10 day Sri Lanka Itinerary: the ultimate guide

Thinking of visiting Sri Lanka? Here we share — arguably — the best Sri Lanka itinerary for ten days. Taking you from the capital, Colombo, to the scenic surf spot of Hiriketiya on the island’s south coast, via stack of cultural attractions in the highlands, it’ll have you discovering the country in unforgettably immersive style. As a bonus, here we also share practical tips to help you plan your own trip, including the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

The perfect Sri Lanka 10 day itinerary

If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, this 10-day itinerary offers a perfect mix of city life, lush hill country, and stunning coastline. You'll experience some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka, from exploring ancient temples to spotting wildlife and relaxing on golden beaches.

Before diving into the day-by-day details, here’s a quick overview of what to expect on this unforgettable journey.

• Day 1: Arrive in Colombo; visit some top attractions
• Day 2: Transfer to Sigiriya
• Day 2: Explore Sigiriya’s fortress, temples and lush landscapes
• Day 4: Transfer to Kandy
• Day 5: Explore Kandy’s temples, tea industry and markets
• Day 6: Transfer to Nuwara Eliya
• Day 7: Explore Nuwara Eliya’s natural and historic attractions
• Day 8: Transfer to Ella; hike and explore tea plantations
• Day 9: Transfer to coastal Hiriketiya
• Day 10: Chill-out in Hiriketiya

Not sure how long to spend in Sri Lanka? Browse our 7 days in Sri Lanka itinerary and the best 14 days in Sri Lanka itinerary. 

You could also contact our local Sri Lanka travel experts to have them curate your perfect trip, for any duration. 

Day 1: Colombo

This 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary kicks off in Colombo — the sprawling capital of the island, and gateway for all international visitors.

Why start in Colombo?

Located two-thirds down the west coast, Colombo is by far the busiest and most populated place in Sri Lanka.

Often overlooked by tourists, we recommend spending a night here to experience its mix of colonial-era architecture, markets, and coastal promenade.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: head to Saraswathie Lodge on Galle Road. This local favorite is a great place to try hoppers (nests of noodle-like dough) paired with a spicy coconut sambal.
• Lunch: Upali’s by Nawaloka near Viharamahadevi Park is the place to come for authentic rice-and-curry spreads.
• Dinner: for seafood dining with a view (you’ll be steps from the waterfront), book a table at Ministry of Crab in the Old Dutch Hospital precinct. It’s clear why folks flock here for the fresh crab dishes.

Where to stay

• Fort and Pettah: this central area is close to colonial landmarks and bustling bazaars.
• Cinnamon Gardens: a leafy upscale district that’s also close to cultural hotspots.

Editor’s tip: read more on where to stay in Sri Lanka.

Getting around

You have a few handy options when it comes to getting around Colombo. 

Tuk-tuks are cheap and easy for shorter distances (be sure to agree on price first), taxis booked via your hotel will be fast and reliable, while public buses are a bit of an adventure.

Best places to visit

After checking in, you’ll hopefully have time to visit at least one of these top Colombo attractions.

Gangaramaya Temple: one of Colombo’s most iconic temples, this blends Buddhist architecture with eclectic art. Its halls are lined with stacks of statues and antiques.

• Best time to visit: early morning
• How to get there: take a short tuk-tuk ride from the city center
• Ticket info: make a small donation at the entrance

Galle Face Green: this seaside promenade serves wonderful sunset views and street snack vendors offering a taste of local life. It’s a great place to people watch as waves crash along the coast.

• Best time to visit: late afternoon
• How to get there: tuk-tuk or short taxi ride
• Good to know: bag yourself a spot on the lawn to watch impromptu games of cricket as you enjoy a kottu roti.

National Museum of Colombo: this grand museum showcases Sri Lankan history and culture through ancient relics and royal regalia.

• Best time to visit: mid-morning
• How to get there: take a taxi from your hotel
• Ticket info: purchase at the entrance
• Good to know: don’t miss the lesser-visited upstairs galleries. They’re usually quieter, and packed with hidden treasures.

Expert's tip: go to Galle Face Green at dusk to soak up sublime sunsets.

Day 2: Sigiriya

Located approximately 175 km (109 miles) northeast of Colombo, Sigiriya (“Lion Rock”) sits in Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle — a region that’s rich in history and archaeological sites.

