Colombo Itinerary
Overview
Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital, offers a mix of modern city life, colonial history, and vibrant markets. It’s an excellent starting point for this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Colombo
1 day
How to Get to Colombo
Fly into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). Take a taxi or airport express bus to the city center (~40 minutes, ~$10 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Colombo
- Hostel: Bunkyard Hostels – Social and budget-friendly.
- Budget: City Beds – The Regent – Affordable and central.
- Boutique: Galle Face Hotel – Iconic colonial-era luxury.
What to Do in Colombo
- Visit Gangaramaya Temple (~300 LKR).
- Explore the Pettah Floating Market (Free to explore).
- Stroll along Galle Face Green (Free).
- Visit the National Museum of Colombo (~1,000 LKR).
Where to Eat in Colombo
- Ministry of Crab ($$$, 4.8/5) – World-famous for Sri Lankan crab dishes.
- Nuga Gama ($$, 4.7/5) – Traditional Sri Lankan village-style dining.
- Upali’s by Nawaloka ($$, 4.6/5) – Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
Modes of Transport in Colombo
Use tuk-tuks or ride-hailing apps like PickMe for convenience.
Colombo Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Reliable internet, cafes, and coworking spaces. Nomadlist Colombo
Sigiriya Itinerary
Overview
Sigiriya, home to the iconic Lion Rock Fortress, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks. This cultural gem is a must-visit on this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Sigiriya
2 days
How to Get from Colombo to Sigiriya
Take a train or bus to Habarana (~4 hours, ~$5 USD), then a tuk-tuk to Sigiriya (~30 minutes, ~$10 USD). Alternatively, hire a private car (~4 hours, ~$70 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Sigiriya
- Hostel: Back of Beyond Hostel – Affordable and eco-friendly.
- Budget: Sigiriya Village – Comfortable with stunning views.
- Boutique: Aliya Resort and Spa – Luxurious with a view of Lion Rock.
What to Do in Sigiriya
- Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock (~30 USD entrance fee).
- Explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa (~25 USD for a day pass).
- Take a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park to see wild elephants (~50 USD for a half-day tour).
- Visit Pidurangala Rock for sunrise or sunset (~3 USD).
Where to Eat in Sigiriya
- Pradeep Restaurant ($, 4.7/5) – Delicious and affordable local food.
- Ahinsa Restaurant ($$, 4.6/5) – Known for its traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry.
- Rithu Restaurant ($$, 4.5/5) – Great for freshly made Sri Lankan dishes.
Modes of Transport in Sigiriya
Use tuk-tuks for local travel or hire bicycles (~500 LKR/day) to explore the area.
Sigiriya Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Limited internet but peaceful surroundings perfect for short digital detoxes.
Kandy Itinerary
Overview
Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and surrounded by lush hills. It’s a serene addition to this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary.
How Long to Stay in Kandy
2 days
How to Get from Sigiriya to Kandy
Take a bus or private car from Sigiriya to Kandy (~3 hours, ~$10-40 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Kandy
- Hostel: Clock Inn Kandy – Budget-friendly and central.
- Budget: Hotel Suisse – Historic charm at a great price.
- Boutique: Theva Residency – Luxury with stunning hill views.
What to Do in Kandy
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (~1,500 LKR).
- Walk around Kandy Lake (Free).
- Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya (~2,000 LKR).
- Attend a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show (~1,000 LKR).
Where to Eat in Kandy
- The Empire Cafe ($$, 4.7/5) – Fusion dishes with a focus on Sri Lankan flavors.
- Balaji Dosai ($, 4.6/5) – Vegetarian South Indian food.
- Cinnamon Citadel Restaurant ($$, 4.5/5) – Riverside dining with a great buffet.
Modes of Transport in Kandy
Use tuk-tuks or walk within the city center; private cars are best for exploring nearby attractions.
Kandy Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Decent internet and serene surroundings, though coworking spaces are limited. Nomadlist Kandy
Nuwara Eliya Itinerary
Overview
Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is known for its tea plantations, cool climate, and colonial charm. A picturesque stop on this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary, it’s perfect for relaxing amidst lush greenery.
How Long to Stay in Nuwara Eliya
2 days
How to Get from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Take a train from Kandy to Nanu Oya Station (~4 hours, ~$3 USD for second class) and a tuk-tuk or taxi to Nuwara Eliya (~30 minutes, ~$8 USD). Alternatively, hire a private car (~3 hours, ~$50 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Nuwara Eliya
- Hostel: Lodge in 611 – Budget-friendly and cozy.
- Budget: The Hill Club – Colonial charm with affordable options.
- Boutique: Heritance Tea Factory – Luxurious stay in a converted tea factory.
What to Do in Nuwara Eliya
- Visit a tea plantation and factory, like Pedro Tea Estate (~500 LKR for a tour).
- Take a stroll or boat ride on Gregory Lake (~300 LKR).
- Hike Horton Plains National Park and visit World’s End (~15 USD entrance fee).
- Wander through Victoria Park (~300 LKR).
Where to Eat in Nuwara Eliya
- Grand Indian Restaurant ($$, 4.7/5) – Delicious North Indian cuisine.
- Sri Ambaal Vegetarian Restaurant ($, 4.6/5) – Affordable South Indian vegetarian dishes.
- Tea Factory Hotel Restaurant ($$$, 4.8/5) – Fine dining with stunning views.
Modes of Transport in Nuwara Eliya
Hire a tuk-tuk or bicycle to explore; taxis are available for longer distances.
Nuwara Eliya Digital Nomad Rating
3.5/5: Limited internet in rural areas, but peaceful and scenic for a short work break.
