Welcoming locals, awesome local food, beautiful beaches, captivating wildlife, spectacular views, and smiles at every turn! Sri Lanka stands out as the most surprising destination I've encountered in Asia.
In this article, I'm excited to share my 3 weeks in Sri Lanka itinerary offering insights on the best places to stay, the most exciting activities to experience, and recommendations for how long to spend in each spot.
Additionally, I’ll provide tips on how to get around the country and how much budget I would recommend for this trip. To give you a better idea of how this trip looked like, I've included a detailed map of my travel route
Need more inspiration or already excited about all these adventures? Connect with me on Instagram!
READ ALSO: 30 best hotels in Sri Lanka
Flights to Sri Lanka
Because Sri Lanka is an island, the most convenient way to get there is by flying into the International Airport of Colombo (CMB). There are daily flight from almost everywhere in the world, so it's very easy to find a good flight.
Since I am a member of the Qatar Miles Program, I decided to fly with Qatar from Thailand to Sri Lanka in order to save those additional miles, which you can use afterward to upgrade or book a FREE flight.
There are flights available from Europe between €400 and €500 for a return trip, so that's already a good start for your trip.
NOTE: Did you know Skyscanner has an option to select flight based on your Miles Program?
How to get around Sri Lanka?
There are plenty of opportunities and I found it surprisingly easy and cheap to travel across the country.
Below you can find a list of options for getting around:
BY TRAIN: Taking a train across the country is an unforgettable experience that everyone should add to their list of must-dos. The train journey from Kandy to Ella, or vice versa, is without a doubt one of the most well-known and beautiful ones in the world.
A ticket costs less than €1.5 and takes you through the country's most beautiful region while you gaze out the window or hang out the doors of the wagon.
BY BUS: There are also minivans and coach buses that travel between the beach towns and other cities. However, during the high season, you will need to make a reservation in advance.
BY TUK TUK: Renting a Tuk Tuk and driving it yourself is the most enjoyable way to get around the country. After completing an hour-long driving lesson and receiving your Tuk Tuk driver's license, you are allowed to drive on your own.
If you do not feel confident enough to drive yourself, you can grab a Tuk Tuk driver on almost every corner of the streets to get you around. Although, I did not drive a tuk tuk myself, I hired a private driver with a Tuk Tuk between Tangalle and Ella to show me around for two days for only €35 per day.
Best time to visit Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is one of those places you travel to at any time of the year, as long as you know where to go and when. In short, December to March is the best time to visit the West coast, South coast, and hill country, while April/May to September is the best time to visit the East coast and North.
High season - December to March The best time to visit the South and West Coasts of Sri Lanka is from December to March. The weather is perfect and the beaches are sunny and hot. This is also the most popular time to visit Sri Lanka, so expect prices to go up and accommodations are booked out quickly.
Shoulder season - April and September: Prices go down a little bit, but it gets hotter, more humid, and it rains more often. Just know that during Sinhalese New Year (middle of April), most places to stay are fully booked and public transport doesn't operate. I had to stay in Ella for two extra days because there were no trains running to Kandy during this period.
Low Season - May to August: As the "Yala" monsoon hits the South-West, this is the best time to visit Sri Lanka's North-East. All over the country, prices are very low.
Also, it's helpful to know that Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two different monsoons that bring heavy rain and strong winds.
The Southwest monsoon, also called the Yala monsoon, happens from May to August and affects the Hill Country and the southwest of the island. The Northeast monsoon, also called the Maha monsoon, happens from December to February and affects the north and east of the island.
Map of Sri Lanka
On this map, you can see the exact route I made during my 3 week itinerary in Sri Lanka.
The perfect 3 weeks itinerary for Sri Lanka
Hikkaduwa
Recommended stay: 2 nights Hotel in Giza: Guardian Guest House
Upon arriving at Colombo Airport, I immediately hopped on a train to Hikkaduwa, a charming beach town celebrated for its breathtaking sunsets and excellent surf breaks. Here, you have the option to rent a surfboard and ride the waves or immerse yourself in unforgettable wildlife experiences as sea turtles glide gracefully just off the shore.
You can easily spend several days unwinding on the beach while soaking up the sun and enjoying spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. The wide beach is lined with numerous accommodations, catering to all budgets, and there’s an abundance of restaurants offering delightful local cuisine.
As night falls, the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting, with various souvenir shops inviting you to explore and find the perfect keepsake. Hikkaduwa is truly a lovely coastal town that should not be missed on your journey through Sri Lanka!
