Enchanting Ceylon – 7 Days Trip Sri Lanka

Kandy, often referred to as the hill capital of Sri Lanka, is the island's second-largest city and a significant hub for both religion and culture. Located amidst scenic hills, Kandy is steeped in history and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage City for its cultural and historical significance. The city dates back to the 14th century and became the capital of the Kingdom of Kandy in the 16th century, playing a vital role in resisting European colonial powers for centuries.

Kandy is also renowned for its preservation of traditional arts, crafts, music, dance, and song, which have flourished uninterrupted for hundreds of years. It is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important religious sites in Buddhism, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

The city's vibrant cultural heritage and stunning landscape make it a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka. Would you like more details on exploring Kandy's key attractions or cultural experiences?

Here’s an excellent itinerary for exploring Kandy and immersing yourself in its rich culture and heritage:

Activities & Highlights

1. 1. 1. Breakfast at the hotel & check-out: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, then check out to begin your tour of Kandy.
      2. Visit Spice and Herbal Garden: On your way through Kandy, stop by a local Spice and Herbal Garden. You’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices, their medicinal uses, and how they’re grown. It’s an aromatic and educational experience.
      3. Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: One of Kandy’s most sacred sites, the **Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic**, houses a relic of the Buddha's tooth. A visit here offers deep insight into Sri Lanka's Buddhist traditions and is a spiritually enriching experience.
      4. Kandy Cultural Show: Witness a vibrant Kandy Cultural Show, featuring traditional dance, music, and drumming. The colorful costumes and captivating performances reflect centuries-old traditions that are still alive in this city.
      5. Visit Gem Museum / Wood Carving Factory / Batik / Silk: Discover Sri Lanka's famed gemstones at the Gem Museum, where you’ll see exquisite local jewelry. Next, explore traditional wood carving at a local factory and visit Batik or silk shops, where you can see the intricate process of creating these beautiful fabrics.
      6. Relaxing Ayurvedic Massage: After a full day of exploration, unwind with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. This ancient practice is known for its holistic approach to well-being, offering a perfect way to relax and recharge.
      7. Kandy City Walk / Kandy 360 View Point: Conclude your day with a leisurely Kandy city walk. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Kandy 360 View Point, where you can take in the beauty of Kandy’s lush landscape and vibrant skyline.

Overnight Stay at Kandy

Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as "Little England" by locals, is a charming hill station located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. Its misty climate, cool weather, and colonial-era architecture give it a distinctly British feel, reminiscent of an English countryside. The town is nestled amidst layers of lush mountains blanketed by vast tea plantations, making it one of the most picturesque retreats in the country.

Due to its unique climate, Nuwara Eliya is home to a wide variety of plants, vegetables, fruits, and flowers that are difficult to grow in other parts of Sri Lanka. The region is known for its strawberries, carrots, lettuce, and flowers like roses and dahlias, which thrive in the cool climate. The stunning landscapes, combined with its agricultural richness, make it a delightful place for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Here’s a fantastic itinerary for a day in Nuwara Eliya:

Activities & Highlights

1. 1. 1. Breakfast at the hotel & check-out: Start your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out of your hotel, ready for an exciting adventure.
      2. Lunch at the hotel/restaurant & check-in: After lunch, check in to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Take some time to settle in and enjoy the serene environment of the hotel. You can spend a couple of hours unwinding, perhaps enjoying a cup of tea with a view of the misty hills or take a short nap to recharge.
      3. Visit Tea Factory: Head to a local tea factory in Nuwara Eliya. You’ll get a firsthand look at the tea production process, from plucking to processing, and have the opportunity to taste some of the finest Ceylon tea. The factory tours often include beautiful views of the surrounding tea plantations.

Overnight Stay at Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," is a picturesque hill station in Sri Lanka known for its cool climate and stunning landscapes. Surrounded by rolling mountains and expansive tea plantations, this charming retreat features a unique blend of colonial architecture and natural beauty, often shrouded in mist.

The region's climate allows for a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a prime area for growing vegetables, fruits, and flowers not commonly found in other parts of Sri Lanka. Locals cultivate delicious strawberries, carrots, lettuce, and a variety of beautiful flowers, contributing to Nuwara Eliya's reputation as a horticultural hub.

