Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary – What to See and Do in 8 days

This Sri Lanka 1-week itinerary is a part of our broader travel guide for the country. We recommend you check it out for the best travel tips and the most accurate information on transportation, hotels, restaurants, beast beaches and safety in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka 1-week Itinerary – Where to visit in Sri Lanka in 8 days

Well, considering the absurd amount of places worth visiting in Sri Lanka, coupled with the time you will inevitably waste due to long distances and transport conditions, we consider 8 days to be the bare minimum for anyone keen on exploring the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. As such, and if one week is all you have to explore this legendary destination, we’re here to help you make the most of your experience. To do so, you’ll need to keep up the pace, even if you only end up visiting the “essentials”. Therefore, get ready to see the capital Colombo, your gateway into the country, visit Galle and part of the southern coast where the best beaches can be found, see elephants and leopards at Yala National Park, complete the most beautiful train journey the world between Ella and Kandy and climb the famous Lion Rock in Sigiriya.

That being said, if you are looking for more comprehensive itineraries and have some additional time in hands, feel free to have a look at our Sri Lanka 2-week itinerary.

So, without further ado, here are the cities, places and tourist attractions you should visit in a 1-week itinerary through Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 1 – Colombo

Inevitable, your Sri Lankan adventure will begin in Colombo, the country’s main gateway. However, the capital is far from being among the island’s highlights, as it doesn’t quite capture the allure and many charms of the once glorious Ceylon. In fact, many travelers skip Colombo altogether, heading straight to more popular and picturesque spots. Nonetheless, and since you’re already in the city, might as well spend a day exploring what it has to offer. As such, let’s kick things off at the Colombo National Museum (1500 LKR), the country’s main cultural institution. While the island only gained global attention during colonial times, the truth is that Sri Lanka was home to ancient civilizations and old empires, boasting a rich mix of ethnicities, traditions and religions (Christians, Muslims, Hindus and Buddhists) that persist to this very day. This museum is the perfect introduction to the country’s historic legacy, and a must-visit before diving straight into its diverse landscapes and culture. Right next to the museum, you can take a walk through Viharamahadevi Park, the city’s main green space, before visiting Gangaramaya Temple, a unique Buddhist worshipping site that combines Indian, Thai, Chinese and even colonial (Victorian) elements. The end product is one of Asia’s most eclectic temples, with a privileged location by Beira Lake.

Next up, head north to explore Colombo’s top sights, starting with the huge Lotus Tower ($20,00 – prices for foreigners displayed in dollars), the tallest structure in South Asia. Purposely built in 2022 to serve as a tourism landmark, this 350-meter-high tower offers the single most stunning panoramic view over the Sri Lankan capital. From there, you’ll stroll into the bustling district of Pettah, famous for its many bazaars that include the Pettah Floating Market, installed along a set of wooden boardwalks over the lake. Pettah is considered the busiest and most authentic quarter of Colombo, filled to the brim with local shops and street vendors occupying nearly every street and alley. Besides, the city’s Muslim quarter is also where you’ll find the striking Red Mosque. Officially designated as Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, this is probably Colombo’s most iconic and photographed building. As the day winds down, take some time to explore Colombo Fort, which serves as an Old Town of sorts. Actually, this is where the Portuguese arrived in the 16^th century, establishing a trading post and administrative center that was later fortified (hence the name). Though the walls have since been dismantled, you can still see many traces of old colonial architecture, including the Cargills Building, the Colombo Galbokka Lighthouse, the Colombo Fort Clock Tower, the Old Parliament Building, St. Peter’s Church and the Old Dutch Hospital (now converted into a shopping center). At last, you’ll take the opportunity and watch the sunset with a long leisurely walk along Galle Face Green, a seaside promenade that stretches 500 meters along the Indian Ocean and doubles down as a park.

