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A Month in Sri Lanka: Experience Culture, Nature, & History

October 26, 2021
26 Min Read
Sri Lanka
The top of a white stupa against a blue sky in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
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Planning a month trip to Sri Lanka can be a bit daunting. This beautiful island might be small in size but it is packed with picturesque sceneries and adventures you do not want to miss. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive 4 week Sri Lanka itinerary to ensure that you see the very best of the country.

In this Sri Lanka guide, we have included all the details you will need, from the top things to do to the best places to stay. What’s more, we have shared many essential tips that will help you experience Sri Lanka better.

From the beautiful coastlines, lush jungles, and ancient cities, our 4-weeks itinerary has you covered.


Table of Contents
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Sri Lanka
The top of a white stupa against a blue sky in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Travel Route For 

Sri Lanka

4 Weeks
  1. Colombo
  2. Galle
  3. Mirissa
  4. Tangalle
  5. Tissamaharama
  6. Ella
  7. Delhousie
  8. Kandy
  9. Sigiriya
  10. Anuradhapura
  11. Negombo
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Before you Travel

Before traveling to Sri Lanka, it is important to do your research in order to experience the best of what the country has to offer. We've created a list of the top tips to help you plan your trip to Sri Lanka. Read this guide to learn about visa requirements, the best time to visit, the best activities to do, and many other helpful advice!

Read: Sri Lanka Travel Tips

A Purple Faced Langur sits in a tree.

Sri Lanka 4 Weeks Itinerary

This is a 1 month Sri Lanka itinerary that begins in Colombo and continues counterclockwise. This itinerary is designed to cover all of Sri Lanka's major tourist attractions while providing a great balance of adventure, sightseeing, relaxation, nature, and culture. 

You can also do it in the opposite direction, clockwise, whichever works best for you. In this Sri Lanka itinerary, we've included our recommended number of nights in each location, which you can adjust as needed. You can find the best times to visit, how to get around, and many of our top tips. It is important to remember to be flexible with your itinerary in order to have the best experience possible!

Government officials in uniform at a temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Laka

Sri Lanka Travel Resources

Accommodation: Find hotels on Agoda and Booking.com

Activities: Find tours and attractions on Viator and GetYourGuide

Insurance: Get travel insurance with HeyMondo

Transportation: Find bus, train, or car transfer on 12go.asia

Day 1 & 2: Colombo 

Recommended Length of Stay: 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit: January to March

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk

The city of Colombo has something for everyone. Being the capital of Sri Lanka, you can enjoy plenty of activities and sights to explore in this bustling metropolis. From historical landmarks to unique cultural experiences, Colombo is a great place to start your Sri Lanka trip.


A colorful temple in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

How to Get to Colombo from the Airport

Car: The most convenient way to travel to Colombo center from Bandaranaike Airport is by taking a taxi. You can also order an Uber or Pickme. 

Book this airport private transfer for a hassle-free arrival at a reasonable price.

Bus: There is a local bus just outside the airport that takes you directly to the Colombo fort for less than a dollar and takes 50 minutes. From the fort, you can walk to your accommodation if it’s within walking distance. Otherwise, take a quick tuk-tuk ride.

Tip: Ask the bus driver if the bus uses the expressway before you pay for it. Otherwise, exit and wait for the express bus, which travels frequently.

Commuters wait for a bus to depart in Matara, Sri Lanka

There are many things to do in Colombo for everyone. Spend your first day settling in and trying out the well known Ceylon tea or coffee.

Book your accommodation close to Colombo Fort. There are many restaurants nearby, and the train station is also close by. You'll also have easy access to a number of nearby attractions. Find all accommodations in Colombo Fort here.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can explore the city on your second day. You can discover various ancient and religious monuments such as the Old Parliament building, the Vihara Buddhist Temple, and St. Lucia's Cathedral. Or visit the bustling market of Pettah on your own.

Here are some of the highly rated day tours you can book in Colombo.

Day 3 & 4: Galle

Recommended Length of Stay: 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to April

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk 

On day 3, travel to Galle in the morning to discover Sri Lanka's most famous old Dutch fort. The fort is a Unesco World Heritage Site and the best-preserved colonial townscape in Sri Lanka. Get lost inside the fort's walls, from old Dutch-era buildings to historical monuments, churches, and museums.