TIP:
Galle
Recommended stay: 1 night Hotel: Jolie Ville Hotel & Spa Kings Island
Galle is an enchanting destination that you simply must experience. The old part of the city, known as Galle Fort, is a treasure trove of charming narrow streets, captivating art galleries, numerous souvenir shops, and delightful restaurants.
Wandering through Galle Fort feels like stepping into a magical colonial European city, making it a joy to explore during both afternoons and evenings. In my opinion, it’s the perfect starting point for your journey through Sri Lanka.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Galle is rich in colonial history, and the best way to appreciate its beauty is by strolling through the fort’s narrow streets, where you can admire the well-preserved Dutch architecture that tells the story of its past.
During my few days in Galle, I immersed myself in the local culture, discovering fantastic dining options and exploring the surrounding areas before making my way to the next destination, Unawatuna. The memories of Galle's charm and history will surely stay with you long after your visit!
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Unuwatuna
Recommended stay: 3-4 nights Nile River Cruise: Le Fayan Nile Cruise
Unawatuna is a charming little town that offers an array of fantastic restaurants and bars situated right next to the beach. Known for its stunning sunsets, it boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
Two of my favorite spots in Unawatuna were Wijaya Beach and Dalawella Beach, where you can experience the famous swing that overlooks the ocean. While it may not be the best destination for surfing, the cozy atmosphere and friendly vibe make it a popular stop for many backpackers.
This picturesque coastal town features a long stretch of golden sand beaches adorned with swaying coconut palms and inviting, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving. The town itself exudes a quaint and welcoming ambiance, with numerous local eateries serving fresh seafood dishes that can be enjoyed while gazing at the stunning ocean views.
Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, immerse yourself in nature, or explore local culture and history, Unawatuna truly has something for everyone. It’s a delightful destination that invites you to relax and enjoy the best of Sri Lanka’s coastal beauty.
TIP:
Weligama
Travel distance from Luxor: 200km - 4 days by river cruise Recommended stay: 1 night Hotel: Nubb Inn
Weligama quickly became one of my favorite beach stops in Sri Lanka. This budget-friendly destination offers a laid-back atmosphere, filled with friendly locals and a vibrant community. It’s also home to excellent vegan restaurants, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy healthy and delicious meals. Whether you're eager to learn to surf or simply relax in one of the many beach lounges, Weligama has something for everyone.
The main beach is bustling with surf schools that provide lessons for beginners, making it a perfect place to catch your first waves. For more experienced surfers, there are nearby spots with bigger waves to challenge your skills. If you need a break from the surf, you can take advantage of the daily yoga classes available, allowing you to rejuvenate your body and mind amid the serene coastal scenery.
With its welcoming vibe and diverse offerings, Weligama is a delightful destination that captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches.
Mirissa
Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
Mirissa is a highlight in 3 weeks Sri Lanka itinerary, and for good reason! As one of the most renowned beach destinations in the country, it offers an array of unforgettable experiences. You can catch some waves while surfing, explore the stunning Secret Beach for a more secluded vibe, and capture the perfect picture at the iconic Palm Tree Hill, which provides breathtaking views of the coastline.
After a day of adventure and exploration, there’s nothing quite like winding down with a refreshing beer while watching the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues.
Tangalle
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
After leaving Mirissa, our next destination was Tangalle, a serene and peaceful beachside town located along the South Coast of Sri Lanka. Tangalle serves as one of the furthest beach spots before the landscape transitions into the lush terrain of the national park.
While the sea here can be quite rough and the waves massive, the water remains crystal clear, creating a stunning contrast against the sandy shore.
Just a short distance from Tangalle you'll find Rekawa Beach, where we decided to stay. This beach is known for its remarkable sea turtle nesting, offering a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures.
During the season, you can observe giant sea turtles coming ashore to nest and lay their eggs in the sand, a truly unforgettable experience that connects you with nature in a profound way.
Rekawa Beach not only showcases the beauty of the coastline but also highlights the importance of wildlife conservation, making our stay there both memorable and meaningful.
Udawalawe National Park
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
If you have a passion for elephants and dream of seeing hundreds of them in their natural habitat, then a safari in Udawalawe National Park is a must! This park is one of the most popular in Sri Lanka, offering visitors an excellent chance of spotting herds of elephants roaming freely in the wild.
To make the most of your visit to Udawalawe, it’s best to stay nearby and book a private jeep with a knowledgeable driver, as individual entry into the park is not permitted. We arranged our safari through the accommodation we stayed at and highly recommend the half-day morning safari.