First day wrap-up:

• Colombo National Museum
• Viharamahadevi Park
• Gangaramaya Temple
• Lotus Tower
• Pettah Floating Market
• Red Mosque
• Colombo Fort
  • Cargills Building
  • Colombo Galbokka Lighthouse
  • Colombo Fort Clock Tower
  • Old Parliament Building
  • Peter’s Church
  • Old Dutch Hospital
• Galle Face Green

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Colombo

• Curry Pot (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Ceylon Curry Club (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Indo Ceylon Café (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Yarl Eat House (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Nuga Gama (Sri Lankan traditional – buffet)
• Menya Hanabi Sri Lanka (Japanese)
• King of the Mambo (Latin America)
• Momo’s by Ruvi (momos/dumplings)
• Holy Dumpling! (dumplings, wontons, noodles and baos)
• Fazly’s Halal Refreshment (hamburgers, sandwiches and kebabs)

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 2 – Galle

From the city that marked the beginning of Portuguese colonization, we now move on to the location most often associated to Dutch occupation: Galle, one of the most charming spots in Sri Lanka! To make the most of your visit, it’s best to catch an early train or bus from Colombo and try to arrive in Galle by late morning. The town is undoubtedly beautiful, but in true Sri Lankan fashion is also quite compact, making it easy to explore its key attractions in a short span of time. That said, and once you’ve checked into your hotel, start your tour by visiting the Galle Fort, a walled quarter recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Initially built by the Portuguese in their pursuit of control over the spice trade routes, the fort was later fortified by the Dutch, who played a significant role in its development before eventually handing it over to the British. More than just your average fort, the whole space feels more like a mini-city contained within Galle, featuring some of the best-preserved colonial architecture in the country, like the Galle Clock Tower, the Dutch Reformed Church, the All Saints Anglican Church (British), the Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple, the Meeran Mosque, and the iconic Galle Lighthouse.

Be that as it may, and instead of rushing from one site to the next, the best way to experience Galle Fort is by wandering through its narrow, historic streets – particularly Church Street and Pedlar Street – and you’ll eventually come across its main tourist attractions. Once you’re done exploring the interiors, head to one of the bastions to walk along the Galle Fort Walls, where you can enjoy the historic quarter on one side and the vast Indian Ocean on the other. In total, the route takes about 2 km. Remarkably, the fort’s walls ended up fulfilling its defensive purpose centuries after they were erected, helping protect and preserve the historic center from the devastating 2004 tsunami. Outside the fort, and if time allows, we recommend a quick stop at the Galle International Cricket Stadium, one of the world’s most unique cricket grounds (Sri Lanka’s national sport), before capping off your day with a visit to the Paramavichithrananda Maha Viharaya Temple, a religious complex known for its towering pink Buddha statue built atop a hill. An off-the-beaten-path place that doesn’t usually feature in most itineraries of Galle.

Second day wrap-up:

• Galle Fort
  • Galle Clock Tower
  • Dutch Reformed Church
  • All Saints Anglican Church
  • Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple
  • Meeran Mosque
  • Galle Lighthouse
  • Church Street
  • Pedlar Street
  • Galle Fort Walls
• Galle International Cricket Stadium
• Paramavichithrananda Maha Viharaya Temple

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Galle

• Imal’s Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Coconut Sambol (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Lucky Fort Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Chambers Galle (Middle Eastern)
• The Pasta Factory (Italian)
• MARU – Galle Fort (Poké Bowls)
• AQUA Pizza (pizza)
• Luuma Beach (beach bar)
• Church Street Gourmet (varied)
• Mango House Restaurant – Galle Fort (varied)

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 3 – Unawatuna and Mirissa: The Southern Beaches

