12 Days in Sri Lanka - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Sri Lanka Nature, Culture & Architecture

With a balance of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and historic sites, this itinerary is ideal for travelers visiting Sri Lanka for the first time. You'll have a chance to hit the highlights, including the ruins of Sigiriya, a train ride through Hill Country, and a walking tour in Galle, in addition to some unique experiences, such as a mask-making workshop. 

Start with a tour of Negombo and the surrounding area, where you'll see Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences as well as the local culture at the forts, temples, fishing villages, and churches. Head for Sigiriya on Day 2, stopping in Kajugama to taste cashews and chat with the villagers. Climb 1,200 steps to the rock fortress and former palace of Sigiriya, where you'll wander the ruins and enjoy panoramic views. Then, continue to Polonnaruwa to see the palaces, shrines, and statues around Parakrama Samudra. On Day 4, travel to Kandy, the cultural capital, with a stop at Dambulla to explore the cave temple complex.

Tour Kandy's Royal Palace and learn about Sri Lankan gastronomy at the National Spice Garden in Matale. Continue to Ella, where you'll take a scenic train through Hill Country and over the Nine Arches Bridge. Drive to Tangalle, with a stop to swim at Diyaluma Falls. Next, hike to the white stupa at Mulkirigala, then visit the Rekawa Turtle Watch hatchery. Head to Galle on Day 9 for a mask-making workshop, a walking tour of the sites, and a visit to the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Enjoy an architecture tour en route to Colombo on your final day, then do some souvenir shopping before departure. Learn more 

Itinerary #2: Sri Lanka Summer Tour

Adventurous travelers will appreciate the variety of engaging and exciting activities, such as a zipline excursion in Ella and a safari in Minneriya National Park, on this summer tour of Sri Lanka. It's also a great option for couples to enjoy romantic experiences, including stargazing and relaxing on the beach in Kalkudah and stunning views (with plenty of photo ops!) at Ambuluwawa Tower and Little Adam's Peak.  

Visit some of Colombo's sites, including the Gangaramaya Buddhist temple and the Jami Ul-Alfar mosque, via tuk-tuk. On Day 2, head to Kandy, where you'll take a walking tour with stops, including the Royal Palace and Sri Dalada Maligwa ("Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic"). Climb the spiral staircase of Ambuluwawa Tower, then visit significant spiritual sites on the Three Temple Loop. On Day 4, take the train to Ella through lush Hill Country and over the Nine Arches Bridge. Visit Ravana Falls, then hike Little Adam's Peak and snap some photos from the lookout points before soaring over the tea estates on a zipline excursion. 

Travel to coastal Kalkudah and enjoy a stargazing experience in this serene place. Spend a couple of days relaxing at the beach; if you love coconuts, check out the nearby Coconut Cultural Park, where you can sample coconut products. On Day 9, explore the ruins of Polonnaruwa and marvel at the murals and statues of the Dambulla cave temple complex. Take a 4WD safari in Minneriya National Park, where you might spot Asian elephants, Sri Lankan leopards, langur monkeys, and more. End on a high note as you pass through Sigiriya's rock-carved lion paws and climb 1,200 steps to the stunning fortress ruins. Learn more 

Itinerary #3: Sri Lanka Luxury Getaway

The private tours and Champagne breakfasts on this luxury getaway suit travelers looking for an elevated experience. With safari excursions in Nuwara Eliya and Yala National Park, as well as tours and tastings at tea estates, this itinerary is also great for tea lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Ease into your journey with free time in Colombo to explore the markets or indulge in a spa treatment before sitting down to a Sri Lankan feast. Your private driver will take you to Sigiriya, where you'll climb the 1,200 steps to find frescoes, fountains, and dramatic views from the fortress. Start Day 3 with a Champagne breakfast, then take a private tour to Polonnaruwa to see the heritage sites, including the Gal Vihara temple complex, in the former capital. Check out the murals in the Dambulla cave temple complex en route to Kandy on Day 4, then visit the Royal Palace on Lake Kandy, followed by a cultural show.  

Stop by a tea plantation in Giragama for a tour and tasting, then continue to Nuwara Eliya, where you can enjoy a cooler highland climate, colorful gardens, and an old-world vibe. Watch for wildlife, including elk and leopards, in the forests and grasslands of Horton Plains National Park. On Day 8, check out sweeping vistas of the tea estates from Lipton's Seat before heading for Yala National Park, where you'll embark on a Jeep safari in search of Sri Lankan elephants. Spend your final days sunbathing on the beaches of Tangalle. Cap off the trip with a surf lesson or a private dolphin watching excursion. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Sri Lanka's Big Waves & Sandy Shores

Stick to the coast on this active itinerary meant for those who want to learn to surf or work on their skills. It can be tweaked to accommodate all levels, from beginner to expert. The trip also includes a few dry land options, such as elephant spotting in Lahugala National Park and experiencing nightlife in Arugam Bay. 

Get acquainted with Galle on a walking tour followed by a hike to the Japanese Peace Pagoda. Take a scenic ride past rainforests and rice paddies to Arugam Bay, one of the most famous surf destinations in the country. Spend a full day in the water—beginners can take a lesson, and experienced surfers can find their favorite break—then refuel with a seafood dinner. Take a break and go elephant spotting in Lahugala National Park and visit the ancient monastery of Kudimbigala. On Day 4, head north to Whisky Point, where you'll find more waves suited to beginners (larger swells are possible during storms). 

Day 5 is reserved for Main Point, another popular spot; beginners will want to stick to the "mini point" here. On Day 6, take a tuk-tuk to Pottuvil Point, a beautiful location between the Indian Ocean and a lagoon, where surfers of all levels can enjoy 2,624-foot (800 m) rides. Head for Weligama on Day 7, stopping to see the stilt fishermen and their unique traditional fishing method en route. Your remaining days in Sri Lanka are dedicated to surfing in Weligama. Plan to start early each day—the conditions tend to be calmer in the morning, and fewer people are in the water before 8 am. Learn more 

More Great 12-Day Sri Lanka Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Sri Lanka? Check out these other 12-day Sri Lanka itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.