Two weeks is the sweet spot for a first trip to Sri Lanka. Long enough to climb ancient rock fortresses, ride the famous hill-country train, spot leopards and still finish with a few lazy days on the beach. It’s the itinerary we recommend most to Australian friends, and the one we’d do again tomorrow.
Here’s our day-by-day 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary, designed around realistic travel times, the best seasons and a pace that leaves room to enjoy it. Use it as a template and tweak it to suit you.
Itinerary overview
- Day 1: Negombo
- Days 2–4: Sigiriya and the Cultural Triangle
- Days 5–6: Kandy
- Day 7: Train to Ella
- Days 8–9: Ella
- Day 10: Yala National Park
- Days 11–13: South coast (Mirissa and Galle)
- Day 14: Back to the airport for your flight
Day 1: Arrive in Negombo
Land at Colombo airport, transfer 20 minutes to Negombo and rest. See where to stay in Negombo.
Days 2–4: Sigiriya, Dambulla and Polonnaruwa
Drive about 4 hours to Sigiriya. Climb Lion Rock early, catch sunrise from Pidurangala, visit Dambulla Cave Temple and cycle around Polonnaruwa or do an elephant safari. Read our Sigiriya climbing guide and day trips from Sigiriya.
Days 5–6: Kandy
Visit a spice garden on the way, then explore Kandy Lake, the Temple of the Tooth and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. See things to do in Kandy.
Day 7: The hill-country train
Ride the famous train through tea country to Ella. It’s a full day, so pack snacks. Our Kandy to Ella train guide covers tickets and seats.
Days 8–9: Ella
Hike Little Adam’s Peak at sunrise, see the Nine Arch Bridge, tackle Ella Rock and take a cooking class. See things to do in Ella.
Day 10: Yala safari
Drive about 3 hours to Yala for an afternoon safari, or stay overnight for a dawn drive. Read our Yala safari guide.
Days 11–13: Mirissa and Galle
Unwind on the south coast. Go whale watching from Mirissa in season, then explore Galle Fort. See where to stay in Mirissa and things to do in Galle.
Day 14: Depart
Drive back to the airport (around 2.5 to 3 hours from Galle via the expressway), or spend a night in Negombo if your flight is early.
Our tip: this route works best from December to April, when the south coast and hill country are at their best. From May to September, swap the south coast for Pasikuda on the east coast.
Getting around
Most Australians hire a private car and driver for the whole trip. It’s comfortable, flexible and surprisingly affordable. Combine it with the train for the Kandy to Ella leg.
Frequently asked questions
Is 2 weeks enough for Sri Lanka?
Yes. Two weeks lets you see the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, the hill country, a safari and the south coast at a comfortable pace.
What is the best time for this itinerary?
December to April. In the middle of the year, consider ending on the east coast instead.
Should I hire a driver in Sri Lanka?
For most visitors, yes. A private driver makes travel easier and safer than self-driving.
Want us to tailor this itinerary?
Our Melbourne-based team can turn this plan into a personalised trip with hotels, driver and train tickets. Get in touch, or see our shorter 10-day itinerary.