After two days with a more cultural focus, it’s finally time to relax and enjoy Sri Lanka’s famous southern coastline. However, considering how limited your time in the country is, you’ll only have 1 day to enjoy the country’s most popular beaches, meaning this will be quite the rushed (and, if I may say, incomplete) experience. Moreover, you’ll have to carry your bags along throughout the day, as the night will be spent in a different town. Considering all these constraints, and unless you have rented your own tuk-tuk, this is the only day on the itinerary where we really feel like hiring a private driver is the best way to go (more info on the transportation segment of the general guide) , as it will save you some precious time. Without further ado, your very first dip in Sri Lankan waters will take place at Unawatuna Beach, famous for its palm trees and coral reefs, where you can swim and, if you’re lucky enough, even spot sea turtles. While it might not be the absolute best beach in the country, it certainly serves as a fantastic welcome card! From there, continue a few kilometers east to Dalawella Beach. Home of the iconic Rope Swing, a giant swing that hangs over the ocean and went massively viral on social media, one can even argue that a significant portion of Sri Lanka’s current tourism surge is owed to just how overwhelmingly widespread this image became. Definitely worth stopping by just to see what it’s all about – and of course, to snap your own photo! Originally, the swing was free, but now there’s a 500 LKR charge if you want to give it a try.

Afterwards, and though certainly no less touristy, you’ll visit Koggala Beach. Just do a quick google search for “Sri Lanka” and you’re likely to come across photos of the iconic local fishermen perched on wooden stilts. Though this tradition is now mostly kept alive by tourism, this beach is still one of the best spots to observe these fishermen in action. Finally, for the last beach of the day, time to head to Mirissa, another hugely popular beach destination in Sri Lanka. You can get there by bus or by taking the train along the Southern Line train. What makes Mirissa Beach stand out is how it caters to all sorts of visitors! While one side is perfect for swimming and snorkeling, the other is ideal for surfing and trying to catch some waves. There’s simply no going wrong here! In between your moments of relaxation, you can appreciate Parrot Rock and hike up Coconut Tree Hill. This scenic viewpoint, perched on a low cliff and surrounded by a row of palm trees, has become “THE” most iconic photo spot in Mirissa. At the end of the day, you have two options: either stay overnight in this area and hire another private driver that can leave you in Tissamaharama the next morning before 06h00 (we’ll explain why in a minute); or make the extra effort to cover that distance today and sleep in Tissamaharama. Make your choice!

Third day wrap-up:

• Unawatuna Beach
• Dalawella Beach
• Rope Swing
• Koggala Beach (Stilt Fishermen)
• Mirissa Beach
• Parrot Rock
• Coconut Tree Hill

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Unawatuna and Mirissa

• Wasantha’s Sri Lanka Cuisine (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Sea Waves Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Dewmini Roti Shop (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Ceylon Curry House (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Dhana’s Curry Pot (all you can eat – curry)
• La Boheme (Italian)
• DelTano’s Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta (Italian)
• SkinnyToms’s Deli (breakfast and brunch)
• Shady Lane Mirissa (breakfast and brunch)
• The Social Unawatuna (varied)

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 4 – Yala National Park

Regardless of your decision the previous day, make sure you’re ready for your pickup in Tissamaharama at 06h00, because today you’re in for one of the highlights of your trip! We’re obviously talking about the extraordinary Yala National Park, one of the finest places in the world to watch leopards in their natural habitat. Additionally, the park is equally famous for its large elephant population, along with occasional sightings of crocodiles, deer, buffalo and monkeys, making it a fantastic destination for wildlife and nature lovers! To clarify the logistics of your visit, it’s important to note that jeeps are only allowed to enter the park during two time slots: 06h00 (hence the urgency) or 14h00. While the afternoon slot would allow for some extra sleeping, it could make it challenging to reach Ella (where you’ll spend the night) before nightfall. Obviously, due to safety regulations, it is not possible to visit the park independently. Therefore, the best way to ensure your visit is to pre-book your safari through the park’s official website. Prices vary based on the park zone you want to visit and the length of the tour, as the area is split into five zones, but only three of them (Blocks 1, 4 and 5) are open to the public. The current safari prices per jeep (which accommodates up to six passengers) are as follows:

• Block 1 – Half-Day: 16.900 LKR
• Block 1 – Full Day: 28.100 LKR
• Blocks 4 and 5 – Half-Day: 19.800 LKR
• Blocks 4 and 5 – Full Day: 29.700 LKR

