updated 06.06.2024
Follow a fascinating 14-day journey through the enchanting expanse of Sri Lanka, an island filled with vibrant culture, ancient history, and breathtaking natural wonders. Our carefully planned Sri Lanka itinerary for 2 weeks is designed to showcase the variety of experiences this tropical paradise offers. Traveling from mist-shrouded serene highlands to sparkling sandy shores, from timeless historical sites to bustling cityscapes, this Sri Lanka itinerary weaves its own tale of adventure, peace, and discovery.
Created by local experts
From the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya to a scenic train ride to Ella and fishing boats on the south coast, this Sri Lanka itinerary for 2 weeks includes many must-do activities and attractions.
To make the most of your 2 weeks in Sri Lanka, consider hiring a professional to plan your trip. Our local travel experts can craft a Sri Lanka itinerary that’s perfect for you.
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, Jaffna, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
Your Sri Lanka itinerary for 2 weeks kicks off as you land at Bandaranaike International Airport. From here, it’s a short 30-minute drive to Kotugoda. Renting a car or grabbing a taxi from the airport is simple, and it’s a smooth ride to your first stop.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours. Shake off the jet lag, relax by the pool, or enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by lush greenery. It’s the perfect way to ease into the adventure ahead.
Kotugoda offers a range of peaceful, boutique accommodations that are ideal for a laid-back start to your trip. For something luxurious, check out The Wallawwa, a beautifully restored colonial manor house with plenty of charm.
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget, there are plenty of smaller guesthouses near Minuwangoda. These places might not be fancy, but they’re affordable, clean, and close to the airport — great if you’re planning an early departure the next day.
Rough Guides tip: Looking for a shorter itinerary? Our 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary might be right for you.
Train, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Travel time: About 4-5 hours (including stops)
After breakfast, hit the road toward Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic destinations. It’s a scenic drive, so buckle up for a mix of history, culture, and jaw-dropping landscapes along the way.
Take a detour to the Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom, a fascinating site built atop 295-foot-high rock. Once a royal residence in the 13th century, Yapahuwa is a treasure trove of ancient ruins. Climb the intricately carved stone staircase, and at the top, you’ll find sweeping views that make the effort worthwhile.
Before reaching Sigiriya, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an incredible complex of over 80 caves, with stunning murals and giant Buddha statues carved into the rock. Take your time exploring the five main caves, each filled with intricate art that’s been preserved for centuries.
Once you arrive in Sigiriya, check into your hotel and unwind. Whether it’s a swim in the pool or a nap in a hammock, this is your chance to relax after a day of exploring.
Sigiriya has plenty of options, from boutique eco-lodges surrounded by jungle to upscale hotels with views of Lion Rock. If you’re looking to splurge, go for a place with a pool — there’s nothing better after a long day of sightseeing.
Editor’s tip: If you're looking for an affordable upscale vacation, discover the best boutique hotels in Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Travel time: About 1 hour to Polonnaruwa, then 1 hour to Minneriya and 30 minutes back to Sigiriya.
Start the day with an early breakfast before heading to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the ruins of the Royal Palace, the stunning Buddha statues at Gal Viharaya, and the intricately carved Lotus Bath. Don’t miss the Parakrama Samudraya, a massive reservoir that showcases the engineering brilliance of King Parakramabahu.
In the afternoon, continue to Minneriya National Park for a safari. The park is renowned for its wild elephants, especially during the dry season when herds gather near the reservoir. Alongside elephants, keep an eye out for vibrant bird species, reptiles, and even butterflies flitting across the plains.
End the day back at the hotel, with time to relax after a perfect mix of history and wildlife encounters.
Travel time: About 30 minutes (round trip)
The day begins with a visit to the rural village of Hiriwadunna. Take a nature walk through lush jungle trails, cross the serene lake in an oruwa (a traditional canoe), and spend time with a local farmer. Learn about traditional farming practices and enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared in clay pots over an open fire by the farmer’s family — a true taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
In the afternoon, head to Pidurangala Rock, a less-crowded alternative to Sigiriya. The hike to the top is a bit of a scramble but absolutely worth it for the views. From here, you can see Sigiriya rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, offering a perspective you won’t get anywhere else.
Afterward, return to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Pidurangala Rock, Sri Lanka @ Justina and Lauren blog
Travel time: About 3 hours
Start the morning with a visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Climb the towering rock to explore the ancient fortress, marvel at the vibrant frescoes, and walk along the fascinating Mirror Wall.
After lunch, make your way to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the city’s highlights, including the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), which houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.
End the day with some free time to wander by Kandy Lake or explore the local markets before settling into your hotel for the night.
Staying near Kandy Lake puts you close to the city’s main attractions, including the Temple of the Tooth and bustling markets, with a good range of mid-range and upscale hotels. For a quieter experience, look to the surrounding hills, where boutique stays offer stunning views and a peaceful retreat, just a short ride from the city center.
If you prefer something more secluded, consider the outskirts near Peradeniya. This area, close to the Royal Botanical Gardens, offers serene stays surrounded by nature — ideal for travelers seeking tranquility away from the city buzz.
Kandy, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Take the day at your own pace, starting with breakfast at your hotel. Spend the morning unwinding by the pool, soaking up views of Kandy’s lush hillside, and listening to the calming sounds of the jungle and nearby temples.
For a bit of activity, head out to explore the local villages on foot or rent a bike to roam through the surrounding area. Alternatively, book an optional Ayurvedic treatment with a local therapist for a relaxing, rejuvenating experience.
