It was time for our next group adventure, and this time, we set our sights on Asia and specifically, the stunning island of Sri Lanka. Known for its lush landscapes, rich culture, and warm-hearted people, has been on our radar for a while. We couldn’t wait to explore its diverse scenery, from misty mountains and tropical jungles to golden beaches and ancient cities.
But what made this trip truly special wasn’t just the incredible destinations, it was the people we shared it with. Traveling as a group meant creating memories, experiencing new adventures, and immersing ourselves in a world so different yet welcoming. We knew this journey would be one to remember from the moment we landed.
Whether you’re drawn to wildlife safaris, thrilling adventures, or cultural heritage, this 9-day Sri Lanka itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the island. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through a country that surprises at every turn!
General Information
Travel Essentials
Visitors to Sri Lanka require a Visa, which can be easily obtained online through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system before arrival. Make sure to check the latest entry requirements before your trip. Also, you will need a passport with at least 6 months of validity.
Currency
The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). While credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and tourist areas, carrying cash is useful, especially in smaller towns and markets. ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s best to withdraw money in advance for more remote areas.
Electricity
Sri Lanka uses 230V, 50Hz, with plug types D, M, and G. A universal adapter is recommended to avoid any inconvenience.
Telecommunications & Internet
Major mobile providers include Dialog, Mobitel, and Airtel, offering SIM cards with data plans at affordable rates. You can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport. Alternatively, for seamless connectivity, consider using an Airalo eSIM, which allows you to stay online without changing physical SIMs.
Language
The official languages are Sinhala and Tamil, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, making communication easy for travelers.
Culture & Religion
Sri Lanka is a culturally diverse country with deep-rooted Buddhist traditions, alongside Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities. The island is known for its hospitality, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, such as dressing modestly when visiting temples.
Wildlife & Nature
Sri Lanka is home to some of the most diverse wildlife in the world, including elephants, leopards, and exotic bird species. The island boasts 26 national parks, with Yala and Udawalawe being the most famous for safaris. The country’s rainforests, tea plantations, and coastal beauty make it a paradise for nature lovers.
Food & Drinks
Sri Lankan cuisine is an explosion of flavors and spices. Signature dishes include rice and curry, hoppers (crispy bowl-shaped pancakes), and kottu roti. Don’t miss out on a cup of Ceylon tea, as Sri Lanka is one of the world’s top tea producers.
Interesting Facts
- Sri Lanka was formerly known as Ceylon until 1972.
- The country is one of the world’s leading producers of cinnamon.
- It has been called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” due to its shape and location.
- Sri Lanka has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Sacred City of Kandy.
- In 2004 the island was devastated by a massive tsunami that claimed over 35,000 lives, marking one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.
- In 2022, Sri Lanka faced a severe economic crisis, leading to its first sovereign default. However, the country has been working diligently towards recovery, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approving a $2.9 billion bailout to support economic reforms.
- Despite past challenges, Sri Lanka has re-emerged as a popular travel destination, attracting visitors with its rich culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes.
Day 1: A new month, a new adventure begins in Sri Lanka
There’s no better way to start a new month than with a fresh adventure on the horizon. On March 1st, our journey to Sri Lanka officially began. Arriving at the airport, I met up with our group, and the excitement was already in the air. After checking in, dropping off our luggage, and clearing security, we were ready for our first flight with Air Arabia.
Our first leg took us to Sharjah, a flight of approximately 4.5 hours that went smoothly with no delays. Its famous neighbor, Dubai, often overshadows Sharjah, but it’s a fascinating destination in its own right. Located just 25 minutes by car from Dubai, it’s an option for travelers with long layovers to squeeze in a quick visit to the city’s museums, markets, or waterfront areas.
For us, however, time was tight. With just a 1.5-hour layover, we only had enough time for a quick restroom break, a snack, and another security check before boarding our next flight.
The second flight, once again with Air Arabia, would take us to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. As we settled into our seats, the anticipation grew, Sri Lanka was just a few hours away. A country rich in history, nature, and warm hospitality was waiting for us, and we couldn’t wait to experience it all.
Day 2: Exploring the iconic Sigiriya Rock
After another 4.5-hour flight, we finally landed at Colombo Airport in the early hours of the morning. We passed through passport and visa control, collected our luggage, and exchanged some money before meeting our local guides, ready to kick off our adventure in Sri Lanka.
Since we had arrived at dawn, our first stop was for a quick breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead. From there, we set off toward one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks, Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
When we arrived at Sigiriya, our site-specific guide was already waiting for us… along with the rain! Luckily, it didn’t last long, and soon we were ready to explore. After purchasing our entry tickets, we began our tour of the surrounding gardens before making our way toward the majestic rock itself.