Declared a World Heritage Site in 1982, and sitting atop a huge outcrop of gneiss rock that towers 200m above the surrounding countryside, Sigiriya was the shortest-lived — but most extraordinary — of all Sri Lanka’s medieval capitals. 

It’s also the country’s most memorable single attraction, and a hands-down highlight of this Sri Lanka itinerary. 

How to get there from Colombo

Hire a private driver or take a taxi for the four-hour drive to the site, or else take a train to Habarana followed by a short tuk-tuk ride.

Alternatively, using our tailor-made travel service will provide you with a stress-free transfer, and offers the chance to pick up local insights along the way. 

Where to eat

• Breakfast: start your day at Chooti Restaurant near Sigiriya village. The coconut roti and fruit plates come especially recommended. 
• Lunch: for a full-on local feast, head to Gamagedara Village Food, a family-run spot offering hearty rice-and-curry buffets packed with authentic flavors.
• Dinner: as evening falls, visit Pradeep Restaurant. It’s known for tasty wood-cooked dishes, best enjoyed under the stars in the cozy garden. 

Where to stay

• Near Sigiriya Rock: many lodges close to the site come with fortress views, and are ideally located for early-morning climbs.
• Dambulla: head here for quiet guesthouses within reach of Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Getting around

For short hops, you’ll have no trouble finding a tuk-tuk, and bikes are widely available for when you want to explore rural roads at your own pace.

When visiting Pidurangala or Dambulla, consider hiring a car with a driver. 

Best places to visit

Sigiriya Rock: home to the fascinating remains of one of the island’s former capitals, you won’t want to miss claiming the rock and spending a few hours exploring the site.

• Best time to visit: sunrise, for sublime views, and to beat the heat and crowds.
• How to get there: tuk-tuk.
• Ticket info: purchase at the main gate.
• Good to know: climb the spiral stairs to the summit to see ancient frescoes and enjoy panoramic views.

Pidurangala Rock: this neighboring formation offers breath-taking views of Sigiriya’s iconic silhouette.

• Best time to visit: early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer tourists
• How to get there: take a quick tuk-tuk ride from Sigiriya village.
• Ticket info: pay a small fee to support the local temple at the base of the rock.
• Good to know: being a less-visited site, this offers a quieter experience.

Expert's tip: if you're into culture and more authentic travel experiences, we recommend taking a village walk in the company of a local guide before sunrise. 

You’ll explore less-traveled paths and meet farmers to learn about local produce.

Day 3: Sigiriya

Nestled amidst lush greenery, and speckled with temples and villages, there’s a whole lot more to discover around Sigiriya than just the famous fortress. 

So, day 3 of this Sri Lanka itinerary is devoted to doing a deeper dive into the area, with opportunities to visit notable temples and caves, while eating local, and exploring the countryside at your own pace. 

Where to eat

• Breakfast: Wijesiri Family Restaurant — great coconut pancakes and zesty juice.
• Lunch: Nirwana Restaurant is the place to come for home-style rice-and-curry buffets.
• Dinner: Ahinsa Restaurant — a pretty place to enjoy traditional village-style cooking by candlelight.

Where to stay

• Rural homestays: ideal if you want to experience local customs and home-cooked meals.
• Eco-lodges: the best accommodation choice for those who want to watch birds and have easy access to nature walks.

Getting around

We recommend renting a bike to enjoy leisurely rides through paddy fields. If you’re short on time, take a tuk-tuk. 

Planning any longer excursions? Your accommodation hosts can arrange a car with a driver.

Best places to visit

Dambulla Cave Temple: boasting 150+ Buddha statues and intricate murals, all beautifully preserved in five sacred caves, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a showstopper.

• Best time to visit: early morning
• How to get there: short taxi or tuk-tuk from Sigiriya
• Ticket info: pay a moderate entrance fee at the gate
• Good to know: you’ll need to remove your shoes and dress modestly

Minneriya National Park: renowned for its “Elephant Gathering” — a spectacular seasonal event that sees hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya Reservoir — this expanse of grasslands and lakes delivers some of the best wildlife experiences in Sri Lanka.

While all ages will take much from the experience, it’s a top spot for those visiting Sri Lanka with kids.

• Best time to visit: late afternoon for optimal wildlife sightings
• How to get there: hire a jeep and driver from Sigiriya
• Ticket info: you’ll need to pay an entrance fee at the main gate, plus jeep hire
• Good to know: patience pays off — wildlife appears in its own time, so be sure to devote a good few hours to the park.

