updated 11.11.2024
Looking to spend one week in Sri Lanka? While you won’t have time to enjoy all best things to do in Sri Lanka, with planning it’s perfectly possible to enjoy a range of landscapes and experiences in that time, as revealed in this epic 1 week Sri Lanka itinerary. Taking you from the capital, Colombo, to the south coast, via the scenic hill country, it’ll have you maxing out all 7 days in Sri Lanka.
Created by local experts
If you've been pondering what to see and do during one week in Sri Lanka, here's an overview of my own Sri Lanka itinerary for 7 days, before we go into day-by-day detail below.
7-day itinerary Sri Lanka:
To make the most of your 7 days in Sri Lanka, consider hiring a professional to plan your trip. Our local travel experts can craft a Sri Lanka itinerary that’s perfect for you.
This 1 week Sri Lanka itinerary kicks off in Colombo © Shutterstock
This 1-week Sri Lanka itinerary kicks off in Colombo, capital of Sri Lanka.
Given that I was transferring to Kandy the next morning, I made the most of the short time I had here by picking a hotel in the historic Fort area, which meant I got to see the Old Dutch Hospital and Colombo Fort Clock Tower right after checking in.
Then, an hour or so before dusk, we headed to Galle Face Green, which I’d heard was the place to come for spectacular sunsets.
A friend had also tipped us off about finding a table in the gardens of Galle Face Green Hotel before the golden hour. So, we did exactly that and got to sip gin and tonics as the sun slipped in the Indian Ocean.
As mentioned above, we went for accommodation in Fort as it offers easy access to iconic landmarks like the Old Dutch Hospital and the Colombo Fort Clock Tower, and boasts a good spread of mid-range and upscale hotels.
While Fort turned out to be a great choice, if you have the budget, I’d really recommend Galle Face. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it’s home to some of Colombo’s finest hotels, including the iconic Galle Face Hotel we sipped our sun-downers in.
If you prefer a quieter stay — and like the sound of being close to museums and galleries and cafés — check out accommodation in Cinnamon Gardens.
Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
The first stage of my 7-day Sri Lanka itinerary was transferring from Colombo to Kandy — Sri’s Lanka’s second city, and the country’s undisputed cultural capital.
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours by train
Covering 110km, the journey from Colombo to Kandy was something else, and I highly recommend taking the train from Colombo Fort Station, which lived up to its reputation for being Sri Lanka’s most scenic rail-ride. Think dramatic hills, emerald tea plantations and lush forests at every turn.
Editor’s tip: while you can just rock up and buy tickets from Colombo Fort Station, booking in advance is recommended, not least if you want a place in the observation cars that have extra-wide windows.
On a budget? You can travel more cheaply by bus, with a journey time of 3-3.5 hours.
Nestled in the hills of central Sri Lanka, Kandy was a true highpoint of my Sri Lanka travel itinerary.
In fact, if you’re considering cutting down to a Sri Lanka 6 days itinerary, I really recommend leaving Kandy on your trip plan.
First up, it’s home to one of the most important Buddhist temples in the world — the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. It also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one the best places to visit Sri Lanka.
We got here early and walked around Kandy Lake before visiting the temple. Created in 1807 by the last king of Sri Lanka, it’s a peaceful place to gather your thoughts before heading into the temple.
Another highlight of Kandy was the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, just outside the city center. It’s home to an incredible collection of tropical plants, with towering palm avenues and beautifully landscaped gardens to stroll.
I especially loved the orchid house, and that fact the place was packed with birds (and cheeky monkeys).
Editor’s tip: take a tuk-tuk to the enormous white Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue that sits atop a hill — the views are sublime.
From colonial style villas and upscale eco-resorts, to affordable homestays and modern hotels, accommodation in Kandy covers all bases.
If you’re looking for 5-star luxury, it’s hard to find someplace grander than Grand Serendib Hotel — the rooms are spacious and the views are divine, especially from its roof top bar and infinity pool.
While our budget couldn’t stretch to Grand Serendib Hotel, we adored our stay in Villa Olde Ceylon — its terrace, gardens and cute pool were a delight, and it felt like really great value.
