Itinerary overview

7-Day Cultural and Beach Exploration in Sri Lanka

Explore Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage and pristine beaches over 7 days. Starting from Colombo, visit ancient sites like Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, enjoy local cuisine, and relax on the southern coast's beautiful beaches.

CouplesCultural EnthusiastsBeach LoversFoodies

Day 1

Arrival in Colombo and City Exploration

Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo city | Approx drive: 1 hour

Activities

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport
Visit Gangaramaya Temple and Colombo National Museum
Explore Pettah Market for local food and shopping

Stay area: Colombo

Fairway Colombo (Budget)

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Affordable, centrally located with easy access to city attractions.

Cinnamon Red Colombo (Mid)

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Modern amenities with rooftop dining and central location.

Shangri-La Colombo (Luxury)

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Luxury stay with excellent facilities and sea views.

Day 2

Cultural Triangle - Anuradhapura

Colombo to Anuradhapura | Approx drive: 4 to 5 hours

Activities

Drive to Anuradhapura
Visit ancient city ruins including Sri Maha Bodhi and Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Explore local markets and try traditional Sri Lankan food

Stay area: Anuradhapura

Palm Garden Village (Budget)

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Comfortable stay near the ancient city at a reasonable price.

Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura (Mid)

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Good facilities with easy access to cultural sites.

The Sanctuary at Tissawewa (Luxury)

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Boutique luxury hotel with beautiful surroundings.

Day 3

Sigiriya and Dambulla

Anuradhapura to Sigiriya via Dambulla | Approx drive: 2 to 3 hours

Activities

Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Enjoy local cuisine in Sigiriya village

Stay area: Sigiriya

Sigiriya Village (Budget)

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Affordable stay close to Sigiriya Rock.

Hotel Sigiriya (Mid)

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Comfortable hotel with pool and good amenities.

Water Garden Sigiriya (Luxury)

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Luxury resort with spa and scenic views.

Kandy Cultural Experience

Sigiriya to Kandy | Approx drive: 2.5 to 3 hours

Activities

Visit Temple of the Tooth Relic
Explore Kandy Lake and Botanical Gardens
Attend cultural dance show in the evening

Stay area: Kandy

Hotel Thilanka (Budget)

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Budget-friendly with good location near city center.

OZO Kandy (Mid)

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Modern hotel with great views and facilities.

The Kandy House (Luxury)

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Boutique luxury heritage hotel with personalized service.

Day 5

Travel to South Coast - Bentota Beach

Kandy to Bentota | Approx drive: 5 to 6 hours

Activities

Drive to Bentota
Relax on Bentota Beach
Try seafood at local beachside restaurants

Stay area: Bentota

Bentota River View Hotel (Budget)

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Affordable accommodation near the beach.

Avani Bentota Resort (Mid)

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Comfortable resort with beach access and amenities.

Taj Bentota Resort & Spa (Luxury)

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Luxury beachfront resort with spa and fine dining.

Day 6

Beach Day and Water Sports in Bentota

Local area in Bentota | Approx drive: Minimal local travel

Activities

Enjoy water sports like snorkeling and jet skiing
Visit Brief Garden or Lunuganga Estate nearby
Relax on the beach and enjoy sunset dining

Stay area: Bentota

Bentota River View Hotel (Budget)

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Convenient and affordable for beach activities.

Avani Bentota Resort (Mid)

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Good facilities for water sports and relaxation.

Taj Bentota Resort & Spa (Luxury)

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High-end amenities and beachside luxury.

Day 7

Return to Colombo and Departure

Bentota to Colombo to Bandaranaike International Airport | Approx drive: 2 to 3 hours

Activities

Drive back to Colombo
Last-minute shopping or city stroll if time permits
Depart from Bandaranaike International Airport

Stay area: Colombo (optional, depending on flight time)

Fairway Colombo (Budget)

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Affordable and convenient for last night stay.

Cinnamon Red Colombo (Mid)

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Modern hotel close to airport and city center.

Shangri-La Colombo (Luxury)

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Luxury option for a comfortable final night.

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Estimated Budget (USD)

USD 700 - USD 1500

Budget range covers mid-level hotels, meals, local transport, and entrance fees.
Prices may vary depending on season, booking time, and availability.
International flights are not included in this estimate.

Important Disclaimers

Driving times are approximate and can vary due to traffic conditions.
Some cultural sites may have restricted access or altered hours during public holidays or special events.
Weather in September can include occasional rain; beach activities may be affected.
Hotel availability and prices fluctuate; early booking is recommended for best rates.

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