Wondering where to visit in Sri Lanka on a 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary? First of all – good job for allotting at LEAST 10 days to explore this diverse, larger-than-expected, multi-landscape, and beautifully scenic country.
10 Days in Sri Lanka is the minimum I would recommend – more is always better! But this itinerary here will give you a taste of all the most important bits with cities, nature, culture, landscapes, beaches, wildlife, and more.
As with all my itineraries, you will be moving fast on this 10 day itinerary so that you can make the absolute most of your time in Sri Lanka and see all you can possibly see. But if you’d like to spend more time and move more slowly, try spending 2 weeks or more on these destinations.
Before Traveling to Sri Lanka for 10 Days
Here are some things to know about traveling to Sri Lanka before we get started on the 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary.
Sri Lanka Safety
Sri Lanka safety is a hot topic after some civil unrest in 2022, but I can guarantee firsthand that it is entirely SAFE to visit in 2023! It was also still safe in 2022 as all the protests were nonviolent, but now the government has agreed to step in to help.
There is no shortage of resources at all, and despite some inflation and a few beggars in some streets, it’s as safe and welcoming as ever… even for a solo female traveler.
Reasons to Visit Sri Lanka
There are so many compelling reasons to visit Sri Lanka that I have written a whole article about them. The reasons include the incredible natural beauty, diversity of landscape, friendly locals, incredible wildlife and sea life, being able to visit year-round, ancient to colonial history, and so much more. If you find yourself wondering ‘Is Sri Lanka Worth Visiting?” read here.
Also read some of the most interesting facts about Sri Lanka before you go.
Getting Around Sri Lanka
You will be getting around Sri Lanka mostly by trains, buses, tuktuks, and transfers.
The train network is well-connected and VERY affordable and has scenic views on many of the routes (I’ll let you know when is best to take the train). There are busses traveling all over the country, and they are safe and also very affordable (and decorated with bright fun colors).
For shorter journeys within a city or town, tuktuks are EVERYWHERE! You can flag down a tuktuk for any and all situations and breeze around in the open air of the cutest and tiniest vehicle in Asia. Just make sure to pay a fair price – ask other travelers or look online so you don’t get overcharged.
Sometimes you might want the comfort of having a private transfer to your next destination, and that’s completely fine! The best way to organize these is either online on Viator or asking your hotel directly – they will always be able to find you a driver.
Sri Lanka Visa
You must apply for a tourist visa (ETA) online before you leave for Sri Lanka. It usually only takes a day or two (or even a few hours) but you must have the visa when you arrive. Apply here.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Days 1-2/10: Colombo
Your itinerary starts in the capital, Colombo, of course, as this is where you will be flying into. You’ll hit the ground running in Sri Lanka’s biggest and most bustling city to drink from the firehose of Sri Lankan culture before heading up into the mountains to more relaxed and scenic destinations.
Day 1: Arrive into Colombo
Today you will arrive, check into your hotel, and spend some time exploring Colombo’s busiest areas. Today you will dip into the business city and get an idea of what makes it tick. Today I recommend either doing hop on hop off bus tour around Colombo, or a private tuktuk tour with a guide who can show you around main sights, foods, and markets personally.
The most important things to see today are the Fort Area (basically the center with all the museums and shops), Gangaramaya Temple, markets such as Pettah Floating Market, Old Town, Independence Square, the Red Mosque, and more.
For sunset, head up the Lotus Tower, which is the tallest freestanding building in Southeast Asia! From up here, you can see the ENTIRE city and all the places you have just visited from a bird’s eye view. There’s a small ticket cost to get up here, but it’s well worth it for the photo ops and views.
Day 2: Explore Colombo and Surrounds
Today is another day to settle into Sri Lanka and finish any of the essential Colombo activities you did not get to finish above if you arrived late. If you finished everything, great! Today is also a great day to explore some of the beautiful nature and cultural spots within an hour or so of the main city. Some great unique places to visit around Colombo (with a tuktuk or private driver ideally) are:
- Seethawaka Wet Zone Botanical Gardens – beautiful botanic gardens and jungles with many different gardens to get out in nature
- Halpe Estate Rubber Factory – did you know Sri Lanka is one of the biggest exporters of rubber?! Learn how it is made and processed from tree to export here.