A couple we met at the temple also raved about SWP Eco Lodge, especially the lake views.
Editor’s tip: if you're in the market for an affordable upscale stay, discover the best boutique hotels in Sri Lanka.
Spending 7 days in Sri Lanka? Don't miss Kandy © Shutterstock
Next on this 1 week Sri Lanka itinerary is a train transfer from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya — the highest town in Sri Lanka.
Travel time:4-5 hours by train
If the journey from Colombo to Kandy is special, the onward trip to Nuwara Eliya is off the scale.
As the train climbs higher into the hill country — passing terraced tea estates, misty valleys and tiny mountain villages — it’s clear why it’s regarded as one of the most scenic rail routes in the world.
The train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is popular, so it's a good idea to book tickets in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the December to April peak tourist season.
Tickets can be purchased at Kandy railway station, or reserved in advance through local travel agencies and online platforms.
Note there are three classes to choose from. First-class includes covers observation cars with large windows. Second class has reserved seats and open windows, while third class is — unsurprisingly — pretty basic.
Editor’s tip: the train takes you as far as Nanu Oya, the closest train station to Nuwara Eliya. From here, take a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach Nuwara Eliya in about 20 minutes.
Nuwara Eliya — another highlight of this Sri Lanka travel itinerary © Shutterstock
Day four of this one-week Sri Lanka itinerary is entirely devoted to Nuwara Eliya, oft referred to as “Little England” as a result of its cool climate and colonial-era architecture.
Surrounded by lush tea plantations and rolling hills, I’d included Nuwara Eliya in my itinerary as I was desperate to visit Horton Plains National Park, having been blown away by photos taken from its World’s End viewpoint.
The park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is located about an hour’s drive from town. We pre-arranged transport and a local wildlife guide through our accommodation.
Thanks to our guide, we got to see sambar deer, wild boar and dozens of species of birds en route to World’s End — a sheer cliff that drops some 4000 feet and offers epic views of the valley and villages below.
Editor’s tip: set out early (as in 6am at the latest) for better visibility, and better opportunities to see birds.
We also visited a tea plantation, and spent a few hours at Lake Gregory — the perfect for scenic walks and picnics, with activities like paddle boating also on offer.
When it comes to deciding where to stay in Nuwara Eliya, we checked out places near Lake Gregory, and accommodation in the center.
Opposite the lake, on an elevated spot, Serenus Boutique Villa comes recommended for its views, food and terrace, though we actually decided to stay in Panorama Green View Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Close to town, opposite Victoria Park, it proved to be convenient and comfy, and its views were as advertised -— gloriously green and panoramic!
Rough Guides tip: Looking to stay a little longer? Our 10-day itineraries in Sri Lanka await.
Ella, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
On day 5 of our 7 day Sri Lanka itinerary, we rose early to take a train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella.
Travel time: 3-4 hours
In keeping with the rest of this trip, the journey was an unforgettable experience as we passed lush green tea plantations and mist-covered mountains, with added adventure coming courtesy of the high viaducts and tunnels we traversed along the way.
Editor’s tips: this is — understandably — another popular rail route, so booking in advance (especially for first and second class seats) is recommended.
Oh, and be sure to have your camera at the ready just before you get into Ella, when the train passes over Nine Arches Bridge — more on that icon right below.
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, charming Ella is something of a dream destination for nature lovers and hikers.
After seeing the Nine Arches Bridge — also known as the "Bridge in the Sky” — during our journey, we made a trip back here to see the remarkable sight of a train crossing its nine arches.
All-but hidden amongst the jungle and plantations, this architectural marvel was built during the British colonial period.
We also took a taxi to Ravana Falls — just a short drive from Ella town, this is one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls — and walked to Little Adam’s Peak.
It only took around 30 minutes each way, and you’re rewarded with rather wonderful views of Ella Gap and the surrounding valleys.
Editor’s tip: while we didn’t get to do this during our stay in Ella, if you’re into more challenging hikes, you could tackle the 2-3-hour trek to the summit of Ella Rock.
