Britain Travel Deals

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary – Highlights of 14 Days in Sri Lanka

  • 24.10.2024 08:33
  • Bruno Arcos

Best things to see and do in Sri Lanka in 14 days. Discover the country’s most famous landmarks and tourist hotspots in our Sri Lanka 2-week itinerary!

Do you want to receive notifications about new offers?

Sign up and decide which deals you will receive. We won't send spam!

or download our mobile app

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play

This Sri Lanka 2-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 2-Week Itinerary – Where to go in Sri Lanka in 14 days

If you’re asking yourself whether a country as small as Sri Lanka is really worth taking two weeks off, then the answer is a sounding YES! The island may in fact be tiny in size, but is jampacked with spectacular places to visit and things to do. Plus, the rugged terrain and the slow transport options will have you wasting more time than you’d expect on the road. Still, if you have a couple of weeks to spare, one can enjoy the very best the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean” has to offer. In addition to the mandatory visit to the capital Colombo, your gateway into the country, with a full 2 weeks you can visit Galle and the entire 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, climb the famous Lion Rock in Sigiriya and witness the ruins of ancient Sinhalese civilizations in Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.

However, if you don’t have the availability for such an extended trip, you are always welcome to take a look at our shorter Sri Lanka 1-week itinerary.

So, without further ado, here are the cities, places and tourist attractions you should visit in a 2-week itinerary through Sri Lanka:

Sri Lanka 2-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 16th 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

Sri Lanka 2-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

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 3 – Unawatuna

After two days with a more cultural focus, it’s finally time to relax and enjoy Sri Lanka’s famous southern coastline. In fact, this stretch is home to the country’s most popular beaches, meaning the next few days will be all about the good-old “sea, sand and sun”! Today, though, you won’t even have to waste a lot of time on the road, as Unawatuna is only 6 km away from Galle, meaning there’s no need to change to a different hotel (just hop in a tuk-tuk for a quick ride). 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. Finally, and though certainly no less touristy, wrap up your day at 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. Once you’re done, you can head back to Galle for the night.

Third day wrap-up:

  • Unawatuna Beach
  • Dalawella Beach
  • Rope Swing
  • Koggala Beach (Stilt Fishermen)

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Unawatuna

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 4 – Mirissa

Another day, another adventure! Unfortunately, and because we need to keep moving, today you’ll need to bring all your luggage along as you’ll spend the night in 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.

Nonetheless, there’s also another big reason why people flock to these shores. Especially if you’re visiting Sri Lanka between November and April, this is the top place in the country for whale watching, with many companies offering tours. If you’re lucky, along with the whales, you may even spot sea turtles and dolphins cruising through the Indian Ocean! Just keep in mind that these tours typically start early in the morning, so if you’re planning to go, you’ll either need to leave Galle at dawn or stay in Mirissa the night before.

Fourth day wrap-up:

  • Mirissa Beach
  • Parrot Rock
  • Coconut Tree Hill
  • Whale Watching Tour

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Mirissa

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 5 – Tangalle

All good things must come to an end! Though the time has come for you to bid farewell to Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches, rest assured you’ve still got one last day of seaside adventures ahead! Once again, you’ll need to pack your bags as you make your way to Tangalle. It’s important to point out that this town doesn’t have a train station, so you’ll have to take the bus (more information on the transport section of the main guide). To break up the trip and avoid having to go back and forth, you can ask the bus driver to drop you off at Dikwella, which is just a short walk from Hiriketiya Beach. Another favorite on the southern coast, this beach is extremely popular with surfers and water sports enthusiasts. For what it’s worth, it’s also one of the most westernized places in Sri Lanka, making it a good spot to find familiar food if you’re craving a break from rice and curry.

Once you’ve enjoyed Hiriketiya, just head back to the same bus stop where the first driver dropped you and continue on to Tangalle, where you’ll find one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning beaches. Unfortunately, its location and terrain create big waves and strong currents, so this may not be the best place for swimming. Still, the scenery alone makes it well worth the pitstop! At the end of the day, you have two options: either stay overnight in Tangalle and hire a 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!

