This is Tlow’s five-day South Sri Lanka Backpacking road trip around the island nation of Sri Lanka. The trip starts in the hill country of Kandy and moves to the Southern Districts of Galle & Matara with night stays in the lesser-known beach towns of, Hikkaduwa, and Mirissa. If you are someone who’s looking for a budget international trip, either solo or with your spouse, this is the trip for you.
Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo Airport
Our South Sri Lanka Backpacking trip is a self-exploration backpacking trip which starts & ends at Colombo airport. The driver will double up as the trip lead for the entire journey from start to finish.
So on our Sri Lanka trips, expect mostly backpackers above the age bracket of 25+. With 95% being female solo travellers between the ages of 25-35. The highlight of our Sri Lanka trip is our home stay accommodation at each and every beach village that we will spend a night at.
If you’re a beach lover, then Sri Lanka is an absolute must on your bucket list.
– Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo
– Transfer to Negombo, a beach town located close to the airport
– Relax on the beach or explore the charming fishing village
– Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant
– Overnight stay in Negombo
– After breakfast, travel to Kandy (approximately 3 hours by road)
– Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site
– Explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya
– In the evening, watch a cultural dance performance showcasing traditional Sri Lankan dance forms
– Overnight stay in Kandy
– After breakfast, depart for Mirissa (approximately 4-5 hours by road)
– Arrive in Mirissa and check into your accommodation
– Spend the day enjoying the stunning beaches, swimming, and sunbathing
– Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mirissa with beachside restaurants and bars
– Overnight stay in Mirissa
– Go whale watching or take a boat trip to spot dolphins (seasonal activity + add-on)
– After breakfast, head to Hikkaduwa (approximately 1.5-2 hours by road)
– Arrive in Hikkaduwa and check into your accommodation
– Visit Hikkaduwa Beach, an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving
– Explore the Hikkaduwa Coral Reef, a marine sanctuary teeming with colorful fish and coral
– Enjoy water sports activities such as surfing or jet skiing (add on)
– In the evening, visit the Hikkaduwa Restuarants, known for its lively atmosphere
– Overnight stay in Hikkaduwa
– After breakfast, depart for Colombo (approximately 2-3 hours by road)
– If time permits, explore the capital city of Colombo, visiting attractions such as the Gangaramaya Temple and the bustling Pettah Market.
– Go shopping for souvenirs at local market.
– Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure
