📍
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka: Ancient Temples, Misty Tea Hills and Tropical Paradise Beaches
Where ancient kingdoms meet emerald tea hills and golden beaches kiss the Indian Ocean.
≈ 18
Days
695
Km
9
Stops
Discover the jewel of the Indian Ocean on this epic 16-day journey through Sri Lanka's cultural heart and pristine coastline. From the sacred ruins of Anuradhapura to the legendary Lion Rock of Sigiriya, through misty tea plantations and leopard-roaming national parks, this itinerary unveils the island's extraordinary diversity of ancient wonders, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
- The sacred ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Sigiriya Lion Rock, the eighth wonder of the ancient world
- Leopard safari at Yala National Park
- Scenic tea plantations and the charming hill town of Ella
- Colonial Galle Fort and the paradise beaches of the south coast
- The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy
Your day-by-day itinerary
1
Day
9 photos
2
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka's ancient capitals. This inaugural journey immediately immerses you in the island's mystical atmosphere, crossing lush landscapes of coconut palms and verdant rice paddies. Settle comfortably at The Ivy Lake and prepare to discover the archaeological treasures that await you.
Activities
→
First discovery of Anuradhapura in the late afternoon, an ideal opportunity to soak up the spiritual atmosphere of this millennia-old sacred city.
3
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Explore the sacred city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka's first capital for over 1,400 years. This exceptional archaeological site houses monumental dagobas, ancient monasteries, and sacred pools that bear witness to the grandeur of ancient Sinhalese civilization.
2
Contemplate the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest documented sacred tree in the world, planted over 2,300 years ago from a cutting of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Pilgrims from around the world come to meditate beneath its venerable branches in an atmosphere of profound devotion.
3
Admire the Ruwanwelisaya, one of the largest stupas in the ancient world standing 103 meters tall. This architectural marvel, built in the 2nd century BC, impresses with its immaculate whiteness and the hundreds of elephant statues adorning its base.
Activities
→
Visit the Abhayagiri Vihara, an ancient monastic complex that was one of the largest Buddhist learning centers in the world, hosting up to 5,000 monks from across Asia.
→
Discover the Jetavanaramaya, once the third tallest building in the ancient world after the pyramids of Giza, an impressive testament to Sri Lankan architectural prowess.
Next stop
Distance:
75 km
Travel time:
1h40
4
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
En route to Sigiriya, stop at the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a complex of five caves carved into rock and adorned with over 150 Buddha statues and extraordinary wall frescoes dating back to the 1st century BC. This UNESCO site transports you into a world of spirituality and Buddhist art of striking beauty.
2
Ascend the Lion Rock of Sigiriya, one of the wonders of the ancient world. This spectacular fortress, perched 200 meters high, was built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa. Climb the 1,200 steps while admiring the famous frescoes of the Sigiriya Maidens and the perfectly preserved water gardens.
Activities
→
Stroll through the royal gardens at the foot of Sigiriya, considered among the oldest landscaped gardens in Asia, with their fountains, pools, and geometric terraces showcasing remarkable hydraulic engineering.
5
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Climb Pidurangala Rock at sunrise for a breathtaking panoramic view of Sigiriya bathed in the golden glow of dawn. This spiritual hike leads you through an ancient Buddhist temple and rewards your efforts with one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful panoramas.
2
Explore the ancient royal city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's second medieval capital, where impressive ruins bear witness to the splendor of the Sinhalese kingdom in the 11th and 12th centuries. The Gal Vihara, with its four monumental Buddhas carved from granite, represents a masterpiece of world Buddhist art.
Activities
→
Embark on an afternoon safari at Minneriya National Park to witness the famous 'Gathering,' the largest gathering of Asian elephants. From June to September, up to 300 pachyderms congregate around the ancient reservoir, offering an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Next stop
Distance:
90 km
Travel time:
2h30
6
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Scenic drive to Kandy through the country's verdant mountains. Arrival in the former royal capital, the last residence of Sinhalese kings before British colonization. This picturesque city, nestled in the hills and bordered by an artificial lake, exudes a unique atmosphere blending spirituality and colonial charm.
2
Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Sri Lanka's most revered sanctuary housing the relic of Buddha's tooth. This majestic temple, at the heart of a palatial complex, forms the spiritual center of the island and attracts millions of pilgrims each year.
Activities
→
Attend a traditional Kandyan dance performance, a centuries-old art form inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Dancers in sumptuous costumes perform mesmerizing choreographies to the rhythm of drums, culminating with the impressive fire-walking ceremony.
