Planning your Sri Lanka itinerary? In this post, I’ll share our 1-month budget-friendly travel route across the country, covering ancient temples, lush tea fields, stunning beaches, and those famous train rides.
We spent a full month travelling around Sri Lanka, learning about culture, tradition, and religion, visiting sacred temples, staying in homestays, and tasting local food. Travelling on a budget meant hopping on crowded buses (using public transport in Sri Lanka just like locals), eating at small local spots, and getting a real glimpse into everyday life.
Our journey began in the cultural heart of the island and continued through the inland cities and highlands. From there, we climbed up to a sacred pilgrimage site, then travelled back to the laid-back hill country before ending the trip along the southern coast. Finally, we returned to the capital for our flight out, with a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation along the way.
Your Ultimate 1-Month Sri Lanka Itinerary
Here’s a complete 30-day travel route through Sri Lanka, designed for budget-conscious travellers who still want to see the best of the island. Use the map below for a quick overview, then follow along with the day-by-day breakdown.
Day 1-2: Negombo
Start your trip to Sri Lanka with two nights in Negombo, a coastal town close to Colombo airport. It’s the perfect spot to recover from jetlag, set up your SIM card (we recommend using an eSIM with Airalo), and ease into the trip.
Negombo isn’t really a beach destination, but it gives a first glimpse into local life. We strolled the shore, visited St. Sebastian’s Church, and tried simple local meals like kottu roti. On day two, we took a bus to Colombo to explore the markets, temples, and colonial district. We also arranged a local driver’s permit before heading back to Negombo to prepare for the journey north.
How to Get to Negombo
Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport is just a 20-minute drive from Negombo. A taxi costs around 3,500 rupees, though using the PickMe app or pre-booking a transfer is usually cheaper. Tuk-tuks are also an option for those who travel light.
Things to Do in Negombo
- Relax after your flight: Sleep in, enjoy your first Sri Lankan breakfast, and ease into the pace of travel
- Negombo Beach: Not the cleanest, but worth a stroll to see fishing boats and daily life
- St. Sebastian’s Church: One of Negombo’s most impressive landmarks
- Colombo Day Trip: Take a bus or train into the capital for markets, temples, colonial buildings, and the famous Red Mosque
- Local food: Try kottu roti or street-style burgers at small cafés for under 1,500 rupees
Where to Stay in Negombo
Negombo has plenty of budget-friendly guesthouses and small hotels close to the airport. We stayed at Hotel Blue Bird, a cosy spot with friendly staff and hearty breakfasts. It was the perfect base to catch up on sleep before starting the adventure north.
Day 3-4: Anuradhapura, The Ancient Royal City
From Negombo, we travelled north to Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka and one of the highlights of the Cultural Triangle. The journey takes around 3–5 hours, depending on transport. We ended up on an air-conditioned bus, which cost more than the local service (we paid 4600 rupees!!!) but saved us time (only 3 hours long!) and energy.
On the first afternoon, we headed to Mihintale for sunset, a sacred site believed to be the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The climb was steep, but the views were worth it, and it was a peaceful start to exploring this historic region.
The next day, we explored Anuradhapura’s ancient city, a vast complex of temples, stupas, and ruins spread across a huge area. It’s possible to buy a ticket for the main sites, but there are also many impressive temples you can see for free. We started early to avoid the heat and visited stupas, rock temples, and the famous Bodhi tree, one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka.
How to Get to Anuradhapura
- By bus/train: Around 5 hours from Colombo or Negombo
- By car/taxi: Around 3 hours. More expensive but faster
- Tip: Websites like busseat.lk and sltb.eseat.lk can help check schedules
Things to Do in Anuradhapura
- Mihintale: Visit at sunset for stunning views and a sacred atmosphere
- Sacred Bodhi Tree (Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi): Said to be over 2,000 years old
- Ruvanvelisaya Dagoba: A huge white stupa guarded by elephant statues
- Isurumuniya Rock Temple: Built into the rock with a climb for views
- Other ruins & stupas: Jethawanaramaya, Thuparamaya, Mirisawetiya, Twin Ponds, and more
Where to Stay in Anuradhapura
We stayed at Kutumbaya Resort (in the new town area), a welcoming guesthouse with a pool and home-cooked meals. Other good options include Hotel Heladiv, Heaven Upon Ricefields, and Aryana Boutique Hotel.