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historical landmarks. This massive 200-meter-high rock was once a royal palace and fortress built by King Kashyapa I in the 5th century AD. It is surrounded by impressive gardens, water channels, and frescoes, and at the top, you’ll find the remains of an ancient palace with breathtaking views of the lush landscape.
During our climb, our guide shared fascinating stories about the site’s history, the legend of King Kashyapa, and the incredible architectural feats of the time. Along the way, we encountered playful monkeys, took plenty of photos, and slowly made our way to the summit. The view from the top? Breathtaking, a sea of green stretching as far as the eye could see. The climb was challenging but rewarding, and despite the crowds, it was an experience worth every step.
In total, our visit lasted about three hours, including the hike up and down, photo stops, and our guided tour. After leaving Sigiriya, we originally planned to stop at a café with a view of the rock, but due to recent rains, the area was flooded. Instead, we drove to Dambulla, where we found a cozy local restaurant to relax and grab a coffee.
For lunch, our driver recommended a traditional Sri Lankan buffet with a great variety of dishes, including rice, noodles, vegetables, chicken, fish, fresh fruits, and dessert, all for just €7 per person. It was the perfect way to experience authentic Sri Lankan flavors at an unbeatable price.
After a long and exciting day, we finally arrived at our hotel, Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka, where we checked in, freshened up, and headed to our rooms for a quick shower. Feeling refreshed and re-energized, we all gathered at the hotel’s stunning pool, which turned out to be one of the best swimming spots I’ve ever experienced. Surrounded by lush greenery, the atmosphere was calm and serene, making it the perfect place to unwind.
The hotel itself was beautifully maintained, with a welcoming staff that greeted us with flowers and fresh juices upon arrival. Nestled in the heart of nature, it offered the ideal mix of comfort and tranquility, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
Day 3: Exploring Dambulla and Kandy
After a refreshing 10-hour sleep, we began our day early with breakfast at 7:30 AM. By 8:30 AM, we departed for the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple. Upon arrival, we parked, purchased our tickets, and ascended the steps leading to the temple entrance. Visitors should note that shoes must be removed before entering, and attire should cover shoulders and knees.
The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The temple complex dates back to the first century BCE and consists of five caves under a vast overhanging rock, carved with a drip line to keep the interiors dry. Inside, there are 153 Buddha statues, three statues of Sri Lankan kings, and four statues of gods and goddesses, including Vishnu and Ganesha. The murals cover an area of 2,100 square meters, depicting scenes such as the temptation by the demon Mara and Buddha’s first sermon.
In the temple’s courtyard, a local offered blessings and traditional bracelets for a small donation of about €1. Our visit lasted approximately 1.5 hours. After retrieving our shoes, we boarded our van and headed toward Kandy.
On the road, we stopped for a refreshing coconut drink. After enjoying a refreshing coconut juice during our journey, we made a stop at the Sirilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden in Kawudupelella. This serene garden is renowned for its diverse collection of exotic spices, herbs, and medicinal plants native to Sri Lanka.
Upon arrival, we were warmly welcomed by a knowledgeable guide who led us through the lush pathways, introducing us to various plants and explaining their culinary and medicinal uses. The garden offers visitors an educational insight into traditional Sri Lankan herbal medicine and the significance of spices in local culture.
A highlight of our visit was the complimentary 10-minute neck, back, and wrist massage, utilizing natural oils derived from the garden’s herbs. This relaxing experience allowed us to appreciate the therapeutic properties of the plants firsthand. While there was an adjacent store offering herbal products, we felt no pressure to make purchases, though contributions were welcomed.
Despite encountering some traffic, we arrived in Kandy and proceeded directly to a hilltop restaurant overlooking the lake and city for lunch. Post-meal, we walked to a nearby venue to experience traditional Sri Lankan dances for about 1.5 hours. The performances were captivating, featuring masks, instruments, and concluding with fire-walking and fire-eating displays.
Finally, we checked into our accommodation for the night, the Radisson Hotel Kandy. After a brief rest, we gathered at the hotel’s rooftop bar for drinks and relaxed conversations, accompanied by live music.
Day 4: Nuwara Eliya to Ella – Tea plantations and scenic train ride
Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at 7:30 AM, preparing us for the adventures ahead. By 8:30 AM, we departed towards Nuwara Eliya, eager to experience the renowned train journey to Ella.
On the road, we visited a gemstone workshop where we watched a documentary detailing the gemstone mining process in Sri Lanka. We observed artisans meticulously crafting gemstones in their workshop and had the opportunity to browse their exquisite collection of jewelry.
Our next stop was the historic Glenloch tea factory. Established over 150 years ago, this factory has played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s tea industry. We learned about the tea production process, from withering the leaves to the final product. The withering process removes excess water from the leaves, promoting the breakdown of leaf proteins into free amino acids and increasing the availability of freed caffeine, both of which change the taste of tea. We also discovered that the tea industry in Sri Lanka began in 1867 when Scotsman James Taylor started the first tea estate, marking the birth of the tea industry in Ceylon.
After a tasting session of various tea blends, we donned traditional baskets and ventured into the lush tea plantations to try our hand at tea picking, a unique and immersive experience that connected us with local traditions.
Following our tea adventure, we headed to the Nanu Oya train station to embark on what is often hailed as one of the world’s most scenic train rides. The journey from Nanu Oya to Ella spans approximately 64 kilometers and typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, winding through breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills, verdant forests, and picturesque villages.
We couldn’t resist capturing the iconic photos from the train’s open doors, a highlight for many travelers. Upon arriving in Ella, our dedicated driver, Buddhi, was already there with our luggage, ensuring a seamless transition to our accommodation at The Feel Luxury Boutique Hotel. Nestled in a tranquil village setting, the hotel offered a serene escape from the hustle and bustle.
As night fell, we embraced the local mode of transport, Tuk-Tuks, to explore Ella town. Our dinner at Rocky Ella was delightful, offering authentic Sri Lankan flavors. After our dinner, we visited Café One Love, a vibrant spot known for its eclectic ambiance and live music, where we enjoyed expertly crafted cocktails. The Tuk-Tuk rides added an extra layer of adventure to our evening, making it a memorable experience.
Day 5: Exploring Ella’s natural wonders
We began our day with a leisurely breakfast, savoring the tranquility offered by our accommodation and the surrounding area. Our first destination was the renowned Nine Arch Bridge, a remarkable example of colonial-era railway construction in Sri Lanka, completed in 1919. This iconic bridge, also known as the “Bridge in the Sky,” features nine elegant arches and is nestled amidst lush greenery between the Ella and Demodara railway stations.
The timing was on our side, as we approached the viewpoint, a train was crossing the bridge. We hurried to capture this picturesque moment, resulting in some beautiful photographs.
Next, we embarked on a hike to Little Adam’s Peak. This relatively easy trek led us through verdant tea plantations and offered panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Upon reaching the summit, we were rewarded with breathtaking vistas, making the effort truly worthwhile.
On our return journey, we decided to add a dash of adventure to our day by visiting the Ravana Zipline. Opting for a package that included access to a nearby pool club, we experienced the thrill of gliding over the lush landscape, capturing the moment with drone footage. After the adrenaline rush, we relaxed at the pool club, enjoying refreshing cocktails, music, and a swim, all set against the backdrop of the majestic mountains. For those seeking the perfect photo opportunity, a large swing was available at an additional cost, and elegant dresses could be rented to enhance the experience.
Returning to Ella, we lunched at La Mensa, where we indulged in delicious pasta dishes. The afternoon was reserved for rest, allowing us to recharge at our hotel.
As evening descended, we embraced the local mode of transport, tuk-tuks, to venture into Ella’s town center. There, we shopped for souvenirs and dined at the Chill Cafe, opting for hearty burgers. The vibrant atmosphere of the town, combined with its culinary delights, provided a perfect end to our day. We concluded our evening with a tuk-tuk ride back to our serene accommodation, reflecting on the diverse experiences Ella had offered us.
Day 6: From the wilderness of Yala to the serenity of Mirissa
On the sixth day of our journey, we bid farewell to our accommodation after breakfast, with our final destination being the coastal town of Mirissa. The day was filled with unique experiences and memorable sights.
We began by visiting a local elementary school, where we interacted with the children and their teachers. We offered gifts such as stationery, toys, and some sweets. The children were initially shy but soon warmed up, filling the space with smiles and hugs. It was a heartwarming experience that left us all deeply moved.
Our next brief stop was near Tissa Lake to observe two large trees inhabited by hundreds of bats hanging from the branches. It was our first time witnessing so many bats gathered together in broad daylight. These bats are commonly known as fruit bats or flying foxes and are often seen roosting in large colonies during the day near bodies of water like Tissa Lake.