Fifth day wrap-up:

  • Hiriketiya Beach
  • Tangalle Beach

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Tangalle

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 6 – 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.

Sixth day wrap-up:

  • Yala National Park

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 7 – 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 19th-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.

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.

Seventh day wrap-up:

  • Nine Arch Bridge
  • Little Adam’s Peak

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 8 – Ella: Tea Plantation and Ella Rock

For your second day in Ella, get ready for another couple of exciting outdoor activities, making promise on the city’s well-deserved reputation as a great adventure destination. If you wrapped up yesterday with a hike, you’ll get today started in the exact same spirit, making your way to the top of Ella Rock. While this trek is more challenging than Little Adam’s Peak, it’s still perfectly manageable. Just follow the marked trails and steer clear of the occasional scammers you might encounter along the route that will try to convince you to take an “alternative” route. Apart from the stunning view from the summit, the way there is also part of the charm, passing through quaint villages, cascading waterfalls and tea plantations. Speaking of tea plantations, it would be a shame to visit this region of Sri Lanka without stopping by at least one! After all, tea leaves are arguably the most famous product from Sri Lanka, and the industry has helped shape much of the nation’s history, culture and economy.

Luckily, there are several fantastic options near Ella, but we suggest hopping on a tuk-tuk and covering the necessary 6 km until you get to the Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory. For 3000 LKR, you can choose between a factory tour or a plantation tour. While in the former you will learn more about the local tea production process, the plantation tour offers a more hands-on experience, allowing visitors to partake in leaf-picking. In both options, you’ll also get to sample the tea! Now that your time in Ella has come to an end, it’s important to note that you could have easily spent another day or two in the area, as there is just so much to do. Although you’ve hiked to two viewpoints, explored a tea plantation and visiting 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, and even tackle a trek to Lipton’s Seat (or even take the aforementioned day trip to Adam’s Peak).

Eighth day wrap-up:

  • Ella Rock
  • Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory Tour

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Ella

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 9 – 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 19th 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.

Ninth day wrap-up:

  • Train journey between Ella and Kandy

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 10 – 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.

Tenth 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

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 11 – Dambulla

Time for one of the least common decisions in this itinerary. While most travelers choose to stay in Kandy and explore the northern highlights of Sri Lanka taking day trips from there – or simply spend their nights in different towns as they move along – when we look at time management and transportation logistics, there’s no better place to use as a northern base than Dambulla, a town located just two hours north of Kandy. By choosing to stay here, it will save you at least four hours of travel daily that you’d otherwise have to spend for the portion between Kandy and Dambulla, where your transport would always have to go through. Plus, you won’t need to carry your luggage around – it’s a win-win!

Be that as it may, Dambulla isn’t just a convenient hub between tourist towns, as this is also the home of the 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. Moreover, since today’s schedule is a bit more relaxed, you can take an hour to visit the Buddhist Museum (LKR 600), located right next to the temple’s entrance.

Eleventh day wrap-up:

  • Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Buddhist Museum

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Dambulla

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 12 – Sigiriya

Alongside the iconic train journey between Ella and Kandy, the small town of Sigiriya is home to what is arguably Sri Lanka’s top tourist attraction! Located about 30 minutes away from Dambulla by tuk-tuk (3000 LKR one-way), Sigiriya is famous for its 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). Alternatively, and given that you have a full day to explore Sigiriya, some travelers choose to tackle both climbs. The usual recommendation is to start early, catching the first rays of sun from atop Pidurangala Rock, before heading back down and visiting Lion Rock. Expensive and oh-so-tiring? Yes. But is it worth it? Absolutely! No matter which option you choose, you should take a tuk-tuk back to Dambulla at the end of the day, where you’ll spend the night.