For more details on what to see, how to visit and where to stay, read our full Anuradhapura guide.
Day 5–7: Sigiriya – Lion Rock, Cave Temples & Ancient Cities
Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic stops and a key part of the Cultural Triangle. We based ourselves here for three nights, using it as a hub to climb Pidurangala Rock, visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, and take a day trip to Polonnaruwa.
Sunset at Pidurangala Rock
The 30–40 minute climb up Pidurangala Rock is steep but rewarding, with incredible views of Lion Rock at the top. Entrance costs 1,000 rupees, and you’ll need to cover your shoulders and knees when passing through the small temple at the start.
Most visitors choose to climb Lion Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The ascent involves 1,200 steps and can be tough in the heat, so it’s best to go early, around 7 am. Entrance costs $35 USD, and drones are not allowed. The site is open daily from 6:30am to 5:30pm.
We decided to skip the climb and admire Lion Rock from Pidurangala instead, for a fraction of the price and with the bonus of panoramic views. Sunrise and sunset are both popular times, but we loved the golden light at sunset.
A Day at the Dambulla Cave Temples
Spend one day exploring the Dambulla Cave Temples, about 30 minutes from Sigiriya by bus (100 rupees). Entrance costs 2,000 rupees. The complex consists of five chambers filled with Buddha statues and murals, making it one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in the country. Expect a climb of around 15 minutes to the top, with monkeys and great views along the way.
Book your Sigiriya & Dambulla Private Day Tour
A Day Trip to Polonnaruwa
Set aside another full day for Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bus from Sigiriya via Inamaluwa Junction takes about 2 hours (250 rupees). Once there, rent a bicycle (around 1,000 rupees) and cycle through the ruins at your own pace. Entrance costs $25 USD. Highlights include the Quadrangle, the Royal Palace ruins, and the stunning Gal Vihara rock temple with its giant Buddha statues.
For more convenience, you can negotiate with a tuk-tuk driver in Sigiriya — we were offered a return trip plus a ride around the site for about 7,500 rupees (~$25). Alternatively, you can book an organised private day tour that includes transport and a guide, which is a great option if you prefer everything arranged in advance.
How to Get to Sigiriya
- From Anuradhapura: local bus via Dambulla (about 5 hours) or car/tuk tuk (1.5–2 hours). We took a shared car from Anuradhapura (~1.45h) and paid 7500 rupees in total
- From Colombo: around 4–5 hours by car or bus
Things to Do in Sigiriya
- Lion Rock: Climb early for views and history
- Pidurangala Rock: Cheaper and less crowded, perfect for sunrise or sunset
- Dambulla Cave Temples: A short bus ride away, with caves full of murals and statues
- Polonnaruwa Day Trip: Cycle through ancient ruins and temples (it was our favourite)
- Massage & Relax: Treat yourself at Camellia Resort & Spa after a long climb
Where to Stay in Sigiriya
We stayed at Sigiri Saman Home Stay, a cosy guesthouse with friendly hosts and hearty meals — authentic and affordable. Other good options include Il Frangipane for a boutique stay, or if you’d like to treat yourself, check into Hotel Sigiriya or Camellia Resort & Spa for extra comfort.
For more details on what to do, how to visit the sights and where to stay, read our full Sigiriya guide.
Day 8-10: Kandy – Temples, Gardens & Hill Country Gateway
Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital and home to one of the country’s most sacred Buddhist sites. We spent three nights here, exploring the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, strolling by the lake, and taking a day trip to nearby attractions.