- White Water Rafting in a river not too far from the city
- Hit the beach – you won’t be on the coast again for about a week so enjoy the coast while you can if you are in more of a relaxing mood! Check out Galle Face Green for a grassy area by the water in the city or Mount Lavinia Beach.
For the sunset and dinner/cocktails, I highly recommend you check out Mount Lavinia Hotel for some fascinating 200y/o Sri Lankan colonial history, great food, and incredible views down the coast. Make sure to be on the terrace for a stellar sunset view.
Where to Stay in Colombo
Luxury/Splurge (which is only $100+ USD in Sri Lanka): The Cinnamon Grand Colombo is famously known as one of the most incredible hotels in Colombo. This hotel has over a dozen restaurants, bars, and cafes, one of the most comprehensive buffets ever, multiple swimming pools, ballrooms, and very comfortable rooms (many with a view). This is THE spot in Colombo. However if you are more into boutique hotels like me, Paradise Road Tintagel is STUNNING.
Mid Range ($50-$100): Granbell Hotel Colombo is surprisingly affordable, given its spectacular rooftop pool overlooking the ocean and amazing views from the rooms. $55-$65/night is a steal for these rooms!
Budget/Hostel (usually under $20): C1 Colombo Fort Hostel is an epic hostel with more private cubby beds and private rooms available too, right in the central ‘fort’ area.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Days 3-4/10: Kandy
Your next destination is Kandy, Sri Lanka. Kandy is also a larger city, but with a much slower pace than Colombo as it’s nestled right in the middle of some beautiful, tall mountains on a central Lake. Kandy is surrounded by green and views are epic all around – which we will be making the most of!
Day 3: Arrive into Kandy + Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Hiking and Cultural
Leave in the morning on a train or bus (or transfer) to Kandy (2-4 hours). Check into your hotel (or leave your stuff) and make your way to Kandy’s central city to view one of the most iconic cultural things to do on this 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary: Sri Dalada Malagawa, or the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic.
It is said this temple contains a real part of the Buddha’s tooth which people make pilgrimages here to worship. This is a very special place in Sri Lanka! Make sure to cover up to go inside.
Afterward, wander around town a bit and grab a bite to eat (there’s a great dosa place nearby). Next it’s time to get some amazing Kandy views – ideally arriving before/at sunset. To do this, you can either check out the Kandy View Point directly above the city or you can do something a bit tougher.
If you’re into hiking, take a 1-2 hour hike up the Pekoe Trail to the Hanthana Mountain View Point, which looks out over Kandy and ALL the surrounding mountains for miles around. the hike is tough but worthwhile and the views are epic!
Afterwards, head to dinner at your hotel and check out a Kandyan Cultural Dance in the city before heading in for the night. This is the dance we went to.
Day 4: Take a Day Trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla
Today is your chance to take a day trip from Kandy to some of the most sacred sites in the country: Sigiriya and Dambulla. Dambulla is an incredible temple built inside a cave, and Sigiriya is an UNESCO protected ancient rock fortress (that I guarantee you have seen photos of).
These sites are not reachable via public transport, so the best bet is to take a day trip from Kandy with a guide who can inform you all about the history os these ancient sites. The day tour below also visits a nearby national park and a few more notable sights.
Note: you can also stay an extra day in Kandy OR skip the day trip to Sigiriya/Dambulla and do the hike + Kandyan cultural dance on your second day in the city (hike in the morning and dance in the evening).
Where to Stay in Kandy
Luxury/Splurge: The Elephant Stables is a stylish and luxurious boutique hotel with large and elegant rooms, epic views, delicious food, and more.
Mid Range: Mahaweli Reach for a super luxe yet affordable 5-star hotel with elegant decor and secluded from the city, or Radisson Kandy for something central with a view
Budget Hostel: Banana Bunks Kandy is a super cute boutique hostel with comfy bunks and private rooms available with a restaurant (and kitchen) on site and a social vibe.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Days 5-6/10: Up in the Mountains: Ella + Nuwara Eliya
Now we are going to head up even HIGHER into the mountains to the famed towns of Ella and Nuwara Eliya – beautiful green mountainous areas surrounded by tea plantations for miles, countless waterfalls, hikes, and adventures to be had.