Colonial buildings lit up by the morning sun in Galle, Sri Lanka.

How to Get to Galle from Colombo 

Car: The most convenient way is to take a car directly to Galle. The drive takes around 2 hours, and you can expect to pay at least 70 USD.

Book your car to Galle

Train: Trains operate from Colombo Fort Station to Galle Railway Station on a daily basis. The train takes around 2 hours and a ticket costs about 2 USD. Find the updated schedule and pricing on the Sri Lanka Railways website

Book your train to Galle

A blue tuk-tuk in Galle Old Town, Sri Lanka.

Book your accommodation inside Galle Fort which will allow you to experience the true Sri Lankan way of life. The fort has something for everyone, from luxury hotels to guesthouses. Find all Galle accommodations here.

On day 4, discover Galle beyond the fort and visit the Hindu temples in the city. A lot of people visit the old fort, but Galle City is also worth exploring if you have the time. 

A woman dressed in a purple saris sweeps the street.

The city has some beautiful Hindu temples, including the Shiwa Shiwa temple and the Sri Meenachi Sundareshwarar temple. These temples are known for their unique architecture and are definitely worth visiting.

A white Hindu Temple in Galle, Sri Lanka.

Want to learn more about Galle through guided tours? 

Here are some of the most well-reviewed tours available in Galle.

After a day of exploring, return to the old fort in the afternoon and head to the Galle lighthouse, the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Pick a spot by the stone walls to sit as you overlook the majestic blue waters and watch the sunset with locals and tourists alike.

Colonial buildings lit up by the sun in Galle, Sri Lanka.

Day 5 to 7: Mirissa

Recommended Length of Stay: 3 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to February

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk

From Galle, head next to Mirissa, a popular beach hotspot known for its beaches, surfing scene, and lively atmosphere. Whether you want to spend your day relaxing on the beach or going on an exciting adventure, Mirissa has something for everyone. 

Palm trees against a bright sky.

How to Get to Mirissa from Galle 

Car: Take a car for around 20 USD for convenience. The drive takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

Book your car to Mirissa

Train: There are a few express trains that run to Mirissa train station for around 1 USD. The ride takes about an hour, then take a tuk-tuk to your hotel. 

A white lighthouse surrounded by palm trees.

One of the best places to watch the sunset in Mirissa is at Secret Beach, a small bay area hidden around the corner of Mirissa Beach. Though not a secret location, getting to Secret Beach is a challenge in itself. Because of that, it does not get overcrowded, so you can still enjoy a relaxing and quiet atmosphere. 

Tip: Hire a tuk-tuk to get to the secret beach or ask the locals around to direct you if going by motorbike. 

There are many accommodations available within walking distance of Mirissa Beach. You can even stay a bit further away along Matara Road and just get tuk-tuks to take you around. Find all accommodations in Mirissa here.

Mirissa is an excellent base for one of the popular whale-watching tours. So, if you're in town between November and April, don't miss out on the opportunity to see the majestic whales up close. Here are some top rated whale-watching tours in Mirissa.

Have you ever scrolled through Instagram and seen photos of the coconut tree-dotted hill in Sri Lanka? You can find that in Mirissa! Not only does it provide a great photo opportunity, but the views of the blue sea are also worth seeing. 

 

Tip: Avoid the crowds by going early in the morning. 

Palmtrees and a lighthouse in Sri Lanka

If you’re looking for a great day trip, head to Matara, which is around 30 minutes drive from Mirissa town. You can check the Weherahena Temple, well-known for its huge statue of Buddha and tunnels filled with intricate paintings. The temple is open from 6am to 6pm with an entrance fee of about 2 USD. 

The highest Buddha in Sri Lanka at Weherahena Temple

Before heading back to Mirissa, enjoy a meal at The Dutchman Street. This cozy restaurant is well known for its great ambiance and direct sea view. They also serve amazing food, and the prices are reasonable. A perfect place to unwind after visiting Matara.

A green bus covered in colorful paintings.

Day 8 to 10 : Tangalle

Recommended Duration of Stay: 3 Nights

Best Time to Visit: April to July

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk, Motorbike

From Mirissa, head next to the beach town of Tangalle, home to some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. Tangalle has a wide range of activities and sightseeing opportunities for everyone.

The sun sets along the East Coast of Sri Lanka

The range of accommodation options makes Tangalle a great destination for all types of travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to high-end luxury resorts. We stayed on Vijaya Road, which has a relaxed vibe and many accommodations and restaurants along the beach. Find all accommodations in Tangalle here.

How to Get to Tangalle from Mirissa

Car: The fastest way to reach Tangalle is to take a taxi. The drive takes around 1 hour and expect to pay at least 15 USD. 

Book your car to Tangalle

Bus: Head to the Mirissa bus stop and catch bus no.32 heading to Tangalle. The drive takes around 2 hours and costs 1 USD. 

Tip: Ask your accommodation to direct you to the correct bus stop and for the updated bus schedule. 

Matara Paravi Duwa Temple in Matara, Sri Lanka

Tangalle is a great destination for those looking for an idyllic escape. Enjoy a day relaxing at Tangalle Beach, which has a beautiful coastline and is ideal for long walks. You can watch the sunrise or just lounge around to enjoy the surrounding palm trees.

 

Tip: Swim in the morning for gentle waves on this beach. 

A stilt fisher in Matara, Sri Lanka.

Rekawa beach is also worth visiting while in Tangalle. It is home to one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in Sri Lanka. Come here during the day to enjoy the clean beach or late in the afternoon to watch the sunset. The beach is not only lined with sand but also with seashells. The best part is that not many tourists go to Rekawa Beach, so you can enjoy some peace and quiet.

Book this Tangalle sightseeing tour to explore more.

Silhouettes of palm trees in Sri Lanka

Day 11 & 12: Tissamaharama

Recommended Length of Stay: 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit: February to June

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk, Jeep 

After spending time relaxing on Sri Lanka's southern beaches, it's time to discover the wildlife. Tissamaharama, also known as Tissa, is a beautiful destination in Sri Lanka that offers a great combination of culture and nature.

 

A close up of an elephant in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.

Staying in Tissa is an excellent base for exploring Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's second-largest and most visited national park. Stay close to Main St., where most of the restaurants are located in town. Find all Tissa accommodations here.

How To Get To Tissa From Tangalle

Car: For convenience, take a car which takes around 1 hour and a half and expect to pay at least 80 USD. 

Book your car to Tissa

Bus: There are few buses heading to Tissa from Tangalle main bus stand. The drive takes about 2 hours, and you can expect to pay around 1 USD.

Elephants take a bath in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka


Looking for a great food option in Tissa? Head to Yala Peace Restaurant

The restaurant is in a secluded area with breathtaking views all around. They serve delicious, fresh food at a reasonable price. To enjoy the view, we recommend going for lunch. 

Crocodiles in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka.

If you arrive in Tissa before sunset, head to the lake for a more relaxing end to the day. Enjoy your afternoon as you take in the scenic views along with the locals having a picnic. 

Blue skies above Tissa lake, Sri Lanka

Wake up early to enjoy an exciting safari tour in Yala National Park. There are wild elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species to be found here. If you're lucky, you might be able to spot the most elusive leopards!

A jeep safari in Yala National Park typically costs around 70 USD per person. Here are some of the most highly rated tours available in Yala. 

 

Most tours also end at around noon, so you can move to the next destination if you wish. Alternatively, you can rent a tuk-tuk or motorbike and explore the town. Around a 50-minute drive from Tissa, you find Sithulpawwa Temple, an ancient Buddhist monastery.

Locals dressed in white pray at a temple in Tissa, Sri Lanka

Spend the afternoon at the monastery complex, which includes a cave with over 2,000-year-old paintings. Climb a stairway carved into the rock to reach a temple with breathtaking views at the top.

Sithulpawwa Temple in Tissa, Sri Lanka.

