21-Day Itinerary for a Tour of Sri Lanka Covering the Specified Locations. This Itinerary Provides a Good Mix of Cultural Heritage, Wildlife, Nature, and Beach Relaxation.
Day 1-3: Arrival and Kalpitiya
Day 1:
- Arrive in Colombo.
- Transfer to Kalpitiya (approx. 3.5 hours drive).
- Relax and unwind after your flight.
Day 2:
- Enjoy a day of water activities such as kitesurfing, dolphin watching, or snorkelling.
Day 3:
- Explore the Kalpitiya Lagoon and its surrounding islands.
- Evening at leisure.
Day 4-5: Wilpattu National Park
Day 4:
- Drive to Wilpattu National Park (approx. 2 hours).
- Afternoon safari in Wilpattu National Park.
Day 5:
- Full-day safari in Wilpattu National Park.
- Overnight stay in a nearby lodge or campsite.
Day 6-7: Anuradhapura
Day 6:
- Drive to Anuradhapura (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Afternoon visit to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 7:
- Continue exploring Anuradhapura’s historical sites including the Sacred Bo Tree and various stupas.
- Evening at leisure.
Day 8-9: Sigiriya
Day 8:
- Drive to Sigiriya (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the afternoon.
Day 9:
- Explore nearby attractions such as the Dambulla Cave Temple.
- Optional activities: village tour, elephant safari.
Day 10: Polonnaruwa
Day 10:
- Drive to Polonnaruwa (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Full day exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Return to Sigiriya for the night.
Day 11: Riverston
Day 11:
- Drive to Riverston (approx. 2 hours).
- Explore the picturesque Riverston area, known for its hiking trails and breathtaking views.
- Overnight stay in a nature resort or lodge.
Day 12: Mahiyanganaya
Day 12:
- Drive to Mahiyanganaya (approx. 2.5 hours).
- Visit the Mahiyangana Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka.
- Explore local villages and learn about the indigenous Vedda community.
Day 13-14: Kandy
Day 13:
- Drive to Kandy (approx. 2.5 hours).
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Explore the Kandy Lake and city center.
Day 14:
- Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
- Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance in the evening.
Day 15-17: Ella
Day 15:
- Scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella.
- Explore the small town of Ella and relax.
Day 16:
- Hike to Little Adam’s Peak and visit Nine Arches Bridge.
Day 17:
- Visit Ravana Falls and Ella Spice Garden.
- Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of Ella.
Day 18: Yala National Park
Day 18:
- Drive to Yala National Park (approx. 4 hours).
- Afternoon safari in Yala National Park.
- Overnight stay in a nearby lodge or campsite.
Day 19-20: Mirissa
Day 19:
- Drive to Mirissa (approx. 3 hours).
- Relax on the beach and enjoy the coastal town.
Day 20:
- Whale-watching tour in the morning.
- Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring Mirissa.
Day 21-23: Unawatuna and Bentota
Day 21:
- Drive to Unawatuna (approx. 1 hour).
- Relax on the beach and explore the Unawatuna area.
Day 22:
- Day trip to Galle Fort and explore the historic fort area.
Day 23:
- Drive to Bentota (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Enjoy water sports or relax on the beach.
Day 24: Colombo
Day 24:
- Drive to Colombo (approx. 1.5 hours).
- Explore Colombo city, and visit landmarks such as the Gangaramaya Temple and the National Museum.
- Last-minute shopping and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 25: Departure
Day 25:
- Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.