Sri Lanka is a country of vast culture and beauty, so if you have longer than 2 weeks, it would definitely be worth spending time there to explore it all. However, if you're hoping to get a taste for this county in a short space of time, here's how you can experience the excitement of Kandy and Ella, whilst still soaking up some rays or hitting the waves in beaches to the south. All in two short weeks.
Day 1: Colombo
The capital city was a key port in the East-West trade routes and is rich with Dutch, Portuguese and British heritage. Take so me time to wander through the streets admiring the architecture or stroll through the markets and soak up the smells of spices and fresh fruit and veg.
Day 2-4: Kandy
Be sure to book the train to Kandy in advance - it's a beautiful journey. Surrounded by Buddhist temples it's a great base for exploring the wider area such as Sigiriya and Dambulla. If you're keen to see elephants, visit the Millennium Elephant Foundation, or the Born Free Uda Walawe Elephant Transit Home (further along in your trip), neither of which breed elephants in captivity.
Day 5-6: Nuwara Eliya and World's End
The train from Kandy to Ella is considered to be one of the most beautiful train journey's in the world and is definitely worth the time. Break up the journey with
a stop at Nuwara Eliya, in the heart of tea country.
After exploring the tea plantations, wake early the next day to catch the sun rise on the way to Horton's Plains; the 12km walk around this National Park includes World's End, with picturesque views, lush wildlife and colours that need no filters to be appreciated.
Day 6-7: Ella
From Ella, you can take a stroll to the famous Nine Arches Bridge and climb Little Adam's Peak. Be sure to eat at Matey Hut near Ella Station Road for absolutely amazing Sri Lankan food.
Days 8-9: Yala
Head south by bus (or car) to Yala National Park. With the highest density of leopards in the world, the safaris here are a must, and depart in the morning or afternoon. Safari guides will often try to prioritise spotting a leopard (no pun intended) but it's recommended to find a balance for this alongside exploring the rest of the park, where you might even be lucky enough to come across a herd of elephants.
Days 10-14: Marissa, Unawatuna, Galle
The south coast is simply wonderful for beaches and time to relax towards the end of your trip. Enjoy the chilled vibes of Marissa and learn to surf in Unawatuna; the Mahatun Surf Point is unmissable - after a day in the surf, you'll be spoiled with some hot black tea and ginger overlooking the sunset. Lucky Tuna on the main beach offers the most incredibly delicious, you guessed it, tuna with live music late into the night. Finally, head to Galle and explore this fortified city before getting the express bus north towards the airport.
Day 15-16: Colombo/Negombo and depart
If you're tight for time the Hangover Hostel is a stone's throw from the Bandaranaike International airport and can be reached directly via the express bus from Galle. Alternatively, if you just can't get enough of the beach life, Negombo is your last stop destination to soak up some final rays, just 10km from the airport.
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