The only 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary you’ll ever need

If you’re planning to spend 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. This beautiful island is bursting with rich history, stunning landscapes, and an array of unforgettable experiences.

From the sun-kissed beaches to the misty highlands, ancient ruins, and hip surf towns, this is what I consider to be the perfect 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary for first-timers.

Whether you’re a beach lover, a history buff, or a wildlife seeker, this itinerary offers something to do for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience all the highlights Sri Lanka has to offer!

How to spend 2 weeks in Sri Lanka

This Sri Lanka two-week itinerary is mainly based around the beach, but I think I still managed to cover most of the must-see attractions the island has to offer.

When I visit a country for the first time, I like to see and do as much as possible. So this is somewhat of a fast-paced itinerary, with a few rest days on the beach included.

That also means this itinerary is largely based on hiring drivers instead of relying on public transport. But the time saved was well worth the extra money in my mind.

I highly recommend booking this private driver. The itinerary is completely open and you can go wherever you want within 100km per day. And the best part is that the price quoted is for up to 4 people, which makes it very affordable!

Sri Lanka itinerary overview

• Day 1 – Kandy
• Day 2 – Polonnaruwa & Sigiriya Rock
• Day 3 – Train Kandy to Ella
• Day 4-6 Arugam Bay
• Day 7-8 Tangalle
• Day 9-11 Midigama
• Day 11-14 Unawatuna

Best time to visit Sri Lanka

The best time to visit Sri Lanka largely depends on the part of the country you’re planning to explore due to its two distinct monsoon seasons affecting different regions at different times of the year.

Southwest Monsoon (Yala Monsoon): Affects the southwest coast and the hill country, from May to August. The best time to visit the southwest coast and hill country is between December and March when the weather is drier and sunnier.

Northeast Monsoon (Maha Monsoon): Affects the north and east of the island, from October to January. The ideal time to visit these areas is from May to September when the rainfall is at its lowest.

I was in Sri Lanka, both east and south, from August to September and didn’t have much rain at all. It was, however, very windy in the south as it was the end of the Yala Monsoon season.

2-week Sri Lanka itinerary

Day 1 – Kandy

I’m guessing most of you will start this itinerary at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, train or hire a private driver to Kandy. The journey takes around 3-4 hours by road.

Start your day in Kandy with a walk through the town center and find a tuk-tuk driver who can be with you the whole day. Remember to ask around for prices, we got quoted from 2500 to 5000 Rs. We ended up with a driver who charged 3000Rs / $20, as he seemed super passionate about the city and eager to show us around.

Things to do

The first stop is the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of the top places to see in Kandy. Try to get there as early as possible to be able to enjoy the beautiful grounds in peace and quiet. They open at 7:30 AM.

After a couple of hours surrounded by nature, find your driver and head for the Ceylon Tea Museum. There you’ll get a tour of one of the island’s first tea factories and, of course, taste a cup of tea.

Now it’s time for lunch and I know the perfect place. Buono not only helps families in the area break the poverty cycle, but they also serve up some delicious food and drinks. Te pulled beef burger and cheesy mushroom waffles are my favorites.

Finish the day off at the large Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha statue for some stunning city views at sunset. And remember to book a driver for the next day. You can book one online in advance or simply ask your accommodation to arrange it for you.

Where to stay in Kandy

One option that I highly recommend is the Cinnamon Citadel Kandy. The hotel is situated on the outskirts of town, on the banks of the Mahaweli River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. One of my favorite hotel experiences in a long time!

If you would rather stay in the city center, and feel like royalty while you’re at it, you can’t go wrong with Queen’s Hotel. This stunning heritage building boasts a rich history and charming colonial architecture that will transport you back in time.

Day 2 – Polonnaruwa & Sigiriya Rock

Wake up early, at about 6:00 am, and head for Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya Rock. The drive is three hours each way, so remember to bring water and snacks, and wear comfy clothes.

Side note – Sri Lanka has two ancient cities, Polonnaruwa or Anuradhapura, both UNESCO-listed. I chose Polonnaruwa for this itinerary because it is closest to Kandy and the structures are better preserved.

Polonnaruwa

Visiting the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka is like stepping back in time to a period of rich history and cultural significance. To make the most of your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site, here are some tips:

Beat the heat and the crowds by starting your day early. The site opens at 7:30 AM, and exploring in the morning will allow you to enjoy the ruins in the cooler part of the day.

As Polonnaruwa is a historical and cultural site with religious significance, dress modestly. Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and be prepared to remove your shoes when entering certain areas.