Expert's tip: take a cycling tour through rural villages to see day-to-day life.

Day 4: Kandy

Nestled in the lush highlands, Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, with its Temple of the Tooth centerpiece drawing pilgrims from around the globe. 

In addition, the city’s botanical gardens, lakeside setting and thriving traditional arts scene create a harmonious blend of religion, history and nature.

How to get there from Sigiriya

Either book a private car or taxi — it’ll take around 2.5-hours. Buses are also an option, but expect a longer journey time. 

Or, to forgo the hassle of arranging your own transfers — and to travel in comfort and enjoy scenic stops along the way — consider using our tailor-made travel service.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: located near Kandy Lake, Café Secret Alley serves mood-boosting fresh fruit bowls and tea.
• Lunch: head to Balaji Dosai for authentic South Indian dosas.
• Dinner: overlooking Kandy Lake, Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar is a top spot for Asian fusion dishes.

Where to stay

• Near Kandy Lake: check out accommodation around Kandy Lake to be close to the Temple of the Tooth.
• Hillside retreats: for a romantic stay and stunning views, consider guesthouses in the outlying area. 

Getting around

Walking is the best way to explore around the lake, with tuk-tuks on hand to navigate the city’s winding lanes.

Best places to visit

Temple of the Tooth: home to the Buddha’s sacred tooth relic, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most sacred places in Buddhism. 

• Best time to visit: early morning pooja
• How to get there: take a short tuk-tuk ride from the city center
• Ticket info: head to the entrance on arrival
• Good to know: you’ll need to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya: celebrated for its collection of 4000+ plant species, including the iconic avenue of royal palms and a stunning orchid house, these glorious gardens boast 147 acres of landscaped beauty.

• Best time to visit: morning.
• How to get there: 20-minute taxi from Kandy.
• Ticket info: purchase at the entrance.
• Good to know: allow at least a couple of hours to explore this peaceful retreat.

Expert's tip: while in town, be sure to attend an evening Kandyan dance performance, replete with drumming, costumes, and storytelling that brings history and myth to life.

Day 5: Kandy

Day 5 of this Sri Lanka itinerary is devoted to uncovering more of Kandy, including exploring markets and museums, and sampling local specialities.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: head to The Empire Café for Sri Lankan pancakes and spiced tea.
• Lunch: Helga’s Folly comes recommended for its bohemian vibe and fusion of local and Western dishes.
• Dinner: Café 1886 by Salgado Bakers is ideal for local favorites like lamprais —  rice and side dishes baked in a banana leaf.

Best places to visit

Ceylon Tea Museum: this must-visit museum reveals tea’s journey from leaf to cup.

• Best time to visit: mid-morning
• How to get there: short taxi ride
• Ticket info: pay a moderate entrance fee at the door.
• Good to know: you’ll get to taste tea at the end of your visit.

Kandy Market Hall: brimming with spices, produce and local crafts, this bazaar is one of the liveliest in all Sri Lanka.

• Best time to visit: morning.
• How to get there: walk or hop in a tuk-tuk.
• Good to know: bargaining is part of the culture here, but be polite 

Expert's tip: look to book a cooking class for hands-on insights into Sri Lankan ingredients, traditions and flavors.

Day 6: Travel to Nuwara Eliya by train

Day 6 of this Sri Lanka itinerary involves a train transfer from Kandy to Sri Lanka’s highest town — Nuwara Eliya.

Located in the heart of the southern hill country, and set among a bowl of green mountains beneath Pidurutalagala — Sri Lanka’s tallest peak — it was established by the British in the nineteenth century.

In fact, Nuwara Eliya is often referred to as Sri Lanka’s “Little England”, replete with a municipal park, golf course, boating lake, old colonial hotels and very frequent, very British showers of rain.

How to get there from Kandy

Take the train to Nanu Oya station. The four-hour journey is among the world’s most scenic train rides, thanks to the rolling hills and waterfalls you’ll pass along the way.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: pack pastries from Kandy to enjoy during your scenic train ride.
• Lunch: enjoy a rich curry at Grand Indian, the on-site restaurant of the Grand Hotel.
• Dinner: head to the Hill Club for a British-inspired fireside dining experience.

Where to stay

• Near Victoria Park: this area offers colonial-style hotels right in town.
• Tea estate bungalows: located around the main town, these are ideal for serenity seekers.

Getting around

When exploring town, just jump in a tuk-tuk, while taxis and hotel-arranged cars are on hand for visits to tea estates and Horton Plains — more on that a little later.