Day 5: Train from Kandy to Ella + Nuwara Eliya Option
Today, it’s time to take the famed train from Kandy to Ella – the one we have all seen amazing photos of. It’s smart to grab tickets for the train in advance in order to get assigned seats (next to the window of course). If you don’t get assigned seats, try and send your bags with a driver if you’re in a group, and sit down in the doorway for the most amazing views. Let me know if you want a post all about Kandy to Ella train tips!
Whne you arrive in Ella the day will already mostly be over (the trains are slow, especially the tourist trains) so head to your hotel and potentially out into the town to grab some food and maybe even see some live music.
Alternative Option to See Nuwara Eliya: Take the train from Kandy to Nanuoya and get a tuk tuk (or driver to meet you) to Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is the highest-elevation town in Sri Lanka and is known as “Little England” because many British colonists settled here, bringing with them British architecture, horse racing, food, and even weather! 😛
Explore Nuwara Eliya for a few hours. Have your driver show you Lake Gregory, Victoria Park, The Horse Race Course, the actual Little England Village with tons of British buildings and cottages, and Lover’s Leap waterfall. Then, head to your hotel in Ella and have a good rest!
Day 6 Sri Lanka 10 Day Itinerary : Adventures in Ella
Today you will wake up in Ella and have MANY adventures in store! Start by hiking to the nine arches bridge in Demodara (easily walkable from Ella town) – an incredible stone bridge over a beautiful forested canyon. Try and time it so you can see the train pass over the top! There are viewpoints all around the bridge – above and below it.
Next, head past 98 Acres Resort to hike up mini Adams Peak and appreciate the views over the countryside. When you’re done, you can’t miss the flying Ravana adventure center, which has a SUPER FUN zip line as well as rapelling, climbing, archery, ATVing, and more (at least do the zip line).
Ravana Pool Club is a stunning new pool club just outside of the adventure center if you are keen for a relax and a dip after your hike. If not, grab lunch at 98 Acres Restaurant and appreciate the view.
Next, head just down the road to marvel at Ravana Waterfall – a multi-level massive waterfall that is one of the best in Sri Lanka. If you have more time today, check out a tea plantation or more waterfalls and viewpoints such as Ella Rock, Kital Ella Waterfall and more.
Where to Stay in Ella
Luxury/Splurge: Tip Top Boutique Hotel for super cute rooms, infinity pools, and AMAZING views just outside of town (more seclusion)
Mid Range: Morning Dew boutique Hotel for more affordable pool + views over the mountains and also very central location
Budget: If you don’t mind staying in the next town over (Bandarawela), the family-owned Orient Hotel is super affordable, has a beautiful view and outdoor area, tons of charm with painted walls, comfy rooms, and a KARAOKE ROOM! We loved our stay here. For a unique, social, and fun central Ella hostel, stay at Tomorrowland hostel Ella.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Days 7/10: Elephants + Safari
Today it’s time to see some of Sri Lanka’s incredible wildlife for yourself! Udawalawe National Park is one of the best places to see Elephants. If you are more focused on leopards, look into Yala National Park. This itinerary will focus on Udawalawe.
Day 7: Head to Udawalawa National Park to do a safari
Head out in the morning (via transfer or bus) to Udawalawe National Park. Make sure to reach the Elephant Transit Home by 10am so you can view to adorable orphaned baby elephants being fed! The ETH is an incredible center providing food and milk to baby elephants (who roam free) every 3-4 hours with a museum on-site to learn about elephants too. Your (cheap) tickets go toward conservation.
After your daily dose of cuteness, it’s time for a safari! Check into your accommodation or arrive at a meeting point to jump in your safari jeep and head into the national park in search of elephants (of course) and whatever else you can find. On an Udawalawe safari you are sure to see DOZENS of elephants and other animals such as water buffalo, crocodiles, peacocks, many other birds, and even. certain types of wild dogs.
Where to Stay in Udawalawe:
Tonight either stay at a local camp in Udawalawe such as Ele Camp (mid/luxe) or Max Safari Villa (Budget). OR – head straight to Galle after your safari so you can spend 2 nights there.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Day 8/10: Galle
The coastal fortress of Galle is one of the most incredible places to visit in 10 days in Sri Lanka.