Exploring the Temple of the Sacred Tooth
The Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is Kandy’s most important site, where a sacred relic of the Buddha is kept. Entry costs 2,000 rupees and includes the nearby Buddhist Museum.
The evening ceremony is the best time to visit, running between 6:30–8pm. The second session (around 7:30 pm) is usually less crowded, giving you a better chance to glimpse the shrine and soak in the atmosphere. Expect big crowds, music, and strict security, and remember that photos are not allowed as you pass the relic itself.
Visitors must dress appropriately — shoulders and knees covered — and shoes must be left outside before entering. You can check more guidelines and FAQs on the official Temple of the Tooth website.
A Day Trip Around Kandy
We hired a tuk-tuk with a driver for a day to see some of the highlights around Kandy. Our favourites were the Ambuluwawa Tower (2,000 rupees, amazing views but very windy), the Lankathilaka Temple (500 rupees, perched on a hilltop), and the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya (3,540 rupees, allow at least 2 hours). We also finished the day with a traditional Kandyan dance show (2,000 rupees).
A Chill Day in the City
On our last day, we kept things relaxed with coffee at cosy cafés, a walk up to the Big Buddha – Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya (300 rupees, great views over the city), and some simple local food. Kandy can feel busy, noisy, and a little overwhelming, so an extra day to slow down was a nice break before heading further into the hill country.
How to Get to Kandy
- From Sigiriya: direct bus @6.30am (~3 hours, 1,000 rupees)
- From Colombo: about 3.5 hours by train or bus
Things to Do in Kandy
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Kandy Lake walk
- International Buddhist Museum
- Ambuluwawa Tower
- Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya
- Bahiravokanda Big Buddha
- Kandyan Dance Show
Where to Stay in Kandy
We stayed at Shani Residence Kandy, a simple guesthouse with helpful hosts. If you’re looking for something more comfortable, The Radh Hotel and Thilanka Hotel are popular options, while Aarunya Resort offers a luxury escape just outside the city.
For more details on what to do, how to visit the sights and where to stay, read our full Kandy guide.
Day 11-12: Nuwara Eliya – Little England in the Highlands
At almost 2,000 metres above sea level, Nuwara Eliya is cooler, mistier, and often nicknamed Little England for its colonial buildings, tea estates, and countryside feel. We spent two nights here, exploring the town and taking a tuk-tuk tour to nearby tea plantations and waterfalls.
Despite the cold and wet weather, Nuwara Eliya quickly became one of our favourite places in Sri Lanka — the bright green hills, endless tea fields, stunning waterfalls, and delicious teas made it unforgettable.
A Stroll Around Town
The town centre feels different from the rest of Sri Lanka, with its red-brick post office, golf course, and parks. We walked around Gregory Lake, explored the market streets, and stopped at the iconic Grand Hotel. The highlight was a festive afternoon high tea with a spread of sandwiches, pastries, cakes and a variety of teas served in classic British style.
Tea Plantations & Waterfalls
A tuk-tuk tour took us through the misty hills to visit tea estates and waterfalls. At Damro Tea Factory, we learned about the production process, sampled teas, and enjoyed cakes in the cosy teahouse. Along the way, we stopped at scenic viewpoints and visited Ramboda Falls and Lover’s Leap Waterfall near town. Despite the rain and chill, the landscapes of rolling tea fields and cascading waterfalls were stunning.
How to Get to the Nuwara Eliya
- From Kandy: ~2.5 hours by bus (No 47) or ~3.5 hours by train to Nanu Oya, followed by a tuk-tuk into town. Note that PickMe doesn’t operate in Nuwara Eliya
- Tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best views
Things to Do in Nuwara Eliya
- Grand Hotel: classic high tea or a cosy drink by the fireplace
- Gregory Lake & Victoria Park: scenic walks (entry fees apply)
- Tea Plantations & Factories: Damro Tea Factory, Bluefield, or Oak Ray
- Waterfalls: Ramboda Falls, Lover’s Leap, and Puna Ella
- Town stroll: colonial post office, market, and hillside views
Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya
We stayed at Vibe Way Hostel, a budget-friendly base with a social atmosphere. Other options include Nuwara Eliya Hills Rest for mid-range stays, or the elegant Grand Hotel if you’re in the mood to splurge.
