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Trip Report

Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary 10 Days

Sri Lanka is a truly unique and exotic country. This three week itinerary is filled with experiences varying from historic culture, relaxed beaches and wild safaris.

  • Colombo
  • Ella
  • Galle
  • Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary 10 Days
hannah37
About Me:Hello! I currently reside and work in New York City. I love traveling and exploring new places around the world. I have spent time going to school in both Paris, France and Cape Town, South Africa. I enjoy backpacking read more

AsiaSri Lanka9 days / August 2019

Highs & Lows

The Sri Lankan leopard is a very cool cat!

Hot, humid and damp

Itinerary Overview

  • 3 Nights: Colombo
    Sri Lanka itinerary 10 days: Colombo, Ella City Sri Lanka, Galle Fort.
  • 3 Nights: Ella
    Nature Escape
  • 3 Nights: Galle
    Great food and Relaxation
Colombo - Sri Lanka itinerary 10 days: Colombo, Ella City Sri Lanka, Galle Fort.
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Colombo Sri Lanka itinerary 10 days: Colombo, Ella City Sri Lanka, Galle Fort.

Colombo - Sri Lanka itinerary 10 days: Colombo, Ella City Sri Lanka, Galle Fort. - null

There are many great sites to see in Colombo. Some of my favorite places were the Red Mosuqe, Pettah Floating Market and the Colombo Dutch Museum. All sites are very different but give  perspective into the history and rich culture of Sri Lanka. If you like museums, make sure to also check out the National Museum of Colombo, as well as,  the Colombo Dutch Museum. Bere Lake is also a very pleasant place to picnic! Another one thing to do is to take yourself on a food tour- Colombo has some of the best food in the country and it is all very well prices! WalK or tuk tuk around and try food at different restaurants and food carts. 

Colombo is also a great place to visit since Colombo International airport is located nearby -it is most likely the spot that you will be flying into and out of to arrive and depart Sri Lanka. You will also find a major train station in Colombo that will connect you to all spots and cities in the country.

Ella - Nature Escape
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Ella Nature Escape

Ella - Nature Escape - null

The train ride from Kandy To Ella is exquisite. If you are extra adventurous like me, make sure to spend part of the train ride sitting by the doors with your feet hanging out. Just a heads up that the train ride is extremely crowded but hey that is typical for most train rides in Sri Lanka. Also, make sure to book your ticket in advance, especially during tourist season. Ella is a great place to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and to take some nice long, steep hikes to some beautiful viewing points. I particularly liked hiking to Ella Rock and watching the sunset at the top. It is a relatively short hike with many many stairs. When you get to the top you will be rewarded with beautiful mountain views and many local dogs to keep you company. There is also a small town in Ella where you can get food and drinks with friends. On Saturdays they have a food market in the evening and sometimes a performance by local dancers. 

Galle - Great food and Relaxation
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Galle Great food and Relaxation

Galle - Great food and Relaxation - null

Galle is a great little spot in Sri Lanka. Galle Fort has a history going back to the 13th century. It was originally a chief port during Portuguese rule however, it later became aDutch fort when the Dutch took over the area- which makes the area rich in history and culture. The area is right on the water and has many modern eaterys with fresh and tasty fruits and vegetables. I would highly recommend walking around the fort and visiting a local swimming area to swim with wild, large sea turtles . You can get around this area via tuk tuks or just walk, most shops and restaurants are relatively close. You can also cycle along the lagoon or even go kayaking in the lagoon! Make sure to also check out Rumassala Sanctuary- it is home to many exotic plants and medicinal herbs. If you are someone who is a big water person you can also go snorkeling or scuba diving near Galle. 

Q & A

  • Packing tips?

    Make sure to definitely bring bug repellent, sunscreen and a camera. Sri Lanka is very hot and humid; however, the sites you see will make up for the bug bites and possible sun burns.
  • Transportation Tips?

    The trains in Sri Lanka are extraordinary! Just be prepared for some very long train rides, make sure to bring snacks and water, although if you are lucky the locals will share their snacks with you.
  • Any surprises?

    I was surprised by how many different types of animals are in Sri Lanka. The wild elephant migration is an awesome thing to check out. Also, make sure to be careful of the monkeys, they like to steal water bottles!

Lodging

  • Bunkyard Hostel: Very easily accessible and the staff there are very helpful

  • Ella Escapade Hostel: This hostel includes breakfast and the workers at the hostel are extremely helpful in telling you where to begin your hikes.

  • Hostel in main city