Twelfth day wrap-up:

  • Lion Rock
  • Sigiriya Museum
  • Pidurangala Rock

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 13 – Polonnaruwa

Here we go again! Starting once again from Dambulla, today’s day trip will take you to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, an archaeological complex boasting 1000-year-old ruins from what was once Sri Lanka’s second historical capital. Simply hop on a bus and you’ll be in Polonnaruwa (which also has a New Town) in just over two hours. Once again, the entrance fee for foreigners has been significantly spiked, with tickets costing the same $30,00 you had to pay to visit Sigiriya’s Lion Rock. Plus, there’s no alternative or way to avoid the fee here – if you want to explore the city, you’ll have to pay! However, given the size of the site and its incredible collection of temples, statues, stupas and shrines, this we’d say it’s worth the hefty price tag! Much like other archaeological complexes in this part of the world – like Ayutthaya, Angkor Wat or Hampi – the ruins are spread across different areas within the park, meaning you’ll need to walk quite a bit to see everything. Alternatively, you can rent a bike or hire a tuk-tuk guide. Ready for the challenge?

Upon entering the Ancient City, you’ll start off by visiting the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, where you can purchase your ticket and know more about the city’s foundation and the empires that once ruled it. A pretty cool way to get introduced to the sites you’ll explore throughout the day. As you enter the ruins proper, your first stop will take place at the Palace of King Parakramabahu, the ruler’s residence and one of the main highlights of the entire park, where structures such as the Hall of Audiences and the Kumara Pokuna Pool can be found. Immediately to the north, you can visit the Dalada Maluwa, also known as the Sacred Quadrangle, widely regarded as park’s most iconic attraction. Comprising about a dozen different ruins, this archaeological cluster is considered the heart of Polonnaruwa, housing the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, a temple originally built to house the sacred tooth of Buddha (that you’ve seen in Kandy), and the Hatadage, the most photogenic building in the complex.

Heading even further north (get ready to walk nearly 7 km just inside the Ancient City), you can’t miss out on Vishnu Temple, where you can marvel at the giant tree that has slowly taken over the site, before making the mandatory obligatory stop at Rankoth Vehera, the largest and single most imposing stupa in Polonnaruwa. Next up, you’ll continue on to Lankatilaka Temple, which hides a very quirky detail. As you climb the stairs leading to the Buddha statue, you’ll notice the steps are incredibly narrow, forcing you to go up/down sideways. This is by no means a coincidence, since Buddhist tradition states that turning your back on an image of Buddha is extremely disrespectful! To cap off your visit – and before making the trip back to Dambulla – the final stops include a visit to the insanely popular Gal Vihara, known for its four massive Buddha statues, followed by the Image House of Thivanka, one of the largest buildings within the ruins.

Thirteenth day wrap-up:

  • Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
    • Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum
    • Palace of King Parakramabahu
    • Dalada Maluwa – Sacred Quadrangle
    • Polonnaruwa Vatadage
    • Hatadage
    • Vishnu Temple
    • Rankoth Vehera
    • Lankatilaka Temple
    • Gal Vihara
    • Thivanka Image House

Sri Lanka 2-Week Itinerary: Day 14 – Anuradhapura

As yesterday you explored Sri Lanka’s second historical capital, it seems only fitting that on your final day, you’ll have the chance to visit its first urban, cultural, and religious hub: the Ancient City of Anuradhapura! In fact, that’s far from being the only thing in common both sites have, as Anuradhapura is also known for its vast archaeological park, which you can explore either on foot or more conveniently by renting a bicycle or taking a tuk-tuk tour, since the ruins are spread across a sprawling 40-square-kilometer area. You can find bike rentals and guides near the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum, where you’ll also purchase the admission ticket for the entire site (once again priced at $30,00). This stop also marks the completion of Sri Lanka’s “Cultural Triangle”, which includes Kandy, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and, of course, Anuradhapura. That said, and once you’ve entered the archaeological park, your first stop should be at the Isurumuniya Temple, one of the few attractions not included in the general ticket. However, for just 200 LKR, it’s well worth the visit, since this temple is set against a rock formation and surrounded by one of the many artificial reservoirs that early Sinhalese civilizations built to help bring life to Anuradhapura.