For more details on what to do, what to see and how long to stay, check out our full Nuwara Eliya guide.
Day 13: Nallathanniya – Hiking Adam’s Peak
Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous pilgrimages — a steep climb of 4,550 steps to a temple at 2,243m above sea level. We knew we had to complete this hike, as it holds not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual and mental one. And while it truly tested us, reaching the summit for sunrise was worth every step — the views from above the clouds were absolutely breathtaking.
Hiking the Summit
We stayed in Nallathanniya (Dalhousie) and set off around 2:30 am with head torches and plenty of layers. The first part of the trail was gentle, but the final section was incredibly steep and tough. After 2.5 hours, we reached the summit just before sunrise. Watching the first light break over the mountains above the clouds was one of the most magical experiences of our trip.
The descent was faster but tough on the knees. On the way down, we finally saw the lush valleys, jungle, and waterfalls we had passed in the dark — the views were unforgettable. Bring warm clothes, snacks, and water; it is cold at the top even after sunrise.
Travel Tip
If you have time, plan two nights in Nallathanniya — one before and one after the climb. We only stayed one night and went straight on to Ella after, which felt rushed. The hike is exhausting, and you’ll want time to rest and enjoy a slower breakfast afterwards.
How to Get to Adam’s Peak
- From Nuwara Eliya: shared taxi or bus to Hatton, then another bus or tuk tuk to Nallathanniya (~3–4 hours)
- From Hatton: about 1 hour by tuk tuk
Where to Stay in Nallathanniya
We stayed at Blue Sky Hotel, conveniently located close to the start of the hiking trail — perfect for just a few hours of rest before setting off at night. Another good option is Hugging Clouds Guesthouse, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast after the hike, or Daffodils Inn for a simple, friendly stay. Since most people only sleep for a few hours before the climb, you don’t need much more than a clean, comfortable room.
Day 14-17: Ella – Misty Hills & Tea Country Charm
At over 1,000 metres above sea level, Ella is one of the most popular stops in Sri Lanka’s hill country and an absolute must on your Sri Lanka itinerary.
This little mountain town is famous for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and jungle-covered hills, and it’s included in every Sri Lanka travel guide. We stayed four nights and totally got the hype. From our balcony, we looked out over Ella Rock, with endless green views and mist drifting across the valley. It was one of those moments that made our Sri Lanka trip so special.
How to Get to Ella
The most scenic way to reach Ella is by train. From Hatton (after Adam’s Peak) or Nanu Oya (Nuwara Eliya), the journey takes around 4–5 hours. Sit on the left-hand side for the best views of rolling tea fields and valleys. Buses and private transfers are also available, but the train ride is a highlight in itself.
Things to Do in Ella
- Little Adam’s Peak: One of the most popular hikes in Sri Lanka. It’s an easy climb with stunning sunrise or sunset views over the Ella Valley
- Nine Arches Bridge: Watching a train cross this colonial-era viaduct is a must. The viewpoints above give a fantastic perspective
- Cooking Class: Join a local cooking class (we loved Matey Hut) and learn how to prepare authentic Sri Lankan cuisine like curries and sambals
- Ravana Falls – A dramatic waterfall just outside town, perfect for a quick stop by tuk tuk
- Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery: High on a hill with incredible views, this peaceful temple was one of our favourite hidden gems near Ella
- Cafés & Restaurants: From budget-friendly spots to trendy cafés, Ella has some of the best food in the hill country. A highlight for us was dinner at The Green Door, where the owner kindly invited us for a meal
Where to Stay in Ella
Ella has plenty of options, from simple homestays to boutique hotels. We stayed at Misty Heaven, with beautiful views of Ella Rock. For budget travellers, homestays like Idyll Homestay or Adam’s Apple Homestay are great choices. For a boutique feel, try Serenite Ella or Tea Cabins, and for a splurge stay, 98 Acres Resort & Spa offers luxury in the heart of the tea fields.
