3-Day Tour Itinerary for Sri Lanka: Sigiriya, Kandy, Colombo
Day 1: Sigiriya
Morning:
- Arrival in Sigiriya: Arrive in Sigiriya either by car from Colombo (about 4 hours) or by train/bus to Habarana and then a short drive to Sigiriya.
- Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Start your day early with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the rock fortress, exploring the ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the impressive Lion’s Paws at the summit. Enjoy the panoramic views from the top.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a nearby restaurant or your hotel.
- Explore the Sigiriya Museum: Learn more about the history and archaeological significance of Sigiriya with a visit to the Sigiriya Museum.
Evening:
- Visit Pidurangala Rock: If you have the energy, climb Pidurangala Rock for another stunning view of Sigiriya Rock and the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Dinner: Return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation.
Overnight: Stay in a hotel or guesthouse in Sigiriya.
Day 2: Kandy
Morning:
- Travel to Kandy: After breakfast, drive to Kandy (about 2.5 hours).
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic: Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a significant Buddhist site housing a relic of the tooth of the Buddha.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant in Kandy.
- Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens: Stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, home to a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees.
Evening:
- Kandy Lake: Take a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and scenic views.
- Cultural Show: In the evening, attend a traditional Kandyan dance performance.
- Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant overlooking Kandy Lake or in the city centre.
Overnight: Stay in a hotel in Kandy.
Day 3: Colombo
Morning:
- Travel to Colombo: After breakfast, drive to Colombo (about 3 hours).
- Gangaramaya Temple: Start your exploration of Colombo with a visit to Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in the city.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Have lunch at a restaurant in Colombo, perhaps trying some local seafood.
- National Museum of Colombo: Visit the National Museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s history, culture, and heritage.
- Galle Face Green: Head to Galle Face Green, a popular urban park along the coast, perfect for a relaxing walk and people-watching.
Evening:
- Shopping: If you have time, visit one of Colombo’s shopping areas, such as Odel, Barefoot, or the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct.
- Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a Colombo restaurant, sampling more local cuisine or international dishes.
Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, head to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure.