Sri Lanka, also known as the “pearl of the Indian Ocean,” is a stunning country with so much to offer from its incredible history and stunning natural beauty. From ancient temples to pristine beaches and lush greenery, Sri Lanka is a popular destination for backpackers and every type of traveller. Whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to spend away.
But with so many options, where do you start your Sri Lankan adventure? And how are you going to ensure you see all the best places the country has to offer?
In this Ultimate three-week Itinerary you can discover some of the most popular destinations in Sri Lanka that will take your breath away. Whether you’re a solo traveler or backpacking with friends, this itinerary will give you the roadmap to get the most out of your time in Sri Lanka.
Check out The Ultimate Backpacking Guide for Sri Lanka here
Table of Contents
Day 1-2: Negombo/Colombo
Start your trip in Negombo, a beachside town conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport. Relax and enjoy the calmness of this town rather than the bustle of the city in nearby Colombo. Negombo is known for its beautiful beaches, so take a walk along the coast once you arrive and watch the sun disappear over the Indian Ocean.
If you’re hungry after your flight, head to the streets to try out some of the local specialties including the mouth-watering fresh seafood caught by local fishermen.
You cab enjoy this meal at any of Negombo’s many restaurants located along the beautiful beachfront any time of the day.
Negombo is only a short stay on this itinerary before hopping on to your next location. But if you do have time after seeing the beach, consider visiting the local fishing village where you can see the locals at work and even arrange a fishing tour on the local lagoon.
For travellers looking to explore the history and culture of Sri Lanka, head to Angurukaramulla Temple to see the colourful artwork and statues dedicated to the Budhha.
Negombo to Kandy
To travel to the next destination, Kandy, you can either hire a private driver, take a taxi or the train.
Train:
The train is a great budget option. Will take around 2.5 hours to travel to Kandy in a comfortable carriage with seats.
Taxi/Private driver:
Expect a journey of around 2-3 hours for this on a 116 km drive.
Taxis are a lot more expensive than public transport. Expect to pay around 20,000LKR (60 USD) for this.
Fuel is expensive and the locals aren’t allowed to purchase a lot of it in Sri Lanka. So expect long-distance taxis to be a bit pricier.
Day 2-4: Kandy
Kandy is a vibrant city, incredibly huddled in between the stretching mountains of Sri Lanka.
A fun city with incredible agriculture, beautiful sights, and deep history, Kandy an incredible place to discover in Sri Lanka with plenty of attractions to explore within the city and some of Sri Lanka’s most popular attractions nearby for day trips.
Spend a day trip discovering the cultural sights of the city and grab a private guide for the day if you want to discover the stunning landscapes around Kandy.
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and watch a traditional cultural show in the evening or see the towering 88 metre high Buddha statue set atop a hill with some of the best views over Kandy. If you’re loving Sri Lankas Tea, visit the tea factories and discover the fascinating process of Sri Lanka’s favourite drink.
When you’re finished seeing all of Kandy’s attractions, take a day trip to nearby Sigiriya to see the incredible ancient rock fortress known as Lion Rock. Astonishingly set atop a massive column of granite rock 180 m high, with stunning views over the Sri Lankan landscape.
On your last day, take the scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella. The journey is around 6-8 hours long and takes you through the most stunning nature in the heart of Sri Lanka. Just make sure to get your tickets early
Kandy to Ella
Train: While the journey from Kandy-Ella does provide some views worthy of admiration, the train ride itself is not the most comfortable unless you get your tickets early.
You can buy train tickets up to 30 days in advance. The train has first class and an observation car. These will assure you will get a seat in a spacious car.
These tickets are not available for very long and most people are left with 2nd and 3rd class.
These cars are packed with locals and tourists shoulder to shoulder with very little room to move. Not a comfortable ride. Especially if you’re not guaranteed a seat for the whole trip.
If you take this optional, prepare to get the local experience of transport in Sri Lanka. It’s busy and chaotic but can give you an insight into the authentic travelling experience.
Private Driver: If you want to avoid the crowds you can take a private driver at a higher cost. The trip with a taxi from Kandy to Ella should be about 2.5-3.5 hours. Not as scenic as the Train but a much faster and comfortable option.
