How to Spend 10 Days in Sri Lanka: The Perfect Itinerary

Sri Lanka is quickly becoming a popular destination, and it’s easy to see why. When it comes to nature and hospitality, Sri Lanka is impossible to beat.

In Sri Lanka, you can explore rainforests and ancient cities, relax on picturesque beaches, swim in waterfalls, and even spot wild elephants on the road.

Whether it’s your first time in Sri Lanka or even in Asia, this 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary is designed to give you an unforgettable experience. Let´s dive right in and make the most of your 10 days in Sri Lanka!

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Things to Arrange Before Arrival

1. Get Your Sri Lanka Visa Online
   Sri Lanka offers an e-Visa (ETA) for most travelers for 30 days. Check what applies to you at your country’s foreign ministry.
   
   Then, apply for your visa on the official ETA website. When I did it, my visa was approved within minutes.
   During the application, you’ll need to provide an address in Sri Lanka: simply book a hotel for your first night and use that.
   
   Arriving at night? Take a rest at the Olinia Airport Hotel; they offer a free shuttle (even at 2 am), and it`s only a 5-minute drive from the airport.
   
2. Get Travel Insurance
   A reliable travel insurance is a must. Since getting robbed in the Dominican Republic, I don`t travel without it.
   
   I’ve tried some providers, and my top recommendation is Heymondo. When I was robbed and lost most of my valuables, they reimbursed me for almost everything.
   
   Discount at Heymondo: I asked Heymondo to offer my readers a discount, and they said yes! You can get 5% off your Heymondo Insurance.
   
   
3. Pack for Sri Lanka
   You can rely on this complete Sri Lanka Packing List. In this packing guide, you will find everything you need for Sri Lanka, trust me. My one tip? Try to pack light and leave room for souvenirs.

Arrival in Sri Lanka: First Steps to Take

The Colombo Airport is small and very easy to navigate. When I landed, I remember looking out the window and seeing endless green forest areas— I immediately felt at home in Sri Lanka.

The key things to arrange upon arrival:

1. Withdraw Cash from the ATM
No need to get Sri Lankan rupees before you arrive! ATMs are available at the airport to withdraw cash easily. I used both Wise and Revolut in Sri Lanka —both work well, though expect to pay a small fee for withdrawals.

If the ATM doesn’t work, don’t worry! There’s a currency exchange right at the airport, too.

2. Buy a Local SIM Card
Inside the airport, there`s a small Dialog shop (considered the best in Sri Lanka), where we also purchased our SIM cards. A 30-day SIM card with 100GB of data costs 3,600 LKR (ca. 12 USD).

3. Arrange Transport / Pick Up Your Tuk Tuk
Taxi – You’ll find plenty of taxi drivers at the airport, just pick one you’re comfortable with. If you arrive late at night, the Olinia Airport Hotel is the perfect hotel choice, offering free shuttles, a 24-hour reception, located 5 minutes from the airport.

Rent a tuk-tuk – I highly recommend renting a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka. You will save a lot of time and money, not needing a taxi/bus everywhere you go.

If you’re nervous about driving a tuk-tuk, take a day to observe the traffic (it`s not bad!).

>>> Further Read: How to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka.

4. Don`t want to drive? Plan how you`ll get around in Sri Lanka
If you don`t want to self-drive, I put together this travel guide on how to get around in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka 10-Day Itinerary: The Outline

This 10-day Itinerary combines the best of Sri Lanka: nature, beaches, history, and outdoor adventures.

On these 10 days in Sri Lanka, we focus on the Southern and Central regions of the island. Why? Because those regions are home to the best beaches, incredible wildlife, and stunning hidden gems.

Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, we head straight to the southern beaches for some relaxation. In between enjoying the sun, we visit the Sinharaja Rainforest for unique animal encounters. Then, we’ll discover more hidden beaches and spend the next few days enjoying the beauty of the coastline.

On the 5th day, we head towards Hill Country, where we take the scenic Ella-Kandy train through breathtaking landscapes. Then, we travel further north to Sigiriya to see the iconic rock fortress and search for wild elephants.

Finally, our unforgettable 10-day Sri Lanka trip ends back in Colombo.

To give you a clearer picture of our journey, here’s a map of our Sri Lanka itinerary:

Day 1: Colombo-Unawatuna

If you arrive late in Colombo, spend your first night in Negombo. This will be Day 0 of your trip.

