The Best 12-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for December to March

A well-planned 12-day Sri Lanka Itinerary gives you time and space to experience the island properly without compressing long drives or rushing through major sites. The period from December to March is the most popular season among foreign travellers as the West Coast, South Coast, and the Hill Country enjoy dry weather. Longer stays are becoming more common during this season as foreign travellers deepen their cultural heritage experiences, enjoy scenic travel, and encounter wildlife & nature. This 12-day Sri Lanka Itinerary reflects these travel patterns and follows routes consistently rated highly in traveller reviews and in itinerary bookings for the season.

This Sri Lanka travel itinerary suits travellers who want a steady pace, a clear structure, and enough flexibility to enjoy each destination. The journey begins near the international airport, moves through the Cultural Triangle, continues into the hill country, and later connects wildlife and popular coastal regions. Each stage builds on the previous one, creating a logical flow without backtracking.

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Title: The Best 12-Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for December to March

Destination: Sri Lanka, round trip starting from Negombo or Colombo and finishing at Bandaranaike International Airport.

Total duration: 12 days and 11 nights

Best travel season: December to March

Travel style: Cultural heritage, ancient cities, hill country scenery, wildlife safaris, coastal relaxation

Pace: Steady and balanced, designed for comfort and immersion

This 12-day Sri Lanka Itinerary focuses on the most popular attractions in Sri Lanka while leaving room for rest and local interaction. Long travel days are avoided where possible. Early starts are worth it only when they add clear value, such as climbing Sigiriya or joining a safari.

Boats in Negambo Lagoon (Photo: Deshan Ruhunage, CC BY-SA 4.0)

A private car with a driver works best for this itinerary. Distances remain manageable, but public transport would reduce flexibility and increase travel time. The only exception is the hill country train journey, which serves as both transport and a core experience.

Recommended Transport Structure

• Private car with driver for Days 1 to 6
• Train from Nanu Oya to Ella
• Private car resumes from Ella onward (Day 9 to 12)

This approach keeps the itinerary smooth while allowing scenic travel where it matters most.

When planning a visit to Sri Lanka, it is advisable to read our transport guide.

• Day 1: Arrival in Colombo or Negombo
• Day 2: Negombo or Colombo to Anuradhapura
• Day 3: Anuradhapura to Sigiriya area
• Day 4: Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla
• Day 5: Sigiriya area to Kandy
• Day 6: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
• Day 7. Hill Country Train Journey to Ella
• Day 8. Exploring Ella and Surroundings
• Day 9. Ella to Wildlife Region
• Day 10. Safari and Transfer to the South Coast
• Day 11. South Coast and Galle Fort
• Day 12. South Coast to Colombo and Departure

Sunset at Galle Face Green, Colombo (Photo: Mayooresan, CC BY-SA 3.0)

• Airport to Negombo: Around 30 minutes
• Airport to Colombo: Around 45 to 60 minutes
• Negombo or Colombo to Anuradhapura: Around 4 to 5 hours
• Anuradhapura to Sigiriya area: Around 1 to 2 hours
• Sigiriya to Kandy: Around 3 hours
• Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: Around 3 to 4 hours
• Nanu Oya to Ella by train: Around 2 to 3 hours
• Ella to Yala or Udawalawe National Park: Around 2 to 3 hours
• Yala or Udawalawe National Park to the South Coast: Around 2 to 3 hours
• South Coast to Galle Fort: Around 30 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the beach you have stayed at.
• Galle Fort to the Airport: Around 2 to 3 hours

A traditional fishing boat on Negombo Beach (Photo: Véronique Nijs)

Morning

Arrival takes place at Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo. After immigration and baggage collection, you meet your driver and begin the transfer to Negombo or Colombo. Most travellers choose Negombo for its short drive (around 30 minutes) and relaxed atmosphere. Colombo suits (around 45 to 60 minutes) those arriving early in the morning who prefer a brief introduction to the city.

Afternoon

Hotel check-in follows. The afternoon remains intentionally light to help your body adjust after a long flight. In Negombo, a walk along the beach introduces coastal life, fishing boats, and evening markets. In Colombo, a short drive through Galle Face Green, Independence Square and surrounding neighbourhoods provides context without strain.

Evening

Dinner stays simple. Seafood dishes in Negombo or a mild rice and curry in Colombo work well after travel. An early night prepares you for the inland journey the next day.

