Planning a 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary and feeling totally overwhelmed? You’re not alone. With so much to see—temples, beaches, safaris, tea hills—it’s hard to know where to start.
But here’s the good news. 10 days in Sri Lanka is enough to experience the best of the country—if you plan smart.
In this post, I’ll show you what to see in Sri Lanka in 10 days without rushing through everything. You’ll get a route that actually works. One that blends culture, nature, wildlife, and downtime.
We’re talking about climbing Sigiriya at sunrise, riding the iconic train to Ella, spotting elephants at Minneriya National Park, and unwinding on Sri Lanka’s southern beaches.
I created this itinerary based on my own experience traveling across Sri Lanka. I know how confusing it can be to plan a trip here—especially with limited time. I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to.
You’ll also get practical tips for transport, where to stay, and how to avoid mistakes I made—plus links to deeper guides like my Sri Lanka travel tips. No fluff—just real advice from someone who’s actually done it.
This guide is perfect if:
- This is your first time in Sri Lanka
- You’re short on time but want to see a lot
- You want a mix of adventure, culture and chill time
✨ Plus, I’ve written detailed guides on many of the stops in this itinerary. If you want extra info on Colombo, Kandy, Sigiriya, or Ella, you’ll find links throughout the post.
So if you’re looking for a 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary that’s actually doable and unforgettable—you’re in the right place.
In a hurry? Plan your trip to Sri Lanka now!
Don’t have time to read the whole guide? Here are my top recommendations for making the most of your visit to Sri Lanka
📍Top sights: Colombo | Kandy | Sigiriya | Mirissa | Galle | Ella
🛺 Getting around Sri Lanka: Rent a tuk-tuk with Tuktukrental.com and explore the country at your own pace. Use the code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF for 5% off your booking!
⌛ How many days in Sri Lanka: 10 to 14 days for a fun and relaxed itinerary
🍃 Most popular tours in Sri Lanka
1. Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari
2. Whale watching in Mirissa
3. Snorkeling experience with turtles in Mirissa
4. Sigiriya Rock Fortress Guided Tour
5. Sunrise Hike to Ella Rock
6. Yala National Park Safari
😴 Where to stay in Sri Lanka
Colombo – The Steuart by Citrus
Sigiriya – Lario Resort
Kandy – Sevana Hotel + Kan̆du
Ella – The Blue View Inn
Mirissa – Banana Bunks Mirissa
🚌 Where to look for buses and trains – My favourite option is 12go but you can also buy train tickets directly at Sri Lanka Railways
💊 Best travel insurance for Sri Lanka – I recommend Heymondo for its excellent balance between affordability and quality.
🛜 Best way to stay connected in Sri Lanka – If your smartphone allows an eSIM, I recommend using Airalo (MARIAN4315 = 3$ off). Otherwise, look for a Dialog or Mobitel local SIM.
💰 Currency in Sri Lanka – The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can withdraw money without fees at Bank of Ceylon ATMs, and I recommend using Revolut to save on conversion fees.
Is 10 days long enough in Sri Lanka?
Short answer: yes, it absolutely is. You won’t see everything, but you’ll still cover a lot—and leave with a solid taste of what makes this island so special.
Sri Lanka may look small on the map, but don’t let that fool you. The roads are winding, traffic can be unpredictable, and if you’re traveling by bus or train, delays are common. Renting a tuk-tuk is fun (and popular!), but you’ll need to drive slower and allow extra time between stops.
That said, 10 days in Sri Lanka is enough for a well-rounded adventure—if you plan smart. You’ll get a mix of cultural sites, lush green landscapes, tea country, wildlife safaris, and some well-earned beach time too.
This Sri Lanka travel itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time—without cramming in too much. It’s all about balance: explore, relax, repeat.
How to get to Sri Lanka
The main international gateway into Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located in Katunayake, about 30 km north of Colombo and close to Negombo. If you’re flying in, this is where you’ll most likely land.
There are plenty of direct and connecting flights to Sri Lanka from major hubs across the Middle East and Asia. You’ll find regular flights with airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad, Turkish Airlines, and Sri Lankan Airlines. From Europe, most routes include a layover in Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul.
Even though most people assume they’re flying into Colombo, the airport is actually closer to Negombo.