Travel time: About 4-5 hours (including stops)
Begin the journey to Ella, with a stop at Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England." Known for its colonial charm and cool climate, this highland town is surrounded by tea plantations and features English-style gardens and historic buildings.
Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous tea production. You can even try your hand at tea picking if you’re up for it. Afterward, take a short tour of the town to soak in its colonial-era atmosphere.
From Nuwara Eliya, you can opt for a scenic train ride to Ella (subject to ticket availability). The route is famous for its breathtaking views of tea-covered hills and misty mountains. Alternatively, continue to Ella by road.
Ella is a small, laid-back town surrounded by misty mountains, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Most accommodations are nestled in the hills, offering incredible views of lush tea plantations and rolling valleys. Staying closer to the town center is convenient for access to cafés, restaurants, and the main attractions like Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak.
For a quieter experience, look for places on the outskirts of town. These offer more seclusion and often come with panoramic views, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Spend the day exploring the highlights of Ella, a town surrounded by lush greenery, tea plantations, and dramatic mountain views. Start with a visit to Ella Gap, where the valley opens up to reveal breathtaking scenery. Then, head to Ravana Ella Falls, a cascading waterfall perfect for a refreshing dip.
For the adventurous, a hike to Ella Rock offers stunning countryside views, with scenic trails leading through tea estates and forests. Don’t miss the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era engineering, set against a lush jungle backdrop.
If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, try the optional Flying Ravana Zip-Line, Sri Lanka’s first-ever zip-line. Stretching over half a kilometer and reaching up to 50 mph, it’s an exhilarating way to take in Ella’s incredible landscape.
Wrap up your day with some time to relax and enjoy the laid-back charm of this beautiful hill town.
Ella, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Travel time: About 5-6 hours (including stops)
Start the day with a trek up Little Adam’s Peak, an easy but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of Ella’s lush hills and valleys. Named after its resemblance to the sacred Adam’s Peak, it’s the perfect way to soak up Ella’s beauty one last time.
Afterward, begin the journey to Koggala for the beach portion of your trip. Along the way, keep an eye out for the iconic stilt fishermen, balancing on their poles in the shallow waters — a quintessential Sri Lankan sight. You’ll also pass Taprobane Island, a small private island just off the coast, steeped in history and intrigue.
Once in Koggala, settle in for some well-deserved relaxation by the beach.
Koggala offers a mix of accommodations perfect for a beach getaway. Most hotels and resorts are located along Koggala’s stunning coastline, providing direct access to the golden sands and warm waters.
For a more tranquil stay, there are boutique villas and eco-lodges tucked away near the Koggala Lagoon, surrounded by lush greenery and birdlife.
If you want to explore nearby attractions, stay at a beachfront property with easy access to Galle’s historic fort, just a short drive away.
Spend the day at your own pace in Koggala, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of Sri Lanka’s southern coast. For a meaningful experience, visit the Habaraduwa Turtle Hatchery, where eggs are protected, and thousands of turtles are released into the ocean each year to support conservation efforts for these endangered species.
Another option is to explore the Koggala Lagoon on a boat safari. This scenic excursion takes you through mangroves and small islands, offering a closer look at the lagoon’s rich biodiversity and tranquil surroundings.
Alternatively, simply unwind on Koggala’s golden beaches. Whether swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying the sound of the waves, the coastline provides the perfect spot to relax. End the day with a picturesque sunset and fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Galle, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel, followed by a leisurely morning on Koggala’s serene beach. If you're up for exploring, take a short tuk-tuk ride to nearby Weligama or Mirissa, both of which are some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.
Weligama is perfect for beginner surfers, with gentle waves and a laid-back vibe, while Mirissa offers a vibrant atmosphere with palm-fringed shores and beachfront cafés. Whether you’re swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun, these beaches are ideal for a relaxing day.
Return to your hotel in Koggala for your final overnight stay on the southern coast.
Mirissa, Sri Lanka @ Shutterstock
Travel time: About 30 minutes
Spend the morning unwinding on the beach before heading to Galle. Once there, step into the past as you explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a beautifully preserved colonial-era fortress with cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and historic landmarks.
Take your time wandering through the fort’s narrow lanes, stopping by its quirky shops and cafés, and soaking in the unique blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British architecture. If the weather cooperates, make your way to the ramparts in the evening for a stunning sunset over the Indian Ocean — a perfect way to end the day.
Staying inside Galle Fort is the best way to immerse yourself in its historic charm. Accommodations here range from boutique guesthouses to colonial-style hotels, many of which are housed in restored heritage buildings.
If you prefer a beachfront stay, there are plenty of options just outside the fort, along Galle’s coastline. These hotels and resorts offer a more laid-back vibe, with easy access to the beach while still being a short tuk-tuk ride from the fort’s attractions. Whether you choose to stay in the heart of history or by the ocean, Galle has something for everyone.
Sri Lanka, Fort Galle
Spend your final day in Sri Lanka soaking up the charm of Galle. Stroll around the fort, explore its cobblestone streets, and pop into local boutiques filled with art, handmade crafts, and unique designs by Sri Lankan artists. Take time to enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the fort’s excellent restaurants, offering a mix of local and international cuisine.
In the evening, unwind with a drink overlooking the ocean as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the fort’s historic ramparts. In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at one of the fort’s renowned restaurants, where fresh seafood takes center stage. The prawn curry or grilled fish paired with local spices comes highly recommended — a delicious way to wrap up your Sri Lankan itinerary for 2 weeks.
Enjoy a quiet morning at your hotel reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past two weeks. When you're ready, head to the airport to depart, taking with you the sights, sounds and memories of Sri Lanka's vibrant culture, breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality. Safe travels!
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written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 06.06.2024
