3 Days in Sri Lanka: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide!

Are you planning a quick getaway to Sri Lanka? With only three days to spare, it’s important to make the most out of your trip. Luckily, Sri Lanka is a small country packed with diverse attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Whether you’re an explorer, a culture enthusiast, or an active adventurer, there’s something for you to discover in this tropical paradise.

Day 1: Exploring Colombo Start your Sri Lanka adventure by exploring the bustling capital city of Colombo. Spend the day discovering the city’s rich history and culture by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Gangaramaya Temple and the Independence Memorial Hall. Take a stroll along the Galle Face Green promenade and indulge in some local street food. Cap off the day with a sunset cocktail at one of the city’s trendy rooftop bars.

Day 2: A Cultural Trip to Kandy On your second day, take a scenic train ride to the cultural city of Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture by watching a traditional Kandyan dance performance and exploring the local markets. End the day with a relaxing stroll around the serene Kandy Lake.

Day 3: Adventure in Sigiriya and Dambulla On your last day, head to the ancient city of Sigiriya and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a complex of five cave temples adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues. End your trip with a thrilling jeep safari at Minneriya National Park to spot elephants and other wildlife.

What to Do in Sri Lanka for 3 Days?

• With only three days in Sri Lanka, make the most out of your trip by exploring the capital city of Colombo, visiting the cultural city of Kandy, and embarking on an adventure in Sigiriya and Dambulla.
• Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to every type of traveler, from history and culture enthusiasts to active adventurers.
• Travel tips for Sri Lanka include taking the scenic train ride to Kandy, indulging in local street food, and embarking on a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park.

Day 1: Exploring Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka, the land of rice and curry! You’ve got three days to explore this beautiful country, and we’re starting with the capital city of Colombo. Get ready for a day filled with sightseeing, delicious Sri Lankan cuisine, and shopping.

Sightseeing in the Capital

Colombo is a city of contrasts, with modern architecture standing alongside colonial landmarks. Start your day with a visit to the Dutch Hospital, a beautifully restored building that now houses shops, cafes, and restaurants. From there, head to the Ministry of Crab, a must-visit for seafood lovers. This restaurant is consistently ranked as one of the best in Asia and for good reason. Don’t miss their famous crab curry!

Next, explore the bustling streets of Pettah, a neighborhood known for its markets and street food. You’ll find everything from spices to textiles to electronics, and the energy of the place is infectious. For a taste of Sri Lankan history, visit the National Museum or the Gangaramaya Temple.

A Taste of Sri Lankan Cuisine

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Start with a traditional breakfast of string hoppers, egg hoppers, and coconut sambol. For lunch, try kottu, a dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and your choice of meat. And for dessert, don’t miss jaggery, a sweet made from coconut milk and palm sugar.

Shopping and Nightlife

Colombo has plenty of shopping options, from high-end malls to street markets. For a unique shopping experience, head to the Good Market, a weekly market that sells organic produce, handmade crafts, and more. In the evening, check out the city’s nightlife scene. From rooftop bars to beach clubs, there’s something for everyone.

That’s just a taste of what Colombo has to offer. Stay tuned for our Day 2 itinerary, where we’ll be exploring the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

Day 2: A Cultural Trip to Kandy

Welcome to Day 2 of your Sri Lanka tour! Today, you’re in for a cultural treat as you head to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Get ready to experience the rich heritage of this beautiful city, explore botanical gardens, and indulge in some mouth-watering local dishes.

Visiting Heritage Sites

Kandy is home to several heritage sites that have been recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and attracts thousands of devotees every year.

Another must-visit heritage site is the Royal Palace of Kandy, also known as the Royal Palace of the Last Kingdom of Kandy. This palace was the residence of the last King of Kandy and is an excellent example of traditional Sri Lankan architecture.

Exploring the Botanical Gardens

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread over 147 acres, this garden is home to over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. Take a leisurely stroll through the garden, breathe in the fresh air, and marvel at the beauty of nature.

Sampling Local Dishes

No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without indulging in some local dishes. Kandy has a variety of street food stalls and restaurants that serve some of the most delicious Sri Lankan delicacies. Don’t miss out on trying Kothu Roti, a popular street food made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat, and Pol Sambol, a spicy coconut relish that goes well with rice and curry.

That’s it for Day 2 of your Sri Lanka tour. Stay tuned for Day 3, where you’ll visit a tea plantation and explore more of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Day 3: Adventure in Sigiriya and Dambulla

Welcome to the final day of your Sri Lankan adventure! Today, we’ll be exploring the ancient cities of Sigiriya and Dambulla, and discovering the natural beauty of the region.

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day filled with hiking, wildlife safaris, and breathtaking sunsets that will make your Instagram followers envious.