Day 5-8: Ella
Your next step on your journey takes you to the Ella, located in the scenic hill country of Sri Lanka. Ella is a small town that is very popular with backpackers and adventurers.
While the city is small, the area surrounding it is much larger. Filled with secret waterfalls and winding valleys with unbelievable views.
Take a scooter to explore the surrounding beauty for a day while discovering the town’s historic sights and natural beauty including the historic Nine Arch Bridge surrounded by spanning tea plants and lush greenery.
If looking for a more active day, take a hike up amongst the clouds to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak for some breathtaking views of the surrounding area or Head to Ravana falls to shower in a magical waterfall.
After your day of exploring, spend the evening relaxing at a rooftop bar and watching the sunset over the mountains.
The main road is lined with restaurants and bars selling great local cuisine, western dishes and cheap cocktails all night long. Whatever your taste is, Ella has it.
Ella to Arugam Bay
Leaving Ella, take a private car transfer to Arugam Bay, which is 140 km away and should take around 3-4 hours. The price of this should be around 18,000 LKR ($55 USD).
Winding through the rugged mountains to the beach, keep your eyes out the window on this journey as the scenes of breathtaking Sri Lankan Mountains are not to be missed.
Day 8-11: Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is a surfer’s paradise located in the eastern province of Sri Lanka. Its stunning weather, relaxed atmosphere, and beautiful beaches appeal to all travellers that are ready for a relaxed experience in Sri Lanka.
If you happen to be here in the peak season between April – September you’ll witness the best waves in Sri Lanka that attracts surfers from around the world. If you’re an intermediate surfer you’ll find these waves perfect. If beginning surfing, Arugam bay has incredible surf guides and camps to help you get your surfing fix.
The off-season for the rest of the year brings heavy rains and you’ll find the town very quiet but an easy escape from the crowds if you’re willing to risk the rain.
When the peak season arrives, Arugam bay is the place to be by backpackers in Sri Lanka.
The increase in tourists creates a buzzing nightlife in Arugam bay. With bars full of tourists and beach parties to be found every night of the week.
Along with these bars, you’ll find amazing dining options, with great local seafood caught fresh and cafes and restaurants appealing to all appetites.
Whether this little beach town is a busy hive of tourists or a quiet and peaceful town , Arugam bay will provide an enjoyable time for all visitors.
Arugam Bay to Yala / Tissamaharama
The journey from Arugam bay to Tissamaharama is travelled by bus or taxi/tuk-tuk.
Bus
A very cheap option, get on the bus in the morning or afternoon to Tissamaharama.
Check with your accommodation or Sri Lankan locals for the bus times as they may change.
Expect around a 4-hour trip to Tissamaharama on the bus.
Make sure to check the day of this trip as public transport can be very busy and crowded on weekends.
Taxi/Tuk Tuk
This is much more comfortable and quicker than the bus. A Taxi will be around 3 hours for this trip to your next destination. With the comfort comes a pricer cost with drivers costing around 18,000LKR ($50 USD).
Day 11-13 - Tissamaharama / Yala National Park
Prepare to see the best wildlife Sri Lanka has on offer. Tissamaharama, also known as ‘Tissa’ is located right next door to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most popular location to see its variety of wildlife and especially the elusive Leopard.
Accompanying these leopards you will also see elephants, bears, crocodiles, and various species of birds.
The Park has two available sections open to exploration. There are many tours available in Tissa to take you up close to the wildlife and their habitats in the park for a full or half-day adventure in a Jeep vehicle. Definitely a magical and unique part of Sri Lanka to experience.
Whether you’re a budget or luxury splendours, Tissa offers accommodation close by to the national park for convinence.
If you have time in between your safari adventure, explore the ancient Buddhist ruins that the town has to display or take a boat ride in the Tissa Wewa Lake.
Yala / Tissa to Tangalle
Bus and Taxi are your two options for getting to Tangalle.
Bus
Buses are right nearby most accommodations in Tissa.
You can take a single-trip bus to Tangalle for a very cheap cost around 2 USD
Just be aware of travelling with backpacks as they can be difficult to carry onboard Sri Lankas busy buses.
Taxi
Tangalle is located nearby Tissa and and Taxis are not as expensive if you want the comfortable option or have too many bags. Grab a Taxi for around 5000 LKR ($15 USD) for a 1.5-hour journey.