Since you’ll still need to travel to Ella afterwards, we recommend going for one of the half-day tours, which usually last between 4 to 6 hours. As for the park’s zones, Block 1 is usually the most popular choice as it hosts the largest population of leopards. All safaris include pickup and drop-off services at any location in Tissamaharama. In addition to the jeep prices mentioned above (which can be split among up to six people), don’t forget that there’s also an entrance fee for the park, currently set at 11.000 LKR per person. These fares cover the admission into the park, the jeep transportation and the driver, but you’ll need to pay extra if you’d like a guide to tag along and teach you more about animal behaviors and their habitat. When it comes to rules and etiquette, it’s essential to follow all instructions from your driver/guide/ranger during the tour, as you’ll be in close proximity to wild animals. Avoid teasing and agitating the animals, using your phone to make noise, feeding animals, eating, using flash photography or leaving behind any litter or trace of your visit. Finally, although the park is open year-round except for September, the best time to visit Yala National Park is from January to June, with February and March offering the highest chances of spotting leopards. After your safari, you can request to be dropped off at the Tissamaharama bus terminal, where you can catch your next bus to Ella.

NOTE: If you’re not particularly interested in leopards and much rather watch the elephants, you might want to consider visiting Udawalawe National Park instead. Since it’s not as popular, you’ll come across fewer tourists and less jeeps blocking the roads, making for a much more enjoyable experience (for both visitors and elephants). However, finding leopards here is almost (though not entirely) impossible.

Fourth day wrap-up:

• Yala National Park

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 5 – Ella: Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak

Upon reaching Ella, it’s impossible not to notice a shift in the atmosphere. While the scenery so far has been marked by the coast, the interior offers Sri Lanka’s majestic mountain peaks, rolling hills and world-famous tea plantations. A different side of the country, but one that is no less charming (quite the opposite). Although this area is no longer as secluded and authentic as it once was, it remains the heart of many Sinhalese traditions, offering a slower-paced lifestyle in the outdoors. Besides, and despite its small size and apparently remote location, Ella boasts some of the country’s best-known tourist attractions, starting with the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. This is yet another site that gained traction on social media, with countless images popping up online of this ancient stone structure occupied by a functioning 19^th-century railway line and surrounded by lush tea plantations. Stretching over 90 meters and standing 25 meters high, there are several vantage points from where you can admire this stunning British construction, so it’s worth taking some time to explore the area and try to catch a train passing over the bridge, (twice in the morning – around 09h30 and 11h30).

After lunch, it’s time to hike up Little Adam’s Peak, the first of several viewpoints you’ll explore in the Sri Lankan heartlands. This trail serves as a tribute to the much larger and more challenging Adam’s Peak, arguably the most famous hike in Sri Lanka, which we’ve decided to exclude from this itinerary for logistical reasons and time constraints. Nevertheless, the ascent to Little Adam’s Peak will reward you with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, particularly Ella Rock (which you’ll hike tomorrow), Ella Gap and Udawalawe National Park. Big rewards for a modest effort! Once you make it back to Ella Town, be sure to explore the area in the evening. Once a quiet little village, tourism has transformed this town into a lively, somewhat Westernized hotspot, reminiscent of popular destinations in Southeast Asia that are usually filled with restaurants, bars and huge groups of backpackers. While it may not be particularly pretty, it’s a great place to unwind over dinner and/or drinks. Now that your time in Ella has come to an end, it’s important to note that you could have easily spent another 2 or 3 days in the area, as there is just so much to do. Although you’ve hiked to a viewpoint and visited one of the most iconic bridges in Asia, a little extra time would allow you to enjoy a swim at either Diyaluma Falls or Ravana Falls, visit a tea plantation, complete the Ella Rock trek and even climb up to Lipton’s Seat (or even take the aforementioned day trip to Adam’s Peak).

NOTE: If you really want tackle the real Adam’s Peak, set aside an entire day for the adventure (most likely as a day trip from Colombo or Ella). To get there, your journey begins with a train ride to Hatton, followed by a tuk-tuk to the trailhead in Nallathanniya. From there, get ready for a challenging 7 km climb with around 5500 steps leading to the summit. At the top, you’ll discover a small temple housing a footprint that locals believe belongs to Buddha. This makes Adam’s Peak one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka, attracting many visitors climbing for religious reasons.