Best places to visit

Victoria Park: this beautifully landscaped garden boasts vibrant flower displays, well-maintained lawns, and winding pathways. 

• Best time to visit: mid-afternoon for a leisurely stroll.
• How to get there: walk from town.
• Ticket info: small entrance fee.
• Good to know: it’s the perfect place to relax after your train journey from Kandy.

Tea factory tour: to observe the entire tea production process — from plucking fresh leaves to withering, rolling, and packaging — tour the Mackwoods or Pedro Tea Estate.

• Best time to visit: mid-morning.
• How to get there: taxi or tuk-tuk
• Ticket info: pay a small fee on arrival.
• Good to know: most tours end with a tea-tasting session. Take note of your favorites so you can buy some to take home. 

Expert's tip: look to book an observation carriage seat on the train to transform your ride into a totally cinematic experience.

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya

Exploring trails, sipping tea on colonial verandas, visiting nearby national parks — all this can be enjoyed in Nuwara Eliya on day 7 of this diversely rewarding Sri Lanka itinerary.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: for Sri Lankan snacks and exquisite tea, go to the De Silva Food Centre.
• Lunch: craving a change? Salmiya serves excellent wood-fired pizzas.
• Dinner: in the mood for European-style dishes? Go to the Grand Café.

Where to stay

• Enjoy a second night in your chosen colonial hotel or tea bungalow.

Getting around

While in town, you can explore on foot or use tuk-tuks to zip around.

Tuk-tuks also cover the 45-minutes to an hour it takes to reach Horton Plains. For a less bumpy ride, hire a car and driver. 

Best places to visit

Horton Plains National Park: this splendid UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its breath-taking landscapes, including World’s End — a dramatic cliff with panoramic views — and Baker’s Falls.

• Best time to visit: early morning.
• Ticket info: pay the entrance fee at the gate.
• Good to know: dress in layers — it’s often chilly around these parts.

Lake Gregory: surrounded by lush hills, and nestled in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, Lake Gregory is the perfect spot to relax, enjoy the cool climate, go boating and take serene strolls.

• Best time to visit: afternoon.
• How to get there: walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride from town.
• Ticket info: there’s a small fee for boat rentals.
• Good to know: this is lovely place for a picnic, so pick up snack supplies from town.

Expert tip: arrange a dawn trek through tea plantations — seeing tea pluckers at work will connect you to the source of that comforting morning brew, and showcase some stunning rural vistas.

Day 8: Ella

Day 8 of this 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary involves a transfer to Ella. Surrounded by idyllic green hills blanketed in tea plantations, it’s the closest thing to an English country village you’ll find in Sri Lanka. 

With a temperate climate and some great walking opportunities, Ella is an idyllic destination for travelers seeking scenic laidback vibes.

How to get there from Nuwara Eliya

Either take the train from Nanu Oya to Ella, or hire a car — the drive will take around 2.5 hours.

And, as always, using our tailor-made trip platform means you can avoid having to arrange your own transfer. Instead, our experts can reserve train seats, or arrange scenic stops if you opt to travel by car.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: head to Café Chill for smoothie bowls and rich espresso.
• Lunch: Matey Hut is great for tasty budget-friendly rice and curry dishes.
• Dinner: try AK Ristoro for Italian, Sri Lankan and Asian fusion food.

Where to stay

• Near Ella Town: the center of town offers simple guesthouses within reach of trails.
• Hillside Cabins: for marvelous views of Ella Gap, stay in a cute country cabin outside town.

Getting around

While Ella itself is small and walkable, you can reach out-of-town trailheads and viewpoints by tuk-tuk.

Best places to visit

Ella Rock: offering a moderately challenging trek through tea plantations, lush forests and rocky paths to a stunning viewpoint, the hike to Ella Rock — a 4-hour round trip — rewards visitors with panoramic views of Ella Gap, a spectacular natural gorge.

Through the gap, you can see far into the southern plains of Sri Lanka.

• Best time to visit: early morning.
• How to get there: start on foot from Ella town.
• Good to know: bring plenty of water and wear decent hiking footwear.

Nine Arch Bridge: also known as the "Bridge in the Sky," this iconic railway bridge is an architectural marvel, and easily accessible via a short scenic hike from Ella.

