Sri Lanka 2 Day Itinerary

Sri Lanka 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Colombo and Negombo

Morning

  • 8:00 am - 9:00 am: Start the day with a delicious Sri Lankan breakfast at a local café or restaurant. Try some string hoppers, egg hoppers, or pittu with coconut sambal.
  • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Take a short drive to Negombo, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic significance.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Explore the Negombo Lagoon by taking a boat tour. Keep an eye out for water birds, monkeys, and monitor lizards.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Enjoy a sunset dinner at one of Negombo’s many seafood restaurants. Try some fresh seafood and local specialties like crab or lobster.
  • 9:00 pm: Return to Colombo and rest at your hotel.

Day 2: Discovering Kandy

Morning

  • 7:00 am - 8:00 am: Take an early morning train from Colombo to Kandy (approximately 3 hours). Enjoy the scenic views of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
  • 9:00 am - 12:00 pm: Visit the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist temples.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm: Take a stroll around the beautiful Kandy Lake and enjoy the surrounding hills.
  • 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm: Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants and trees.

Evening

  • 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm: Enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance at one of the local cultural centers.
  • 9:00 pm: Return to Colombo by train or car (approximately 3 hours).

Things to Know

  • Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, so be prepared for hot and humid weather. Stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or cultural sites.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before your trip.
  • Check the official government website for more information and requirements.

Transportation

  • Taxis: Available at airports, hotels, and tourist areas. Make sure to use a metered taxi or agree on a fare beforehand.
  • Buses: An affordable option for shorter distances. Look for air-conditioned buses for longer trips.
  • Trains: A scenic way to travel between cities. Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Other Tips

  • Learn some basic Sinhalese phrases like “hello” (Ayubowan), “thank you” (Stuti), and “goodbye” (Vidana).
  • Be prepared for power outages or internet connectivity issues.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Accommodation

  • Choose hotels or guesthouses that are centrally located and have good reviews.
  • Consider booking accommodations with air-conditioning, especially during the hot summer months.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, giving you a taste of what Sri Lanka has to offer. Enjoy your trip!