7
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Explore the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya, the finest in Asia with 60 hectares of tropical splendor. Admire the avenue of royal palms, the orchid collection, centuries-old trees, and colonies of giant fruit bats hanging from the monumental ficus trees.
2
Stroll around Kandy Lake, created by the last King of Kandy in the early 19th century. This peaceful body of water, bordered by temples and colonial mansions, offers a romantic escape in the heart of the historic city.
Activities
→
Participate in an authentic Sri Lankan cooking class and learn to prepare a traditional curry with local spices. A culinary and cultural experience that will allow you to bring the island's flavors home to your own kitchen.
Next stop
Distance:
95 km
Travel time:
3h
8
Day
4 photos
Discover
1
Spectacular drive to the highlands through tea plantations that carpet the hills in brilliant emerald green. Stop to photograph Tamil tea pickers in colorful saris harvesting the precious leaves using ancestral techniques unchanged since colonial times.
2
Discover Haputale, a charming village perched at 1,400 meters altitude offering dizzying views over the southern plains. On clear days, you can glimpse the island's southern coast from this natural viewpoint nestled in the heart of the tea plantations.
Activities
→
Visit a tea factory to understand the process of transforming fresh leaves into the world-renowned Ceylon tea. Taste different varieties and take home a few packets of this mountain nectar.
→
Admire the waterfalls that dot the region, true natural jewels cascading from the verdant mountains in a setting of lush tropical forest.
Next stop
Distance:
30 km
Travel time:
1h
9
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Arrival in Ella, a little paradise nestled in the mountains of tea country. This bohemian village charms with its laid-back atmosphere, breathtaking landscapes, and numerous hiking opportunities through tea plantations and cloud forests.
2
Hike to Little Adam's Peak for a panoramic view of the Ella Valley and surrounding mountains. This accessible 45-minute walk passes through tea plantations and rewards hikers with a magnificent panorama over Ella Gap.
Activities
→
Visit Ravana Falls, a mythical 25-meter waterfall linked to the legend of the Ramayana. According to the Hindu epic, the demon king Ravana hid Princess Sita in a cave behind these tumbling waters.
→
Discover a local tea factory and learn the secrets of making the famous Ceylon tea, from picking to drying and fermentation.
10
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Full day exploring Ella and its natural treasures. Hike to the summit of Ella Rock for a spectacular view of the verdant mountains and misty valleys. The trail passes through tea plantations, Tamil villages, and dense forests before reaching this exceptional viewpoint.
2
Discover the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a masterpiece of colonial architecture built entirely of bricks and stones without any metal framework. This photogenic railway viaduct, lost amid the tea plantations, is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks.
Activities
→
Swim in the natural pools of Diyaluma Falls or Ravana Falls, a welcome refreshment after hiking through the verdant hills of tea country.
→
Wander through Ella's cafés and restaurants, savoring local cuisine and the relaxed atmosphere of this village that has become a haven for travelers from around the world.
Next stop
Distance:
170 km
Travel time:
4h
11
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Drive to the south coast with a safari at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most famous and one of the best places in the world to spot leopards. This 979 km² sanctuary boasts the highest density of leopards in the world, along with elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and exceptional birdlife.
Activities
→
4x4 safari in Yala Park in search of the Sri Lankan leopard, a subspecies endemic to the island. Experienced guides take you through savannas, lagoons, and dry forests where these majestic felines and many other wild species hide.
→
Arrival in Tangalle in the late afternoon, settling into your oceanfront accommodation to enjoy a memorable sunset over the golden beaches of the south coast.
12
Day
10 photos
Discover
1
Day of relaxation on the pristine beaches of Tangalle, one of the most beautiful seaside resorts in southern Sri Lanka. These long stretches of golden sand lined with coconut palms offer an idyllic setting for swimming and lounging far from tourist crowds.
Activities
→
Tuk-tuk excursion discovering the region's secret beaches: Hiriketiya Bay for surfing, Silent Beach for absolute tranquility, and Rekawa Beach famous for nighttime observation of sea turtles coming to lay eggs on the sand.
→
Savor fresh seafood at beach restaurants, a specialty of this fishing coast where grilled fish and crab curries are prepared according to recipes passed down through generations.
Next stop
Distance:
75 km
Travel time:
1h30
13
Day
7 photos
Discover
1
Coastal drive to Galle, Sri Lanka's colonial pearl. Explore Galle Fort, a fortified citadel built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. This exceptionally preserved UNESCO site blends European architecture with tropical charm in a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with antique shops and trendy cafés.