This option allows you to explore the park during the cooler hours of the day, maximizing your chances of encountering the park's incredible wildlife while also enjoying a more comfortable experience. Whether you’re an animal lover or simply looking to immerse yourself in nature, a trip to Udawalawe National Park will surely be a highlight of your Sri Lankan adventure!
Yala National Park
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
Yala National Park is the most popular and famous park in Sri Lanka. Why so popular? It offers the chance to see one of the most beautiful big cats in the world, the leopard. (it has even the world’s biggest concentration, cool right!?) We saw one super close but were too late with our cameras to take a good picture. But besides the leopards, it’s also a beautiful park with a high variety of wild animals such as elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, and colorful birds. And above all the scenery is incredible as well. Must see!
Ella
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
The moment you enter Ella, you’re entering a world of idyllic green hills, beautiful forest, tea plantations, and epic landscapes. The town itself is super cute, small and laidback although it gets quite busy in the late afternoon after everyone returns back from their daily hikes. We end up staying here 4 nights as there is so much to do. We stayed a bit out of the town but got rewarded every morning waking up with insane views and got a super friendly family taking care of us.
Kandy
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
Kandy is the next biggest city in Sri Lanka, after the capital Colombo. This cultural capital is famous for the Temple of Sacred Tooth which is one of the most important Buddhist relics in all of Sri Lanka. Stopping in Kandy for a night is a great idea when you’re heading afterward to Sigiriya. The journey is otherwise way too long.
Sigiriya
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
Sigiriya, or also known as the Lion Rock, is an ancient rock fortress in central Sri Lanka located near the town of Dambulla. It’s a gigantic rock, 200 meters high and located in the middle of the jungle. From Sigiriya, you can go on an afternoon safari to Minneriya National Park, which is a beautiful park with huge boulders and famous for its large groups of elephants. The town itself is quiet and small, most people stop here for a quick lunch after climbing up the two rocks, Lion Rock and Pidurangala Rock. We stayed at Mahagedara Wellness Retreat, which was such a nice place tucked away in the jungle offering delicious organic food and yoga classes. Highly recommended!
Sigiriya
Travel distance from Luxor: 310km - 4h Recommended stay: 5-7 nights Hotel in Hurghada: Iberotel Makadi Beach
Sigiriya, or also known as the Lion Rock, is an ancient rock fortress in central Sri Lanka located near the town of Dambulla. It’s a gigantic rock, 200 meters high and located in the middle of the jungle. From Sigiriya, you can go on an afternoon safari to Minneriya National Park, which is a beautiful park with huge boulders and famous for its large groups of elephants. The town itself is quiet and small, most people stop here for a quick lunch after climbing up the two rocks, Lion Rock and Pidurangala Rock. We stayed at Mahagedara Wellness Retreat, which was such a nice place tucked away in the jungle offering delicious organic food and yoga classes. Highly recommended!
These 2 weeks in Egypt were absolutely amazing with a great mix of history, adventure, and time to relax and I can't recommend enough to add some of these places to your itinerary of Egypt
The highlight of this trip for me was definitely the Nile River cruise with Le Fayan and the visit to Abu Simbel. I was able to tick off 5 bucket list experiences and now I'm happy I did them all.
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Plan your Sri Lanka Itinerary with my favorite travel apps
To plan my adventures, I use these FREE websites and apps as they provide the best information, the best deals, and they are user-friendly.
- Trip – Flight deals
- Booking.com – Hotels and accommodation
- GAdventures – Group trips
- TripAdvisor – Reviews and activities
- HostelWorld – Hostels
- GetYourGuide – Activities and excursions
- RentalCars – Car rental
- Omio – Transport
- iVisa – Travel documents
- Wise – Money transfer
- World Nomads – Travel Insurance
PICTURES AND EDITING
All the pictures on this page are made and owned by me. If you are interested in some pictures to use for your magazine, website, blog, or any other purpose, just send me an email and we’ll figure it out.
Do you like the edits? My Presets will be online soon so you can edit your pictures in just one click!
The camera gear I used for this trip
I never go out without my camera and many people ask me which gear I use. So to make it quite easy, I listed all the gear I used for this trip below.
Most of the time, I travel with the Sony A7III and the Sony 24-105mm/f4 as my primary lens but depending on the location, I change to another setup. However, I love the Tamron 17-28 to shoot in the big cities.