Fifth day wrap-up:

• Nine Arch Bridge
• Little Adam’s Peak

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Ella

• The Kitchen Garden (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Matey Hut (Sri Lankan traditional)
• La Mensa (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Hopes Cafe Ella (Sri Lankan traditional)
• MozzarElla (pizza)
• Cafe Chill (breakfast and brunch)
• Ravana Pool Club (pool bar)
• Hiking Bar & Restaurant (varied)
• The Barn by Starbeans (varied)
• Cafe One Love (varied)

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 6 – The Most Beautiful Train Journey in the World

Consistently hailed as the most scenic train journey in the world, the trip between Ella and Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s greatest tourist attractions. Though the trip takes a lengthy 7 hours, only a fool would be discouraged by the time. After all, this is a day meant for relaxing and contemplating in awe, where the best thing one can do is sit by the window and take in the breathtaking landscape as the train weaves through lush green hills, mountains, waterfalls and sprawling tea plantations, all while sharing the ride with a healthy mix of friendly locals and adventurous backpackers. Furthermore, the vintage carriages definitely help enhance the whole experience, as the Sri Lankan railway system was originally built by the British in the 19^th century. For those unaware, this is the train route where countless couples take that Insta-worthy photo while hanging out of the blue train as it snakes through the countryside – a social media classic! Unfortunately, though, this spike in popularity has led to overcrowded trains, uncomfortable rides and raucous travelers displaying rude behavior and pushing each other just to get a “that picture”. As such, since most visitors travel from Kandy to Ella, we designed our itinerary so you can do this trip in the opposite direction, avoiding the biggest crowds.

Now, for the boring (yet important) part! Though we’ve covered this in great detail in the transport section of our general guide, you can purchase your ticket either from the official Sri Lanka Railways website or through 12GoAsia. When booking online, you’ll always be guaranteed a seat in either first or second class. In that case, we recommend booking second class, since windows and doors do not open on first class carriages and the experience is not as scenic. Expect to pay around 1200 LKR for the ticket. Alternatively, you can simply pop up at the station about an hour before departure and buy your ticket directly at the booths (they never sell out). However, you’ll be thrown in third class without a reserved seat, which may mean you’ll have to stand for the entire journey. On the upside, third class offers a more authentic experience with locals and greater freedom to move around and snap photos. Plus, tickets here are also cheaper: 300 LKR. For a little hack, consider taking a tuk-tuk to Badulla Station, where the line starts, and buying your third-class ticket there. By doing do, you’ll be avoiding the crowds boarding at Ella and have a much better chance of securing a seat for the trip.

Sixth day wrap-up:

• Train journey between Ella and Kandy

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 7 – Kandy

After a long train ride and a good night’s sleep, you’ll be refreshed and ready to explore Kandy, known as the cultural and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka! Despite being the third-largest city and the former seat of the Sinhalese monarchy, Kandy couldn’t me any more different from the controlled chaos of Colombo, making it a great place to unwind and appreciate its landmarks deemed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. With a single day to explore, though, you’ll need to be quite selective! Nonetheless, Kandy’s top attraction is undoubtedly the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (2000 LKR), the country’s most revered place of worship. Completed in 1707 by order of the King of Ceylon, is believed to house a tooth of Buddha, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Sri Lankans and other Buddhists from all around the world. Beyond the relic, the temple itself is an architectural work of art, established within the grounds of the former Royal Palace. By now, it will have been impossible not to notice Kandy Lake, a vast body of water around which the city was built, and the perfect spot for a stroll along the banks.

While near the temple, take some time to wander through Kandy’s Old Town, as this historic quarter is filled with British colonial architecture. Thanks to its isolated location and former status as the royal seat, Kandy was able to resist Portuguese and Dutch invasions for nearly two centuries, before eventually falling to the British. A reminder of that era is St. Paul’s Church, which you can visit before taking a break from the heat by grabbing a snack or drink at the Kandy Municipal Central Market, one of the best in Sri Lanka. Next up, head out of the Old Town and make your way up to the Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya. Perched on a hill, this towering 27-meter-high statue is a sight to behold. Plus, it offers panoramic views of Kandy and its magnificent lake! To end your day on a high note, hop on a tuk-tuk and head to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens (3000 LKR), located about 6 km away from the city center. Once reserved for the Sinhalese royalty, the park is now open to everyone and is well worth the visit, with thousands of exotic plants and beautifully kept gardens.