Day 13 to 16 : Ella

Recommended Length of Stay: 4 Nights

Best Time to Visit: January to April

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk, Bus

From Tissa, head to Ella, a small hill town with a laid-back atmosphere and some of the best views in all of Sri Lanka. The drive to Ella is also something to look forward to, with its many twists and turns winding through the hills and waterfalls along the way. 

Read: Ella Travel Guide: 11 Best Things To Do

Green tea plantations at Liptons Seat, Sri Lanka.

How To Get To Ella From Tissa

Car: The fastest way to reach Ella is to book a taxi. You can arrange a taxi from your accommodation or online. The drive takes about 2 hours and you can expect to pay around 40 USD. 

Book your car to Ella

A waterfall surrounded by green mountains in Ella, Sri Lanka.

Like many destinations, finding the right place to stay is often about location, and Ella is no exception. Stay near the train station, where the majority of the great restaurants and cafes are. Alternatively, choose a hotel along the Ella-Passara Road for something quiet with spectacular views! Find all Ella accommodations here.

Ella town is small and easy to get around on foot. It is even possible to reach most of the main attractions by walking. Keep in mind that Ella is a hilly town with steep roads. You might consider exploring Ella by tuk-tuk or scooter instead. 

Tip: Walk along the train tracks to avoid the steep hills. 

Hills covered in a blanket of clouds at Little Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka

There are plenty of opportunities for adventure, making Ella a perfect spot for nature lovers. From sunrise hikes on Little Adam's Peak to walking through train tracks and climbing the famous Ella Rock, which offers breathtaking views of the town.

Read: Top 5 Most Popular Hikes in Sri Lanka

The path up to Ella Rock, Sri Lanka

For first-timers visiting Ella, there are a few non-negotiables, like visiting the Nine Arch Bridge, which is a masterpiece of engineering from the British colonial era. If you're staying in the main town, we recommend taking a tuk-tuk.

 

Tip: Avoid the crowds by going early in the morning.

A red train crosses the famous Nine Arch Bridge in Ella, Sri Lanka

For a fun alternative, join a cooking class in Ella. Learn to cook authentic Sri Lankan dishes at Ella Spice Garden, a favorite among travelers. Book your cooking class here

For those wanting to discover more of Ella town and all its hidden gems, rent a motorbike or book a guided tour with a local. Here are some of the most popular tours available in Ella.

Day 17 to 19: Adam’s Peak ( Delhousie)

Recommended Length of Stay: 3 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to May

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk

On day 17, take a scenic train ride from Ella to Delhousie, where Adam’s Peak is located. From the rolling hills of rural villages to the spectacular mountain ranges of the region, this train ride is an unforgettable experience you shouldn't miss!

Colorful flags alongside the 5,500 steps of Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka.

How to Get to Delhousie from Ella

By Train & Bus: From Ella, take the 4-hour train heading to Hatton train station, and then take the local bus to Delhousie. The bus drive is about an hour and a half. 

 

The bus costs less than 1 USD, while the train ticket is around 1 USD for second and third class. You can check the updated train schedules and pricing at the railway government site

Crowds enjoy the sunrise at the summit of Adam's Peak

Staying close to the base of Adam’s Peak will give you a head start for the hike the next morning. Here are some of the most popular accommodations close to Adam’s Peak that offer basic but comfortable facilities for tourists. Find all accommodations in Delhousie here.

After arriving in Delhousie, spend the rest of the day relaxing at Adam’s Peak Inn. Grab a cup of tea or enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan meal as you sit on the balcony overlooking the mountains and tea plantations.

 

Tip: Bring a sweater, as it can get quite chilly during the night.

The green highlands of Delhousie, Sri Lanka.

Head to bed early and hike Adam's Peak for sunrise. Adam's Peak, also known as Sri Pada, is the most sacred mountain in Sri Lanka and one of the most popular climbs for tourists visiting the country.

Tip: The best time to climb Adam's Peak is during the pilgrimage season, which runs from December to May.

 

During these months, there is a festive atmosphere with lots of pilgrims climbing to the top. You can even witness the pilgrims perform their religious ceremonies at sunrise. The 5,500 steps are also illuminated with string lights, and you'll find vendors selling tea along the way.