After two/three hours exploring Polonnaruwa, you’re probably getting quite hungry. Stop at a restaurant on your way to Sigiriya Rock or enjoy some street food in the parking lot of Gal Vihara as we did.

Sigiriya Rock

The drive from Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya Rock takes about one hour and 10 minutes, which means you’ll spend the hottest part of the day in an air-conditioned car. Relax and recharge before starting the 45-minute hike up the rock.

Visiting Sigiriya Rock, also known as the Lion Rock, is a highlight for many travelers in Sri Lanka. The site is open from 7:00 am – 5:30 pm, and climbing early or late can also provide breathtaking views of the sunrise or sunset.

If possible, purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket counter, especially during peak tourist season.

Once back in Kandy, the last mission of the day is to buy a ticket for tomorrow’s train ride to Ella. Simply ask your driver to stop at the train station before he drops you off at your hotel.

Day 3 – Kandy to Ella

If you didn’t get a ticket last night, arrive at the station a couple of hours early to secure a spot on the train. We chose first class to make the most of this incredible experience. It is often described as “the world’s most beautiful train ride”.

We brought snacks and drinks, but you can also purchase a limited selection on board. At some stops, food vendors enter the train to sell warm local dishes. I had some delicious samosas.

Please be careful if you want to get one of those iconic photos hanging out of a door or window. I got mine while the train was almost standing still and there was solid ground below.

After about six hours you’ll arrive in beautiful Ella. If you’re into hiking and exploring nature more so than the beach, I recommend staying one night in Ella.

I wanted to maximize my time on the beach, so I had a driver waiting for me at the train station. We made a stop at the beautiful Nine Arches Bridge on the way to Arugam Bay.

To make the journey more affordable, you can ask around for anyone wanting to share a van. The little over three-hour drive should only set you back 3000Rs each.

Day 4-6 Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay is a surf town for sure, it reminds me a lot of Canggu in Bali just with better beaches. Be sure to read my guide to the top things to do in Arugam Bay. After a lot of sightseeing and traveling so far this trip, spend this day exploring A-Bay and relaxing on the beach.

Things to do

There are a lot of great restaurants in Arugam Bay, and if you want to do some shopping, A-Bay is a great spot to do so. I got a tailor-made bikini, so fun! 

A-Bay is a great place for surfers at every level. Peanut Farm, about 15 minutes south, has a great beginner wave in addition to a more advanced one. It seemed to be the spot of choice for the surf schools, at least there were a lot of soft boards in the water.

If you are a more seasoned surfer you should also check out Pottuvil Point, Whiskey Point and Light House, all north of the bay. Further south you’ll find Elephant Rock and Okanda.

You can book your surf lesson online in advance or walk down the main street and ask around for prices. If you don’t want to learn to surf, all these beaches are great just for sunbathing, Peanut Farm is my favorite. Jump in a tuk-tuk and go explore!

Safari Kumana National Park

Spend one of your days in A-Bay on a safari in Kumana National Park, about 50 minutes south. There are many different packages to choose from, some short and some whole-day adventures.

You can easily book in advance, departure from Arugam Bay is at 6:00 am and you’ll be back around 2:00 pm. We saw elephants, crocodiles, deer, lots of different birds, water buffalos and different small furry creatures, but sadly not the shy leopard.

This tour also includes a stop at Kudumbigala Monastery, dating back to 246 BC, located on the outskirts of the national park. The view from the top alone is worth the hike, just be aware of the wild animals.

Remember to eat a big meal before you go, as you’ll be gone for at least 7 hours. And bring water, lots of water!

🌟 Book your safari here >> Kumana National Park & Kudumbigala Monastery

Where to stay in Arugma Bay

I really enjoyed my stay at Stay Golden, much thanks to the treehouse look of the cabana and the location right on the beach. We paid about $90 a night, which is a bit more than we normally would spend, but we just liked the look of the place so much that we couldn’t help ourselves.

If you are on a tighter budget, Hangten’s Surf Skate Hostel might be for you. I heard people rave about this place, and after doing some research online I found even more glowing recommendations. It’s not often you see a hostel score a 9.7 out of 10 overall and a 10 on cleanliness!

Day 7-8 Tangalle

It’s now time to move on to the next beach. The drive from Arugam Bay to Tangalle Beach takes about 4 hours. Spend the rest of the day exploring the incredibly beautiful beach.