💼 TRAVEL INSURANCE: Unexpected events happen anywhere in the world, so I always recommend getting travel insurance. I regularly use Heymondo, which offers some of the highest coverages on the market at very competitive prices. As well as covering medical expenses, Heymondo’s insurance also covers the loss or theft of luggage, electronic equipment and more. They also have a 24/7 customer service through their App. As A Ticket to Take Off reader, you get a 5% discount when purchasing Heymondo insurance. The purchase must be made using this link, and the price shown on the website already includes the discount.
Most Popular Tours in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka 10-day Itinerary Map
Want to visualize the full route? This Sri Lanka 10-day itinerary map shows you exactly how the journey flows. It’s a great way to plan your stops and understand the travel distances between each location.
Sri Lanka Itinerary Quick Overview
If you want the quick version of the route, here’s a snapshot of how I structured this 10 days in Sri Lanka itinerary—based on my own trip.
- Day 1: Colombo – Explore temples, markets, and Galle Face Green
- Day 2: Drive to Sigiriya – Afternoon safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla
- Day 3: Sunrise hike up Pidurangala, climb Lion Rock, stop at Dambulla, then head to Kandy
- Day 4: Kandy – Temple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake, and Botanical Gardens
- Day 5: Scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella (or stop in Nuwara Eliya)
- Day 6: Ella – Hikes, waterfalls, chill cafés, and Nine Arch Bridge
- Day 7: Drive to Mirissa – Stop at Diyaluma Falls on the way
- Day 8: South Coast – Explore Mirissa, beach-hop to Dalawella, Secret Beach, and Jungle Beach
- Day 9: Day trip to Galle Fort and Unawatuna
- Day 10: Drive back to Negombo via the coast – Explore the lagoon or just relax before your flight
10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary – Day-by-Day Breakdown
Here’s how to structure your 10 day trip to Sri Lanka without wasting hours on the road or feeling rushed. Each stop offers something unique—temples, hikes, beaches, wildlife, and food.
I planned this itinerary based on my own experience driving a tuk-tuk across Sri Lanka, which I rented from Tuktukrental.com. It was such a fun and flexible way to explore the country.
If you’re thinking about doing the same, I totally recommend it. Use my code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF when booking through their site to get 5% off your rental.
Quick note: When I visited Sri Lanka, I actually took the train from Colombo to Kandy first and only picked up my tuk-tuk there. I also did the scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella—even though I already had the tuk-tuk (yep, it’s totally possible—I’ll explain how later!). But for the sake of saving time and making the route more efficient, this itinerary goes to Sigiriya first, then heads to Kandy, and skips the Colombo–Kandy train ride.
Day 1: Colombo
- 🚗 Driving time: None
- 🛺 How to get around: Walking or tuk-tuk for longer distances
- 😴 Where to sleep: Colombo (my recommendation: The Steuart by Citrus)
Colombo is often skipped in favor of more “exotic” stops on the itinerary—but if you give it a chance, you’ll see it’s more than just a chaotic capital. Beneath the traffic and noise, Colombo has a fun energy and a surprising mix of old and new. 24 hours is just enough to explore its highlights.
Start your day at Gangaramaya Temple, one of the city’s most important Buddhist sites. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and tucked into a surprisingly quiet part of the city. After that, make your way to the Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar) in the heart of Pettah. Its bold red-and-white stripes are iconic—and it’s one of my favorite spots in Colombo.
Later in the day, head to Galle Face Green, especially close to sunset. Locals gather here to play cricket, fly kites, and snack from food stalls. It’s the perfect low-key place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
Tuk-tuks are the easiest way to get around, and I recommend using the PickMe app to avoid overpaying.
👉 For a full breakdown of what to do, where to eat, and how to move around the city, check out my 1 day Colombo itinerary.
Day 2: Drive to Sigiriya and do a safari at Minneriya National Park
- 🚗 Driving time: 4h-5h (177 km)
- 🛺 How to get around: Tuk-tuk and jeep to get to the safari
- 😴 Where to sleep: Sigiriya (my recommendation: Lario Resort)
After a night in Colombo, it’s time to hit the road and head inland to Sigiriya, one of the most iconic regions in the country. The drive takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic. You can either hire a private driver, take a bus (longer, less comfortable), or, if you’re up for it, start your tuk-tuk road trip here.
Aim to arrive in Sigiriya by late morning. That’ll give you time to settle in, grab lunch, and rest a bit before your afternoon safari—which is when wildlife is most active.