 

The weather around this time is also mild, with little to no rain. You can do the hike in the morning to avoid the scorching sun. But if you want to reach the top before sunrise, give yourself enough time and start your hike no later than 4am.

 

Avoid hiking during April (the Sinhalese New Year), full-moon days, and the weekends. During these times, many pilgrims climb Adam's Peak, so you may have to wait in line.

Read: Top 5 Most Popular Hikes in Sri Lanka

Two women decent along the steps of Adam's Peak, Sri Lanka

On Day 19, hire a tuk-tuk and explore the surrounding places near Delhousie. Or you can rent a scooter to explore at your own convenience. Just be careful as the roads are rocky and some are on steep hills.

Must See: Drive around Maussakelle Reservoir to see lush tea plantations and get a glimpse of local life. 

Green tea plantations in Sri Lanka

For a relaxing day trip, visit Aberdeen Waterfall. The waterfall is approximately an hour's drive from Delhousie. Then, for about 600 meters, follow a steep trail made of concrete steps to the bottom of the falls. You can either enjoy the breathtaking scenery or take a refreshing, cold bath. 

Book this guided waterfalls tour to discover all the hidden gems in the area.

A local vendor sells snacks at the train windows

Day 20 to 22: Kandy

Recommended Length of Stay: 3 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to April

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk, Bus

From Delhousie, take the train to Kandy and enjoy another scenic ride through Sri Lanka's lush countryside and local villages. Though not many people choose to discover the city, we recommend at least a day exploring its charming streets, peaceful lake, and impressive botanical gardens. 

Birds-eye view of Kandy, Sri Lanka

How to Get to Kandy from Delhousie

Car: If you're in a hurry, you can book a car to take you directly to Kandy from Delhousie, which takes around 2 hours. The private transfer should cost at least 70 USD.

Book your car to Kandy

Train: For a more scenic and affordable route, take the local bus back to Hatton station, then ride the train to Kandy. This journey also takes you through the picturesque hills and valleys and gives you a glimpse of Sri Lankan rural life. A train ticket costs about 1 USD for a 3 hour journey. 

A woman buys goods at a local market in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Booking your accommodation close to the city center, within walking distance of great restaurants, sites, and attractions, will help you maximize your time in Kandy. Find all Kandy accommodations here.

Once you’ve arrived in Kandy, visit Kandy Lake at the heart of the city. This peaceful lake is a great escape from the busy streets and traffic. If you visit the lake when the sun is setting, you’ll see hundreds of bats coming out and flying over the lake - a truly unique experience! 

A trip to Kandy is incomplete without visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Located next to Kandy Lake, this Buddhist temple is one of the most sacred places in Sri Lanka. The temple's entrance fee is approximately 8 USD, and it is open daily from 5:30am to 8:30pm. 

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

In the evening visit the Kandy Lake Club, which is right behind the Sacred Tooth Temple, to see a cultural dance show. This one-hour show starts at 5:30pm and costs around 4 USD. 

Women and men perform a Cultural Dance in Kandy, Sri Lanka.

Discover Kandy's main town and the smaller streets on foot. Soak in the local lifestyle as you wander through narrow alleys and stop at tea shops. Another great way to explore the surrounding areas in Kandy is to rent a tuk-tuk. Here are some of the most highly-rated tours you can book around the area.

  

If you're on a budget and want to explore the surrounding areas near Kandy, consider taking the bus. It is simple to travel because there are numerous buses that start and end in Kandy.

Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya temple, located in Kandy, Sri Lanka

Day 23 to 26: Sigiriya

Recommended Length of Stay: 4 Nights

Best Time to Visit: January to March

How to Get Around: Tuk-tuk, Motorbike

From Kandy, continue to Sigiriya, home to the ancient rock fortress. Whether you have a week or a month to spend in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya is inarguably a must-see. You can enjoy the magnificent Lion's Rock, but Sigiriya also makes a fantastic starting point for exploring the nearby attractions!

A view at Sigiriya in the early morning.

How to Get to Sigiriya from Kandy

Car: The best way is to arrange a car transfer to Sigiriya, which takes around 3 hours. You should budget at least 50 USD, which can be quite pricey, but it is a convenient and hassle-free way to get to Sigiriya.