Day 8: Spend the day exploring the fortress, museums and tiny cafes and restaurants of Galle
The colonial town of Galle is located within a massive stone fortress built during the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial eras. There are several bastions, MANY incredible sea views and even swimming beaches surrounding the fortress, and countless charming colonial streets, historic churches and buildings, cute cafes, designer boutiques, little museums, and more!
Today the only plan is to get lost exploring Galle. Make sure to walk around the walls, check out the Galle Lighthouse and the Galle Fort Clock Tower, the Old Dutch Hospital, the Maritime Archaeology and Historical Mansion museums, as well as some beaches and shops.
Galle is full os super cute cafes and restaurants with picturesque seating areas. Make sure ti choose a few to visit as you go about your day. I loved Dumplings Cafe and Punto Cafe. If you have time, Unawatuna Beach next to Galle is very popular.
Where to Stay in Galle
Splurge/Luxe: Le Grand Galle by Asia Leisure is an AMAZING cliffside resort with a view of the fortress walls and ocean, with amazing amenities and views and private pool villas. 2 mins to the fortress.
Mid Range: Mango House Galle Fort – super cute earthy and jungle-y boutique hotel INSIDE the fortress walls for a great price.
Budget Hostel: Mushin Villa is the only well-rated hostel with nice facilities inside the city walls. They have private rooms and well as dorms and a cool rooftop.
Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary Day 9-10: Beaches + Kosgoda Turtles
Now it’s time to end your Sri Lanka trip with some proper relexation on the beach! The little town of Kosgoda is about halfway back to Colombo from Galle, and is known for beautiful resorts and for many turtle sanctuaries that protect baby turtles until they hatch.
Day 9: Head to Kosgoda to the beach and RELAX! You’ve earned it and need to experience some epic Sri Lankan Beaches. Visit a Turtle Sanctuary too.
I highly recommend you TREAT YOURSELF to the incredible experience of staying at the Sheraton Kosgoda Resort because this is where we stayed for our last couple of nights and ADORED this hotel. I’m usually a smaller boutique hotel person, but I am defying my usual tendencies to recommend this place.
The rooms are fabulous, but the biggest selling point of this resort was the literal best lunch/dinner buffet I have EVER had, a massive pool, direct beach access, a rooftop bar for sunset, and a turtle hatchery directly next door to visit and get to let baby turtles out into the sea.
You have already done all the sightseeing, so you won’t need to leave the resort for your last final day. Spend it on the beach (or walking down the coast), relaxing by the pool, enjoying some cocktails, having a massage at the spa, or on your balcony overlooking the sea. Make sure to visit the turtle hatchery next door – the staff can help you.
Day 10: Have one last dip in the sea and head to the airport 🙁
Get some good rest, sleep in, and bask in the ocean and pool one last time! The hotel should be able to help you organize a transfer to the airport from here – less than 2 hours away.
This 10-day sri lanka itinerary was just scratching the surface of this country, but showed you the absolute best areas for your first time: the beaches, the cities, the mountains/hill country, the culture, the history, and the wildlife. I have no doubt you will already be planning your next trip!
If you decide to stay longer, try spending an extra day in Kandy or an extra day in Ella so you can spend the night in Nuwara Eliya. Or, spend an extra day in Galle to explore more remote beaches and go snorkeling, or in Kosgda so you can enjoy the luscious room!
I hope you enjoy your trip to Sri Lanka, and please comment below or follow me on Instagram if you have any questions.
Passionate, full-time travel blogger with over 230k on social media and 150kMPV blog. Extraordinary photographer with two DSLR's + a drone with a love for capturing candid moments, epic drone shots, and magical compositions. I'm a natural-born content creator originally from California, but I've been on the road for 9 years living, working, traveling, blogging, and photographing my way around the world. I recommend the most amazingly adventurous and unique + boutique travel experiences/stays and helpful products to my audience and write comprehensive guides on my website that have helped millions of travelers so far. I love to inspire people to plan their dream trips, and many readers have given feedback as such. The reach on my platforms continues to soar, especially when combining cutting-edge social content with optimized articles on my high-authority website.