You have two great options nearby: Minneriya National Park and Kaudulla National Park. Both are famous for elephant sightings, especially during the dry season.
I personally visited Minneriya and loved it. It’s not as touristy as Yala (in the South of the country) and much easier to include in a central route. The highlight was watching dozens of wild elephants roam freely at the park.
Safaris usually start early in the afternoon and last 3 to 4 hours. Dress light, bring a hat, and don’t forget insect repellent.
👉 I’ve written a full guide to Minneriya National Park with all the tips on when to go, how to book, and what to expect.
Day 3: Explore Sigiriya and Dambulla and Drive to Kandy
- 🚗 Driving time: 2h30 – 3h (90 km)
- 🛺 How to get around: Tuk-tuk
- 😴 Where to sleep: Kandy (my recommendations: Sevana Hotel + Kan̆du)
You’ll want to wake up early today—Pidurangala Rock at sunrise is totally worth the early alarm. The climb takes about 30–45 minutes and is a bit rocky at the top, but once you get there, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of Lion Rock itself, bathed in morning light. It’s one of my favorite views in Sri Lanka.
After the hike, head back to your hotel for breakfast and a quick break. Later in the morning, it’s time to take on the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (known as Lion Rock as well). It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and while more expensive and more crowded than Pidurangala, it offers ancient ruins, frescoes, and that famous climb through lion’s paws.
Not sure which rock to climb? You don’t have to choose—you can do both in one day like I did. But if you only want to do one, I’ve put together a full post comparing Lion Rock vs Pidurangala to help you decide.
Once you’ve had your fill of hikes and ruins, start the drive toward Kandy. On the way, make a stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. This temple complex sits inside a series of caves filled with Buddha statues and colorful wall paintings. It’s one of the more underrated stops on this route and should take about an hour to visit.
👉 Want more ideas for your time in Sigiriya? Check out my guide to the best things to do in Sigiriya if you’ve got extra time or want to slow things down.
Day 4: Kandy
- 🚗 Driving time: None
- 🛺 How to get around: Walking and Tuk-tuk for further places
- 😴 Where to sleep: Kandy (my recommendations: Sevana Hotel + Kan̆du)
Kandy is the second-largest city in Sri Lanka—and yes, it’s a little chaotic. The traffic, honking tuk-tuks, and general buzz can be a lot at first. But if you give it a chance, you’ll see why it’s one of the most culturally rich stops on this trip.
Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most important religious sites in the country. It’s believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha himself. Expect local worshippers, traditional rituals, and a strong spiritual vibe.
After the temple, take a relaxing walk around Kandy Lake, which sits right in the heart of the city. It’s a great place to slow down before heading into the livelier streets of the city.
Kandy has a mix of attractions depending on your energy levels. You can visit the local markets for spices and textiles, catch a traditional dance performance in the evening, or explore some of the smaller temples nearby.
If you need a break from the city chaos, head just 15 minutes out to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. This was easily one of my favorite spots in the Kandy area. You’ll find massive palm-lined paths, cute flowers, and you might even find some monkeys hopping around. It’s the perfect escape from the city noise.
👉 I’ve written a full post on things to do in Kandy that dives deeper into what to visit, when to go, and how to move around—so be sure to check it out if you’re including Kandy on your Sri Lanka itinerary.
Day 5: Train from Kandy to Ella
- 🚗 Driving time: None (you’ll be doing the trip by train)
- 🛺 How to get around: Walking and Tuk-tuk once you reach Ella
- 😴 Where to sleep: Ella (my recommendation: The Blue View Inn)
This is the day for one of the most unforgettable experiences in your Sri Lanka 10 day itinerary—the famous train ride from Kandy to Ella. You’ve probably seen it on Instagram, but the truth is, no photo really does it justice. It’s just one of those bucket list rides that live up to the hype.
This was actually one of the main reasons why I wanted to visit Sri Lanka in the first place. The journey takes about 6-7 hours but it can take up a bit more.
To get a good seat, book your ticket in advance. I recommend going for 2nd or 3rd class reserved—it’s the sweet spot between comfort and authenticity. You get open windows, and access to doors (yes, for those iconic train shots). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go for unreserved tickets in the 2nd or 3rd classes but you might end up standing.