Yala National Park Safari
We originally planned to visit Yala National Park, but heavy rains caused flooding, and the park was closed for a few days. Still, it’s one of Sri Lanka’s must-see destinations and deserves a spot on your itinerary.
The easiest way is to go after Ella. You can either book an organised day tour that includes pickup in Ella, a safari, and drop-off at the south coast, or arrange a car transfer to Tissamaharama and stay overnight. This small town is the best base, with everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious safari lodges right by the park.
If you have the time, try to do both a morning and an afternoon safari. Each offers a different perspective, and your chances of spotting more wildlife (elephants, crocodiles, and the park’s star, the elusive Sri Lankan leopard) are much higher.
There are plenty of tours to choose from, but we recommend booking online so you can compare options and read other travellers’ reviews before deciding.
Day 18-21: Dickwella & Hiriketiya – South Coast Beach Escape
After the cool highlands of Ella, it was time to slow down and spend Christmas on the south coast of Sri Lanka. We based ourselves in Dickwella and Hiriketiya, one of the country’s emerging beach hot spots (and now a digital nomads’ favourite). These two beaches are less crowded than Mirissa or Unawatuna, making them a great addition to your Sri Lanka itinerary if you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe.
Why Dickwella & Hiriketiya?
Hiriketiya Bay is a small horseshoe-shaped beach, perfect for beginner surfers and yoga lovers, with trendy cafés and a social atmosphere. Dickwella Beach, on the other hand, is wide and quiet, great for long walks, soft sand, and swimming with turtles in Sri Lanka. Together, they easily rank among some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka for both relaxation and activities.
How to Get to Dickwella / Hiriketiya
Getting from the hill country down to the south coast is a bit of a journey. The cheapest option is to take a local bus from Ella to Matara (Line 31, around 4–4.5 hours) and then switch to a coastal bus or tuk tuk for the short ride to Dickwella or Hiriketiya.
We opted for comfort and shared a minivan directly from Ella to Dickwella — it cost us 6,000 rupees each for a 3-hour ride, door to door. While pricier than the bus, it saved us the hassle of multiple changes and was totally worth it with luggage.
Tuk-tuks are also available for shorter hops between towns along the coast, and PickMe (Sri Lanka’s rideshare app) is useful in some places, though availability can be patchy outside the big cities.
Things to Do in Dickwella & Hiriketiya
- Surf at Hiriketiya Bay: Ideal for first-time surfers (like us 🙂), with plenty of local schools offering lessons
- Relax on Dickwella Beach: A long stretch of golden sand, perfect for swimming and sunset walks. Look out for the green turtles near Turtle Point
- Explore by Scooter: Ride along the coast to discover quieter beaches like Talalla or Blue Beach (Nilwella)
- Visit the Hummanaya Blowhole: The world’s second-largest blowhole, shooting water up to 36 metres high (though best visited at high tide)
- Day Trip to Tangalle: Just 30 minutes away, with even more unspoilt beaches
- Yoga & Wellness: Many guesthouses in Hiriketiya offer yoga sessions or massages — we loved Tonic Spa after a day in the sun
- Sunset Drinks & Food: From wood-fired pizza at Dots Bay House to seafood platters at Clay House Hiriketiya, there’s a mix of backpacker cafés and stylish new restaurants
Where to Stay
We stayed at Beta’s Place in Dickwella, a simple but modern and comfortable option close to the beach. What we loved most, though, was that breakfast was served at their partner hotel — Sea View Clay House in Hiriketiya. It turned out to be the best breakfast in Sri Lanka (and honestly across all of Southeast Asia for us), with plenty of choice: from Western breakfast and brunch plates to fresh juices, coffee, yoghurt, and healthy extras. A perfect way to start the day before heading to the beach.
