Sri Lanka Travel Insights

Sri Lankan Summer Highlights - 6 Days

Ancient history, fascinating culture, outstanding natural areas, and beautiful beaches—this six-day itinerary takes in the best of Sri Lanka's dry season. After arrival in Colombo, you'll be quickly immersed in the lushness of Minneriya National Park. Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and marvel at its unlikely and enduring construction. Learn about the country's colonial past at Trincomalee, then wind down your trip with relaxing beach days or an exciting whale watching trip.

2 Weeks in Sri Lanka - 3 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

There's fun for all ages in Sri Lanka, and two weeks gives you ample time to cover the highlights with your family. If you prefer a mix of culture and wildlife, you'll enjoy the sacred city of Anuradhapura, safaris in Yala, and the beaches of Weligama. The family who is up for an adventure will appreciate a safari and exploring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, visiting orphaned elephants in Udawalawe and Tangalle for temples, boat rides, and turtle watches. Active families will love the junior ranger program, jungle night walks, and beach activities in Passikudah.

1 Week in Sri Lanka - 4 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Abundant wildlife, breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food—Sri Lanka has them all, making this tropical island nation a welcoming destination for families. Spend a week with your family discovering Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, looking for elephants, monkeys, and elusive Asian leopards, and visiting iconic sites such as Sigiriya Rock, once carved into the shape of a lion, and Kandy's Royal Palace and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Sri Lanka Winter Holiday Adventure - 15 Days

Eschew the frigid winter for the sun-kissed beaches and verdant mountains of Sri Lanka. Over 15 adventure-filled days, you'll experience the highlights and natural beauty of this mystical gem of the Indian Ocean, from its highland tea plantations to its gilded southern shores. In between, you'll tour ancient cities, enjoy jungle safaris, explore cave temples, swim at romantic waterfalls, go whale watching, and much more.

Honeymoon Adventure in Sri Lanka - 15 Days

Ancient temples, sun-kissed beaches, romantic waterfalls, and rolling green hills are the ingredients to create a honeymoon for the ages. Over 15 days, you and your newlywed partner will embark on active adventures and leisurely outings like picnics at waterfalls, nature hikes in rainforest reserves, visits to tea plantations, tours of Buddhist shrines, and explorations of cave temples. Plus, you'll hike up to Sigiriya, the country's iconic rock fortress.

15 Days in Sri Lanka - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In 15 days, you can travel the length and breadth of Sri Lanka while hitting every coast along the way: north, south, east, and west. And there's a lot to see and do on this island, from exploring ancient Buddhist cave temples to lazing on golden beaches, hiking up rock fortresses, and visiting historic tea plantations in the central highlands. Whether on holiday, a honeymoon, a wellness retreat, or simply chasing the endless summer, Sri Lanka has something for everyone.

Sri Lanka Luxury Wellness Escape: Kandy & Weligama - 15 Days

Sri Lanka is known for its deep Buddhist culture, ancient cities, unspoiled rainforests, and high-end resort living. In fact, this island nation in the Indian Ocean has set the trend for luxury holidays throughout South Asia, and you'll enjoy the good life over 15 event-filled days. It's an unforgettable journey that includes plenty of creature comforts with a focus on culture, adventure, and overall mind and body wellness.

9 Days in Sri Lanka - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In nine days, you can visit multiple regions and experience many cultural highlights of Sri Lanka. This includes trips to the famous Cultural Triangle of ancient Buddhist cities as well as highland tea plantations and the golden coast of the country's south. You can also include some wildlife spotting in national parks, hikes up rock temples, and cultural exchanges with local artisans.

Sri Lanka Luxury Getaway - 12 Days

Twelve days of ancient temples, mountain tea estates, and tropical beaches await on this luxurious Sri Lankan escape. Sit back as your private driver whisks you through the island's natural wonders and historic monuments in style, from the Cultural Triangle to the Hill Country and on to the wildlife haven of Yala National Park. End your trip with a champagne toast and some blissful free time on the palm-fringed beaches of Tangalle.