Hiking and Exploring Ruins

Our first stop is Sigiriya, where we’ll be hiking up to the ancient rock fortress. The climb to the top may be challenging, but the views from the summit are worth it. You’ll be able to see the entire surrounding landscape, including the lush green forests and the majestic elephants roaming around.

After descending from Sigiriya, we’ll head to Dambulla to explore the famous cave temples. These ancient ruins are filled with intricate carvings and paintings that date back to the 1st century BC. You’ll be transported back in time as you wander through the five caves, each with its own unique artwork.

Wildlife Safari

Next up, we’ll be taking a wildlife safari in the nearby national park. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive leopards and the playful elephants that call this park home. You’ll be able to see these majestic creatures up close and personal as you drive through the park.

Ending the Day with a Sunset

As the day draws to a close, we’ll end our adventure with a stunning sunset at one of the many scenic locations in the area. Whether you choose to watch the sunset from the top of Sigiriya or from the banks of a nearby lake, you’ll be left in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds you.

So, get ready for an unforgettable day filled with adventure, history, and natural beauty. You’ll return home with memories that will last a lifetime and a newfound appreciation for the wonders of Sri Lanka.

Accommodation Options

You’ve decided to visit Sri Lanka for three days, and now you’re wondering where to stay. Luckily, Sri Lanka has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a private villa, you’ll find something that fits the bill.

If you’re looking for a hotel, you’ll find plenty of options in Sri Lanka. From five-star luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. Some of the best hotels in Sri Lanka include the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, the Cinnamon Grand Colombo, and the Jetwing Beach Hotel.

If you’re on a budget, you might want to consider staying in a guesthouse or hostel. These types of accommodation are usually cheaper than hotels and offer a more authentic experience. Some popular guesthouses in Sri Lanka include the Ocean Edge Suites & Hotel Colombo, the Colombo City Hostel, and the Backpack Lanka Hostel.

For those who want a bit more privacy, there are plenty of private villas and apartments available for rent. These types of accommodation are perfect for families or groups of friends who want to stay together. Some of the best private villas in Sri Lanka include the Villa Sunbird, the Villa Suriyawatta, and the Villa Saldana.

When it comes to price, Sri Lanka offers a wide range of options. You can find budget-friendly accommodation for as little as $20 per night, or you can splurge on a luxury hotel for $500 or more per night. It all depends on your budget and preferences.

Overall, Sri Lanka has plenty of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a hotel, guesthouse, or private villa, you’re sure to find something that meets your needs.

So, book your accommodation today and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Sri Lanka!

Travel Tips for Sri Lanka

Are you planning a 3-day trip to Sri Lanka? You’re in for a treat! This beautiful island nation in South Asia has so much to offer, from stunning beaches to ancient temples and lush green tea plantations. But before you pack your bags and head off on your adventure, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

Getting There

If you’re coming from India, you can take a short flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city. There are plenty of airlines that operate flights between India and Sri Lanka, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India. Once you arrive in Colombo, you can take a taxi or a bus to your destination.

Language

While Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages of Sri Lanka, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas. You won’t have any trouble communicating with locals, ordering food, or asking for directions.

Tour Operators

If you’re short on time and want to make the most of your 3-day trip, consider booking a tour package with a reputable tour operator. They can help you plan your itinerary, arrange transportation and accommodation, and take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Currency

The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange your currency at the airport or at banks and exchange offices throughout the country. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you.

Dress Code

Sri Lanka is a conservative country, so it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts. It’s also a good idea to remove your shoes before entering temples and other sacred places.

Food and Water

Sri Lankan cuisine is delicious, but it’s important to be careful when it comes to food and water. Stick to bottled water, and avoid ice in drinks and raw vegetables and fruits that may have been washed in tap water. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle with a purifier.

With these travel tips in mind, you’re ready to explore all that Sri Lanka has to offer!

Before You Go

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the end of this article on what to do in Sri Lanka for 3 days. We hope that you’re feeling excited and inspired to explore this beautiful country and all it has to offer.

During your vacation, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most stunning sandy beaches in the world, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax and soak up the sun, or an action-packed day of water sports and adventure, Sri Lanka has something for everyone.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, Sri Lanka is also home to an incredible amount of biodiversity. You’ll be able to explore the lush forests and see a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the majestic Asian elephants and elusive sloth bears. Make sure to visit Wilpattu National Park, where you can see storks and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Overall, Sri Lanka is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, you’re sure to find it here. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

FAQs

Are you planning a 3-day trip to Sri Lanka and wondering what to do? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.

With these frequently asked questions, you are now ready to plan your 3-day trip to Sri Lanka. Don’t forget to pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!