🗺️10-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary: Beaches, Wildlife & Tea Trails

 

Planning to spend just one week in Sri Lanka? No problem!
This 7-day itinerary is the perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, lush tea plantations, exotic wildlife, and ancient culture. Crafted by local experts at Alex Dunn Tours, this plan ensures you make the most of every single day.

📅 Day 1 – Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Negombo

• ✈️ Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport
• 🚗 Transfer to Negombo (20 minutes)
• 🌅 Relax by the beach and enjoy fresh seafood

Highlights: Dutch Canal | Negombo Beach | Lagoon Sunset Cruise

📅 Day 2 & 3 – Sigiriya & Dambulla Cave Temple

• 🚐 Early departure to Sigiriya (approx. 3.5 hrs)
• 🍛 Village Tour - Enjoy authentic rice & curry with locals

• 🐘 Morning or evening jeep safari in Minneriya (known for elephant gatherings)

• 🧗 Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress

• 🕍 Visit the stunning Dambulla Cave Temple

Overnight in Sigiriya or Habarana

Day 4 – Kandy: Culture & Serenity

• 🚗 Transfer to Kandy via Matale Spice Garden
• 🙏 Visit Temple of the Tooth & enjoy cultural dance show

• 🌳 Stroll around Kandy Lake & Visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden

Overnight in Kandy

📅 Day 5 – Scenic Train Ride to Nuwara Eliya

• 🚂 Catch the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya – one of the most scenic train journeys in the world!
• 📸 Snap pics of lush tea plantations, bridges & waterfalls

Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

📅 Day 6,7 & 8 – DownSouth

• 🐋 Early morning whale watching tour and Visit turtle hatchery

• 🏖️ Relax at the beaches
•  🕍 Visit Galle fort

📅 Day 9 - Colombo 

• 🚗Road transfer from DownSouth to Colombo.
• Visit Colombo City and relax before departure.

📅 Day 10 - Departure Day

• Have breakfast in the morning. Leave for the departure and say good bye to Sri Lanka.

✅ What's Included in Our Sri Lanka Tour Package:

📞 Plan Your Journey with Alex Dunn Tours

Let us handle your trip from airport pickup to sunset beach dinners.
📧 Contact us today to customize your dream tour package.

Whatsapp : Wa.me/+94756268043

Email : alexdunntours@gmail.com

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🌴 10 Must-Visit Places in Sri Lanka for First-Time Travelers

 

Planning your first trip to Sri Lanka? 🇱🇰

This island paradise offers golden beaches, misty mountains, ancient ruins, and rich culture—all packed into one unforgettable adventure.

Here’s our expert-curated list of 10 must-visit places in Sri Lanka to help you plan the perfect itinerary!

🗺️ Quick Map Overview: Tour Route

🏰 1. Sigiriya – The Lion Rock Fortress

One of the most famous landmarks in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress with breathtaking views and fascinating frescoes.

📍 Local Tip: Visit early morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.

🛤️ 2. Ella – Sri Lanka’s Hill Country Gem

Nestled in lush tea plantations, Ella offers a mix of hiking, waterfalls, and scenic train rides.

🚂 Must-do: Ride the Kandy to Ella train for jaw-dropping views.

🌊 3. Galle – The Colonial Coastal Escape

With its Dutch fort, cobblestone streets, and ocean breeze, Galle is a perfect mix of history and relaxation.

🏠 Local Tip: Stay in a boutique hotel inside Galle Fort for a charming experience.

❄️ 4. Nuwara Eliya – Little England in Sri Lanka

Known for its cool climate, tea estates, and colonial architecture, Nuwara Eliya feels like a different world.

🍓 Local Tip: Try fresh strawberries and a cup of local Ceylon tea!

🐘 5. Udawalawe National Park – Elephant Paradise

One of the best places to see wild elephants in their natural habitat.

🦁 Bonus: You might even spot leopards and buffaloes.

🏖️ 6. Mirissa – Beach Bliss & Whale Watching

If you're dreaming of palm-fringed beaches, Mirissa is your place.

🐳 Must-do: Hop on a whale watching tour between November and April.

🕍 7. Kandy – Spiritual Heart of the Island

Home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this cultural city is surrounded by misty hills.

🪷 Local Tip: Don’t miss the evening prayer ceremony at the temple.

🌄 8. Haputale – Hidden Gem in the Hills

Less touristy than Ella, Haputale offers raw nature and panoramic views.

👣 Local Tip: Visit Lipton’s Seat for a breathtaking sunrise hike.

🏞️ 9. Yala National Park – For the Adventurous

The most famous national park in Sri Lanka, Yala is known for its high leopard density.

🐆 Tip: Book a private safari early in the morning for the best chance to spot leopards.

🕌 10. Anuradhapura – The Sacred Ancient City

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with ruins, temples, and massive stupas dating back over 2,000 years.

📿 Local Tip: Dress modestly and remove shoes when visiting temples.

✅ Final Tips for First-Time Travelers

• 🌤️ Best time to visit: December to April (South & West), May to September (North & East)
• 💬 Talk to locals—you’ll learn more than any guidebook!
• 🧳 Pack light—Sri Lanka’s warm, tropical weather is forgiving

🚐 Let’s Plan Your Journey Together

We at Alex Dunn Tours specialize in custom, local-led tours to all these magical destinations and more.

📩 Contact us today to design your dream Sri Lanka trip with a trusted local guide. 

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