Book your car to Sigiriya

Bus: For a cheaper alternative, take the local bus, but note that there is no direct bus to Sigiriya. First, head to the main bus station in Kandy and take a bus heading towards Dambulla. The drive takes about 3 hours, and a ticket costs at least 2 USD.

 

From Dambulla, take another bus to Sigiriya, which is another 40-minute drive for less than 1 USD. All in all, depending on the traffic and how long you’ll be waiting for the bus, traveling to Kandy by bus will take you around 4 to 5 hours. 

A view at Sigiriya in the early morning.

To be close to many restaurants, stay on Sigiriya Road near the Lion's Rock entrance. As an alternative, there are numerous guest houses scattered throughout the southern part of the town, and going from one place to the next is simple with a tuk-tuk. Find all accommodations in Sigiriya here.

A great way to explore the surrounding places in Sigiriya is by motorbike. You can rent a motorbike at your hotel or at any of the rental shops in town.

 

Tip: Hire a tuk-tuk to beat the sun while getting around Sigiriya. It's also great if you're traveling in groups or if you don't have a motorbike license. 

Ancient fortress at the top of Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Polonnaruwa, an ancient city and a World Heritage Site, is a great place to visit for a day trip from Sigiriya. Here, you can learn about Sri Lanka's history and culture, and it's home to the most important historical ruins in the country. 

Read: Complete Guide to Visiting Polonnaruwa

Ruins of the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

For those looking for another adventure, a jeep safari to Minneriya National Park should be on your list. Minneriya National Park offers a truly unique experience in Sri Lanka. 

Read: Guide to visiting Minneriya National Park.

Tip: Visit between June and September to witness the largest gathering of Asian elephants worldwide!

Two elephants at Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka

A jeep safari in Minneriya National Park typically costs around 60 USD per person. Here are the highly rated safari tours you can book.

A herd of elephants at Minneriya National Park, Sri Lanka

Day 27 & 28: Anuradhapura

Recommended Length of Stay: 2 Nights

Best Time to Visit: January to March

How to Get Around: Tuk-tuk, Bicycle 

After Sigiriya, head up north to see the ancient city of Anuradhapura. You might know it from the famous huge bell-shaped stupas, but there’s so much more to discover in this sacred city.

Locals dressed in white at a temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

How to Get to Anuradhapura from Sigiriya

Car: The fastest to reach Anuradhapura is to take a car. The drive takes about 2 hours depending on the traffic and costs around 50 USD. 

Book your car to Anuradhapura

Bus: There are no direct buses to Anuradhapura, but it’s pretty straightforward. All in all, it takes at least 3 hours to reach Anuradhapura by local bus, which costs about 2 USD.

First, catch a bus heading to Dambulla, which is around 1 hour away. Then take bus No.15 heading towards Anuradhapura; the drive takes about 2 hours.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Anuradhapura has accommodations for everyone. Staying in the old town will bring you closer to the ruins. While staying in the new town, you will have access to most of the restaurants in the area. Lastly, stay around Mihintale Junction Railway Station if you're looking to stay somewhere quiet and peaceful. Find all acommodations in Anuradhapura here.

To access all the sacred areas of Anuradhapura, you will have to pay for a day pass, which costs 25 USD per person. You can buy this at any of the ticket booths spread out in the area or at the entrance of the bigger attractions. Ask your accommodation for the nearest booth location.

 

Tip: We recommend renting a bicycle and driving around the old city of Anuradhapura. 

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Explore in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peacefulness of the area at your own pace. If you don’t have much time and want to visit as many attractions as possible, consider booking a tour.

Book this guided tour to the ancient city

One of the most important places to visit in Anuradhapura is Ruwanwelisaya. This remarkable white dome dagoba is one of the tallest stupas in the old city of Anuradhapura. Because of its religious significance, a lot of Buddhists visit this place every day, and it can get a little crowded.

 

Tip: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid the heat and crowds, and wear white if you want to enter inside. Avoid visiting during the full moon, as many religious devotees come here to pray.