Above the temple, you can also check out Ranmasu Uyana, known as the royal garden where single kings and nobles went to try to meet their future spouses. Still, the real heart of Anuradhapura lies further north in its three historic monasteries, each home to different important structures that remain active pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. Hence why you’ll come across many locals visiting the ancient city for religious purposes. That said, the first monastery to visit should be the Maha Vihara Monastery, where you’ll find the awe-inspiring Mirisawetiya and Ruwanweliseya stupas. Specifically the latter, it was once the largest stupa in the world and remains one of the holiest sites in the city, housing some of Sri Lanka’s most important religious relics. Its iconic white dome is also one of Anuradhapura’s most recognizable symbols. Nearby, in the same monastery, you can also visit the Sri Maha Bodhi, said to be the oldest living tree in the world, having been allegedly planted over 2300 years ago. Immediately to the east, you’ll find the less-impressive Jethawanarama Monastery. While you shouldn’t waste too much time here, it’s still worth a pitstop to capture the Jethawanaramaya Stupa, which, besides holding a piece of Buddha’s belt, once stood as the third-largest structure in the world, just behind the Great Pyramids of Egypt.

Finally, your adventure will come to an end at the Abhayagiri Monastery, once a renowned Buddhist university that hosted over 5000 monks. Plus, this monastery also briefly housed the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha before it was moved to Kandy! Fun facts aside, there are quite a few key landmarks you shouldn’t miss around here, including the intricately carved Moonstone (Sandakada Pahana), the serene Samadhi Buddha Statue and the Twin Ponds, other two reservoirs that are now considered wonders of ancient hydraulic engineering. The showstopper, however – not just in the monastery but in Anuradhapura as a whole – is the Abhayagiriya Stupa, yet another massive pagoda, built with terracotta bricks. At the end of the day, you’ll return to Dambulla for your fourth and last night in the city. Tomorrow, you’ll have to take the train or bus travel back to Colombo, where your return flight sadly awaits.

Fourteenth day wrap-up:

  • Ancient City of Anuradhapura
    • Isurumuniya Temple
    • Ranmasu Uyana
    • Mirisawetiya
    • Sri Maha Bodhi
    • Ruwanweliseya
    • Jethawanaramaya
    • Sandakada Pahana
    • Samadhi Buddha Statue
    • Twin Ponds
    • Abhayagiriya

Where to eat in Sri Lanka – Best restaurants in Anuradhapura

eSIM

Traveling soon? Get your Holafly eSIM with a 5% discount for unlimited internet access in any destination. No more worrying about roaming charges or finding local SIM cards. Enjoy unlimited data and stay connected with ease. Order your Holafly eSIM now »

Travel insurance

Heymondo offers a wide range of travel assistance insurance policies. They combine the best quality, service and price with various levels of coverage, so you’re covered on your weekend getaways and long trips. Buy insurance »

Do you want to receive notifications about new offers?

Sign up and decide which deals you will receive. We won't send spam!

or download our mobile app

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
Travel ideas
India New Delhi

Non-stop Air India flights from London to New Delhi for £377

  • 10.12.2024 10:32
Croatia Dubrovnik

CHEAP💥 City break in Dubrovnik for £110 p.p: flights from London + 3-night B&B stay in 4* hotel

  • 10.12.2024 08:01
Mexico Cancun unsplash

Christmas & NYE🎄 TUI flights from UK cities to Cancun, Mexico from £350

  • 09.12.2024 20:51
Plan your travel
Travel guides
French Riviera Travel Guide – transportation, hotels, tips + itineraries for 3, 5 and 7 days Athens 3-Day Travel Guide – Hotels, Restaurants and What to See & Do in 72 hours Malta Travel Guide – transportation, restaurants, best beaches, hotels and more! The Ultimate Majorca + Menorca Travel Guide – transportation, restaurants, best beaches, hotels and more!
Best hotel deals
Sherbrooke Castle Hotel Historic 4* Sherbrooke Castle Hotel in Glasgow from £111/double Oulton Hall Hotel Historic 4* Oulton Hall Hotel with indoor pool near Leeds for £72/double Connaught Lodge 4* Connaught Lodge with Spa and indoor pool in Bournemouth for £54/double