Otherwise, pick up your tuk tuk at Colombo Airport/Negombo and start your journey south.

If you decide not to rent a tuk tuk, head to Colombo Fort Station and take the train to Unawatuna. Find the train schedule here.

We arrive at our accommodation at Dalawella Beach (in Unawatuna). The Dalawella Beach is the first notable beautiful beach, famous for its iconic palm tree photo spot.

After relaxing at Dalawella Beach, continue to Unawatuna. The atmosphere here reminded me of Bali—upscale restaurants, stylish bars, and trendy coffee spots.

For dinner, I highly recommend Pink Elephant for an upscale dining experience, or Mettha`s Home Cooked Meal for an authentic local meal.

Day 1
>> Hotel Amanda Beach Villas (stay at Dalawella Beach)

Day 2: Galle and Unawatuna’s Beaches

On Day 2 of our 10 days in Sri Lanka, we visit Galle and the surrounding coastline.

After breakfast at Dalawella Beach, we head to Galle. On the way there, if you need one more coffee stop, check out OLU Cafe: they serve the tastiest coffee (and smoothie bowls).

Once in Galle, park your tuk-tuk at the court square, where local craftsmen sell their art. The paintings, inspired by Sri Lankan motifs, are truly beautiful. The area is shaded by massive trees, attracting exotic birds such as kingfishers.

From here, walk toward the shoreline to visit the Lighthouse and the Galle Fort UNESCO Site. Along the way, several cafés offer a great spot to relax before heading back.

In the afternoon, swim at Jungle Beach in Unawatuna. Sunsets are amazing from there.

Optional: If you have time, take a boat trip on Koggala Lake. All local tourist offices sell this excursion.

Day 2

>> Hotel: Amanda Beach Villas (at Dalawella Beach)
>> Activity: Galle Fort, Jungle Beach, Koggala Lake

Day 3: Sinharaja Forest

On Day 3, we visit Sri Lanka’s only rainforest, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve—home to rare flora and fauna. I recommend booking this Sinharaja Forest Day Trip for convenience, as it includes a driver to and from the forest.

The Sinharaja day trip starts with a hotel pickup and a scenic drive through tea plantations and jungles.

Then, a 5-hour trek takes you through a jungle path, with great chances to see wildlife. (I saw loads of wildlife there!) At the end, enjoy a homemade lunch by a waterfall—and take a dip if you like.

At the end of the hike, your chauffeur will drive you back to your accommodation.

However, if you prefer to self-drive to the Sinharaja Forest, my Sinharaja Forest Travel Guide will help you tremendously.

Day 3
>>Hotel: Amanda Beach Villas (at Dalawella Beach)
>>Activity: Sinharaja Forest Day Trip

Day 4: Mirissa, Matara, Rekawa

On Day 4 of the 10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary, we explore the coastline further, heading to the east.
Leave Dalawella Beach early, drive along the coast, and stop at beaches like Ahangama, Midigama, or Weligama.

• Try surfing: Weligama Beach is great for beginner surfers. There are many surf centers along the beach.
• Whale Watching Mirissa: Sri Lanka is one of the places where you might spot blue whales. If you want to go, start your day in Mirissa (a 50-minute drive from Dalawella Beach), and choose an ethical tour operator like Raja and the Whales (6:30 AM daily departure).
• In Mirissa, stop at the iconic Palm Tree Hill— a great photo spot and best visited early.

In the afternoon, continue to the east and stop at places you like, such as Dickwella Beach.

Finally, check in at your hotel at Rekawa Beach (close to Tangalle). We stayed in Heaven in Satinwoods, and I highly recommend them. The owners are the sweetest people, the rooms are great, and you’ll feel in a jungle. In their garden, there’s always a unique animal passing by.

For dinner, ask Heaven in Satinwoods to cook for you. They are the best cooks, and their service is simply first-class.

If not renting a tuk-tuk, use the PickMe app for taxis. On this day, keep plans flexible—stop where you like, and enjoy fresh coconuts and rotis.

Day 4
>>Hotel: Heaven in Satinwoonds (Rekawa Beach, they are the best!)
>>Activity: Surfing Weligama& Whale Watching Mirissa

Day 5: Rekawa Beach

On Day 5 of our 10 days in Sri Lanka, we explore Rekawa Beach. For more details, read my Rekawa Beach travel guide for all the activities in the area.

Bird Sanctuary: Ask your hotel to arrange a trip to Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary, a great spot for spotting migrating birds from India.

After a delicious breakfast at Heaven in Satinwoods Hotel, head to Rekawa Beach. Take a long walk along the shore—you might spot turtle hatchlings (we were lucky and saw two!).

Next, visit Kahandamodara Beach. To escape the midday heat, stop by Ananthaya Ayurvedic Spa for a massage or treatment.

Before sunset, return to Rekawa Beach to see the traces of giant turtles, which nest here every night. While you can watch them nest with Turtle Watch Rekawa, I don’t recommend it, as I’ve heard it’s not ethical.

Day 5
>>Hotel: Heaven in Satinwoonds (Rekawa Beach, they are the best!)
>>Activity: Turtle Hatchlings, Ayurvedic Treatment, Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary

Day 6: Rekawa to Ella

Midway through our 10 days in Sri Lanka, we leave the coastline and head to Ella in the Hill Country.

Leave early and take the famous B35 road—a short detour on the way to Ella—along the edge of Yala National Park. There’s a good chance of spotting elephants as you drive your tuk-tuk. Optionally, stop at Yala National Park for a safari.

Driving time: 3 hours drive with elephant sightings! (Rekawa To Ella Directions)

If you’re not renting a tuk tuk, you can take the Ella Transfer from Tangalle early morning, which includes a stop at Yala National Park.

In the afternoon, check in at your hotel in Ella for a two-night stay. Then, join the best cooking class in Ella at 5 pm and learn how to cook like a local Sri Lankan.

Day 6
>>Hotel: Royal Mount Ella
>>Activity: Yala Transfer to Ella, Ella Cooking Class

Day 7: Ella

We spend our 7th day exploring the hilly regions of Ella, where the weather is warm during the day and comfortably cool at night, making for a perfect sleep without air conditioning.

Start early and visit the Nine Arches Bridge at sunrise (6 AM) for the best lights and fewer people. Afterwards, grab breakfast at one of Ella’s cozy cafés, such as the Rocky Ella Cafe.

Next, head to the tea plantations (they are everywhere). If you want, visit the inside of the tea factory to make your own, handmade tea and help locals collect tea leaves. The Uwa Halpewatte tea factory is a popular choice.

Then, Midday is a great time to go for a hike: the Ella Rock hike is a rewarding trek with great views.

Optionally, consider driving 1.5 hours to Diyaluma Falls, where you can swim in natural pools. For details, check out my Diyaluma Falls Travel Guide. On the way, there are many tea plantations and also tea shops.

Back in town by the evening, browse the souvenir and clothing shops or enjoy the laidback atmosphere in Ella`s bar scene,

Day 7
>>Hotel: Royal Mount Ella
>>Activity: Nine Arches Bridge, Waterfalls, Tea Factory. Ella Rock Hike

Day 8: Ella-Kandy Train

Today is the day everyone has been waiting for: taking the world-famous Ella-Kandy train.

Purchase your ticket a few days in advance at the Ella train station or book it online. There are different classes available, but I recommend the third class for a real local experience and to capture those iconic photos we always see online.

The train ride takes 7–8 hours (check the schedule here). I have to admit, we didn’t take this trip ourselves—by this point, we only wanted to drive our tuk tuk. But this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so it’s worth doing.

What to do with your tuk-tuk: Inform your rental provider that you want to take the Ella-Kandy train. They offer an option where they drive your tuk tuk after you, so you can enjoy the Ella-Kandy train ride in peace.

Upon arriving in Kandy, check into your hotel. It’s best to stay near Kandy Lake, where you can take an evening walk and witness something unforgettable: the trees around Kandy Lake are full of massive fruit bats and birds, creating an eerie, zoo-like atmosphere. The sheer number of them—and the smell—is something I’ve never experienced before. Truly memorable!

Day 8
>>Hotel: SWP Eco Lodge (Kandy, stay close to Kandy Lake)
>>Activity: Ella-Kandy Train, Walk at Kandy Lake.

