Quick answer
Choose 7 nights for the highlights (Kandy, tea country and the south coast), 10 nights to add Sigiriya, a safari and more beach time, or 14 nights to see almost everything at a relaxed pace. Coastline Lanka Travels' holiday packages with hotels and a private driver start from $599, $899 and $1,599 per person respectively.
In this guide
How do the trip lengths compare?
| 7 nights | 10 nights | 14 nights | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From (per person) | $599 | $899 | $1,599 |
| Regions | 3–4 | 5 | 6–7 |
| Typical route | Colombo → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Galle → south coast | Sigiriya → Kandy → Ella → Yala → south coast | Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Kandy → Ella → Yala → Mirissa → Galle |
| Beach nights | 2–3 | 3 | 3–4 |
| Pace | Steady | Comfortable | Relaxed |
Who is 7 nights best for?
First-timers with one week of leave who want culture, tea country and a few beach days. You'll skip either Sigiriya or the safari parks. See our 7 day itineraries.
Who is 10 nights best for?
Most travellers. Ten nights adds the Cultural Triangle and a Yala safari without long driving days. It's our most-booked length.
Who is 14 nights best for?
Travellers who want the whole island at a slow pace, families with young kids who need rest days, and anyone adding the east coast from June to September. See the full 14 day itinerary.
How much driving does each length involve?
Most legs take 2–4.5 hours: airport to Sigiriya is about 4.5 hours, Sigiriya to Kandy 2.5, Kandy to Nuwara Eliya 2.5, Ella to Yala 3, and Yala to Galle 3.5. A longer trip means more rest days between drives, not longer drives.
Frequently asked questions
How many nights do you need in Sri Lanka?
7 nights for the highlights, 10 nights for most travellers including Sigiriya and a safari, and 14 nights to see nearly everything at a relaxed pace.
How much is a 10-night Sri Lanka holiday?
From about $899 per person with hotels, a private driver and transfers. Entrance fees and most meals are extra.
Is one week enough for Sri Lanka?
Yes for the highlights. You'll usually choose between the Cultural Triangle and a safari.
What's the best length for a first visit?
10 nights gives the best balance of culture, wildlife, tea country and beach without long drives.
Can I extend a package by a few nights?
Yes. Packages can be extended or shortened; extra beach nights are the most popular addition.