 

Crowds at a temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Jethawanaramaya Dagoba is another significant structure in Anuradhapura and is made with over 90 million baked bricks. You'll need to take off your shoes to visit. 

 

Tip: Bring some socks to navigate the hot stone ground and wear long pants or a skirt.

 

In the afternoon, you can head to Mihintale Mountain to watch the sunset. Mihintale is believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is a place of immense religious value for all Sri Lankans. Climb the 1840 steps and get rewarded with an amazing view from the top. The entrance fee to the Mihintale Sacred Area costs about 5 USD.

Locals dressed in white at a temple in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

Day 29 & 30: Negombo

Recommended Length of Stay: 1 Nights

Best Time to Visit: December to March

How to Get Around: Foot, Tuk-tuk

From Anuradhapura, end your Sri Lanka trip to the fishing town of Negombo. Negombo's close proximity to the airport makes it the perfect place for a relaxing end to your Sri Lanka trip. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere along with Negombo's sandy beaches, colorful fishing boats, and the last stop to feast on delicious seafood. 

Palm trees against a blue sky.

For dinner, we recommend going to Lords Restaurant, a local restaurant that serves some of the best Sri Lankan cuisine in town. Not only do they serve great local food, but they serve international cuisine too. You can also listen to live music, and the staff is fantastic.

 

Tip: Try their delicious curries!

Fishermen prepare fish at the beach in Negombo, Sri Lanka

How to Get to Negombo from Anuradhapura

Car: You can hire a car to take you to Negombo anytime you like. This is the most convenient and fastest way, but it can be pricey, especially when traveling alone. You can expect to pay around 70 USD for a 3 hour drive, depending on the traffic.

 

Tip: Book your car transfer to Negombo online. Ask if other travelers are headed in the same direction so you can split the cost.

 

Bus: You can also take a local bus heading to Colombo and then get off at the Negombo bus station. The drive takes at least 5 hours.

 

Train: Another option is to take a train heading to Colombo Fort. Then, get a tuk-tuk to take you to your accommodation in Negombo. The train takes about 4 hours and costs around 2 USD. 

A woman watches the sunset at Negombo Beach, Sri Lanka

Book your accommodation near Negombo Beach along Porutota Road, which is where the majority of restaurants and cafes are located. Stay farther away from the main road for a more peaceful stay. Find all Negombo accommodations here.

In the morning, walk down to the fishing village, also known as Lellama, to learn about the local fishing community in Negombo. You can buy fresh seafood and explore one of Sri Lanka's largest open-air fishing villages.

 

Tip: Visit in the early mornings to see boats coming back from the night catch. 

Fish is layed to dry at a market in Negombo, Sri Lanka.

 

On your last day, go to Negombo Beach and spend the day relaxing with friends and family. You can walk along the beach and watch the sun set, or you can enjoy the view from one of the nearby bars or restaurants.

Fishermen clean fish at a market in Negombo, Sri Lanka.

The best way to explore the area in Negombo is on foot, going for a stroll along the beach and walking up to the fish market. If your time is limited you might want to consider exploring Negombo by tuk-tuk. Here are some of the most popular tours to book in Negombo. 

Back To Colombo Airport

Here are the best ways to get to Colombo airport from Negombo town. 

Car: The most convenient way is to arrange a car transfer. The drive is about 30 minutes and costs at least 15 USD. 

Book your car to Colombo airport

Tuk-tuk:  Taking a tuk-tuk is another option, and they're easy to find. Ask your accommodation to arrange one for you, and remember to agree on the price before you get into the tuk-tuk. Expect to pay around 5 USD. 

Colonial buildings lit up by the sun in Galle, Sri Lanka.

And that’s the perfect 4 weeks Sri Lanka travel itinerary!

 

With a mix of culture, nature, and history, this Sri Lanka 30-day itinerary is an ideal way to experience the best that the country has to offer. We hope this travel guide helps you plan your itinerary in Sri Lanka and gives you inspiration. You can always adjust it to whatever fits you. 

Read our Top Sri Lanka Travel Tips to better prepare for your trip. 

 

We’re always curious what you think, so if we missed anything, please let us know in the comments below!

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