Other good options include Salt House (great for social vibes), Moonstone Villas Tangalle, or boutique guesthouses around Hiriketiya.
Day 22-24: Mirissa – Whale Watching & Coastal Vibes
Mirissa is one of the most famous beach towns in Sri Lanka, often topping lists of the best beaches in Sri Lanka. It’s busier than Dickwella or Hiriketiya, with a mix of seafood restaurants, beach clubs, and backpacker bars. We stayed three nights, and while the crowds and rising prices were noticeable, Mirissa still offered some unmissable highlights.
How to Get to Mirissa
Mirissa is well-connected along the south coast. From Dickwella, it’s about 1 hour by local bus or tuk-tuk. You can use the PickMe app to order a car, or rent your own tuk-tuk to cruise across the island. From Colombo, you can take the coastal train to Matara and then hop on a bus or tuk tuk for the short ride to Mirissa.
Things to Do in Mirissa
- Whale Watching: Mirissa is Sri Lanka’s whale watching capital. We joined Raja & the Whales, one of the most reputable and ethical operators. Trips leave at 6:30am and cost 20,000 rupees. Dolphins are common, and with luck, you may spot blue whales between November and March
- Coconut Tree Hill: The iconic palm tree viewpoint is best at sunrise, before the crowds arrive. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Sri Lanka
- Secret Beach: Tucked away a short walk from town, this hidden cove is a great place to relax and catch the sunset
- Parrot Rock & Turtle Point: Parrot Rock is easily reached from the main beach, while Turtle Point is where you can swim with turtles in shallow waters.
- Day Trips: From Mirissa, it’s easy to reach Weligama Beach (great for beginner surfers), Matara’s star fort and sea temple, or even Galle Fort in under an hour
Where to Stay in Mirissa
We stayed at Maduranga N Guest, a budget-friendly guesthouse close to the beach. Other good options include JJ’s Hostel, Casa Mira Boutique Villa, or Banana Garden for more social vibes.
Read our full guide to learn more about Mirissa.
Day 25-27: Unawatuna – Beaches & Galle’s Historic Fort
Unawatuna is one of the busiest beach towns in Sri Lanka. To be honest, it wasn’t our favourite stop on this Sri Lanka itinerary — the beach was too crowded and touristy for our taste. But it still has a nice beach vibe, plenty of cafés, and a great location for exploring the south coast.
Just 10 minutes away, Dalawella Beach is much quieter, with giant turtles swimming close to shore and one of the most famous swings in Sri Lanka. And a short bus ride takes you to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the absolute must-sees in the country. We enjoyed staying here mainly for the access to these nearby highlights.
How to Get to Unawatuna
- From Mirissa: The easiest option is a tuk-tuk or car. Local buses also run frequently between Mirissa and Unawatuna
- From Galle: Only 15 minutes by bus
- From Colombo: Buses from Colombo Fort head south along the coast, or you can take the train to Galle and connect by tuk tuk or bus
Things to Do in Unawatuna
- Unawatuna Beach: Busy and touristy, lined with restaurants and sunbeds. Good for a swim, but expect crowds
- Dalawella Beach: Quieter than Unawatuna, with a laid-back feel, giant turtles, and the famous beach swing in front of Dream Cabana
- Japanese Peace Pagoda & Jungle Beach: A short hike up Rumassala Hill brings you to this shining white stupa with sea views. Continue down the path to Jungle Beach, a small, hidden cove
- Thalpe Natural Pools: Rock pools along the coast, best visited at low tide
- Koggala Lake & Fishermen on Stilts: A classic south Sri Lanka sight, though mainly set up for tourists nowadays
- Yatagala Raja Maha Viharaya: A 2,500-year-old rock temple outside of town, especially atmospheric on Sundays
- Day Trip to Galle: Explore Galle Fort’s ramparts, lighthouse, colonial streets, and boutique shops. Don’t miss the sunset from the fort walls
Where to Stay in Unawatuna
We stayed just above a busy restaurant, which was a bit noisy but central, with a huge room and balcony. Also, their breakfast was an absolute dream. The toast with crushed avocado was something to die for. While Unawatuna itself wasn’t our favourite, it’s a convenient base. For a quieter stay, consider Dalawella Beach, only 4km away.
