A 10-day tour of Sri Lanka, including the East Coast, offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and beach relaxation. Here’s a well-balanced itinerary covering the best of Sri Lanka, including famous attractions and stunning beaches on the east coast.

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo – Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB).
Transfer to Negombo, a coastal town near the airport (20 min drive).
Relax at Negombo Beach and explore the Dutch Canal & Fish Market.
Enjoy a seafood dinner by the beach.
Overnight in Negombo

Day 2: Negombo to Sigiriya (Cultural Triangle)
Drive to Sigiriya (Approx. 4 hrs).
Visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO site).
Explore the ancient Pidurangala Rock for panoramic views.
Optional: Elephant safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.
Overnight in Sigiriya or Dambulla

Day 3: Polonnaruwa & Transfer to Trincomalee (East Coast)
Explore Polonnaruwa, an ancient city with well-preserved ruins.
Visit Gal Vihara, an incredible set of Buddha statues.
Drive to Trincomalee (Approx. 2.5 hrs).
Relax at Uppuveli Beach or Nilaveli Beach.
Overnight in Trincomalee

Day 4: Trincomalee – Beach & Culture
Take a morning boat tour to Pigeon Island for snorkeling.
Visit Koneswaram Temple, a famous Hindu temple with ocean views.
Explore Fort Frederick, a colonial-era fort.
Relax at the beach or try whale watching (seasonal: May–October).
Overnight in Trincomalee

Day 5: Trincomalee to Pasikuda
Drive to Pasikuda Beach (Approx. 2 hrs).
Enjoy the crystal-clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming.
Try water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, or diving.
Relax at a beachfront resort.
Overnight in Pasikuda

Day 6: Pasikuda to Kandy (Hill Country)
Drive to Kandy (Approx. 5 hrs).
Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
Explore Kandy Lake and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance show in the evening.
Overnight in Kandy

Day 7: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (Tea Country)
Drive to Nuwara Eliya (Approx. 2.5 hrs).
Visit a tea plantation and factory for a tasting session.
Explore Gregory Lake and enjoy a scenic boat ride.
Visit Seetha Amman Temple, a significant Hindu site.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya to Ella (Scenic Train Ride)
Take the famous train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella (One of the world’s most scenic train rides).
Visit Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak for breathtaking views.
Relax at a café in Ella with views of Ella Gap.
Overnight in Ella

Day 9: Ella to Yala National Park
Drive to Yala National Park (Approx. 3 hrs).
Take an afternoon Jeep Safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
Enjoy a stay in a safari lodge or eco-resort.
Overnight in Yala

Day 10: Yala to Colombo (Departure)
Drive back to Colombo (Approx. 4.5 hrs).
Explore Colombo City – visit Galle Face Green, Independence Square, and Pettah Market.
Last-minute shopping at One Galle Face Mall or Dutch Hospital Precinct.
Depart from Bandaranaike International Airport.

Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka’s East Coast: April to September (for sunny weather & calm seas)


Tour Highlights
✅ Beaches – Trincomalee & Pasikuda
✅ Culture & History – Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Kandy
✅ Scenic Landscapes – Nuwara Eliya, Ella
✅ Wildlife Safari – Yala National Park
✅ Adventure & Train Ride – Ella