We ended up liking the area between Tropical Garden and Mangrove Beach Chalets the best, where you have the picturesque mangroves to one side and the beach and ocean to the other.

Things to do

Explore Tangalle’s top and lesser-known sights in one day on this affordable private half-day tour. It’s an ideal introduction to the town, especially if you’re limited on time.

Visit the Mulkiligala Raja Maha Vihara Buddhist Temple, see the giant Buddha at Wewurukannala Temple and relax at Hiriketiya Beach considered by many as one of the most beautiful in Sri Lanka.

Watch the sea gush at the Hummunaya Blowhole, and explore a spice garden. If you have energy left after the tour, finish the day with a sunset boat ride through the mangroves on Tangalle Lagoon.

Alternatively, visit the Rekawa Turtle Conservation Project, where you can witness the nesting and release of sea turtles. I donated 1000 LKR ($3) to join the crew down on the beach, which 100% goes back into the project.

Where to stay in Tangalle

My favorite mid-range accommodation option in Tangalle is the Mangrove Beach Chalets, where you literally stay on the sand at the best part of Tangalle Beach. It is a bit out of the way, so bring everything you need for a few days.

The most luxurious resort in Tangalle is Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort, set close to Goyambokka Beach. I normally don’t recommend big chains, but this one was worth the splurge!

For food, we just walked along the beach and followed the smell of fresh seafood BBQ.

Day 9-10 Midigama

Midigama, located two and a half hours west of Tangalle, is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a more laid-back and less crowded alternative to the busier nearby towns of Weligama and Mirissa. However, if you want to be in the thick of things, I would choose Weligamam for this same itinerary.

I got a tuk-tuk from Tangalle to Midigama, however, I quickly regretted it. The ride was very bumpy and noisy, so I recommend having your Midigama accommodation pick you up. Or you can take the bus from Tangalle Hospital to Kumbalgama.

Things to do

Midigama is renowned for its surfing spots. With several high-quality breaks, it caters to both beginners and experienced surfers. The waves are consistent, and there are fewer surfers than in Weligama, so you’ll often have more space to catch waves.

Spend your day enjoying the beach and book a surf lesson if you feel like some more time in the water. Alternatively, you can just rent a board and try your luck by yourself.

If you have the budget and are in the mood for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you have to go snorkeling with whales in Mirissa. This small-group excursion offers you a great chance to join these wild animals in the water.

There are more affordable whale-watching tours out there, but I chose to go with ZRI Adventures to make sure it was ethical and legal.

Where to stay in Midigama

I really enjoyed my stay in the deluxe double room with a balcony at Midigama Holiday Inn. The rooms are spacious and the beds are actually comfy which is not always the case in Sri Lanka.

It was the perfect location, quiet but within walking distance of the beach and several restaurants. The staff was super helpful and the inviting common areas made meeting other like-minded people easy.

Where to eat & drink

I recommend checking out Paradise Cove, a boho-chic beach lounge serving delicious food and drinks all day.

For dinner, head to the popular viewpoint in Mirissa known as Coconut Tree Hill and enjoy a spectacular sunset. My favorite restaurants in the area are Sea Salt Society, The Natural Earth Company and DelTano’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re in the mood for a party, there’s usually at least one beach bar keeping it going into the early hours every day of the week. Just follow the music and look for the light beam.

Day 11-14 Unawatuna

Arrange for a tuk-tuk to take you to Unawatuna, only 30 minutes west of Midigama. Unawatuna is one of the larger hubs on the south coast with lots of fun things to do.

Things to do

You can book surfing lessons here as well, go snorkeling, or if it’s a calm day, rent a stand-up paddle board and just have some fun. I spent hours just relaxing on my board in the ocean.

No visit to Sri Lanka is complete without a cooking class. Sri Lankan food is absolutely delicious, so why not learn to make it at home? This popular and private cooking class, held in a local family restaurant with jungle views, is one of the best.

When you’re finished, grab a tuk-tuk and spend the rest of your day in the Old Town of Galle, a 400-year-old Dutch fortification and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside the walls, you’ll find a maze of narrow streets, dotted with colonial villas, quaint cafes, galleries, boutiques and the famous lighthouse.

Spend the day at Dalawella Beach, one of my favorite beaches in Sri Lanka. You can often find an area that you can have all to yourself. Be sure to also check out the fun and Instafamous palm tree swing.

In the afternoon find a tuk-tuk or walk up to the Dog Care Clinic. The work they do for the stray animals on the island is incredible and desperately needed. If you can donate, just the smallest sum will be greatly appreciated.