Good options around here include Urchin Unawatuna or Coconut Style Restaurant & Rooms for mid-range comfort, or Villa Gaetano if you prefer a boutique stay. For luxury, the Araliya Beach Resort or Hotel Tri are beautiful choices.
If you prefer charm and history over beach crowds, consider staying inside Galle Fort instead.
Read our full guide to learn more about things to do and sights to visit in and around Unawatuna.
Day 28-30: Colombo – Wrapping Up the Journey
We wrapped up our 1 month in Sri Lanka with a final stop in Colombo, the country’s busy and modern capital. After weeks of beaches, tea hills, and ancient cities, arriving here was a sharp contrast — skyscrapers, traffic, shopping malls, and colonial landmarks all mixed.
By this point, we were honestly exhausted from budget travel: dragging luggage onto buses and tuk-tuks, negotiating prices daily, and navigating the noise and chaos. So in Colombo, we kept it simple. We took strolls around the city’s temples, wandered through ‘quiet’ parks, and walked the seafront before flying out. It may not be everyone’s favourite, but for us it was the right pace to end the trip and reflect on the incredible (also overwhelming at times) month we’d just had in Sri Lanka.
How to Get to Colombo
- From the south coast: Local buses run frequently from Mirissa, Unawatuna, or Galle to Colombo (expect around 3–4 hours)
- From elsewhere: You can also take the train, or book a PickMe / Uber car or a private car with a driver for a faster but pricier option
- Within the city: Walking is possible in central areas; otherwise, use PickMe or Uber tuk-tuks to avoid haggling
Things to Do in Colombo
- Gangaramaya Temple & Sima Malaka: The city’s most famous Buddhist temple, filled with statues and relics, with a smaller lake temple nearby
- Independence Square & Viharamahadevi Park: A great place for a stroll and to see the colonial-era Town Hall
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque): One of Colombo’s most striking buildings, a six-storey red-and-white patterned mosque in Pettah
- Pettah Market: Bustling with fabrics, food, and local snacks; a real taste of daily city life
- Galle Face Green: A seaside promenade where locals gather for sunsets, street food, and evening walks
- National Museum of Colombo: Learn about Sri Lanka’s history and culture in the country’s largest museum
- Day Trips: Galle can be done as a quick side trip from Colombo if you missed it earlier
Where to Stay in Colombo
We stayed at Lost & Found Colombo, a simple and comfortable base near the city centre. If you want something more stylish, check out boutique stays like Barefoot Garden Bungalows, or go all out with a city-view stay at Cinnamon Life or Shangri-La Colombo.
Read our full guide to learn more about things to do and sights to visit in Colombo.
1-Month Sri Lanka Travel Itinerary
From ancient royal cities and misty tea highlands to golden beaches and vibrant coastal towns, this 1-month Sri Lanka itinerary gives you the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites in Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, ride one of the world’s most scenic trains to Ella, spot wildlife on safari, and unwind on some of the best beaches in Sri Lanka.