For the best views, sit on the right side when leaving Kandy. Somewhere near Nanu Oya, switch to the left—especially if you’re staying on board the entire way to Ella. The scenery is unreal: tea plantations, mountain villages, and mist-covered valleys. It’s slow travel at its best.
👉 Need help booking tickets or know what to expect on this ride? I’ve got you covered in my complete Ella to Kandy train guide, with all the insider tips you’ll need.
If 6–7 hours sounds like a lot, you can break the trip in Nuwara Eliya—a cool, colonial-style town surrounded by tea fields. It’s a great detour if you’ve got time and want to visit some of the best tea plantations in Sri Lanka.
I didn’t include Nuwara Eliya in this itinerary, but you can easily add it if you’ve got a few extra days—or if you’d rather skip Colombo or cut down your time at the beach.
Even if you’ve rented a tuk-tuk, you don’t have to miss this ride. Tuktukrental.com lets you park the tuk-tuk and delivers it to your next stop while you enjoy the train views.
👉 Here’s my ultimate tuk-tuk rental guide with everything you need to know—plus, use code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF to get 5% off your booking.
Day 6: Ella
- 🚗 Driving time: None
- 🛺 How to get around: Walking and Tuk-tuk once you reach Ella
- 😴 Where to sleep: Ella (my recommendation: The Blue View Inn)
After a few days of temples, hikes, and long drives, Ella is the perfect place to slow down. It’s a small mountain town, but it’s packed with things to do—and equally great if you just want to chill with a smoothie bowl and admire the views.
If you’re feeling active, start your day with a hike up Little Adam’s Peak. It’s short, easy, and gives you panoramic views of the valley below.
From there, walk over to the Nine Arch Bridge—which honestly stole my heart. This is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka (and one of my favorites in the country!). Catching the train pass over the bridge while you’re perched nearby is a moment you won’t forget.
Also don’t miss Ravana Falls, which are just a short tuk-tuk ride from the town center. It’s a popular stop, but still worth seeing, especially after some rain.
For eats, I loved Cafe Chill (the name says it all) and Rainbow Café for lighter bites. The vibe in Ella is easy-going, backpacker-friendly, and honestly hard to leave.
👉 Want a deeper dive into what to do here? I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Ella in one super practical guide.
Day 7: Ella to Mirissa (with a stop at Diyaluma Falls)
- 🚗 Driving time: 4h – 5h (200 km)
- 🛺 How to get around: You’ll be driving most of the day
- 😴 Where to sleep: Mirissa (my recommendation: Banana Bunks Mirissa)
Time to leave the hills behind and head south toward the coast. The drive from Ella to Mirissa is long—around 4 to 5 hours—but there’s a beautiful stop you shouldn’t miss along the way: Diyaluma Waterfalls.
It’s the second-tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, and it’s seriously impressive even from the base.
If you have the time (and energy), you can hike to the top where there are natural infinity pools you can swim in. But if you’re tight on time, just stopping at the bottom for a quick look is still worth it.
The roads are winding, but the views make it a good one.
Once you arrive in Mirissa, it’s time to switch gears. Think palm trees, chilled cocktails, and beach sunsets. You’ve earned it.
Day 8 & 9: South Sri Lanka (Mirissa, Unawatuna & Galle)
- 🚗 Driving time: It depends on what you visit but most places are 1 hour away from each other maximum
- 🛺 How to get around: Tuk-tuk since most places are far apart
- 😴 Where to sleep: Mirissa (my recommendation: Banana Bunks Mirissa)
After a week of early mornings, temple visits, and long drives, it’s time to slow things down. The south coast of Sri Lanka is all about laid-back beach vibes, colorful sunsets, and just enough adventure to keep things exciting.
Start your coastal escape in Mirissa, one of the most popular beach towns in the country—and for good reason.
You’ll want to check out the famous Coconut Tree Hill, especially at sunrise or sunset. It’s one of the most iconic spots in the south and honestly one of the most photogenic places in this ultimate Sri Lanka itinerary.
Spend your day hopping between Secret Beach, Dalawella Beach, and Jungle Beach near Unawatuna. Dalawella is where you’ll find that famous rope swing hanging from a palm tree.
Jungle Beach is a bit more of a hidden gem, and Secret Beach lives up to its name if you’re after something quieter (not a hidden gem though!). Plus, don’t miss a sunset—it’s a daily show you don’t want to skip.