Overnight

Negombo or Colombo

Suggested hotel areas in Negombo: Beach Road, Poruthota Road, or the central beach strip. Hotels range from budget rooms to boutique resorts.

• Where to Stay in Negombo
• Where to Stay in Colombo

Ruwanweliseya Stupa, Anuradhapura (Photo: Balou46, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Morning

Departure begins early to avoid city traffic. Breakfast stops along the main road offer fresh fruit, roti, and tea. The drive moves north towards the Cultural Triangle, passing small towns and agricultural areas. It takes around 4-5 hours to reach Anuradhapura.

Afternoon

Arrival in Anuradhapura marks the start of Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage. This UNESCO-listed city served as the island’s first capital and remains one of the most important religious centres in South Asia. After lunch, exploration begins with key sites, including sacred stupas, ancient reservoirs, and monastery ruins. Due to the area’s size, transport between sites helps conserve energy.

Evening

After several hours of exploration, you return to the hotel for rest. Evening hours remain quiet, allowing time to reflect on the scale and significance of the ancient city.

Overnight

Anuradhapura

Stay near the old city for easy access the next morning. A local rice and curry works well. You may find mild vegetable dishes and fresh fruit.

The Lion Gate, Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Photo: Gonzo Gooner, CC BY 3.0)

Morning

The day begins with continued exploration of Anuradhapura or a visit to Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The climb includes stone steps and open views across the surrounding plains, making early morning the best time for this visit.

Afternoon

After lunch, the journey continues towards the Sigiriya region. It takes around 1-2 hours to reach the Sigiriya area. The drive is shorter than the previous day and passes through lakes, forests, and rural villages. Arrival at the hotel takes place in the early afternoon, leaving time for rest.

Evening

Late afternoon is a good time for a village walk, a cooking class, or cycling around the area. These experiences offer insight into irrigation systems, farming routines, Sri Lankan food culture, and daily village life. Sunset hours remain calm and unhurried.

Overnight

Sigiriya or Habarana area

Stay near a lake or paddy field for a peaceful environment. Choose a lodge near Sigiriya Road, Inamaluwa, or Kimbissa for quick access to the sites. Try a mild curry or stir fry. Drink tea before bed.

A Stupa in the Dambulla Cave Temple (Photo: Kaushiru90, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

An early start takes you to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the most recognised attractions in Sri Lanka. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Early entry avoids heat and crowds. The climb includes landscaped water gardens, ancient frescoes, mirror walls, and summit ruins. Two to three hours allows a steady ascent, time at the summit, and a relaxed descent.

Opening hours of Sigiriya: From 5.00 am to 6.30 pm (every day), the Precos area closes at 5.45 pm.

Afternoon

After lunch, you visit Dambulla Cave Temple. The cave complex (5 caves) features statues and murals dating back centuries and remains an active place of worship. Modest clothing is required, and shoes must be removed. One to one and a half hours suits most visitors. Dambulla Cave Temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the largest and best-preserved cave temple complexes in Asia.

Opening hours of Dambulla Cave Temple: From 7.00 am to 7.00 pm (every day).

Evening

Return to the hotel for rest. Some travellers choose a sunset viewpoint near Sigiriya Rock or enjoy quiet time at the accommodation.

Overnight

Sigiriya or Habarana area

Temple of the Tooth and Lake (Photo: Philip Nalangan, CC BY 4.0)

Morning

Departure begins after breakfast. It takes around 3 hours to reach Kandy. The route towards Kandy passes spice-growing regions. A brief stop at a Hindu temple (Nalanda Gedige) or the National Spice Garden in Matale introduces visitors to cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, and other herbs used in local medicine and cooking.

Afternoon

Arrival in Kandy takes place around midday or early afternoon. After lunch, you visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important religious sites in the country. Security checks and dress guidelines apply. The temple complex remains active throughout the day with rituals and offerings.

The sacred city of Kandy is another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Opening hours of the Temple of the Tooth: From 5.30 am to 8.00 pm (every day).

Evening

A walk around Kandy Lake provides a relaxed transition from sightseeing. Evening cultural dance performances offer insight into traditional music and movement styles.

Overnight

Kandy

Check in near the lake or on a nearby hill. Try a traditional rice-and-curry set or a simple soup if you feel tired.