Seventh day wrap-up:

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• Kandy Lake
• Old Town of Kandy
• Paul’s Church
• Kandy Municipal Central Market
• Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya
• Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Kandy

• Sharon Inn (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Helga’s Folly (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Sri Krishna Dosai (Sri Lankan traditional – Kottu e Dosa)
• Indian Summer (Indian)
• Nagalingam’s Bhavan (Indian – vegetarian)
• Vito Wood Fired Pizza (pizza)
• Licensed To Grill By Di’s (grilled meats)
• Cafe Banana Chill (breakfast and brunch)
• Hideout Lounge (varied)
• Soul Food (varied)

Sri Lanka 1-Week Itinerary: Day 8 – Dambulla and Sigiriya

Now that we’ve come to the end of this itinerary, the last chapter on your adventure will be nothing short of mesmerizing. After all, today you’ll be taking a day trip to both Dambulla and Sigiriya, two of the country’s most popular destinations! Regarding transportation, we will first head to furthest stop, meaning you’ll need to get up very early in the morning and take a bus from Kandy to Dambulla, where you’ll get out and find a tuk-tuk to cover the final 30 minutes to Sigiriya. Alongside the iconic train journey between Ella and Kandy, this small town is home to what is arguably Sri Lanka’s top tourist attraction – the massive Lion Rock, a legendary fortress and stunning archaeological site perched atop a 200-meter-high rock formation. To reach the summit, you’ll need to pay the rather steep entrance fee of $30,00 (locals pay the equivalent of $0,40) and climb 1200 steps. While everyone agrees that Lion Rock is indeed impressive – with its ancient pools, vivid frescoes, palace ruins, panoramic views and striking lion paw sculptures (you’ll understand once you see them) – many travelers have called local authorities out on the rather inflated price tag. Either way, it’s better to go through it so you can form your own opinion! Plus, at least the ticket also includes entry to the Sigiriya Museum, where you can learn more about the fortress, the city and its rulers.

Alternatively, if you’d rather skip the $30,00 admission fee for foreigner, you can climb Pidurangala Rock instead, another great viewpoint just 1.5 km away from Lion Rock. While you won’t get access to any archaeological ruins, meaning it may not be as interesting for history enthusiasts, the views are unbeatable – especially since Lion Rock itself will be part of the frame! Plus, the admission price is much lighter on the wallet (just 1000 LKR). Regardless of your choice, you will then take the tuk-tuk back to Dambulla, where you’ll take a few hours to have lunch and visit the extraordinary Dambulla Cave Temple (LKR 2000), aka the Golden Temple. In fact, this 2000-year-old complex is actually a collection of caves magnificently adorned with more than 100 representations of Buddha, in the form of statues, golden figures, colorful murals and rock-carved sculptures. Even the location of the temple couldn’t be any more dramatic, as the caves are perched atop a hill. Although it doesn’t have quite the same level of international recognition as other landmarks in the country, it is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular places you’ll see in Sri Lanka. If you still have time, you can take an hour to visit the Buddhist Museum (LKR 600), located right next to the temple’s entrance. By the end of the day, just take a bus back to Kandy, where you’ll spend the night. Tomorrow, you’ll have to take the train or bus travel back to Colombo, where your return flight sadly awaits.

Eighth day wrap-up:

• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Buddhist Museum

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Dambulla

• Mango Tree Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Athula Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Heritage Rangiri Villa Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Rithu Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Sandra Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Sakura Village House Restaurant (Sri Lankan traditional)
• Sheyan Resto (Indian)
• Sundaras Restaurant & Pool BAR (pool bar)
• Fika Cafe & Restaurant (varied)
• Fika The Outlet (varied)