Touch down in Sri Lanka and begin exploring the top places to see in Colombo. Go to the National Museum and admire paintings, sculptures, and sketches dating back to 4th century B.C. Board a train or hail a taxi to Galle. This coastal city is brimming with charm, from the cobblestone streets of Galle Fort to the panoramic views at the Galle Lighthouse. Wander through narrow lanes, discovering idyllic beaches like Lighthouse Beach and museums narrating Galle’s past. Settle in for the night at one of Galle’s boutique hotels after admiring the sunset.

Today, soak in more of Galle’s seaside allure. Visit the Mahamodara Sea Turtle Hatchery, where you can learn about the efforts to conserve the turtles on the island. You may even be able to get up close to the gentle creatures!

There are also plenty of secret beaches to explore and lesser-known nooks in the fort. In the afternoon, make your way to the beautiful beach town of Mirissa. Enjoy a leisurely meal on the beach and let the laidback vibe of Mirissa wash over you.

If you’re visiting between November and April, head out on a once-in-a-lifetime whale-watching tour in Mirissa’s azure waters. Spot majestic blue whales and playful dolphins against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

Outside whale season, Mirissa offers all kinds of water sports, from snorkelling to surfing and jet skiing. After a day of sun and sea, make your way to Tissamaharama for a taste of Sri Lanka’s jungle wilderness.

Wake up early for the drive to Yala National Park – the most famous wildlife park in the country one of the top places to go in Sri Lanka. Explore this diverse ecosystem on a thrilling safari where you can spot elephants, sloth bears – and if you’re lucky – the elusive leopard.

Near the park are caves containing centuries-old rock paintings and an ancient Buddhist monastery called Sithulpawwa. After a day of exploration, return to Tissamaharama to unwind and reflect while lazing under the stars

Get ready for the jungle as you travel to the mountainous town of Ella. En route, stop by Ravana Falls – one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka. Once you reach Ella, check out the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the Bridge in the Sky. This colonial-era railway is an architectural wonder worth the visit.

Browse a tea plantation and factory nearby to delve into the ins and outs of the island’s famed Ceylon tea.

Begin your day with a walk up Little Adam’s Peak, a relatively easy activity offering an incredible outlook of the surrounding valleys. Zipline your way down for an adrenaline hit! For those craving a little more of a challenge, Ella Rock makes for a rewarding hike in the beautiful countryside.

When it’s time to leave Ella, board the train to Kandy – a trip famous for its breathtaking scenery as you wind through mist-covered mountains and tea plantations.

As the cultural centre of Sri Lanka, Kandy is abundant with landmarks of spiritual significance. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. As the name suggests, this Buddhist temple houses an important relic: the Buddha’s tooth. 

Stroll around Kandy Lake, and tour the town’s colonial buildings and attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens. The wonders of Kandy conclude your Sri Lanka travel itinerary, after which you can return to Colombo within three hours to get ready for your trip home via Doha.