What to Do in Sri Lanka for 5 Days
Sri Lanka, an island nation located in South Asia, is a paradise full of natural beauty, rich culture, and welcoming people. Whether you’re drawn to its sandy beaches, ancient ruins, or lush greenery, Sri Lanka offers something for everyone. Here’s a detailed itinerary for a memorable 5-day trip to this beautiful country.
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo and Explore the City

Morning: Arrival and Relaxation
- Land at Bandaranaike International Airport, located about 30 kilometers from Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
- Check into your hotel in Colombo and take some time to rest after your journey.
Afternoon: Explore Colombo’s Highlights
- Gangaramaya Temple: Begin your adventure with a visit to this iconic Buddhist temple that showcases a mix of traditional and modern architecture.
- Independence Square: Stroll around this historical site, which commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule.
- Viharamahadevi Park: Relax in this lush green park and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Evening: Sunset and Dinner
- Galle Face Green: Walk along this seaside promenade and watch the sunset while sampling street food like kottu roti or fresh seafood.
- End the day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant offering authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, such as rice and curry or hoppers.
Day 2: Head to Sigiriya and Dambulla
Morning: Travel to Sigiriya
- Start early and drive to Sigiriya, located about 4-5 hours from Colombo.
- On the way, enjoy the scenic countryside with paddy fields and small villages.
Midday: Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya, also known as the Lion Rock.
- Climb the ancient rock fortress to see breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and the ruins of the royal palace.
Afternoon: Visit Dambulla Cave Temple

- Drive to Dambulla to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Admire the intricate murals and statues of Buddha inside the caves.
Evening: Overnight Stay in Sigiriya
- Check into a hotel or eco-lodge in Sigiriya and relax after an adventurous day.
Day 3: Discover Kandy, the Cultural Capital

Morning: Travel to Kandy
- After breakfast, head to Kandy, a journey of about 2-3 hours from Sigiriya.
- Along the way, stop at a spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices.
Midday: Visit the Temple of the Tooth
- Upon arriving in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.
- Witness the traditional rituals and explore the beautiful architecture.
Afternoon: Explore Kandy City
- Walk around the serene Kandy Lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to a vast collection of exotic plants and trees.
Evening: Cultural Show and Stay
- Watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance to experience Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
- Spend the night at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 4: Travel to Nuwara Eliya, the Little England of Sri Lanka

Morning: Scenic Train Ride
- Take a train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
- Enjoy the stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains.
Midday: Explore Nuwara Eliya
- Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea.
- Take a stroll through the Victoria Park, perfect for relaxing amidst flowers and greenery.
Afternoon: Lake Gregory and Surroundings
- Spend some time at Lake Gregory, where you can go boating or simply enjoy the cool breeze.
- If time permits, visit Hakgala Botanical Garden or Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu temple with ties to the Ramayana epic.
Evening: Overnight Stay
- Check into a cozy guesthouse or hotel in Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the chilly weather.
Day 5: Relax in Bentota and Depart
Morning: Travel to Bentota

- Leave early and head to Bentota, a coastal town known for its pristine beaches. The drive takes about 4-5 hours.
- Check into a beach resort and unwind by the sea.
Midday: Beach and Water Activities
- Relax on Bentota Beach or indulge in water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, or windsurfing.
- You can also take a boat ride on the Bentota River and explore the mangroves.
Afternoon: Enjoy the Local Cuisine
- Savor fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant while enjoying views of the ocean.
Evening: Departure
- Depending on your flight schedule, travel back to Colombo (approximately 2 hours from Bentota) and head to the airport for your departure.
Tips for Traveling in Sri Lanka
- Best Time to Visit: Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, so the best time depends on which part of the country you’re visiting. The west and south coasts are ideal from December to March, while the east coast is best from April to September.
- Transportation: Public transport like buses and trains is affordable but can be crowded. Hiring a private car with a driver is a more comfortable option for exploring multiple destinations.
- Currency: The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Keep some cash handy for small purchases, but credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants.
- Food: Try local dishes like rice and curry, string hoppers, kottu roti, and fresh tropical fruits.
- Clothing: Pack light cotton clothes for warm weather, but bring a jacket if you’re visiting cooler areas like Nuwara Eliya.
Conclusion
A 5-day trip to Sri Lanka offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene beaches of Bentota, each day is filled with unique experiences. Whether you’re climbing ancient fortresses, sipping tea in the hills, or enjoying a sunset by the beach, Sri Lanka promises memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey!