6 Days in Sri Lanka.

6 Days in Sri Lanka.

This 6-day journey through Sri Lanka offers a perfect balance of scenic hikes, ethical wildlife experiences and local cuisine.

Day 1 – Arrival & Transfer to Ella

  • Take a Private taxi transfer from Negombo to Ella (Approx. 5-hour drive)

  • Hotel recommendation: Gaga Bees Hotel: wooden eco-cabins, perfect for those seeking an authentic, nature-immersive stay in Ella—Peaceful surroundings and attentive service

  • Dinner recommendation: Café Samsara – Casual local dining with authentic Sri Lankan flavors

Day 2 – Little Adam’s Peak & Nine Arch Bridge

  • Morning: Hike to Little Adam’s Peak (a relatively easy 1.5-2 hour walk along a well-maintained path and stair sections, leading to panoramic views over Ella’s lush valleys and tea estates. Ideal for sunrise or late morning hikes)

  • Coffee Stop: Stop at 98 Acres Resort on the way down and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks

  • Continue onto the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a leisurely walk from 98 Acres through tea fields and forest trails, enjoy a drink: Nine Arch Treehouse Café , an Ideal spot to watch trains pass

  • Return to Ella via the Nine Arches Bridge Trail and enjoy snacks at Café Chill, a relaxed café with light bites and views of the main street from above

  • Dinner recommendation: Matey Hut – Small, rustic spot with homemade Sri Lankan cuisine

Day 3 – Ella Rock & Tea Factory Tour

  • Morning: Ella Rock Hike, a more challenging and adventurous trail (approx. 4 hours) that starts with a walk along the train tracks and climbs through forest paths and open rock faces, offering sweeping views of Ella Gap from the summit.

  • Lunch recommendation: Rainbow Café – Fresh and healthy menu

  • Afternoon: Tour of Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory

    • Includes tea-making process and tea picking experience

  • Dinner recommendation: The Clay Pot – Traditional dishes served in clay pots for an authentic touch

Day 4 – Scenic Train to Kandy

  • Morning: Travel from Ella to Kandy through tea-covered hills, misty forests, and charming villages — widely considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world

    • Recommend booking either 2nd class in advance or take 3rd class unreserved

  • Arrival in Kandy: Check into accommodation

  • Dinner recommendation: Marinate – Elevated dining serving local cuisine with views over Kandy city

Day 5 – Kandy Exploration & Transfer to Sigiriya

  • Morning activities: Stroll around Kandy Lake, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and explore fresh food markets

  • Brunch recommendation: Smoothie bowls and light meals at Buono

  • Early Afternoon: Uber transfer to Sigiriya

  • Arrival in Sigiriya: Hurulu Eco Park Jeep Safari (book via GetYourGuide)

    • Note: Ethical wildlife experience – no touching, feeding, or bathing

  • Accommodation recommendation: Hotel Sigiriya

  • Dinner recommendation: Ahinsa Restaurant – Peaceful garden setting with healthy and local dishes

Day 6 – Sunrise Hike & Return to Negombo

  • Early Morning Hike Options:

    • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Entry fee applies - involves a structured climb with stairs and archaeological features throughout)

    • Pidurangala Rock (Free viewpoint of Sigiriya Rock- offers a more natural trail, finishing with a rock scramble for unobstructed sunrise views over Sigiriya Rock)

  • Return to Negombo by Uber

  • Lunch recommendation: Boho – Trendy café with global cuisine

  • Dinner recommendation: TukTuk Wine – Highly recommended for their vegetable curry and roti & local Ginger Beer