Day 9: Kandy to Sigiriya

In the morning, take some time to roam around Kandy. One of my favorite spots was the Udawatte Kele Sanctuary, which felt like a rainforest. Despite being close to the city center, we saw plenty of wildlife—huge lizards, deer, unique birds, and towering trees covered in thick lianas.

Whenever you’re ready, start the drive to Sigiriya, home to the 8th Wonder of the World, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The drive takes around 2.5 hours, with stunning scenery along the way. Keep an eye out for leopard and elephant warning signs—only in Sri Lanka!

Make a few stops along the way. Grab a fresh coconut, spot buffaloes and peacocks by the roadside, and visit Nalanda Gedige, the center of Sri Lanka with ancient monuments. Also, don’t miss the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, an UNESCO Heritage Site.

Upon arriving in Sigiriya, check in at Hotel Sigiriya, where you’ll have a view of Sigiriya Rock. We stayed at Sigiri Close Up View, which also had great views, though the rooms were quite basic.

In the evening, hike up to Pidurangala Rock. This short 25-minute hike offers the absolute best panoramic views of Sigiriya Rock, especially at sunset. End the day soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Sigiriya Village.

Day 9
>>Hotel: Hotel Sigiriya (with view of the Sigiriya Rock)
>>Activity: Dambulla Cave, Pidurangala Rock

Day 10: Sigiriya- Colombo

On our last full day in Sri Lanka, we explore Sigiriya. For the best light conditions, we start the day with a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock). It opens every day at 5 AM. You can simply get your ticket at the counter. It costs 35 USD per person.

In the afternoon, we head out to see wild elephants near Sigiriya. To increase your chances of spotting elephants, ask your host to arrange a safari for you. We visited Hurulu Eco Park and saw many elephants up close.

If you’re driving through the parks during their migration, there’s a good chance you’ll see them along the way. We even spotted some while driving our tuk tuk!

Today, if you can, stay in Sigiriya (preferably in one of the hotels in Sigiriya with Sigiriya Rock Views!)and head back to Colombo the next day. If not, be prepared for a 4-hour drive to reach Colombo.

>>>Read: 6+ Unique Things to do in Sigiriya

Day 10
>>Hotel: Hotel Sigiriya
>>Activity: Sigiriya Rock, Wild Elephants, Back to Colombo

Travel Budget for 10 Days in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is generally an affordable travel destination, with costs varying based on your budget and travel style. If you rent a tuk-tuk, expect to pay around $21 per day. Mid-range hotels average $35–$40 per night, while meals at local restaurants typically cost $3–$4 per dish. Entrance fees to national parks and ancient cities start at $30–$50 per site.

For a 10-day trip, assuming a traveler rents a tuk-tuk, stays in mid-range hotels, eats out, and goes on 5–6 excursions, the estimated budget per person would be:

• Accommodation: ~$380 (assuming $38 per night)
• Tuk-Tuk Rental: ~$210 ($21 × 10 days)
  (Use the Discount Code Wanderer at TukTukRental.com for 5% off!)
• Food: ~$120 ($12 per day)
• Excursions & Entrance Fees: ~$200 (for 5–6 trips)
• Fuel & Miscellaneous Expenses: ~$100

Estimated Total: $1,000–$1,100 per person for 10 days

This estimate provides a comfortable mid-range experience with flexibility for additional activities. Budget travelers can lower costs by using public transport and staying in guesthouses, while luxury travelers can expect to spend more.

Wildlife in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a place like nowhere else: wildlife is thriving there. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, you will have the time of your life in Sri Lanka.

Wildlife
If you love smaller wildlife—tropical birds, lizards, butterflies, and more—the south of Sri Lanka is a must-visit. It’s teeming with wildlife, especially around Rekawa Beach near Tangalle, where we saw some amazing creatures.

Elephants
For elephant sightings in the wild, consider visiting Yala National Park or the region around Sigiriya. We opted for Sigiriya and were lucky enough to spot wild elephants while cruising around in our tuk tuk.
Yala can be very touristy, so Sigiriya was a more peaceful experience for us.

Blue Whales
Sri Lanka is one of the few places in the world where blue whales are present near the shores. From Mirissa, boats leave daily, but we decided not to go after reading recent reviews that sightings had been scarce.
If you join a tour, choose an ethical company that doesn’t disturb the whales. A reliable one I know is Raja and the Whales.

FAQ-s about Travelling in Sri Lanka