Arts, Crafts & Culture in Sri Lanka - 9 Days

From intricate lacquerware to carved masks and exquisite weaving, Sri Lanka's traditional arts and crafts hold a special place in its cultural heritage. On this fascinating nine-day itinerary, you'll take a deep dive into the island's historical and contemporary artistry. You'll visit the famed weavers of Divulapitiya, admire the ancient treasures of Dambulla, learn the basics of ceremonial mask-making in Galle, and sit down with some of the island's pre-eminent artists in Colombo and Kandy.

Flavors of Sri Lanka - 9 Days

Delight your senses and broaden your palate with this nine-day exploration of Sri Lankan culture and cuisine. Beginning and ending in Colombo, you'll circle the island's south, checking off must-see highlights as you sample local dishes. Bike to a rural village for an unforgettable curry lunch, explore Kandy's colorful street food scene, see how world-class tea is made in Hill Country, and taste the freshest seafood on the tropical beaches of Ahangama.

Active Sri Lanka: Rivers, Mountains, Wildlife & Beaches - 9 Days

Raft, hike, abseil, and snorkel your way around Sri Lanka on this nine-day outdoor adventure. Winding through the island's central and southern regions, you'll start with a week of adrenaline-fueled fun—paddling through whitewater rapids, rappelling down waterfalls, and hiking to dramatic mountain peaks. After heading into the wild to search for leopards and elephants on safari, wind down with snorkeling and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka Highlights: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Yala & Galle - 9 Days

From the UNESCO-listed ruins of the Cultural Triangle to the historic Indian Ocean fortress of Galle, this nine-day introduction to Sri Lanka rounds up all the highlights of the island's south and central regions. Explore the ancient civilizations of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, tour the sacred temples of Kandy, take a breathtaking train journey through the tea fields of Ella, and head off-road in search of rare wildlife in Yala National Park.

A Taste of Sri Lanka - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary takes you on a flavorful journey through Sri Lanka's culture and cuisine—from the beaches of the Indian Ocean to the heart of the Cultural Triangle. Alongside an itinerary of ancient temples, wildlife spotting, and countryside cycling, you'll learn the secrets of a perfect curry in Galle, take afternoon tea among the lush gardens of the Hill Country, and embark on a fascinating and fragrant tour of Kandy's Spice Garden.

Sri Lanka Outdoor Adventure: Dambulla to Unawatuna - 10 Days

On this thrilling 10-day itinerary, you'll hike, raft, and zipline your way across Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Explore the fortresses and rock temples of the Cultural Triangle, brave waterfalls and whitewater rapids in the Hill Country, and go off-road to search for elephants in Udawalawe National Park. Your adventure ends on the south coast with some well-earned downtime on the tropical beaches of Unawatuna.

Family-Friendly Sri Lanka: Kandy to Negombo - 11 Days

This relaxed, 11-day family vacation combines Sri Lanka's classic highlights with some lesser-visited gems. Bouncing between the Hill Country, the Cultural Triangle, and the quiet northeastern beaches of Trincomalee, you'll embark on a series of hands-on experiences and excursions for all ages. Learn to play the Sri Lankan drums, take a forest walk with the island's last indigenous tribe, cycle through country villages, and snorkel amid tropical fish and reef sharks.

Sri Lanka Off the Beaten Path Family Adventure - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary is perfect for adventurous families looking to get off the beaten path and introduces you to some of Sri Lanka's quieter corners and undiscovered gems. Paddle across the biodiverse lagoons of Kalpitiya, search for rare Sri Lankan leopards on safari in Wilpattu National Park, hike to waterfalls in the lush countryside of Mahiyanganaya, and travel deep into the jungle to meet the island's last indigenous tribe.