For activities, you’ve got options. Take a surf lesson, go whale watching (especially between November and April), or even snorkel with turtles just off the coast. These are some of the most memorable things to do in Sri Lanka.
Make sure to also spend half a day in Galle. The historic Dutch Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and feels completely different from anywhere else on the island. Think colonial architecture, quirky boutiques, and ocean views around every corner.
👉 Don’t miss my full guide on what to do in Galle if you’re planning a visit. I’ve also put together a detailed Mirissa itinerary if you’re planning to spend a few extra days exploring the South.
Day 10: Head back to Negombo
- 🚗 Driving time: 3h – 4h (178 km)
- 🛺 How to get around: You’ll be mostly driving
- 😴 Where to sleep: Negombo or Colombo if you’re flight is only the next day (my recommendation: The Steuart by Citrus)
Let’s be real! Day 10 isn’t the most exciting part of this Sri Lanka trip itinerary. But it’s necessary since you’ll most likely be flying out of the country from Bandaranaike International Airport in Negombo (not Colombo!).
The good news? The drive along the southern and western coastlines is beautiful. You’ll pass beach towns, coconut palms, and some open ocean views, especially if you’re taking the scenic route rather than the highway.
If you arrive early enough, spend some time doing a boat ride at Negombo Lagoon or wander around town. Compared to Colombo or Kandy, Negombo feels much calmer—there’s less traffic, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed pace.
I was also surprised to see so much Portuguese influence present in the area. From churches to street names, it’s a nice reminder of Sri Lanka’s layered history and one of the reasons to visit Sri Lanka beyond just nature and beaches.
Even if this day is mostly about logistics, take it slow and soak in your final moments on the island. This itinerary for Sri Lanka may be short, but it packs in a little bit of everything—and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
How to adjust this 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
Every traveler is different—and so is every trip! Whether you’ve got more time, less time, or just want to tweak a few things, here are some ideas of how you can adapt your Sri Lanka itinerary to fit your plans:
If You Have More Time (12–14 Days)
- Add a stop in Nuwara Eliya after Kandy for lush tea estates and cool mountain air
- Spend more time on the south coast—Unawatuna, Hiriketiya, or Tangalle are all great beach extensions
- Include Yala or Udawalawe National Park for a second (or bigger) safari experience
If You Have Less Time (7–8 Days)
- Skip Colombo or make it just a quick overnight stop
- Focus on the triangle: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella
- Pick either Galle or Mirissa, not both
If You Don’t Care for Beaches
- Spend an extra day in Ella to do more hikes
- Add a full-day trip to Haputale or Nuwara Eliya
- Explore Anuradhapura or Polonnaruwa for more culture and ruins
Best time to visit Sri lanka
Figuring out the best time of year to go to Sri Lanka can be a bit confusing—mostly because of the weather. The island is affected by two different monsoon seasons, each hitting different parts of the country at different times.
If you’re following this Sri Lanka travel itinerary, which focuses on the south and west coasts, the best time to visit is from December to March. You’ll get dry skies, sunshine, and ideal beach conditions. This is also the most popular time of year—so book early if you’re traveling during these months.
On the flip side, the east coast is best between May and September. That’s when places like Arugam Bay and Trincomalee are sunny and dry. But during this time, the south and west can be pretty rainy—not the best time of year to go to Sri Lanka if you’re planning this particular route.
Want to avoid crowds and save a bit of money? The shoulder seasons (April and November) are a good compromise. You might get the occasional shower, but you’ll have more space to breathe and lower hotel prices.
Having said this, I visited in early September, and even though it rained here and there, I was still able to do everything I planned. Maybe I just got lucky? Either way, it’s doable—as long as you’re flexible.
How to get around Sri Lanka
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to transportation in Sri Lanka. Depending on your budget, time, and adventure level, you’ve got plenty of options.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help with planning a trip to Sri Lanka.
🚆 Trains – A must-do, especially the Kandy to Ella route. It’s scenic, budget-friendly, and part of the experience.
🚌 Buses – Cheap and super local, but not ideal if you’re only staying for 10 days. They can be crowded and confusing if you’re not used to them.
🚗 Private drivers – The most comfortable and time-efficient way to travel between cities. It’s a bit pricier but great if you’re short on time or traveling in a small group. This is actually quite a popular option in Sri Lanka.