Let’s Pluck Tea Leaves – Nuwara Eliya (Photo: Sanjeewa Jayarathne)

Morning

The day begins with a visit to Kandy Market, where vendors sell fruit, vegetables, spices, and daily essentials. This stop offers a glimpse of everyday life beyond major attractions. Soon after, the drive towards the hill country begins. It usually takes around 3-4 hours to reach Nuwara Eliya.

Afternoon

The road climbs steadily into cooler regions, passing waterfalls and tea estates. A tea plantation and factory visit explains cultivation, plucking, processing, and grading. Tea tasting follows the tour. Lunch takes place along the route or after arrival.

Evening

Arrival in Nuwara Eliya introduces a cooler climate and colonial-era architecture. Evening walks near Gregory Lake or along quiet streets suit the relaxed pace. Warm meals feel comfortable due to the temperature drop.

• AllTrails Map – Gregory’s Lake Loop (4.5 km)

Overnight

Nuwara Eliya

Choose a hotel near Gregory Lake or the tea estates. Drink a pot of local Ceylon Tea. Try a simple curry or roti meal in Nuwara Eliya.

Tea Hills in Nanu Oya (Photo: Rehman Abubakr, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

After breakfast, you check out and transfer to Nanu Oya railway station. The hill-country train journey to Ella, one of the most scenic train rides in the world, begins here and is among the most popular experiences for foreign travellers. Second-class reserved seating offers the best balance of comfort and open windows. The train departs slowly, passing tea estates, forested slopes, tunnels, bridges, mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and small rural stations.

The Hill Country of Sri Lanka is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Afternoon

The journey continues through valleys and mountain ridges. Vendors board the train at stations selling snacks and tea. It usually takes around 2-3 hours to reach Ella from Nanu Oya by train. Arrival in Ella usually takes place around midday or early afternoon. After hotel check-in and lunch, you visit Nine Arches Bridge during a quieter window to avoid peak crowd times.

• AllTrails Map – Nine Arch Bridge from Ella Rd (1.9 km)
• AllTrails Map – Nine Arch Bridge (1.3 km)

Evening

Ella has a relaxed evening rhythm. You may walk through town, enjoy a café, or rest after the travel day. Temperatures remain cooler than the lowlands, which suits early nights.

Overnight

Ella

Pick a guesthouse with a view of the hills and valley. Many small cafes offer rice bowls, curries, and baked goods.

A View from Ella (Photo: Sachin Kaveesha Fernando, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

The day begins with a walk to Little Adam’s Peak. This trail remains accessible for most fitness levels and offers expansive views across tea estates and valleys. Early morning provides the clearest conditions.

• AllTrails Map – Little Adam’s Peak (1.4 km)
• AllTrails Map – Little Adam’s Peak and Lookout (2.9 km)

Afternoon

After returning to town and lunch, you may visit Ravana Falls or spend free time exploring Ella’s shops and cafés. This afternoon works well as unstructured time after several consecutive travel days.

Evening

Dinner in Ella remains casual. Many travellers use this evening to pack lightly for the upcoming wildlife segment.

Overnight

Ella

A leopard on a stone in Yala National Park (Photo: Byrdyak, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

You depart from Ella early to make the most of the day. The road descends from the hills into warmer and drier regions. Breakfast usually takes place en route. It will take around 2-3 hours to reach Udawalawe or Yala National Park.

Afternoon

Arrival occurs near Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park. After hotel check-in, lunch and rest, prepare yourself for safari activities.

Yala National Park is a large park with varied wildlife. It is known for the highest leopard density in the world, and therefore, leopard sightings draw interest. Yala National Park supports leopard, elephant, sloth bear, spotted deer, sambar, buffalo, jackal, boar, and macaque. Bird life includes peafowl, eagles, kites, owls, bee-eaters, storks, herons, and several endemic species. Reptiles include mugger crocodiles, pythons, cobras, and land monitors. Amphibians gather near pools and shaded streams.

Udawalawe National Park is home to elephants, deer, buffalo, jackals, boar, and several small mammals. Bird life includes eagles, kites, owls, bee-eaters, and storks. Reptiles include crocodiles and land monitors. The park is relatively smaller and easier to cover. Tracks drain faster after showers.

Opening hours of Yala and Udawalawe National Parks: From 6.00 am to 6.00 pm (every day).