Sri Lanka for Families: Cultural Triangle & South Coast - 7 Days

With a mix of cultural highlights, hands-on activities, and plenty of beach time, this 7-day Sri Lankan itinerary is perfect for families. Go for a gentle cycle through the countryside of the Cultural Triangle, spot elephants on safari in Minneriya National Park, and learn the beats of traditional drumming in Kandy. After picking tea leaves in the lush mountains of the Hill Country, it's time to transfer to the coast to enjoy the warm, turquoise seas around Unawatuna.

Sri Lanka Family Vacation: Safaris, Temples & Beaches - 14 Days

Plenty keeps the little ones entertained on this two-week, family-friendly adventure through Sri Lanka. Tour the temples and shrines of the Cultural Triangle by tuk-tuk, take a scenic train journey high into the tea fields of the Hill Country, and head out on safari in the savannah-like wilds of Yala National Park. After ticking off the highlights, wind down with plenty of playtime on the tropical beaches of Weligama.

Family Adventure in Sri Lanka: Pasyala to Tangalle - 14 Days

Equal parts fast-paced adventure and laid-back beach holiday, this two-week itinerary hops around central Sri Lanka with family-friendly tours of cultural landmarks, national park safaris, and a scenic train journey into the mountains. Then it's time to slow down with a week on the south coast beaches of Tangalle, where a private oceanfront villa serves as your base for fun day trips, family watersports, and plenty of beach time.

Sri Lanka Family Wildlife Adventure - 14 Days

Experience the best of Sri Lanka's nature and wildlife experiences on this two-week family-themed itinerary. Looping through the island's southern and central regions, you'll embark on a series of fun-filled safaris, nature walks, biking excursions, and boat trips, with nights spent in comfort at gracious eco-lodges and safari camps. Search for leopards in Yala National Park, see the monkey-filled ruins of Polonnaruwa, watch elephants swim in Gal Oya National Park, spot rare primates on a nocturnal jungle hike, and discover the colorful marine life of Pasikudah.

Family Fun in Sri Lanka: Sigiriya, Kandy & Wadduwa - 7 Days

This family-friendly itinerary combines culture, wildlife, and beaches for a week-long Sri Lankan adventure to remember. Start in the country's Central Province, where you'll take a Jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, climb the ancient fortress of Sigiriya, and meet the famous monkey colonies of Polonnaruwa. Get a glimpse of authentic Sri Lankan life as you cycle through the countryside and attend a colorful cultural show, then transfer to the west coast for two blissfully empty days on the golden beaches of Wadduwa.

Sri Lanka South Coast Family Adventure - 10 Days

Forget rushing around with kids in tow—this laid-back, 10-day family vacation stays in one spot so you can relax and explore Sri Lanka at a gentler pace. Based in the south coast beach paradise of Dikwella, an itinerary of diverse day trips and fun excursions lie within easy reach. Hunt for treasure in the historic walls of Galle Fort, spot blue whales from your private yacht, hike through the mysterious wilds of Sinharaja Forest, and try your hand at surfing and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lanka Family Getaway: Sigiriya, Pasikudah & Kandy - 7 Days

Perfect for active families and nature lovers, this week-long summer itinerary focuses on the natural wonders of Sri Lanka's stunning Central Province. Spot elephants on safari in Minneriya National Park, burn off some extra energy on the climb to Sigiriya Rock, and meet the playful monkey colonies of ancient Polonnaruwa. After some snorkeling and beach time in coastal Pasikudah, you'll head to the Hill Country around Kandy to tour tea estates and picnic on riverbanks, while nights are spent toasting marshmallows and watching family movies under the stars.

Cultural Journey through Sri Lanka: Kalpitiya to Colombo - 15 Days

Combining cultural wonders, wildlife safaris, and tropical beaches, you'll get to know Sri Lanka from north to south on this far-reaching, 15-day itinerary. Spend some time exploring the island's little-visited north before cutting through the heart of the interior to reach the beaches of the southern coast. Along the way, you'll discover three diverse national parks, tour the ancient temples and palaces of the Cultural Triangle, and get a glimpse of authentic Sri Lankan life in off-the-beaten-path villages.