🛺 Tuk-tuks – Ideal for short trips in town but also amazing for road-tripping the entire country! I rented mine through Tuktukrental.com and it was honestly one of the best parts of my trip. You get total freedom and a real taste of the road.
👉 Check out my full guide on how to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka—and use code ATICKETTOTAKEOFF for 5% off your booking.
For short rides, I recommend using the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s version of Uber).
I can’t stress this enough—download the PickMe app before you arrive. It’s a lifesaver in Sri Lanka, especially in bigger cities where scams can happen. In Colombo, I hopped into what I thought was a quick tuk-tuk ride and ended up stuck on a random 1.5-hour “tour” of the city… and paid 30€ for it. Lesson learned.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Travel time can be long, even over short distances. Roads are narrow and winding, and traffic moves slowly. Always pad your schedule with extra time between stops.
What to Pack for Sri Lanka
Wondering how to pack for Sri Lanka?
The climate is hot and humid year-round, but it does vary depending on where you’re going.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- Lightweight clothing – Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. But remember: you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples.
- Essentials – Sunscreen, mosquito repellent and hat.
- Shoes – Flip-flops or sandals for beaches, but bring hiking shoes or trainers for places like Ella and Sigiriya.
- Swimsuit – You’ll need it for beaches, waterfalls, and even some hotel pools.
- Plug type – Sri Lanka uses types D, M, and G plugs. A universal adapter will come in handy.
Smart Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Here are a few quick tips that’ll save you time, money, and stress—especially if this is your first time traveling to Sri Lanka:
- Visa – You’ll need to apply for an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before arriving. It’s quick and easy—just head to the official site and apply online. You can also get a visa on arrival.
- SIM Cards – You can get a local SIM from Dialog or Mobitel at the airport or in major cities. If your phone supports eSIM, I recommend using Airalo—you can activate your data before you even land.
- Money – The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Cash is king, especially in smaller towns. You can withdraw money without extra fees at Bank of Ceylon ATMs. I used my Revolut card throughout the trip to avoid high bank fees when paying or withdrawing.
👉 Want more tips? Check out my full post with 40 things to know before visiting Sri Lanka—it’s packed with everything I wish I knew beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sri Lanka
» Is Sri Lanka safe?
Yes—Sri Lanka is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, and the southern coast. Like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and use common sense.
» Is Sri Lanka expensive?
Sri Lanka is affordable overall. Hotels, buses, and meals are inexpensive, even in touristy areas. However, some attractions can be pricey for foreigners—for example, Lion Rock in Sigiriya costs over 30€/USD. Budget accordingly for entry fees at major sites.
» How many days in Sri Lanka?
Ideally, you should spend at least 10 days in Sri Lanka to see a mix of cultural sites, the highlands, a safari, and some beach time.
If you have 2–3 weeks, you can explore more remote spots like the East Coast or the North.
» Is Sri Lanka worth visiting?
Absolutely—Sri Lanka is 100% worth visiting. It’s one of those rare countries where you can hike misty mountains, explore ancient temples, go on a wildlife safari, and relax on palm-lined beaches all in one trip.
The people are incredibly kind, the food is delicious (hello, kottu and curry!), and it’s packed with variety for every kind of traveler.
Sri Lanka delivers a truly unique experience—and it still feels underrated compared to other Asian destinations.
Final Thoughts on Sri Lanka
After road-tripping the island, hopping on scenic trains, climbing rocks at sunrise, and chilling on golden beaches, I can confidently say this: 10 days in Sri Lanka will leave you wanting more.
Sure, you won’t see everything (Sri Lanka has a lot to offer). But this 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary gives you a little bit of everything—ancient culture, lush highlands, epic safaris, and downtime to soak it all in. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.
If you’re wondering whether it’s better to go fast or take it slow, this route is a sweet spot. You won’t feel rushed, but you’ll still cover some of the best highlights in any Sri Lanka itinerary.
I hope this guide helps planning your trip to Sri Lanka way easier. It took me hours of research, a few wrong turns (literally), and lots of trial and error to figure it all out—so I hope it saves you some time!
Got questions? Or did this itinerary help you plan your own adventure? I’d love to hear your thoughts below! I always reply—and your tips might help another traveler too!
Disclaimer: this post may contain some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you buy something through my links. This doesn’t represent any additional cost to you and you’ll be supporting my work here on the blog😊
