6-Day Sri Lanka Adventure: From Ancient Wonders to Scenic Landscapes

Upon arrival at Katunayaka Airport, you can either begin your journey immediately or rest at a nearby hotel, depending on your flight schedule. Once ready, travel to Sigiriya, a 3.5-hour drive through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and prepare for an afternoon visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Climb to the top of this ancient rock citadel, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, explore the famous frescoes and the Mirror Wall, an ancient polished wall with historical inscriptions. After this adventure, unwind at your hotel, surrounded by the natural beauty of Sigiriya, before an overnight stay.

Start the morning with a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple, just a 30-minute drive from Sigiriya. This temple complex is one of Sri Lanka’s most significant Buddhist sites, featuring stunning cave paintings and over 150 Buddha statues. After exploring Dambulla, embark on a 2.5-hour drive to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and spend the afternoon at the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a sacred Buddhist site that houses Sri Lanka’s most revered relic—a tooth of the Buddha. Take a peaceful stroll around Kandy Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere and colonial-era architecture. As the evening sets in, experience a traditional Kandyan cultural show, where local dancers and drummers perform captivating routines. After the show, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Kandy.

After breakfast, you have the option to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, known for its extensive orchid collection and towering royal palms. Later, embark on a picturesque 4-5 hour drive to Ella, passing through rolling tea plantations and misty mountains. This journey offers stunning photo opportunities, making it one of the most scenic drives in Sri Lanka. Upon arrival in Ella, check in at your hotel and take the evening to relax and enjoy the cool hill-country climate. Whether you prefer to unwind at your accommodation or explore Ella town’s charming cafés and local shops, the evening is yours to enjoy before an overnight stay in Ella.

Begin the day with a visit to one of Ella’s most iconic landmarks, the Nine Arches Bridge. This beautiful colonial-era viaduct, surrounded by lush greenery, is a must-see and a great spot for photography. Afterward, hike up Little Adam’s Peak, a relatively easy and rewarding trek that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The afternoon is free for you to relax—whether it’s enjoying a cup of fresh Sri Lankan tea, visiting a local café, or simply unwinding at your hotel. As the evening approaches, take a stroll through Ella town, soaking in its laid-back vibe before an overnight stay.

Enjoy an early breakfast before departing for Yala National Park, a 3-hour drive from Ella. After checking in at your hotel near Yala, embark on an afternoon safari in the park, which is home to an array of wildlife, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles. Yala is one of the best places in the world to spot leopards, making this an unforgettable wildlife experience. After an exciting safari adventure, return to your hotel to relax and reflect on the day’s sightings before an overnight stay near Yala.

In the morning, set off on a journey to Bentota, a stunning coastal town, which takes around 4-5 hours. Spend the afternoon by the beach, where you can unwind on the golden sands or engage in water sports such as jet skiing and banana boat rides. You may also choose to take a Madu River Safari, gliding through serene mangrove forests and spotting exotic wildlife along the way. As evening approaches, begin your return journey to Katunayaka Airport, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Bentota, ensuring you arrive in time for your departing flight.