Miracles of Sri Lanka: Temples, Mountains & Beaches - 8 Days

This 8-day getaway takes you on a circular journey through the highlights of central and southern Sri Lanka. Setting out from the west coast beach town of Negombo, you'll travel deep into the country's cultural heart—exploring the ancient fortress of Sigiriya, the cave temples of Dambulla, and the palaces and relics of Kandy along the way. After a refreshing trip through the lush mountains and tea estates of Ella, head back to the coast to wind down in the beach paradise of Unawatuna.

Ancient Cultures of Northern & Central Sri Lanka - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary takes you off the beaten path to discover Sri Lanka's remarkable cultural and spiritual diversity. Traveling from the little-visited northern shores to the remote forests of the southeast, you'll seek enlightenment under the branches of Anuradhapura's sacred Bodhi tree, tour the colorful Hindu temples of Jaffna, admire the beachfront statues of Trincomalee, and learn about life in a Vedda village—home to the island's last indigenous forest-dwelling tribe.

Central & Southern Sri Lanka: Wildlife, Culture & Beaches - 12 Days

This 12-day itinerary combines cultural highlights with wildlife spotting and some low-key beach time for the ultimate introduction to Sri Lanka. Check off iconic highlights like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, then head to the mountains to cool off in the heart of tea country. After searching for leopards, elephants, and sloth bears on a safari through Yala National Park, make your way to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean for two days of downtime on Unawatuna's beaches.

How Many Days to Spend in Sri Lanka

There's a lot to see in Sri Lanka—two weeks will allow you enough time to explore all the island's top sights or even travel to other countries in the surrounding area. However, you can still enjoy Sri Lanka in a shorter time frame. Five days is long enough to see the highlights or spend some time relaxing on the beach, while with seven days, you can go deeper and experience multiple regions.

Treasures of Sri Lanka - 20 Days

Discover the magic of central and southern Sri Lanka on this immersive 20-day itinerary. Setting out from Colombo, you'll wind your way through a land rich with culture, history, and natural beauty—visiting countless highlights and hidden gems along the way. Spot elephants and leopards on safari, hike to towering waterfalls, explore ancient ruins and sacred temples, and savor some downtime on idyllic Indian Ocean beaches.

Discover the Best of Sri Lanka - 5 Days

Experience the natural beauty and fascinating culture of Sri Lanka on this whirlwind 5-day trip around the country's highlights. You'll begin with sightseeing in the historic port city of Colombo; then, you'll venture to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya and spend some time exploring the region's rice paddies and green landscapes on a bicycle. Keep your eyes open for elephants on a wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park before you finish the adventure with visits to two of the country's most important temples in Dambulla and Kandy.

Sri Lanka Glamping Adventure - 13 Days

Sri Lanka's natural beauty takes center stage on this diverse and adventurous 13-day itinerary. Beginning and ending in the capital of Colombo, you'll spend your days exploring ancient temples and fortresses, hiking to secluded waterfalls, relaxing on idyllic beaches, and spotting rare wildlife in two of the country's most spectacular national parks. At night, the sounds and sights of nature will lull you to sleep at a succession of luxurious "glamping" properties.

Sri Lanka Outdoor Adventure: Rafting, Hiking & Waterfalls - 12 Days

Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, this jam-packed 12-day itinerary highlights Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Hike to five of the country's most scenic waterfalls, raft down the raging Kelani River, see rare wildlife in Horton Plains and Udawalawe National Parks, and end your adventure with some well-earned downtime on the white sand beaches of Weligama.

Wonders of Sri Lanka: Negombo to Ahangama -10 Days

From ancient temples to mountain villages and national parks, this 10-day itinerary introduces you to the many wonders of southern and central Sri Lanka. Setting out from the laid-back beach town of Negombo, you'll visit some of the country's most remarkable cultural sites like Yapahuwa, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya, and explore the surrounding landscapes with memorable cycling and safari excursions. After a week of discovery and adventure, end your trip with a few days of relaxation on the Indian Ocean beaches of Ahangama.