Good news — accommodation in Ella covers all budgets and preferences, from basic guest houses and homestays that are well-suited to budget travelers, to mid-range boutique hotels and luxury eco-lodges.
In even better news, plenty of places to stay — in all price ranges — are set amidst lush landscapes.
For all-out luxury, check out 98 Acres Resort & Spa — the views are epic, the décor is elegant, and the grounds are simply glorious.
We opted to stay in the less-pricey, but incredibly-sited Lavendra Paradise, which did, indeed, feel like paradise. We loved our room, with its mountain views elevating eating breakfast on the terrace.
For a great-value stay in nature, check out River Splendour Home Stay. This family-run, riverfront gem has its own waterfall, in a dreamy out-of-town location, according to the folks we got chatting to at Ravana Falls.
Nine Arches Bridge, Ella, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
A complete change of scenery is in store on day 6 of this Sri Lanka travel itinerary when you travel to Hiriketiya, which happens to boast one of Sri Lanka’s best beaches.
Travel time: 3.3-4 hours by car; 6-8 hours by bus
Traveling from Ella to Hiriketiya will see you descend winding mountain roads before reaching the southern plains.
If your budget can stretch to it, consider taking a private car — you can expect to pay $50–$70, depending on the provider and your bargaining skills.
Alternatively, you could take a train from Ella to Matara (about 5 hours), and then take a 30-minute taxi, tuk-tuk ride, or local bus from Matara to Hiriketiya.
Another option is to take a bus from Ella to Matara — note this will require at least one transfer in Wellawaya or Monaragala. From Matara, you’ll have to transfer to a local bus or tuk-tuk for the final leg to Hiriketiya.
Though this will set you back under $10, it will take 6-8 hours.
With a laidback vibe and beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay, Hiriketiya was the perfect place to kick back and chill after a week of traveling.
As we’d opted to book a private transfer — and set off early — we arrived in Hiriketiya around 11.30am, which meant we got to spend the entire afternoon on Hiriketiya Beach.
After checking in, we strolled the bay, watching surfers catch plenty of gently rolling waves before eating lunch in a beachfront bar — my juicy fish curry was one the best meals I ate in Sri Lanka.
When it comes to accommodation in Hiriketiya, you can take your pick from pocket-pleasing hostels surrounded by nature, right through to fancy beachfront resorts.
Sitting somewhere in between is The Yard Hiriketiya. Just a 2-minute walk from the beach, it’s super-chic and comes with a pleasing price tag, considering its quality.
On a budget? Bunk 15 Hiriketiya is cozy and very affordable.
Right on the beach, Hidden Well Hiriketiya is even more affordable, with a mix of dorms and double rooms.
At the other end of the scale, for beach resort comforts, check out Sapphire Seas Beachfront Hotel.
Rough Guides tip: Ready for a deeper dive? Our 14-day Sri Lanka itineraries are perfect for an extended adventure.
Hiriketiya, Dikwella, Sri Lanka © Shutterstock
The last day of this 1 week itinerary is reserved for relaxing in Hiriketiya, though you could go surfing, or venture a little further afield to see some key cultural sites and marine life.
While we opted to start our morning with a stroll along Dickwella Beach — it’s just a short walk from Hiriketiya, and quieter — you could book yourself an early morning yoga class at one of Hiriketiya’s wellness retreats, many of which also offer massages and Ayurvedic treatments.
After our beach walk, we took a tuk-tuk to Wewurukannala Vihara Temple. Boasting a 50-meter Buddha statue — the tallest in the country — it also contains a “hall of horrors” of statues depicting punishments for various sins.
Depending on the season, you could head to Mirissa (about 40-minutes away) to take a whale and dolphin watching trip — be sure to check in advance, though. November-April is the best time to see whales, and trips book up fast, as we found out when we were too late to get a place.
Still, our time in Hiriketiya was pretty wonderful, rounded off with heading back to the beach for a sublime sunset — what a way to end 7 days in Sri Lanka.
Want more help planning your vacation? Arm yourself with our travel tips for traveling to Sri Lanka.
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written by
Joanne Owen
updated 11.11.2024