• Best time to visit: time your visit to see a passing train.
• How to get there: walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride from town.
• Good to know: to see this icon from other angles, head to nearby viewpoints like Upper Tea Fields Viewpoint (above the bridge), the train viewing point along the railway track, Forest Viewpoint (on the path leading to the bridge from Ella town), and Little Adam’s Peak.

Expert tip: don’t miss the chance to take a fun and informative tea-tasting session to understanding the flavor nuances of your favorite brews.

Day 9: Hiriketiya

Another notable shift in scenery lies in store on day 9, thanks to a move to Hiriketiya. Not only is this crescent-shaped bay one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, but it’s also one of the best places to surf in Sri Lanka.

With a lovely laidback vibe, and selection of trendy cafés, boutique accommodation and yoga retreats, Hiriketiya is becoming a something of a hub for digital nomads and travelers seeking a quieter alternative to busier southern beaches like Mirissa.

It’s also a charming place to finish up this 10-day Sri Lanka itinerary.

How to get there from Ella

A 3-4-hour trip by private car will see you descend scenic landscapes to captivating south coast. 

Where to eat

• Breakfast: Dots Bay House is a great place to start your stay well with smoothies and avocado toast.
• Lunch: head to Surf’n’Sun Café for fish tacos and coconut water.
• Dinner: Salt House Restaurant is a top spot for enjoying grilled seafood and salads beneath gently swaying palms.

Where to stay

• Beachfront cabanas: to be steps from the sand, book yourself a cute beach cabana.
• Boutique guesthouses: for more romantic seclusion, check out the area’s locally-owned boutique guesthouses, many of which offer on-site yoga classes.

Getting around

Simply walk the bay, or take tuk-tuks to Dikwella’s markets.

Best places to visit

Hiriketiya beach: whether you want to stretch out on the sand, float, or fancy riding the waves, Hiriketiya beach is a handsome place to spend (at least) a few hours. 

You could also take a yoga class at one of the studios, and savor fresh seafood and tropical drinks at beachfront cafés.

• Best time to visit: for calmer waves, hit the beach in the morning
• Good to know: surf lessons and board rentals are easily available, and affordable.

Dikwella market: head to Dikwella market for bustling stalls filled with fresh produce, spices and handmade crafts. 

• Best time to visit: morning, when the stalls are at their liveliest, and the produce is super-fresh.
• How to get there: depending on where you’re staying, walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride.
• Good to know: be sure to pick up ripe mangoes and passionfruit to enjoy back on the beach.

Expert tip: book a surf lesson — friendly instructors and gentle waves make it accessible to all.

Day 10: Hiriketiya

The final segment of this 10 day Sri Lanka itinerary offers opportunities to soak up coastal vibes at your own pace.

Where to eat

• Breakfast: visit Verse Collective for specialty coffee and pastries.
• Lunch: Malu Poke is a great place for fresh poke bowls with sashimi-grade fish.
• Dinner: head to The Grove to enjoy wood-fired pizzas and grilled seafood beneath coconut palms.

Where to stay

• Enjoy a second night in your chosen beachfront bolthole or boutique guesthouse. spot.

Getting around

There’s no need to take long journeys from this part of the world — you can walk to most places, and jump in a tuk-tuk for visits to local temples. Talking of which…

Best places to visit

Wewurukannala Vihara Temple: located in nearby Dikwella, Wewurukannala Vihara Temple is famous for its massive 50-meter-high seated Buddha statue — the tallest in Sri Lanka. 

Inside, you can explore intricate murals and a unique hall depicting Buddhist teachings, including a somewhat eerie "chamber of horrors" depicting karmic punishments.

• Best time to visit: early morning
• How to get there: short tuk-tuk ride
• Good to know: you should dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering.

Coastal coves: head along the rugged shoreline surrounding Hiriketiya to find hidden fishermen’s coves that offer a glimpse into traditional Sri Lankan coastal life.

The path also reveals small secluded beaches and dramatic views of the Indian Ocean.

• Best time to visit: late afternoon.
• Good to know: time your walk right, and you’ll get to soak up a sublime final Sri Lankan sunset.

Expert tip: to round off your trip feeling totally rejuvenated, book a traditional Ayurvedic massage. 

How many days is enough for Sri Lanka?

Now there’s a tricky question, and the answer depends on your expectations, and how much you want to see and do during your vacation.

As will be apparent from the 10-day Sri Lanka presented above, it’s possible to enjoy a whopping range of landscapes and experiences in 10 days. 