Authentic Sri Lanka: Negombo, Dambulla, Kandy & Ahangama - 7 Days

Get to know Sri Lanka on this week-long exploration of ancient temples, unspoiled countryside, and idyllic beaches. Focusing on the southern half of the "Jewel of the Indian Ocean," you'll check off iconic sites like Pidirungala Rock, Sigiriya, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Immerse yourself in the surrounding landscapes as you cycle through rice paddies and country roads, take a wildlife safari through Minneriya National Park, and tour a working tea farm. After a visit to the fascinating fortified city of Galle, your adventure ends on the sweeping southern beaches of Ahangama.

1 Week in Sri Lanka - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have a week to spend in Sri Lanka, you might opt for a highlights tour that features stops at ancient temples and national parks. Another great option is to focus on wildlife viewing, choosing an itinerary that includes multiple Jeep safaris and a whale-watching tour. Relax on a laid-back tour of Sri Lanka's beaches, consider an itinerary geared to active families, or get off the beaten bath on a trekking trip around the country's quieter landscapes. Read over the following itineraries to learn more about your options.

10 Days in Sri Lanka - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With ten days to spend in Sri Lanka, there are several great ways to structure your trip. Choose a highlights tour that takes you to the country's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient temples, explore the great outdoors on an active adventure that includes cycling and whitewater rafting, or relax on a laid-back itinerary showcasing quiet beaches and villages. Alternatively, you could combine a week in Sri Lanka with a few days in the island paradise of the Maldives. Read over the following itineraries to learn more about your options.

Best of Sri Lanka - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary around Sri Lanka features outdoor activities and cultural attractions for all ages, including a dolphin-watching boat tour, a Sri Lankan cooking class, and multiple Jeep safaris around national parks. Marvel at massive Buddha statues, spot elephants and leopards in the wild, and go snorkeling in the clear waters of Pigeon Island National Park — you'll have plenty to do and see on this lively trip!

Beaches of Sri Lanka: Mirissa & Bentota - 7 Days

Sri Lanka's magnificent coastline has plenty to offer, whether you're in the mood to relax under a palm tree or engage in active pursuits. This 7-day Mirissa and Bentota beach tour provides both. You'll spot blue whales on a whale-watching excursion off the coast of Mirissa and spend a whole day cycling around Galle, exploring a 17th-century Dutch fort, and learning how tea is produced at a tea factory. But the itinerary also features several days to relax on the sandy shores of Bentota and Mirissa, trying water sports, or dozing on a beach blanket.

Trekking in Sri Lanka - 7 Days

One of the best ways to explore Sri Lanka is on your own two feet, exploring quiet trails and beautiful landscapes on a guided trekking tour. This weeklong adventure takes you to Horton Plains National Park, Ella Rock, the famed Hill Country, and several other destinations for hiking, canoeing, and appreciating native wildlife. You'll also visit ancient temples and learn about the harvesting and production of tea, adding a cultural element to this outdoorsy itinerary.

Beaches & Villages of Sri Lanka: Kandy, Ella, & Tangalle - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day itinerary around Sri Lanka is a treat for nature lovers. Along the journey, you'll see turtles hatching eggs on the beach, spot rare birds in the wild, hike to incredible vistas, and learn about the spices of Ceylon. There's a cultural element to the trip, too: you'll visit temples, learn to meditate with a Buddhist monk, dine in a Sri Lankan home in a small village, and ride an antique train route established by the British in the 18th century.

Outdoor Adventure in Sri Lanka - 10 Days

From mountainous national parks to rushing rivers to the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, the landscapes featured on this tour around Sri Lanka are paradise for travelers who love the outdoors. On this action-packed itinerary, you'll hike and cycle, try whitewater rafting, and spot elephants in the wild. You'll end up at the beach for a free day of water sports, swimming, and sunbathing before the trip comes to an end.

