deeply influenced by Tamil culture, resulting in a completely different atmosphere than elsewhere on the island. Trinco is thus, no stranger to vivid, breathtaking Hindu temples, and I would highly recommend attending at least one of them.

TRINCOMALEE | MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

Koneswaram Temple | The colourful Koneswaram Temple holds the upper area of Fort Frederick and is a must-see in Trincomalee. The fascinating temple is dictated by its main shrine, a large vivid statue of the Hindu god Shiva, and faces one of the world’s largest natural harbours. If you plan to visit, remember to respect religious customs.

Nilaveli Beach | Just 20 minutes north of Trincomalee you’ll find Nilaveli Beach, a secluded beach that is said to be among the best beaches in Sri Lanka. The sleepy town and its eponymous beach are still largely undiscovered to backpackers and houses an authentic local atmosphere. Nilaveli may be a little off the beaten path, but it is worth visiting, and a great place to grab a coconut while watching the world go by.

Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil | Trinco may be renowned for its pristine beaches, it is the incredibly ornamented Hindu temples that amazed me the most. Established adjacent to the Trinco bus station is one of them, the Sri Pathirakali Amman Kovil, a work of art that is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Bhadrakali. To fully experience the temples, I’d recommend taking a peaceful walk in and around the buildings.

TRINCOMALEE | THE ESSENTIALS

Where | Trincomalee

Where to stay in Trincomalee | Trincomalee has excellent accommodations and I would highly recommend Surf Reef Dive Beach Palace and OYO 310 Sea Lagoon Beach Hotel. Alternatively, use booking.com to find accommodations in Trincomalee.

How to get from Polonnaruwa to Trincomalee | From Polonnaruwa’s main station, take the local bus to Habarana, before changing to a direct bus that heads for Trincomalee. The journey takes around 3.5 hours.

How to get around Trincomalee | If you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, I would highly recommend renting a scooter. Alternatively, go walking or hire one of the many tuk-tuks.