Ella Itinerary
Overview
Ella, a charming hill town, is known for its laid-back vibe, stunning views, and iconic train rides. A must-visit on this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary, it’s perfect for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
How Long to Stay in Ella
2 days
How to Get from Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Take the scenic train from Nanu Oya Station to Ella (~4 hours, ~$5 USD for second class).
Best Hotels to Stay in Ella
- Hostel: Hangover Hostel Ella – Social and affordable.
- Budget: Ella Gap Hotel – Comfortable with a great location.
- Boutique: 98 Acres Resort & Spa – Luxurious with panoramic views.
What to Do in Ella
- Hike Little Adam’s Peak (Free).
- Walk across the Nine Arches Bridge (Free).
- Visit Ravana Falls (~300 LKR).
- Take a cooking class to learn traditional Sri Lankan dishes (~2,500 LKR).
Where to Eat in Ella
- Cafe Chill ($$, 4.8/5) – Popular for local and international dishes.
- AK Ristoro ($$, 4.6/5) – Fusion cuisine in a cozy setting.
- Matey Hut ($, 4.7/5) – Affordable and authentic Sri Lankan food.
Modes of Transport in Ella
Walking is ideal within town; tuk-tuks are available for exploring nearby attractions.
Ella Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Decent internet and inspiring scenery, though coworking options are limited.
Yala National Park Itinerary
Overview
Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves, is renowned for its leopards, elephants, and birdlife. A thrilling stop on this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary, it’s ideal for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
How Long to Stay in Yala National Park
1-2 days
How to Get from Ella to Yala National Park
Take a private car or taxi from Ella to Tissamaharama (the main gateway to Yala) (~2 hours, ~$30 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay near Yala National Park
- Hostel: Hangover Hostel Yala – Social and budget-friendly.
- Budget: Taru Villas – Yala – Comfortable and well-located.
- Boutique: Wild Coast Tented Lodge – Luxury tented accommodation near the park entrance.
What to Do in Yala National Park
- Take a morning or evening safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife (~60-100 USD per person).
- Visit the Sithulpawwa Rock Temple (~500 LKR) for cultural and scenic views.
- Explore the nearby Bundala National Park for birdwatching (~50 USD for a half-day safari).
Where to Eat near Yala National Park
- The Flavors Restaurant ($$, 4.7/5) – Delicious Sri Lankan and Western dishes.
- Yala Wild House Restaurant ($, 4.6/5) – Great for local cuisine.
- Thaproban Pavilion Restaurant ($$, 4.5/5) – Upscale dining with scenic views.
Modes of Transport near Yala National Park
Private safari jeeps and taxis are the primary means of transport.
Yala National Park Digital Nomad Rating
3/5: Limited internet in rural areas, but ideal for disconnecting and immersing in nature.
Mirissa Itinerary
Overview
Mirissa, a laid-back beach town, is famous for whale watching, pristine beaches, and vibrant nightlife. A relaxing addition to this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary, it’s perfect for unwinding by the ocean.
How Long to Stay in Mirissa
2 days
How to Get from Yala National Park to Mirissa
Take a private car or taxi (~3 hours, ~$40 USD) or a bus from Tissamaharama to Mirissa (~4 hours, ~$5 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Mirissa
- Hostel: Hangover Hostel Mirissa – Affordable and close to the beach.
- Budget: Randiya Sea View Hotel – Great location with ocean views.
- Boutique: Sri Sharavi Beach Villas & Spa – Luxurious beachfront villas.
What to Do in Mirissa
- Go whale watching (~60 USD).
- Relax at Mirissa Beach (Free).
- Visit Coconut Tree Hill for iconic sunset views (Free).
- Explore Secret Beach (Free).
Where to Eat in Mirissa
- Zephyr Restaurant & Bar ($$, 4.8/5) – Beachfront dining with a lively vibe.
- Dewmini Roti Shop ($, 4.7/5) – Famous for delicious roti and Sri Lankan curries.
- Shady Lane ($$, 4.6/5) – Great for healthy bowls and smoothies.
Modes of Transport in Mirissa
Walking is ideal for the beach area; tuk-tuks are available for nearby attractions.
Mirissa Digital Nomad Rating
4/5: Decent internet, with beachside cafes offering good work environments.
Galle Itinerary
Overview
Galle, a historic coastal city, is known for its UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, colonial charm, and vibrant arts scene. A perfect finale to this two week Sri Lanka travel itinerary, it blends history, culture, and relaxation.
How Long to Stay in Galle
2 days
How to Get from Mirissa to Galle
Take a train (~1.5 hours, ~$1 USD) or a bus (~2 hours, ~$1.50 USD). Alternatively, hire a private car (~1 hour, ~$30 USD).
Best Hotels to Stay in Galle
- Budget: Fort Bazaar Hotel – Boutique charm at a reasonable price.
- Boutique: Amangalla – Luxurious colonial-era hotel in the heart of the fort.
What to Do in Galle
- Explore Galle Fort and its charming streets (Free).
- Walk along the Fort Walls at sunset (Free).
- Visit the Galle Lighthouse (Free).
- Browse the boutiques and art galleries within Galle Fort (Free to explore).
- Take a day trip to Unawatuna Beach for swimming and snorkeling (~15 minutes by tuk-tuk).
Where to Eat in Galle
- Church Street Social ($$, 4.8/5) – Modern Sri Lankan cuisine within Fort Bazaar.
- The Fort Printers ($$, 4.7/5) – Upscale dining in a historic setting.
- Poonie’s Kitchen ($$, 4.6/5) – Fresh, healthy, and creative dishes.
Modes of Transport in Galle
Walking is ideal within Galle Fort; tuk-tuks are best for reaching nearby beaches or attractions.
Galle Digital Nomad Rating
4.5/5: Reliable internet, with many cafes and boutique hotels providing excellent workspaces. Nomadlist Galle
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