Highlights
- Explore the beautiful beaches of Bentota and Mirissa
- Go whale-watching on a boat tour off the coast of Mirissa
- Enjoy a cycling tour around the Dutch fort and rural plantations of Galle
- Sightsee and shop for handicrafts in the capital city of Colombo
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Enjoy the Beaches of Mirissa | Mirissa |
| Day 2 | Whale Watching off the Coast of Mirissa | Mirissa |
| Day 3 | Go on a Cycling Tour Around Galle | Mirissa |
| Day 4 | Relax on a Beach in Mirissa | Mirissa |
| Day 5 | Continue Along the Coast to Bentota | Bentota |
| Day 6 | Take it Easy on a Beach Day in Bentota | Bentota |
| Day 7 | Depart Sri Lanka |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Enjoy the Beaches of Mirissa
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start the trip in Mirissa. A fishing village surrounded by rubber and coconut plantations, ancient temples, spice gardens, natural sanctuaries, and exotic wildlife, this destination is famous for its long whale-watching season. Mirissa's stunning crescent beach is a paradise for anyone who loves the sun and the sea. Check into your hotel and take some free time in the afternoon to relax before the next day's whale-watching tour.
Day 2: Whale watching off the Coast of Mirissa
The south coast of Sri Lanka is one of the world's very best places to see blue whales. From November to April, when the whales are on their annual migratory route from the Horn of Africa up to the Arabian Sea, they can be easily seen in the waters around Mirissa. Sperm whales and various kinds of dolphins may be spotted, too. You'll start the day early, taking a packed breakfast with you on the excursion to maximize your chance of spotting whales. Take it easy on the beach in the afternoon—you might need a siesta under the palm trees!
Day 3: Go on a Cycling Tour Around Galle
Today you'll enjoy a full day cycling tour around Galle and experience the wonders of the historic town and its surroundings. The first stop is at the tea factory at Kahanda Kanda, which offers an overview of how tea is processed, from lush green leaves to teacup. Then pedal by Koggala Lake, dotted with hundreds of tiny islands. Take a break for a boat ride around the tranquil marshland scenery, spotting rare birds during the trip.
Next, the tour will take you through paddy fields and coconut, rubber, and cinnamon plantations. You'll pause in Unawatuna, famous for its pristine beaches and coral reefs. Then continue to the 17th-century Galle Fort. Sample street food before cycling back to the village of Miliduwa, where the cycling trip ends. Head back to Mirissa for dinner and an overnight stay.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Relax on a Beach in Mirissa
You'll have a day at leisure at Mirissa today. Go surfing—you can take lessons if it's your first try—or relax on the quiet sands of Secret Beach. Rent a motorbike to explore the coastline, or go for a ride in a colorful tuk-tuk. If you're especially interested in wildlife, you could go out on a boat for more whale-watching, see cobras at a local snake farm, or detour to nearby Polhena Beach (also known as Turtle Beach) to swim in a calm bay and look for the turtles who live here.
Go for a seafood dinner in one of Mirissa's many restaurants before turning in.
Day 5: Continue Along the Coast to Bentota
After breakfast, transfer to Bentota to experience another Sri Lankan beach resort. Bentota is a prime beach destination on the southwestern coast. The calm seas and golden sands set the perfect scene for snorkeling, diving, sailing, windsurfing, waterskiing, and deep-sea fishing on a traditional outrigger canoe from November through April. The afternoon is yours to relax on the beach or try your hand at more active pursuits.
Day 6: Take it Easy on a Beach Day in Bentota
Today is yours to enjoy in the resort town of Bentota. Opt for sunbathing and water sports on the beach, venture to beautiful Paradise Island, or dive at Canoe Rock. Nearby, on the Bentota River, visit the giant Buddha statue at Galapota Temple. Or relax at the resort on your last full day of the trip, sampling Sri Lankan cuisine and taking it easy before the next day's travels.
Day 7: Depart Sri Lanka
Today, take some time to explore Colombo, a lively city rich with cultural sights and Buddhist temples. Take a drive through the city's commercial center, where grand colonial-era buildings stand alongside modern hotels and office structures. Explore the vibrant markets and bazaars in Pettah to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. Then it's off to the airport to catch your flight out. Safe travels!
More Great 7-Day Sri Lanka Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Sri Lanka? Check out these other 7-day Sri Lanka itineraries, with active adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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