Coastal escapes
Escape to the stunning coastline of Sri Lanka, where golden beaches, turquoise waters, and charming seaside towns await. Relax by the ocean, discover historic coastal cities, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and experience a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and tropical paradise along the island’s beautiful shores.
Travel Summary:
Tour Duration: 10 Days/09 Nights
Destinations Covered:
- Galle Dutch Fort
- Galle Light House
- Stilt Fisherman
- Mirissa Beach
- Coconut Tree Hill
- Matara Fort
- Hiriketiya Beach
- Dickwella Beach
- Yala National Park
- Arugam Bay Beach
- Pasikuda Beach
- Batticaloa Lagoon
- Koneswaram Temple
- Pigeon Island
- Fort Fedrick
- Kanniya Hot Water Wells
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Independence Memorial Hall
- Galle Face Green
- Port City
- Red Mosque
Travel Story
Day 01: Airport to Mirissa via Galle
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your chauffeur and begin your journey along Sri Lanka’s picturesque southern coastline.
En route, explore the historic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and panoramic ocean views. Visit the iconic Galle Lighthouse, wander through the charming Dutch streets lined with boutique cafés and artisan shops, and, if in season, witness the traditional Stilt Fishermen, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic coastal traditions.
Continue to Mirissa, where you can relax on its golden sandy beach and enjoy a breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Galle Dutch Fort
- Galle Light House
- Stilt Fisherman
- Mirissa Beach
Overnight stay: Mirissa
Day 02: Sightseeing Mirissa
If in season experience Whale Watching Tour to spot blue whales and dolphins. After breakfast, spend a leisurely day exploring the tropical paradise of Mirissa. Relax on its beautiful golden beach, swim in the warm turquoise waters, or unwind at one of the many beachfront cafés. Visit the famous Coconut Tree Hill, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed viewpoints, offering spectacular views of the coastline.
You may also choose from exciting optional activities including surfing, snorkelling, or rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Whale Watching Tour
- Coconut Tree Hill
- Mirissa Beach
Overnight stay: Mirissa
Day 03: Mirissa to Dickwella via Matara
After breakfast, travel east along the scenic southern coastline to Matara, where you’ll explore the historic Matara Fort and enjoy a stroll along the picturesque coastal promenade. Visit the beautiful Paravi Duwa Temple, connected to the mainland by an elegant footbridge stretching over the sea.
Continue to Dickwella, home to some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beaches, including the crescent-shaped Hiriketiya Beach and the peaceful Dickwella Beach.
If time permits, you may also visit the dramatic Hummanaya Blow Hole.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Matara Fort
- Paravi Duwa Temple
- Hiriketiya Beach
- Dickwella Beach
- Hummanaya Blow Hole
Overnight stay: Dickwella
Day 04: Dickwella to Arugam Bay via Yala
In the early morning travel to Yala National Park for an exciting morning jeep safari through Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve. Home to one of the world’s highest densities of leopards, Yala also shelters wild elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, and an incredible variety of birdlife.
Following the safari, continue your scenic journey along Sri Lanka’s southern and eastern coastline to the world-renowned surfing destination of Arugam Bay.
Upon arrival, unwind on the beach and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this tropical coastal paradise.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Yala National Park
- Arugam Bay Beach
Overnight stay: Arugam Bay
Day 05: Sightseeing in Arugam Bay
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing day exploring the beautiful beaches and attractions of Arugam Bay.
Spend time swimming, surfing, or simply soaking up the sun on its golden sandy shores. Visit the vibrant beachfront cafés and enjoy the peaceful coastal lifestyle.
For those seeking adventure or cultural experiences, optional excursions include a visit to the historic Muhudu Maha Viharaya or a tranquil Lagoon Safari in Pottuvil, where you’ll encounter mangroves, birdlife, and local wildlife.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Arugam Bay Beach
- Pottuvil Lagoon
- Muhudu Maha Viharaya
Overnight: Arugam Bay
Day 06: Arugam Bay to Pasikuda
After breakfast, continue your journey north along Sri Lanka’s spectacular east coast, passing charming fishing villages and picturesque coastal scenery such as the eastern point of Sri Lanka(Sangaman Kanda), Oluvil Light House.