But if you can stay a little longer — perhaps following our recommended 14 days in Sri Lanka itinerary — you could look to expand segments of the trip to better align with your interests.

For example, if you’re into wildlife, you’ll want to include Yala National Park in your itinerary. Or it might be the case that you want to spend more time on the beach.

Conversely, if you’re short on time, we’ve curated a 7 days in Sri Lanka itinerary that includes many of the destinations of this 10 day option.

While you’ll have a little less time to immerse yourself in each place, it still takes you from Colombo to the south coast via the culture-packed high regions. 

Still not sure how long to spend in Sri Lanka? Contact our local Sri Lanka travel experts to have them curate your perfect rip, tailored to your interests, for any duration. 

What’s the best time to visit Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on your preferences and the regions you plan to visit. 

One thing to note is that for such a small country, the weather in Sri Lanka is complicated by the fact that the island is affected by two separate monsoons. 

In good news, though, this means there’s usually good weather somewhere on the island at most times of the year.

Generally, the peak season runs from December to March, when the weather is mostly dry and sunny — making it ideal for beach vacations and exploring the mountainous regions.

Planning to visit the east coast? Note that April to May and September to November are the best times to visit, despite occasional rains. 

When it comes to the west and south coasts, you’ll want to avoid May to September, when the southwest monsoon is in full swing.

Conversely, the northeast monsoon brings rain to the east coast from October to January, while the west and south coasts enjoy better weather during these months.

Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?

Most travelers – including those from the US, UK and EU — require a visa to visit Sri Lanka. 

The easiest option is to use the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which can be applied for online before arrival. 

In addition, your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months from your entry date. 

How long can I stay?

The standard tourist ETA allows stays of up to 30 days, with the option to extend for an additional 60 days at the Department of Immigration in Colombo. 

Read more Sri Lanka travel advice.

How much money do you need for a Sri Lanka trip?

A 10-day mid-range trip to Sri Lanka is likely to cost in the region of $800–$1200 USD per person, excluding international flights. 

Here's a breakdown of costs.

• Accommodation: $40–$70 per night for mid-range hotels or boutique guesthouse stays.
• Food: local meals will cost $3–$7 per meal, and eating in upscale restaurants will be around $10–$20 per meal, which comes out at an average daily food budget of $15–$30 USD.
• Transportation: a mix of private drivers or taxis for long distances, train rides and tuk-tuks will average $40–$70 per day.
• Activities: expect entrance fees and guided tours or safaris to total $150–$300 USD across a 10-day trip. 

What should I wear in Sri Lanka?

When visiting Sri Lanka, choose lightweight, breathable clothing that suits the tropical climate. You’ll also want to pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and plenty of sunscreen.

In cities and during temple visits, you need to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees with long skirts, trousers or scarves. 

Planning a beach vacation? You should cover up when leaving beach areas.

Heading to hill stations like Nuwara Eliya? You’ll want to bring light sweaters or jackets for cooler evenings, and comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. 

How to travel to Sri Lanka

Traveling from the US? While there are no direct flights to Sri Lanka, popular one-stop options include airlines like Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Singapore Airlines, with layovers in Doha, Dubai, or Singapore.

Total travel time ranges from 18 to 24 hours, depending on layover duration and your departure city. 

Major US airports like New York (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and Chicago (ORD) offer convenient connections.

Traveling to Sri Lanka from the UK? Flights to Sri Lanka are more straightforward, with direct flights offered by SriLankan Airlines from London Heathrow (LHR) taking approximately 10–11 hours. 

Alternatively, airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad provide one-stop flights via hubs like Dubai, Doha, or Abu Dhabi.

Handily, travelers from regional UK airports can also connect via these hubs.

Is Sri Lanka easy to travel around?

When it comes to getting around Sri Lanka, it’s relatively easy, with a variety of transport options catering to different budgets and travel styles. 

Trains are a popular choice, especially for scenic routes like Kandy to Ella.

Buses — including local and intercity options ­— are widespread and budget-friendly, but they can be crowded and less punctual.

For greater comfort and flexibility, hiring a private car with a driver is a common choice for tourists. 

While self-driving is possible, Sri Lanka’s chaotic traffic and unfamiliar driving rules may be challenging for first-time visitors.

Meanwhile, tuk-tuks are ideal for short trips in towns and between attractions.

Tempted to visit? Before booking your trip, consider contacting our local Sri Lanka travel experts to have them curate your perfect vacation for any duration.