Evening

The evening remains calm with an early dinner. Safari briefings often take place at hotels, covering safety rules and expectations for the park.

Overnight

Near the national park

Pick a lodge near the main gate for early access. Meals in this region are simple and hearty. Eat early so you can sleep well before the morning safari.

Love and Protection – Udawalawe National Park (Photo: Sumudusoyza007, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

A morning safari begins early, when wildlife activity is at its highest. Professional guides lead the drive, explaining animal behaviour, birdlife, and conservation efforts. Elephant sightings remain common in Udawalawe, while Yala offers broader biodiversity.

Afternoon

After returning from the safari and freshening up, you begin the drive towards the South Coast. Lunch takes place along the route or after arrival. It usually takes around 2-3 hours to reach the South Coast.

Evening

Arrival occurs in beach towns such as Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, or Hiriketiya. The change in climate feels immediate. Evening hours suit beach walks, swimming, and relaxed dining.

Overnight

South Coast

Check in at your beach hotel. Eat seafood or a simple rice dish. Sleep early for possible whale watching the next day.

Mirissa Beach, the South Coast (Photo: dronepicr, CC BY 2.0)

Morning

Optional whale watching tours depart early from Mirissa from December to March. Calm seas and regular sightings define this season. Travellers who skip the boat may enjoy beach time or beginner surf sessions in Weligama.

Afternoon

You travel to Galle Fort for exploration. Walking the ramparts, visiting museums, and browsing small shops takes two to three hours. Lunch inside the fort allows a slower pace.

The old city of Galle and the Fort are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Evening

You return to your beach base for the final coastal evening. Sunset hours remain ideal for reflection and rest.

Overnight

South coast

The Famous Lighthouse – Galle Fort (Photo: Diwyanjalee Wanigasekara, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Morning

The final morning remains flexible. You may enjoy a beach walk, some light shopping, or rest, depending on your flight timing.

Afternoon

Departure towards Colombo begins. The drive uses the southern expressway whenever possible to reduce travel time. It will take around 2-3 hours to reach the airport.

Evening

Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport aligns with evening international departures.

Accommodation choices shape comfort and pacing. Negombo and Colombo work best for arrival nights due to proximity to the airport. Anuradhapura offers heritage-focused hotels near ancient sites. Sigiriya and Habarana feature eco lodges and boutique stays close to attractions. Kandy suits lake area hotels or hillside retreats. Nuwara Eliya accommodation focuses on colonial-era hotels and tea estate bungalows designed for cooler weather. Ella works best with small guesthouses near trails. Wildlife regions offer safari lodges with early start logistics. South Coast stays range from beachfront resorts to simple guesthouses within walking distance of the sea.

Weligama Beach – A Popular Surfer Hangout (Photo: Inna Rabotyagina)

Food varies across regions. The Cultural Triangle focuses on rice, vegetables, and coconut-based curries. Kandy and hill country areas offer heartier meals due to cooler temperatures. Ella features cafés serving local and international food. Coastal towns highlight seafood, grilled fish, and tropical fruit. Fresh juices, short eats, and bakeries remain widely available throughout the route. If you try Sri Lankan street food, you’ll have another experience.

This Sri Lanka travel itinerary includes daily interaction with local life. Market visits in Kandy showcase the local food culture. Village walks near Sigiriya reveal irrigation systems and farming routines. Tea estate tours explain plantation life and export history. Train travel highlights rural connectivity. Safaris introduce conservation challenges. Galle Fort supports local crafts and heritage businesses.

Optional choices appear throughout the itinerary. Udawalawe may replace Yala for easier logistics. Extra beach time may replace whale watching. Ella may add an additional rest afternoon if needed. Arrival and departure nights may shift between Negombo and Colombo depending on flight schedules.

Surfing in Hiriketiya Beach (Photo: Zoshua Colah)

Entry Fees

Sigiriya, Dambulla, the Temple of the Tooth, Yala, Udawalawe, and other national parks require tickets to be purchased at the gate. You can also book national park permits/tickets online through the Wildlife Park Permits Reservation eService.

Carry cash or a card.

See ticket prices for Sigiriya, Pidurangala Rock, Dambulla Cave Temple, Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Ritigala Forest Monastery, and Polonnaruwa.

Opening Hours

Temples and heritage sites open in the morning and close by sunset. National parks have fixed slots for jeep entry.

