How Many Days Are Enough to Explore Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka just looks like a small island from an aerial view but for travelers, it has many attractions that need at least 2 weeks to explore. For wildlife lovers, culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and beachgoers, Sri Lanka has something to offer everyone. Save your Sri Lanka trip time from the start and apply for a Sri-Lankan tourist e-Visa right away.
You need at least two weeks to see everything, but you can still enjoy the main attractions in a few days if you're short on time. If you have limited time for your Sri Lankan trip, plan your visit based on what interests you the most. Decide whether you want to explore the Cultural Triangle for history, the central hill country for hiking, and the southwest coast for the beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
Places to Visit in a Two Week Trip to Sri Lanka
How to See Sri Lanka in a Two-Week Trip?
First Two Days: Town of Columbo
Whether you, as a traveler, are flying from the west or from any other country, the possibility is that you will land in the capital of Sri Lanka-Colombo. For those arriving around midday, it is recommended to spend the night in Colombo to rest and recover from jet lag.
You can roam around the city of Colombo for the first two days, take a look at the street markets and enjoy the local food. You will have enough time to visit places like Gangaramaya Temple and Galle Face Green.
Day 3 and Day 4: Sigiriya and Dambulla
Your next stop is the Cultural Triangle. Before the sun gets too hot, visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Later, make your way to Dambulla Cave Temple. Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by amazing Buddha statues and old paintings on the walls.
Day 5 and Day 6: Kandy
Now it's time for Kandy, Sri Lanka's culture hub. Make sure to check out the Temple of the Tooth Relic, it's so special that it's on the UNESCO list. Catch a local dance show and wander around Kandy Lake. The next day, you can spend some time in the pretty Royal Botanical Gardens.
Day 7 and Day 8: Nuwara Eliya
Up next is Nuwara Eliya, a place that looks like a bit of England dropped into Sri Lanka. Pop into a tea farm to see how they make the country's famous brew. The weather's nice and cool here. You could take a boat out on Gregory Lake or go for a walk in Horton Plains National Park.
Day 9 and Day 10: Ella
Ella is your next stop - a small place with big mountains all around. Climb Little Adam's Peak for some amazing views. Don't miss the Nine Arch Bridge, and just enjoy the chill vibe of this sweet little town.
Day 11 and Day 12: Yala National Park
Time to head down south to Yala National Park. It's known for having lots of leopards. Jump in a jeep for safari rides in the morning and evening. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, crocodiles, and all sorts of birds.
Day 13: Mirissa
Now for some beach time in Mirissa. Lie back on the sand, hop on a boat to spot whales (if it's the right time of year), or give surfing a go if you're feeling brave.
Day 14: Galle
End your trip in the historic city of Galle. You can visit the Dutch Fort, which is also a Sri Lankan site that is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tailoring Your Trip
If you have less time, you can still experience Sri Lanka's highlights:
- For a week-long trip, focus on either the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy) or the southern coast (Galle, Mirissa, Yala).
- A 10-day itinerary could include Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, and Ella, and end with a few days on the beach in Mirissa or Galle.
- It does not matter if you are visiting Sri Lanka for one week, 10 days or two-week, you can adjust your Sri Lankan itinerary according to the days.
Getting a Sri Lanka visa online is much faster and stress-free, why not Check your Sri Lanka e-Visa eligibility in advance so that are able to enjoy a smooth application process.
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What makes the Sri Lankan National Parks a top-notch tourist destination is the vast array of exotic flora and fauna to spot! As nature lovers visiting Sri Lanka to explore the top National Parks in the country, this list is perfect for your travel itinerary.
Apply for Sri Lanka e-Visa 3 days in advance of your flight. Citizens from many countries including Brazilian citizens, Omani citizens, German citizens, Japanese citizens and New Zealand citizens can apply online for Sri Lanka e-Visa. Travelers from eligible countries can enjoy a smooth and convenient entry into the country for various purposes.