2
Stroll along the fort's ramparts at sunset, a magical moment when locals come out for evening walks and the historic lighthouse illuminates facing the Indian Ocean. The views over the bay and red-tiled rooftops are simply spectacular.
Activities
→
Visit the Dutch Reformed Church, the Maritime Museum, and the old colonial mansions transformed into elegant boutique hotels. Galle's unique atmosphere evokes a journey back in time to the era of trading posts.
→
Enjoy a cinnamon tea at one of the fort's picturesque cafés, savoring the bohemian-chic atmosphere of this city of art and history that has become a gathering place for creators and authenticity seekers.
14
Day
7 photos
Discover
1
Day of relaxation on the paradise beaches around Galle. Unawatuna, with its crescent of golden sand protected by a coral reef, offers calm waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling among colorful tropical fish.
Activities
→
Explore nearby beaches including Jungle Beach, a secret cove accessible only on foot, or Mirissa for dolphin and blue whale watching on a boat excursion (in season from December to April).
→
Try surfing the waves at Unawatuna or Weligama, spots renowned for beginners and experienced surfers alike, with numerous schools offering lessons and board rentals.
Next stop
Distance:
150 km
Travel time:
3h
15
Day
6 photos
Discover
1
Drive to Negombo, a vibrant seaside resort close to the international airport. This Catholic fishing town offers a unique atmosphere in Sri Lanka with its baroque churches, bustling fish market, and long beaches lined with coconut palms.
2
Explore the Dutch Fort quarter and Hamilton Canal, vestiges of the Dutch colonial era. Negombo's fish market, one of the largest in the country, offers a fascinating spectacle in the early morning when fishermen unload their night's catch.
Activities
→
Cruise on Negombo Lagoon aboard a traditional catamaran to observe waterbirds, mangroves, and the daily life of fishing communities. A peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.
→
Final Sri Lankan evening on Negombo Beach, savoring grilled seafood and tropical cocktails facing the sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Next stop
Distance:
10 km
Travel time:
20min
16
Day
6 photos
Discover
1
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your return flight. Take with you the unforgettable memories of this journey through Sri Lanka, its ancient temples, tea plantations, paradise beaches, and the warmth of its welcoming people.
Activities
→
Last-minute souvenir shopping: Ceylon tea, spices, handcrafted batiks, and precious stone jewelry, specialties of the island of a thousand treasures.
🗺️ Itinerary map
🗺️ Nearby itineraries
❓ Frequently asked questions
What weather should you expect?
Dry Season - West and South (December-March): This period offers the best weather for exploring Colombo, the southern beaches, and hill country regions with minimal rainfall, comfortable temperatures (26-30°C), and calm seas perfect for beach activities. Tourist crowds reach their peak during December and January holidays, resulting in higher accommodation prices and advance booking requirements. The monsoon winds from the northeast create ideal surfing conditions on the south coast, while the hill country enjoys cool, clear weather perfect for tea plantation visits and hiking.
Dry Season - East and North (May-September): The eastern and northern coasts experience their dry season during these months, offering excellent beach weather, calm seas, and minimal rainfall while the west coast faces monsoon conditions. This period provides opportunities to explore less crowded eastern beaches like Arugam Bay and Trincomalee, along with northern cultural sites like Jaffna and Anuradhapura. Temperatures remain warm (28-32°C) with lower humidity levels, making this ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities in the eastern regions.
Shoulder Seasons (April and October-November): These transitional periods offer the best value for money with moderate weather conditions across most regions, though brief afternoon showers are common as monsoon patterns shift. Tourist crowds diminish significantly, resulting in lower accommodation prices and more authentic local experiences. April can be quite hot (30-35°C) before the rains begin, while October-November provides pleasant post-monsoon conditions with lush green landscapes and refreshed waterfalls throughout the island.
Monsoon Seasons (Southwest: May-September, Northeast: October-January): While challenging for beach activities, monsoon periods offer unique experiences including spectacular waterfalls, lush green landscapes, and dramatically reduced tourist crowds. The southwest monsoon affects the western and southern coasts but often brings only afternoon showers, allowing morning sightseeing and cultural activities. Budget travelers can find excellent accommodation deals during monsoon periods, while the rain enhances the island's natural beauty and fills reservoirs and waterways.
How many days should I plan?
We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 14 and 22 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.
What to discover in Sri Lanka?
Pearl of the Indian Ocean with ancient temples, tea plantations, and incredible wildlife. Experience cultural diversity, beautiful beaches, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality. The country offers spiritual experiences with natural beauty and cultural depth. Sri Lanka provides transformative cultural experiences with natural wonders and historical significance.