Around midday, we had a quick snack before meeting our guide for the much-anticipated safari at the renowned Yala National Park. We spent a full four hours in the park, immersing ourselves in its dense vegetation and diverse wildlife. We encountered monkeys, deer, peacocks, various unique bird species, crocodiles, buffalos, and even witnessed two mongooses feasting on a deer’s carcass. Just as we were lamenting not having seen any elephants, our guide’s persistence paid off. Five minutes before exiting the gate, we stumbled upon two elephants enjoying their stroll.
After exiting the park, we headed to a picturesque spot to capture the sunset. To our amazement, just a few meters away, we spotted a large elephant walking and grazing. We approached cautiously to take some photos, and this unexpected close encounter left us all exhilarated.
We then proceeded to our hotel in Mirissa, the Twenty-Two Weligambay. We were fortunate to receive an upgrade to two spacious suites overlooking the sea. Each suite featured a large communal dining area, where we dined together, and an expansive balcony equipped with a hammock and sun loungers. Within the suite, each of us had our separate rooms with glass walls offering sea views. Tired from the day’s adventures, we opted to dine in our shared dining area, reminiscing about the day’s experiences before retiring for the night.
Day 7: Relaxation and exploration in Mirissa
We began our day leisurely, enjoying breakfast at our hotel before heading to the beach for a swim. The beach was sandy, lined with palm trees, and many people were taking surfing lessons. The water was shallow, so we had to walk quite a distance to swim.
After the beach, we returned to our rooms to rest. In the evening, we visited Coconut Tree Hill, a lateritic headland in Mirissa known for its picturesque coconut plantation. It’s a popular spot for tourists and photographers. Despite being privately owned, it’s accessible to the public. In 2021, a fence was constructed without proper approval, leading to its removal and reopening to visitors.
We watched the sunset from the hill, surrounded by tall palm trees—a serene and impressive sight. Afterward, we dined at a beachfront restaurant with tables set up on the sand, illuminated by candlelight, creating a lovely atmosphere. We then took a stroll through Mirissa’s center before ending the night with beers, board games, and laughter in our suite’s dining area.
Day 8: Journey from Mirissa to Colombo, exploring Galle Fort and Tsunami memorial
After enjoying our breakfast, we boarded our van, setting our sights on Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. Along the way, we witnessed local fishermen hauling in their morning catch and others engaging in the unique practice of stilt fishing, perched atop wooden poles embedded in the sea.
Our journey led us to the historic city of Galle, where we explored the renowned Galle Fort. Within its walls, we encountered numerous monitor lizards roaming in search of food. We captured photos by the iconic lighthouse and learned that during the devastating 2004 tsunami, many sought refuge within the fort’s sturdy confines, which remarkably withstood the powerful waves.
Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. It stands as a testament to European architectural influence fused with South Asian traditions. The fort’s resilience during natural calamities, such as the 2004 tsunami, underscores its robust construction and historical significance.
Continuing our drive toward Colombo, we visited the Tsunami photo museum, which showcased poignant images and narratives from the 2004 disaster. Nearby, we observed the towering 18.5-meter Buddha statue, erected to honor the lives lost in the tragedy.
After approximately two more hours on the road, we arrived in the vibrant city of Colombo. Following a swift hotel check-in at Zest Metropole and a brief lunch, we ventured into the city’s heart for some shopping. Our first stop was the Galle Face Mall, where we spent about 40 minutes browsing various outlets. Subsequently, we explored the bustling Pettah Market, a local bazaar renowned for its affordable souvenirs and clothing, offering better deals than those in other tourist spots on the island.
As nightfall enveloped the city, we concluded our shopping spree and returned to our hotel for a short rest, preparing for our early morning flight at 4:30 AM.
Day 9: Saying goodbye to Sri Lanka after an amazing adventure
After a brief rest, we gathered in the hotel reception, where breakfast boxes awaited us due to our early departure. We boarded our van one last time, heading to Colombo’s airport for our return flight. We bid a heartfelt farewell to Buddhi, our gracious and helpful guide throughout the journey. Exchanging gifts, he presented us with traditional local masks, and we offered a monetary token of appreciation for him and his family.
After completing check-in and baggage drop procedures, we proceeded through security for our initial flight to Sharjah. This leg experienced considerable turbulence, but we arrived safely. Following a 90-minute layover, we embarked on our connecting flight to Athens, our final destination. Upon arrival, we collected our luggage and shared warm farewells, embracing and expressing hopes to reunite for future group adventures.
And just like that, our incredible journey through Sri Lanka came to an end, filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural wonders, and unforgettable moments. What was your favorite part of this itinerary? Have you ever visited Sri Lanka, or is it on your bucket list? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
As one journey ends, another begins! If this trip sparked your wanderlust, why not join us on one of our upcoming group adventures? The world is waiting, and our next destination might be calling your name!
