From Colombo to Safari Adventures in Udawalawe
Sri Lanka may be a small island, but it packs an incredible amount into one trip. From cities and ancient temples to mountains, beaches and unforgettable wildlife experiences, it’s one of the most diverse destinations in Asia.
If you’re wondering how many days you need in Sri Lanka, we can’t give you an official answer as we think there is enough charm to spend weeks or even months in the country, but we have put together a 10 day itinerary to help you experience the country’s highlights without feeling rushed.
This guide to Sri Lanka includes the cultural heart of Kandy, the famous train journey to Ella, and of course, a stay in Udawalawe at Jungle Paradise Hotel, one of the best places in Sri Lanka for wildlife and safari experiences.
day 1: colombo
Colombo is often the starting point for most Sri Lankan adventures. After arriving at the airport, take some time to relax, enjoy your first Sri Lankan curry and explore a little of the city.
Highlights:
- Galle Face Green
- Local markets and cafes
- Sunset by the ocean
If you’d prefer to skip the city altogether, many travellers now head straight to their next destination after landing.
days 2-3: kandy
Head inland to the beautiful city of Kandy, surrounded by mountains and known for its cultural and spiritual significance.
Things to do:
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Walk around Kandy Lake
- Explore local markets and tea plantations
- Watch a traditional cultural dance performance
Kandy offers the perfect introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich history and culture.
day 4-5: ella & the hill country
No Sri Lanka itinerary is complete without visiting Ella.
The train journey from Kandy to Ella is often described as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world, winding through tea plantations and misty mountains.
Things to do in Ella:
- Hike to Little Adam’s Peak
- Visit Nine Arch Bridge
- Enjoy sunset views over the hills
- Explore waterfalls and tea estates
Ella is a favourite for backpackers, couples and nature lovers alike.
days 6-7: udawalawe
After the cool mountains of Ella, head south to Udawalawe National Park, one of the best places in the country to see wild elephants.
This is where you’ll want to slow down and spend a couple of nights surrounded by nature.
Stay at Jungle Paradise Hotel, nestled in the heart of the jungle, we offer the perfect base for exploring the region.
And don’t forget to tie in a visit to the Elephant Transit Home.
This ethical rehabilitation centre cares for orphaned baby elephants before releasing them back into the wild. There are no rides, bathing experiences or direct interactions — the focus is entirely on conservation and animal welfare.
It’s a wonderful experience for both adults and children and offers a meaningful insight into Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting its wildlife.
days 8-9: south coast
After your safari adventures, head to Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coastline.
Popular destinations include:
- Mirissa for beaches and whale watching
- Tangalle for quieter, untouched beaches
- Hiriketiya for surfing and laid-back cafes
Spend your final days relaxing by the ocean and soaking up the tropical atmosphere.
day 10 : Return to colombo
After ten incredible days, it’s time to make your way back to Colombo for your flight home, hopefully with thousands of photos and memories to last a lifetime.
travel around asia with ease
One of the biggest challenges for travellers in Sri Lanka can be organising transport between destinations.
At Jungle Paradise Hotel, we make it easy with our Private Pick-Up & Drop-Off Service, helping guests travel comfortably and stress-free throughout the island.
Our transport services include:
✔ Colombo Airport pick-up and drop-off
✔ Transfers to and from Jungle Paradise Hotel
✔ Transport to Ella, Mirissa, Tangalle and other major destinations across Sri Lanka
✔ Trips to the Elephant Transit Home and local attractions
✔ Comfortable vehicles and professional local drivers
✔ Door-to-door service, so you can simply relax and enjoy the journey
Avoid the hassle of negotiating taxis or navigating unfamiliar roads and let us help you make the most of your Sri Lanka adventure.