Dress Code

Shoulders and knees must be covered inside temples. Remove shoes and hats near sacred spaces.

Transport Tips

Book the scenic train as early as possible. Private drivers help with flexible stops.

Online Train Ticket Booking: Online Advance Train Seats Reservation from the Sri Lanka Railways Official Page.

If you plan to visit Sri Lanka, it is advisable to read the Transport in Sri Lanka: The Best Guide.

December to March brings clear skies to the West and South Coasts and cool weather to the hill country. Coastal temperatures range from 28 to 32 degrees Celsius. Hill country nights drop to 12-18 degrees Celsius.

Packing essentials

• Light cotton or linen clothing.
• One light jumper or a fleece for high-country evenings.
• A wide-brimmed hat.
• Sunglasses.
• A camera.
• Swimwear and a quick-drying towel.
• Walking shoes.
• Sandals for the beach.
• A light jacket.
• Sunscreen with high SPF.
• Insect repellent.
• A compact umbrella or light rain jacket.
• Reusable water bottles.
• Modest temple attire (A scarf or shawl).

If you plan to visit Sri Lanka, it is better to read up on the weather and the best time to visit Sri Lanka.

Sunny day – Unawatuna Beach (Photo: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is recommended. It is a secure coverage for medical care and outdoor activities.

Local Safety

Wildlife rules must be followed strictly during safaris. Do not feed wild animals. Avoid swimming in rough seas. Use mosquito protection in the evenings.

Hospitals

Major hospitals sit in Colombo, Kandy, and Galle. Smaller hospitals serve other towns. Emergency numbers in Sri Lanka include 119 for police and 1990 for medical emergencies.

Costs vary by travel style. Budget stays range from 25 to 40 USD per night. Mid-range stays range from 60 to 120 USD. Luxury stays rise above 150 USD. Meals range from 3 USD at simple cafes to 20 USD at restaurants. Transport by private car costs 45-60 USD per day. Train tickets vary by class. Entrance fees range between 10 and 65 USD. Entry fees, safari, and whale watching add optional costs. Longer stays help balance daily expenses by reducing rushed transfers.

* All prices are subject to change.

View from Galle Fort (Photo: Nipuna Gamage, CC BY-SA 4.0)

• Support small businesses.
• Buy from local markets.
• Respect dress codes in sacred places.
• Use refillable bottles and say no to single-use plastic when possible. Many cafés and hotels on this route now offer refill points and rely less on small plastic bottles. Dispose of waste responsibly.
• In wildlife areas, choose operators with clear ethics. Look for park briefings, limits on the number of jeeps per sighting, and strong respect for animal space.
• Do not feed wild animals.
• Choose whale watching operators who follow safe guidelines and respect marine life.

You move across a broad set of experiences.

• Ancient cities in Anuradhapura
• Sunrise climb at Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
• Scenic hill country train journey
• Tea estates and walks in Ella
• Wildlife encounters in Udawalawe or Yala
• Whale watching off Mirissa during the season
• Galle Fort and the South Coast beaches

These are among the most visited attractions in Sri Lanka during the December to March season. This 12-day Sri Lanka Itinerary balances culture, nature, wildlife, food, and the coast into one steady route, allowing you to travel with clarity, comfort, and confidence during peak season.

Your 12-day Sri Lanka Itinerary keeps a steady pace from start to finish. You experience the key things to do in Sri Lanka without rushing between regions. The itinerary ends with warm weather on the South Coast and a smooth evening return to the airport, making this Sri Lanka Trip Itinerary ideal for a 12-day holiday during peak season.

Featured image: Sigiriya Lion’s Rock (Photo: Abishek Palraj, CC BY-SA 4.0)

Nalaka Priyantha

I am a Sri Lankan medical doctor who spends my free time travelling, exploring new destinations, and documenting the beauty of the island I call home. I have journeyed across almost every corner of Sri Lanka with my wife and daughter — from wildlife parks and misty mountains to ancient cities, deep forests, rugged landscapes, and quiet beaches.

Travel is not just a hobby for me — it’s a way of life. I love nature, enjoy road trips, and find joy in wildlife photography. I also read widely about tourism, travel trends, and destination culture. Through my writing, I aim to help travellers experience Sri Lanka through real stories, meaningful insights, and honest recommendations — the same way I explore it with my own family.