Day 13-15: Tangalle
Tangalle is a beautiful coastal town located in the south of Sri Lanka. With palm-lined beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see and beautiful weather, it is truly paradise. A calm and quiet town with incredibly friendly locals, Tangalle is a great destination to enjoy the sun and sand while unwinding for a few days.
The tourist side of town has a single strip road with Restaurants and Bars lined right next to the beach. An easy stroll from your accommodation to find some of the best seafood you’ll find in Sri Lanka caught right on the beach by the locals.
For a day of exploration, rent a scooter or hire a private guide and explore the Hummanaya blow hole. The largest blowhole in Sri Lanka that was formed by waves eroding the limestone rocks along the coast over many years.
Head to see an ancient Buddhist temple dating back to the 3rd Century BC. Housing intricate design and a great insight into Tangalles history.
At night, head to Tangalle Beach to see baby turtles hatching if you want to explore more of Sri Lanka’s active marine life.
Accommodation in Tangalle can be found incredibly cheap. Many hostels and hotels directly on the beachfront that make you feel like you’re at a luxury retreat.
Tangalle provides peace, convenience, and fun. Definitely can’t be missed by any traveller
Tangalle to Hiriketiya
Taxi
On your third day, take a private car or taxi transfer to Hiriketiya, which is around 22 km away and should take around 30 minutes. Prices for these taxis average at 2,500 LKR ($7 USD). Finally, a private option that’s cheap if you’re over the buses.
Bus
So cheap it’s almost free. The buses on the south coast are in abundance and offer short trips to most destinations for a great price. Expect a 45-60 minute trip on this bus from Tangalle to Hiriketiya
Day 15-17: Hiriketiya Beach
Hiriketiya is a small coastal town situated in a horseshoe-shaped bay. Known for its perfect waves, this destination is a favourite among backpackers and surfers.
Spend the day catching waves with the larger reef break or if you’re a beginner, why not take a lesson? There are plenty of professional instructors on the beach. Rather than moving a lot take it easy by simply lounging on the beach after your long journey. Hiriketiya Beach has a laid-back atmosphere that’s makes relaxing easy.
Staying in Hiriketiya you can find many budget options at hostels, hotels, and guesthouses right on the beach or just a short walk away.
With its small size, Hiriteya has many trendy Restaurants and bars right within walking distance from your accommodation serving all kinds of dishes from smoothie bowls to your classic rice and curry. This location provides all you need and most definitely one of Sri Lankas most beautiful beaches.
Hiriketiya Beach to Mirissa
Bus: Easily Grab the bus and head direct to Mirissa. Expect a journey of around 1 hour.
Taxi / Tuk Tuk: A cheap and easy mode of transport. Easily get to Mirissa in a 45-minute journey for 5,000 LKR ( $14 USD)
Day 18-21: Mirissa
Mirissa is one of the most popular destinations on the south coast of Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and fun atmosphere. In its peak season, you will find the town humming with backpackers looking for good surf and the best beach parties in Sri Lanka.
Mirissa give you the options of relaxing at the beach for days or exploring its various attractions and natural beauty.
You won’t want to miss the marine life of the coast with Whales and dolphin in abundance in Sri Lanka from December – March. You will find this magnificent marine life just off the coast with tour operators that you can easily find in Mirissa.
Day trips to nearby beaches with less crowd can easily be found in nearby beaches with Turtle point and Secret beach just a short walk away. A beautiful way to end your Sri Lankan adventure by watching the sunset from Coconut Tree Hill for a stunning view of the coastline.
Day 21: Departure
Mirissa to Colombo International Airport
After three weeks of exploring everything the beauty of Sri Lanka has to offer, it’s time to say goodbye and make your way to the airport by either Bus, Taxi, or Train.
Train: very convenient and cheap. Take a 3-hour train from Mirissa to the Fort railway station in Colombo and take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the airport.
Taxi: For a 2-hour journey costing you 20,000-25,000 LKR ($70 USD), in comfort finish your journey.
Bus: Take a bus to the Fort station in Colombo. Be prepared for a 5-hour journey for this longer leg. A much cheaper option for the end of the trip when the budgets are going dry.
The closest town to the Airport is Negombo it is very cheap and easy to get to and from the airport
Backpacking Sri Lanka ultimate Guide
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