30 Days of Adventure and Exploration
Day 1-2: Arrive in Negombo and relax
Day 3-4: Explore Anuradhapura (old & new city) & Mihintale
Day 5-7: Sigiriya, Dambulla & Polonnaruwa
Day 8-10: Explore Kandy and nearby sights
Day 11-12: Explore Nuwara Eliya – Little England
Day 13: Climb Adam’s Peak, the pilgrimage route
Day 14-17: Explore Ella and around
Day 18-21: Head to the South Coast – Dickwella/ Hiriketiya and more
Day 22-24: Mirissa – whale watching & chill
Day 25-27: Unawatuna & Galle
Day 28-30: Explore Colombo before flying out
Alternative Itineraries
If you don’t have a full month, you can still see plenty of Sri Lanka. Here are a few alternative options to fit different schedules:
- 1 Week in Sri Lanka: Focus on either the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Kandy) or the South Coast (Mirissa, Unawatuna, Galle) for temples or beaches
- 2 Week in Sri Lanka: Combine the Cultural Triangle + Hill Country + South Coast for a balanced mix of cultural highlights, tea fields, and beach destinations in Sri Lanka
- 3 Week in Sri Lanka: Add extra stops such as Jaffna in the north, Yala National Park, or quieter stretches of the east coast (Arugam Bay, Trincomalee), depending on the season
No matter how long you stay, you’ll find Sri Lanka full of culture, stunning landscapes, and adventure — just tailor the route to your interests and timeframe.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Sri Lanka
- Best Time to Visit: South and west are best from Dec–Mar, while the east coast shines from May–Sep (expect rain in December)
- Accommodation: Stay in homestays or guesthouses for affordable rates with breakfast included. Hostels with private rooms are also a great option for social vibes and splitting costs on tours or transfers
- Food: Eat at local curry houses, bakeries, or street stalls for cheap and tasty meals like kottu, rice & curry, or hoppers
- Transport: The best way to travel around Sri Lanka is by using trains and buses for long journeys, tuk tuks for short trips (always agree on the fare), or PickMe for fair prices
- Activities: Many hikes and waterfalls are free; skip pricey sites like Sigiriya Rock and climb Pidurangala instead for amazing views
- Sim Card: Get a prepaid SIM from Dialog or Mobitel on arrival, or try an Airalo eSIM for quick and easy data access on arrival
- Money: ATMs charge fees, so use cards like Revolut, Wise, or Monzo and always keep small cash for local shops or buses
- Safety & Scams: Tuk-tuk scams are common, so check prices in advance (use the PickMe app or Uber). Always cover your shoulders and knees at temples and remove your shoes before entering temples
- For more tips, check out our Packing Guide post with must-have items for your trip
- And don’t miss our detailed post on the best travel apps we use to book and organise our adventures
Above all, set up comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. We recommend SafetyWing Nomad Insurance for reliable coverage and peace of mind while travelling abroad. For more information and to get started, check out SafetyWing website.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Sri Lanka on a Budget
This 1-month Sri Lanka itinerary takes you from ancient temples and tea-covered hills to golden beaches and buzzing cities. Travelling Sri Lanka is intense at times — the heat, noise, and constant bargaining can feel overwhelming — but it’s also one of the most beautiful and rewarding countries we’ve explored.
Some of our best memories include the breathtaking sunrise at Adam’s Peak, the misty green hills of Ella and Nuwara Eliya. Also, wandering through sacred temples where we learned more about Sri Lanka’s deep cultural and religious traditions. We’ll never forget the warmth of the locals, the hearty meals at the homestays, and the little everyday moments that made us feel part of local life.
Sri Lanka isn’t always easy, but that’s what makes the experience so rich. The mix of culture, nature, and affordability makes it a destination we’re grateful to have explored in depth.
For more detailed tips and recommendations, check out our individual Sri Lanka blog posts. However you choose to explore, this itinerary will help you see the highlights while staying on budget and inspire even more ideas for things to do in Sri Lanka.
Get Inspired
Join us on a journey through Sri Lanka — an island of ancient cities, misty tea fields, and golden beaches. In this 1 month Sri Lanka itinerary, we explore Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, climb Pidurangala Rock in Sigiriya, visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, and step inside Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth. We’ll also taste tea in Nuwara Eliya, ride the scenic train to Ella for the Nine Arches Bridge, and relax on the south coast at Dickwella, Hiriketiya, Mirissa, and Unawatuna.
Sri Lanka is packed with history, culture, and natural beauty — this video is your perfect inspiration for planning a trip across the island.