Sri Lanka 3 Day Itinerary

Here’s a 3-day itinerary for traveling in Sri Lanka:

Day 1: Explore Colombo

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Start Your Day Early: Begin with a hearty breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
  • 9:00 AM - National Museum of Colombo: Visit the National Museum to get an understanding of Sri Lankan history and culture. Exhibits include artifacts from prehistoric times, ancient cities, colonial periods, and even a section dedicated to the British rule.
  • 12:30 PM - Lunch Time: Take some time to enjoy local cuisine at restaurants in the city.

Afternoon

  • 1:30 PM - Viharamahadevi Park: This park is home to a statue of Queen Viharamahadevi, Sri Lanka’s first recorded queen. The area also has a peaceful environment and can be used for picnics or leisure activities.
  • 3:00 PM - Independence Square: This square commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. It features several statues of national heroes and the independence memorial.
  • 4:30 PM - Take a Break: Relax at your hotel, take some time to rest, and perhaps engage in leisure activities.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner: Enjoy dinner at one of Colombo’s many restaurants or cafes that offer international cuisines.
  • 7:00 PM - Shopping: Visit the Pettah Market for a unique shopping experience. This is one of the oldest markets in Sri Lanka, offering everything from souvenirs to electronic items.

Day 2: Travel to Kandy

Morning

  • 8:30 AM - Breakfast: Have your breakfast at your hotel.
  • 9:00 AM - Royal Botanical Gardens: If you’re in Peradeniya (where the gardens are located), consider a visit here. These gardens are among the best in Asia and feature a variety of plants, including orchids and a small lake.
  • 12:30 PM - Lunch: Enjoy your lunch at one of Kandy’s restaurants.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa): This temple is considered sacred to Buddhists because it houses a relic of Buddha. The area surrounding the temple, known as the Dalada Maligawa complex, offers a glimpse into Sri Lankan Buddhism and its historical significance.
  • 3:00 PM - Kandy Lake: Take some time to stroll around this beautiful lake that’s surrounded by trees. It provides a peaceful atmosphere where you can relax or engage in leisure activities.

Evening

  • 6:30 PM - Dinner: Enjoy your dinner at one of the local restaurants in Kandy.
  • 7:00 PM - Cultural Show: Attend a cultural show featuring traditional dances and music, offering insights into Sri Lankan culture.

Day 3: Explore Sigiriya

Morning

  • 8:00 AM - Breakfast: Start with breakfast before heading out for your day’s activities.
  • 9:00 AM - Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress: This ancient rock fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features gardens, water fountains, and paintings. It was once used as a royal palace by Sri Lankan kings.
  • 12:30 PM - Lunch: Enjoy your lunch in the nearby town or at one of the restaurants near Sigiriya.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - Dambulla Cave Temple: On your way back to Colombo, consider visiting this temple. It features a collection of Buddhist cave paintings and statues, providing insights into Sri Lanka’s historical and cultural significance.
  • 4:00 PM - Return to Colombo: This concludes your 3-day itinerary for exploring Sri Lanka.

Transportation

Throughout the journey, use taxis or tuk-tuks (three-wheeled vehicles) for local transport. For longer distances, consider using buses that are efficient and cost-effective, or rent a car with a driver.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of several countries can enter Sri Lanka without a visa for periods ranging from 30 days to up to two years depending on nationality.

Other Things to Know

  • Weather: The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the cooler months (December to March).
  • Language: English is widely spoken, but knowing some basic Sinhala and Tamil phrases can enhance your experience.
  • Currency: The Sri Lankan rupee is used in Sri Lanka. It’s a good idea to exchange your currency before arrival or at airports and major hotels.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and leisure activities, making for a memorable trip to Sri Lanka.