Sri Lanka-6-day-itinerary

Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary (6 Days)

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

  • Places to Go: National Museum of Colombo
  • Activities:
    • Explore the museum to get a brief history of Sri Lanka.
    • Visit the nearby Viharamahadevi Park for a peaceful walk.
  • Things to Know:
    • Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and go through immigration and customs procedures.
    • Check into your hotel or accommodation in Colombo.
    • Evening is free for shopping or exploring Galle Face Green, the capital’s seafront promenade.
  • Visa Requirements:
    • Citizens of most countries can get an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online prior to arrival. Others may need a visa on arrival or apply at Sri Lankan diplomatic missions in their home country.
  • Transportation:
    • Taxi or tuk-tuks are available from the airport for transportation to Colombo.
    • Use public transport like buses for sightseeing or hire private vehicles (taxis, car with driver) for convenience and flexibility.

Day 2: Colombo to Mirissa

  • Places to Go: Galle Face Green in morning (for a stroll), St. Francis Church (if interested in history and architecture)
  • Activities:
    • Visit the National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka, if you’re an animal lover.
    • Spend some time at the Colombo Museum.
  • Things to Know:
    • This day is for a leisurely morning, as the journey to Mirissa will take most of it. Drive or take public transport from Colombo to Mirissa (approximately 4 hours).
    • Check into your accommodation in Mirissa and enjoy the evening beach time.
  • Transportation:
    • Bus service operates between Colombo and Galle/Mirissa, or you can hire a private taxi.

Day 3: Whale Watching

  • Places to Go: Mirissa Beach
  • Activities:
    • Early morning whale watching tour (best times are early in the morning).
    • Spend some time at the beach.
  • Things to Know:
    • This is one of Sri Lanka’s best spots for whale and dolphin sightings. Booking in advance is recommended.
    • Enjoy your lunch on the beach or at a nearby restaurant, with a view.
  • Transportation:
    • The location itself offers easy access; just walk out of your accommodation to reach the beach.

Day 4: Galle

  • Places to Go: Fort and Sea Front, Galle
  • Activities:
    • Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Wander along the seafront for shopping or dining.
  • Things to Know:
    • Drive or take public transport from Mirissa to Galle (about an hour).
    • Book your accommodations within the fort walls or nearby, to fully immerse in the experience.
  • Transportation:
    • Public buses and taxis are readily available between destinations.

Day 5: Yala National Park

  • Places to Go: Yala National Park
  • Activities:
    • Morning safari in Yala National Park. This is one of Sri Lanka’s best national parks for wildlife, especially leopards.
    • Return by the evening and enjoy your dinner at a nearby hotel or restaurant.
  • Things to Know:
    • Check if your accommodation arranges safaris or book it directly with a reputable tour operator.
    • Early morning is the best time for spotting animals.
  • Transportation:
    • From Galle, take a taxi or drive (if you have a rental car) to Yala National Park.

Day 6: Return to Colombo

  • Places to Go: Elephant Transit Home and Orphanage (if interested in wildlife conservation)
  • Activities:
    • Visit the Elephant Transit Home if not already done during your itinerary. It’s a unique experience for nature lovers.
    • Proceed back to Colombo with stops at places you might have missed or want to revisit.
  • Things to Know:
    • This is a good time to do any last-minute shopping or visits based on personal preferences.
    • Evening is free in Colombo, allowing you to finalize your packing and depart early the next morning for home.
  • Transportation:
    • From Yala National Park, head back towards Colombo.