Starting from Bandaranaike International Airport and ending in Mirissa for a beach stay sounds wonderful. I’ll include a mix of cultural, natural, and relaxation experiences, with comfortable accommodations and a combination of private and public transport for an authentic experience. Here’s your 10-day itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport – Negombo
- Morning: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Transfer: Take a taxi to a hotel in Negombo (approximately 20 minutes).
- Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the beachside atmosphere of Negombo.
- Evening: Take a sight seeing ride by a Tuk Tuk and enjoy a seafood dinner.
- Stay: Overnight in Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo – Dambulla
- Morning: Travel to Dambulla by private car (approximately 3 hours).
- Afternoon: Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple.
- Evening: Leisure time at the hotel.
- Stay: Overnight in Dambulla.
Day 3: Dambulla – Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa
- Morning: Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Afternoon: Travel to Polonnaruwa (1.5 hours) and explore the ancient city.
- Evening: Return to Dambulla.
- Stay: Overnight in Dambulla.
Day 4: Dambulla – Kandy
- Morning: Visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla.
- Afternoon: Travel to Kandy (approximately 2.5 hours).
- Evening: Attend a cultural dance show.
- Stay: Overnight in Kandy.
Day 5: Explore Kandy
- Morning: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Afternoon: Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
- Evening: Stroll around Kandy Lake.
- Stay: Overnight in Kandy.
Day 6: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya
- Morning: Board a scenic train to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 3-4 hours).
- Afternoon: Explore the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya.
- Evening: Relax in the cool climate.
- Stay: Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya – Ella
- Morning: Visit a tea plantation and factory.
- Afternoon: Travel to Ella (approximately 1 hour).
- Evening: Relax and enjoy the scenic views of Ella.
- Stay: Overnight in Ella.
Day 8: Ella
- Morning: Hike Little Adam’s Peak and visit the Nine Arch Bridge.
- Afternoon: Leisure time or explore more of Ella.
- Evening: Enjoy local cuisine in Ella town.
- Stay: Overnight in Ella.
Day 9: Ella – Mirissa
- Morning: Travel to Mirissa by private car (approximately 4 hours).
- Afternoon: Arrive in Mirissa and relax on the beach.
- Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner.
- Stay: Overnight in Mirissa.
Day 10: Mirissa
- Morning: Optional whale watching tour or beach time.
- Afternoon: Relax on the beach or explore local shops and cafes.
- Evening: Sunset at the beach.
- Stay: Overnight in Mirissa.
Day 11: Departure
- Morning: Leisure time in Mirissa.
- Transfer: Travel to Bandaranaike International Airport (approximately 2.5 hours) for your departure.
Note: This itinerary can be adjusted based on your flight times and specific interests. Accommodation recommendations will vary based on your preference for luxury or budget options. Always confirm opening times and availability of attractions, especially considering potential changes due to seasonal variations or public holidays.