Dreaming of an enchanting 7-day journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka, an island filled with vibrant culture, ancient history, and breathtaking natural wonders? Our carefully crafted 7 day itineraries in Sri Lanka are designed to showcase the rich tapestry of experiences this tropical paradise has to offer. From misty mountains to golden beaches, from timeless ruins to bustling city streets, each itinerary is a carefully woven story of adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
Created by local experts
A 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka gives enough time to see several key sights and experience the country's diverse cultures, landscapes and historical sites.
While it may not be enough to see everything thoroughly, a well-planned itinerary will help you experience a multitude of attractions and activities, from the ancient ruins in the Cultural Triangle to the beautiful beaches on the south coast, the bustling streets of Colombo and the serene mountainous terrain in places like Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.
However, the ideal length of trip depends on your interests, the pace of travel, and the depth of experience you seek. If you prefer to travel slowly and immerse yourself in each place, then 7 days may seem too short. But if your goal is to sample different experiences and see the highlights, then a week may be enough time.
To avoid spending too much time moving around, focus on a single region or pick a few must-see places. Sri Lanka offers a wide range of activities, from cultural tours and wildlife safaris to tea plantation visits and beach vacations, so prioritize according to your interests to make the most of a 7-day trip.
If you're feeling overwhelmed at the thought of planning your Sri Lanka adventure, why not enlist the help of a professional? Our tailor-made travel services take the stress out of planning and booking, leaving you to focus on enjoying your trip. All our itineraries are designed by local travel experts and are fully customized.
Want to learn even more useful information for your upcoming trip to Sri Lanka? Read our travel tips for travelling to Sri Lanka and how to get there.
Sri Lanka, tea plantation © Shutterstock
Begin your exciting 7-day Sri Lanka journey by arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you'll be taken to the historic Sigiriya Harbor where you can relax and soak in the serene surroundings. On day two, immerse yourself in the ancient grandeur of Polonnaruwa before embarking on a thrilling Elephant Jeep Safari to one of the nearby national parks.
At dawn on the third day, get ready to climb the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a place rich in history and natural beauty. Later, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at the Artist's House in Matale, a place with a rich artistic heritage, followed by a visit to the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
On the fourth day, your journey continues with a visit to the Giragama Tea Factory. The next day heralds a change of scenery as you travel to the coastal city of Galle. Immerse yourself in the history and architecture of Galle Fort on a walking tour led by a descendant of the fort's historical inhabitants.
On day six, head into the blue waters of Mirissa Harbor for a marine safari - a chance to see the majestic blue whale and a host of other marine life. Finally, your Sri Lankan odyssey will conclude with a return to Colombo where you will be escorted to the airport. Book this trip.
Mirissa, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
Check the overview of this 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka.
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Galle Fort, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
Take an exciting 7-day journey through Sri Lanka, starting with arrival on day one at Bandaranaike International Airport and a scenic transfer to the paradisiacal coastal town of Mirissa.
On the second day, after a sumptuous breakfast, get ready for an unforgettable excursion to Mirissa, where you will be treated to the majestic dance of whales and playful dolphins.
On day three, you'll head to the charming fishing village of Weligama to watch unique fishermen on stilts, then visit the historic Dutch town of Galle and end the day with a relaxing stay in Talpa.
Spend the fourth day at leisure relaxing on Talpe's beautiful beach, or choose a tranquil motorboat ride on Lake Koggala, surrounded by abundant wildlife and serene islands.
Day five will introduce you to the turtle hatchery at Kosgoda, an important conservation project, before heading to the sandy shores of Bentota for an overnight stay.
Day six is dedicated to rest and relaxation in Bentota, where you can enjoy water sports or visit the Brief Garden Art Garden, once home to Bevis Bawa.
On the seventh day, your Sri Lanka journey will end with a hearty breakfast in Bentota before being driven to the airport, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime and a promise to return. Book this trip.
Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
Check the overview of this 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka train © Sotnikov Misha/Shutterstock
Begin your week-long Sri Lankan adventure with a warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport, followed by a comfortable transfer to Anuradhapura. On the second day, you will immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of Anuradhapura, exploring its majestic stupas and serene sacred sites, including the revered Sri Maha Bodhi and the magnificent Aukan Buddha statue.
Day three begins with a fascinating excursion to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where you can marvel at its historic grandeur and panoramic views, before embarking on a thrilling jeep safari to one of the nearby national parks.
The journey continues on the fourth day with a scenic transfer to Jaffna, where you will have the afternoon to relax and soak up your new surroundings. Day five is set aside for an immersion in Jaffna, combining a bike ride through its busy streets with a hands-on cooking class where you'll learn the art of preparing a traditional Sri Lankan curry.
On day six, embark on an exploratory trip to the remote island of Delft, where you'll learn about wild horses and historical sites, and sample a local lunch. End your wonderful seven-day journey with a transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport, taking with you memories of a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Book this trip.
Sri Lanka beach © Anton Petrus/Shutterstock
Check the overview of this 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka.
Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.
Sri Lanka, leopard © Shutterstock
Your 7-day family journey through Sri Lanka begins in the vibrant heart of Colombo. Upon arrival, soak in the city's colonial charm and ocean breeze at Galle Face Green before retreating to the lush Viharamahadevi Park.
On days two and three, move on to the ancient wonders of Sigiriya with a family trip to explore the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Delve deeper into history and enjoy panoramic views before heading into the wilderness of Minneriya National Park on a thrilling elephant safari.
On day four, enjoy Sri Lanka's spectacular scenery by train to Kandy, where spiritual serenity awaits at the sacred Temple of the Tooth.
On days five and six, Nuwara Eliya awaits, inviting you to explore verdant tea plantations and enjoy the serene beauty of Horton Plains National Park. A visit to the enchanting Sith Amman Temple will add a spiritual dimension to your vacation in the highlands.
On the seventh day, conclude your journey in Galle by strolling through the historic Old Town and viewing the architectural splendor of Galle Fort before returning to Colombo. Book this trip.
Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque or Red Masjid Mosque is a historic mosque in Colombo, Sri Lanka © streetflash/Shutterstock
Check the overview of this 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka.
Sri lanka - Tangalle © leoks/Shutterstock
This 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka begins in the coastal town of Negombo, where upon arrival you will immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Muthurajawela Marsh during an enchanting boat safari.
The next two days will be spent in the wilderness of Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park known for its leopards and natural lakes.
On the fourth day, travel from Kandy to Dambulla, visiting an elephant orphanage where you can see these majestic creatures up close. Later, experience the spiritual serenity of the Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with ancient murals and statues.
Days five and six are dedicated to exploring the famous Sigiriya, or Lion Rock, a historic fortress rising dramatically above the central plains. Afterward, you'll go on a safari in Minneriya National Park.
End the week with a day in Udawalawe National Park, where you will go on another safari, this time with the opportunity to see large herds of elephants and other endemic wildlife, rounding off a week of unrivaled natural beauty and immersion in Sri Lankan culture. Book this trip.
Colombo Town Hall, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
Check the overview of this 7 day itinerary in Sri Lanka.
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written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 06.06.2024