Arrive at the beautiful beach destination of Pasikuda, famous for its shallow, crystal-clear waters and long stretch of golden sand.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing by the beach or enjoy optional water sports such as snorkelling and kayaking in the calm bay.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Pasikuda Beach
Overnight: Pasikuda
Day 07: Pasikuda to Nilaveli
After breakfast at your hotel in Pasikuda, travel north along Sri Lanka’s beautiful east coast towards Nilaveli, passing charming coastal villages and the picturesque Batticaloa Lagoon.
Upon reaching Trincomalee, explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, beginning with the magnificent Koneswaram Temple, dramatically perched atop Swami Rock with breathtaking panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Continue to the historic Fort Frederick, originally built by the Portuguese and later occupied by the Dutch, before visiting the secluded Marble Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
Afterwards, continue to Nilaveli and check in to your beachfront hotel.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Batticaloa Lagoon
- Koneswaram Temple
- Fort Fedrick
- Marble Beach
Overnight: Nilaveli
Day 08: Sightseeing in Nilaveli
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely day discovering the natural beauty of Nilaveli. Begin with an unforgettable excursion to Pigeon Island National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most spectacular marine parks, where you can snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and harmless blacktip reef sharks.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the pristine shores of Nilaveli Beach, swimming in the calm turquoise waters, or simply unwinding beneath the shade of swaying palm trees. For those seeking additional relaxation, the beach offers the perfect setting to enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere or indulge in optional spa treatments and beachfront dining.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Pigeon Island National Park
- Nilaveli Beach
Overnight: Nilaveli
Day 09: Nilaveli to Colombo via Sigiriya
After an early breakfast at your hotel in Nilaveli, begin your journey towards Colombo, travelling through Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. En route, visit the Kanniya Hot Water Wells, a fascinating archaeological and religious site famous for its seven natural hot springs, each with varying temperatures.
Continue past the impressive Kantale Tank, one of Sri Lanka’s largest ancient irrigation reservoirs, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into the island’s remarkable hydraulic engineering.
Next, visit the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the ancient rock citadel to explore its world-famous frescoes, the Mirror Wall, Lion’s Gate, and the royal palace ruins of King Kashyapa while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Afterwards, make a brief stop at the Dambulla Golden Temple for photographs of its impressive golden Buddha statue before continuing your journey to Colombo, arriving in the evening.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Kanniya Hot Water Wells
- Kantale Tank
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Dambulla Golden Temple
Overnight: Colombo
Day 10: Colombo to Airport
After breakfast at your hotel in Colombo, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring some of the city’s iconic landmarks, if time permits before your departure. Visit the magnificent Gangaramaya Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist temples, followed by the striking Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque), renowned for its unique red-and-white striped architecture. Continue to the elegant Independence Square, a symbol of Sri Lanka’s independence, and, if time allows, explore the National Museum, home to an extensive collection of the island’s rich cultural and historical treasures.
Before heading to the airport, enjoy some last-minute shopping, where you can pick up authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs, Ceylon tea, spices, gemstones, handicrafts, and local delicacies to take home.
At the appropriate time, your chauffeur will transfer you to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your unforgettable Sri Lankan journey to a close.
Main Highlights of the Day:
- Gangaramaya Temple
- Red Mosque
- Independence Square
- National Museum
Goodbye… Until Next Time!
Thank you for choosing Sri Lanka Tour Planners. We hope your journey has been filled with unforgettable memories, breathtaking landscapes, and warm Sri Lankan hospitality. We wish you a safe journey home and look forward to welcoming you back to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean for another incredible adventure.
Ayubowan & Safe Travels!