Where to eat

Sit down for a relaxing lunch at Wijaya on Dalawella Beach, a cool beach restaurant that specializes in pizza. Yum! If you’re in the mood for seafood, check out Thaproban Restaurant.

In Galle, you have to check out The Bungalow, their food is on another level. I wish I could order the whole menu. And the seating under lush trees in the courtyard makes the experience even more special.

Depending on when your flight leaves on the last day, this might be your last dinner on the island for now. Mati Gedara is the perfect place to round off your trip. Their traditional Sri Lankan buffet is both extremely delicious and cheap.

Make sure you leave enough time for the 2-3 hour drive back to the airport. Because, as you probably know by now, traffic in Sri Lanka isn’t the best and you will often find yourself in stand-still traffic.

2 weeks in Sri Lanka visitor’s info

Sri Lanka visa

Obtaining a tourist visa for Sri Lanka is a relatively straightforward process, as the country offers an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for citizens of most countries. Here’s how you can apply:

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):

• Visit the official ETA website for Sri Lanka (http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/).
• Complete the online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel details.
• Pay the visa fee which can vary depending on your nationality and the type of ETA you are applying for.
• Once your application is submitted and the payment is made, you should receive an acknowledgment.
• Typically, the ETA will be processed within 24 hours, though it’s recommended to apply at least several days before your trip to account for any potential delays.
• Print out the ETA approval notice to present upon arrival in Sri Lanka.
• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Sri Lanka.

Always check the latest visa requirements as they can change rapidly.

Currency and money

The currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee, abbreviated as LKR or sometimes simply Rs. As of February 2024 1000 LKR = 3.20 USD. ATMs are widely available in urban areas and major towns.

I recommend you carry some cash, as smaller establishments, local markets, tuk-tuks and rural areas may not accept credit cards or have enough change for larger notes. Here are some examples of what things can cost.

• Tuk-tuk ride: Short rides within towns or cities can cost between 200-300 LKR, while longer distances will need to be negotiated with the driver.
• Local bus fare: A journey of a few kilometers may cost around 20-50 LKR, while longer intercity routes can range from 100-700 LKR depending on the distance and the type of bus (standard or luxury/AC).
• Bottle of water (1 liter): 50-80 LKR in a local shop, and up to 150 LKR in tourist areas or at hotels.
• Coconut: Fresh coconuts from street vendors can cost between 50-100 LKR.
• Street food snack (e.g., samosa, roti): 20-100 LKR per item.
• Local meal at a simple restaurant: 200-500 LKR per person for a meal without alcoholic beverages.
• Beer at a bar/restaurant: 300-600 LKR for a local beer.

How to get around Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers a variety of transportation options catering to different budgets and preferences. Each mode of transport has its advantages and disadvantages, here are the most common:

Trains: The train system in Sri Lanka is a popular and scenic way to travel, especially for routes that pass through the hill country. There are different classes of travel, with first-class offering air conditioning and reserved seating, second-class with fans and sometimes reserved seating, and third-class which is the cheapest option but can be crowded.

Buses: Buses are the most common form of public transportation in Sri Lanka and reach most parts of the island. They are inexpensive and frequent but can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak hours.

Tuk-Tuks (Auto Rickshaws): Tuk-tuks are a ubiquitous sight in Sri Lanka and are ideal for short distances or navigating through towns where larger vehicles might struggle with narrow streets. They are convenient and can be hailed on the street, though it’s important to agree on a fare before starting.

Scooter: Just like in Bali, you can rent a scooter and drive by yourself. You need an International Driving Permit and make sure your travel insurance covers it.

Private drivers: When I’m traveling for longer distances in Sri Lanka, I book this private driver. Sameer is one of the best drivers we had during our stay. He drove responsibly and I felt safe the whole time.

The itinerary is completely open and you can go wherever you want within 100km per day. If you want tips and help with planning, you can just say what you’re interested in seeing and they’ll do it for you. At checkout, you can choose from 1 day up to one month.

And the best part is that the price quoted is for up to 4 people, which makes it very affordable!

🚘 Check price and availability here >> The best private driver in Sri Lanka

Can I drink the tap water in Sri Lanka?

It is generally not recommended for travelers to drink tap water in Sri Lanka. While tap water in some areas, especially in urban centers, may be treated and technically safe to drink, it can still contain different bacteria, minerals, and microorganisms that could cause stomach upsets.

So bring a reusable bottle, or even better, a filtered bottle that you can fill up anywhere.

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