Here’s a delightful itinerary for a day in and around Nuwara Eliya, focusing on nature and local experiences:

Activities & Highlights

1. 1. 1. Early Morning Visit to Horton Plains National Park: Start your day early with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a scenic trek through the stunning landscapes, featuring unique flora and fauna. The highlight is the famous World's End viewpoint, where you can see a dramatic drop and breathtaking views of the valleys below.
      2. Ambewala Farm Visit: After exploring Horton Plains, head to Ambewala Farm, known for its dairy products and serene surroundings. You can tour the farm, interact with animals, and sample fresh milk and cheese produced on-site.
      3. Strawberry Farm Visit: Next, visit a local strawberry farm. Depending on the season, you may be able to pick your own strawberries or simply enjoy the beautiful fields. Taste fresh strawberries and explore local products like jams and desserts.
      4. Leisure Activities: After your farm visits, enjoy some leisure activities in the area. You could opt for a relaxing stroll around Gregory Lake, go for a boat ride, or even try your hand at fishing. Alternatively, explore the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, with its lovely gardens and colonial architecture.

Overnight Stay at Nuwara Eliya

You will transition from the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya to the more tropical climates of Kitulgala and Bentota, blending adventure and relaxation.

Kitulgala is a beautiful town located in the wet zone of Sri Lanka’s southwest, best known for its adventure activities, particularly white-water rafting. Surrounded by lush rainforests, waterfalls, and the Kelani River, Kitulgala is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Here’s a delightful itinerary for a day in and around Kithulgala & Bentota, focusing on nature and local experiences:

Activities & Highlights

1. 1. 1. Early Morning: After an early breakfast, check out from your hotel in Nuwara Eliya and begin your drive to Kitulgala (approximately a 2.5- to 3-hour drive). Kitulgala is a small town known for its scenic beauty and adventure sports, particularly white-water rafting.
      2. Mid-Morning Adventure in Kitulgala: Upon arrival in Kitulgala, you’ll head straight to the Kelani River for a thrilling white-water rafting experience. The rafting stretch lasts around 5-7 km, and you’ll navigate through Grade 2 and 3 rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and thrill-seekers. If you're not keen on rafting, you can opt for a jungle trek, explore the Belilena Cave, or enjoy a nature walk through the rainforest around Kitulgala.
      3. Lunch in Kitulgala: After your adventure, have lunch at a riverside restaurant in Kitulgala. You can enjoy some local Sri Lankan food or opt for more familiar dishes while enjoying views of the lush surroundings. Afternoon: Drive to Bentota.
      4. Afternoon Drive: After lunch, continue your drive from Kitulgala to Bentota (approximately 3.5-4 hours). As you descend from the highlands to the coastal region, you’ll notice the landscape change from misty mountains to tropical greenery and, eventually, the sparkling Indian Ocean.

1. 1. 4. Evening: Arrive in Bentota: Check-in and Relaxation. Arrive in Bentota by late afternoon or early evening and check into your beachfront hotel. Bentota is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and water sports. Spend some time relaxing at the hotel, either by the pool or on the beach, soaking in the coastal beauty after the long drive.
      5. Optional Evening Activity: If you’re feeling up for it, take a sunset boat ride along the Bentota River, where you can explore the mangroves and spot wildlife such as birds and monitor lizards.
      6. Dinner: Enjoy a seafood dinner at your hotel or at one of Bentota’s popular beachside restaurants. The area is known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Overnight stay in Bentota

Bentota is a picturesque coastal town located on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, renowned for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and water sports. It is the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure, offering a blend of beachside serenity and exciting activities. Here’s an overview of Bentota and its highlights:

Here’s a delightful itinerary for a day in and around Bentota, focusing on nature and local experiences:

Itinerary includes exploring Bentota, a resort town famous for its sandy beaches, lagoon, and water sports activities. The best time to visit is from November to April when the seas are calm for snorkelling, diving, sailing, and wind-surfing.

Activities & Highlights

1. 1. 1. Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel.
      2. Madhu River Safari & Fish Therapy: Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Madhu River and experience fish therapy, where tiny fish exfoliate your skin.
      3. Visit Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: Learn about conservation efforts at the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and witness baby turtles before they are released into the ocean.
      4. Relax on the Beach and Water Sports: Spend some leisure time on Bentota's sandy beaches, relax under the sun, and try out exciting water sports activities available in the area.

Overnight stay in Bentota

Here's a simple yet effective itinerary for your departure day from Colombo:

Departure Day Itinerary

1. 1. Breakfast at the hotel: Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, savoring the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine or your preferred breakfast options.
   2. Check-out: After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Make sure to settle any outstanding bills and confirm your transport to the airport.
   3. Shopping: If time allows, take the opportunity for some last-minute shopping. You could visit local markets or departmental stores to pick up souvenirs or gifts.
   4. Airport Transfer: Depending on your flight schedule, arrange for transportation to Colombo International Airport. Ensure you leave with ample time to check in and clear security, typically 2-3 hours before your flight.

Your 7-day journey through Sri Lanka may come to an end, but the memories you collect will last a lifetime. From breathtaking landscapes to heartfelt connections, this magical island leaves a piece of itself with every traveler.

Have a safe Travel and don’t forget to give a good feedback and review on Google review, Trip advisor, Trust Pilot.