Highlights of Sri Lanka - 10 Days

Ancient rock temples, wild elephants and whales, sloping hills planted with tea: this 10-day tour of Sri Lanka takes you to the country's incredibly diverse highlights. Go on a Jeep safari, taste tea where it's harvested, and scan the ocean's surface for whales. With a mix of cultural sites and outdoor adventures, plus time to relax on the idyllic beaches of Mirissa, this sweeping itinerary has something for everyone.

2 Weeks in Sri Lanka - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

There's a lot travelers can see and do with two weeks to spend in Sri Lanka. Explore the island on a highlights tour that takes you to historic temples and national parks, focus on coastal destinations and UNESCO-listed sites, or opt for an itinerary that includes cycling and boating through Sri Lanka's natural wonders. If you're traveling with children, consider a family-oriented tour, or if you're eager to see the Maldives, combine ten days in Sri Lanka with a few more in the paradise of these nearby coral islands. Learn more about your options by reading over the itineraries below.

Highlights of Sri Lanka - 14 Days

National parks, ancient fortresses, gorgeous beaches, and one of the oldest cities in the world: this varied itinerary takes you far and wide to Sri Lanka's most fascinating sights. You'll explore a quiet island and spot dolphins on boat tours, hike to viewpoints for sweeping views over tea plantations, look for leopards during a Jeep safari, and learn about Buddhist principles during guided tours. Whether you're interested in cultural history, colorful wildlife, or the process behind the production of Ceylon tea, this two-week highlights tour has plenty to offer.

Sri Lanka Family Adventure - 14 Days

With a colorful cultural history and rugged landscapes ideal for outdoor adventures, Sri Lanka is a beautiful destination for a family vacation. This two-week tour around the island features a dolphin-watching tour, multiple safari adventures, a Sri Lankan cooking class, and visits to ancient fortresses. Thanks to the mix of hands-on activities and cultural education, it's an excellent option for travelers of all ages.

Outdoor Adventure in Sri Lanka - 7 Days

Sri Lanka is a paradise for outdoor adventurers with expansive national parks, peaceful reservoirs, and rushing rivers. This 7-day tour, well-suited to families and active travelers of all ages, leads you around the country's natural wonders. Go whitewater rafting on the Kelani River, trek through the Knuckles Mountain Range, look for elusive leopards in Horton Plains National Park, and paddle a canoe through the quiet waters of Samanalawewa—it's all on the agenda.

Highlights of Sri Lanka - 7 days

See the best that Sri Lanka has to offer on this week-long itinerary around the country's cultural monuments and natural wonders. You'll visit historic temples in Kandy and Sigiriya, see the colorful fish market of Negombo, and learn about tea production in Hill Country. The trip features not one but two Jeep safaris in national parks, providing ample opportunities to see elephants, monkeys, and rare birds in their natural habitats.

5 Days in Sri Lanka - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

For a short but sweet trip to Sri Lanka, try one of these 5-day itineraries. You might focus on the country's top highlights, featuring visits to UNESCO-listed temples and a safari in a national park, or you may focus more exclusively on wildlife viewing. Alternatively, cool off on a laid-back tour of Hill Country—excellent for tea lovers—or spend your time exploring the beautiful beaches of the Sri Lankan coastline. Find out more about your options by reading the itineraries below.

Sri Lanka Beach Getaway: Tangalle & Mirissa - 5 Days

The beaches of Sri Lanka have so much to offer. This relaxing 5-day trip takes you around to key coastal destinations, including Tangalle and Mirissa, for snorkeling, swimming, whale-watching, and the chance to observe turtles laying their eggs on the sand at night. You'll also view an incredible variety of birds on a boat tour through Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary and squeeze in some cultural sightseeing at the Dutch-style old city in Galle before catching a flight out from the capital city of Colombo.