Sri Lanka’s southern coast is full of beautiful beaches, history, and wildlife. This 6-day tour takes you through Galle, Mirissa, Kataragama, and Ella, mixing relaxation with adventure.
Day 1: Discovering Galle
Enjoy your day exploring the natural beauty of Kottawa Reserve Forest and the historical charm of Galle Fort. It’s a day that combines outdoor adventure with cultural enrichment, offering a memorable start to your Sri Lankan journey.
Kottawa Reserve Forest
Location: About 13 km from Galle.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 7-9 AM, when the forest is most active with wildlife.
Activities:
- Nature Walks: Explore various trails through lush greenery.
- Bird Watching: Spot numerous bird species, best viewed in the early morning.
- Botanical Experience: Learn about diverse plant species and trees.
- Kottawa Natural Pool: Enjoy a refreshing bath in the natural pool.
Considerations: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring insect repellent, and carry water and snacks.
Galle Dutch Fort
Location: Central Galle.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to evening, especially for sunset views.
Activities:
- Exploring: Walk through the streets lined with colonial buildings, shops, and cafes.
- Landmarks: Visit the lighthouse, ramparts, and museums.
- Sunset: Enjoy stunning ocean views from the ramparts.
Considerations: Wear comfortable clothing and bring a camera for sunset photography.
Day 2: Galle to Mirissa
Enjoy your journey from Galle to Mirissa, experiencing the scenic beauty of Rumassala and Jungle Beach, the excitement of diving in Unawatuna, and the relaxing atmosphere of Mirissa Beach for dinner.
Roomassala and Jungle Beach
Location: Near Unawatuna, about 5 km from Galle.
Best Time to Visit: Morning, around 8-10 AM.
Activities:
- Rumassala Hill: Visit for great coastal views and the peaceful Japanese Peace Pagoda.
- Jungle Beach: Enjoy a quiet swim in this secluded beach.
Considerations: Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and bring swimwear for Jungle Beach.
Diving in Unawatuna
Location: Unawatuna Beach, about 6 km from Galle.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon, around 1-3 PM.
Activities: Dive into the clear waters and explore vibrant marine life. Suitable for beginners and licensed divers.
Considerations: Book a diving session in advance and follow all safety guidelines.
Dinner at Mirissa Beach
Location: Mirissa Beach, about 30 km from Galle
Best Time to Visit: Evening, around 6-8 PM.
Activities: Relax on the beach and enjoy a beachfront dinner.
Considerations: Choose a restaurant with good reviews for a memorable dining experience.
Day 3: Exploring Mirissa
Mirissa is a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka, perfect for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Start your day with a whale-watching tour, then relax at Secret Beach and Coconut Tree Hill in the afternoon. Finish your day by learning about snakes at the Sri Lanka Snake Farm and enjoying coastal views from Parrot Rock.
Whale Watching in Mirissa
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 6-9 AM.
Activities: Join a whale-watching tour to see blue whales and dolphins.
Considerations: Book your tour in advance and bring seasickness medication if needed.
Secret Beach and Coconut Tree Hill
Location: Near Mirissa, around 1.5 km from Mirissa
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon, around 1-4 PM.
Activities:
- Secret Beach: Enjoy a quieter beach experience.
- Coconut Tree Hill: Take photos at this scenic spot lined with coconut trees.
- Nearby Beach: Watch turtles in their natural habitat.
Sri Lanka Snake Farm and Parrot Rock
Location: Near Mirissa, around 10 km from Mirissa
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to early evening, around 4-6 PM.
Activities:
- Sri Lanka Snake Farm: Learn about local snakes and their habitats.
- Parrot Rock: Climb for a panoramic view of the coast.
Day 4: Mirissa to Kataragama
Leave Mirissa and head inland to Kataragama.
Hiriketiya Beach
Location: Near Dickwella, about 45 km from Mirissa.
Best Time to Visit: Morning, around 8-10 AM.
Activities: Relax or surf at this popular beach.
Considerations: Bring surf gear if you plan to surf.
Ussangoda and Dry Zone Botanic Gardens
Location: Ussangoda, about 50 km from Hiriketiya.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon, around 1-3 PM.
Activities:
- Ussangoda: Explore this unique area with reddish soil and great views.
- Dry Zone Botanic Gardens: Discover diverse plant species in the gardens.
Considerations: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water and snacks.
Kataragama
Activities: Explore the sacred town and enjoy the spiritual atmosphere.
Considerations: Respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Day 5: Kataragama to Ella
Head to the picturesque town of Ella.
Yala Safari
Location: Yala National Park, about 50 km from Kataragama.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 6-9 AM.
Activities: Join a safari to see elephants, leopards, and birds.
Considerations: Book your safari in advance and follow all safety guidelines.
Diyaluma Falls and Rawana Falls
Location: Diyaluma Falls is about 60 km from Yala, Rawana Falls is near Ella.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon, around 1-4 PM.
Activities:
- Diyaluma Falls: Visit and swim in the natural pools.
- Rawana Falls: Stop by this popular waterfall.
Considerations: Wear swimwear and bring towels and water shoes.
Ella Town
Activities: Explore local markets and relax at a cafe.
Considerations: Try local food and shop for souvenirs.
Day 6: Exploring Ella
Spend your final day in Ella.
Nine Arch Bridge
Location: Near Ella, around 4 km from Ella
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, around 7-9 AM.
Activities: Visit the Nine Arch Bridge, surrounded by greenery.
Considerations: Bring a camera for scenic photos.
Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak
Location: Near Ella, about 3km from Ella
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon, around 1-4 PM.
Activities:
- Ella Rock: Hike for stunning views.
- Little Adam’s Peak: Enjoy an easier hike with great views.
Considerations: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and snacks.
Ravana Pool and Zipline
Location: Near Ella, about 4 km from Ella
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon to early evening, around 4-6 PM.
Activities:
- Ravana Pool: Swim in the natural pools.
- Zipline: End your adventure with a thrilling zipline ride.
Considerations: Follow safety instructions for the zipline and wear appropriate swimwear for the pool.
For this adventure, you can rent a tuk-tuk from nohatuktuk.com and pick it up at their Galle office. This 6-day tour promises a mix of fun and relaxation. Enjoy your trip!
