Ultimate 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka Itinerary for Active Travelers
If you’re looking for the ultimate 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary that mixes adventure, culture, and plenty of ways to stay fit, you’re in the right place. After years of mostly sticking to Europe, I wanted to explore somewhere new: an island with amazing food, stunning landscapes, and daily chances to get moving. Sri Lanka delivered in every way.
From mountain hikes that get your heart pumping to surfing in Sri Lanka on stunning beaches at sunset, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your body active and energized. The food scene is just as incredible: fresh spices, colorful curries, and tropical fruit that make eating healthy feel like a treat, not a chore. Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, yoga, or simply exploring local markets on foot, this two-week itinerary gives you the perfect blend of fitness and culture. It was hands down one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. Full of energy, discovery, and good vibes. If you want a sneak peek at the highlights, don’t miss my post on my top 5 Sri Lanka travel moments.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find:
- Why Sri Lanka for Active Travelers?
- My General 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
- My Detailed 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary for Active Travelers
- Fitness & Surf Highlights in a 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
- Accommodation in Sri Lanka
- Budget for a 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
- Practical Tips for Your 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka: Active Travel at Its Best
Why Sri Lanka for Active Travelers?
Sri Lanka is more than just stunning beaches and ancient temples; it’s an island that makes it easy to stay active while exploring. In just two weeks, you can hike through gorgeous mountains, paddle into the perfect wave, and balance it all with yoga or bodyweight workouts on the beach.
The variety is what makes it so special. One day you’re climbing to the top of Ella Rock for sunrise, the next you’re catching waves in Arugam Bay or running along the walls of Galle Fort. And between activities, the local food scene fuels you with fresh fruit, fragrant spices, and plenty of hearty rice and curry.
So if you’re looking for a destination that blends adventure, wellness, and culture, Sri Lanka is one of the best choices for active travelers. It’s a place where fitness feels like part of the journey, not something you have to squeeze in.

My General 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
General Overview
I traveled to Sri Lanka in August 2025, focusing on the southern part of the island. Like most travelers, I landed at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, about 35 kilometers (22 miles) north of Colombo. Colombo is a vibrant city, but since I wanted to focus more on nature and adventure, I grabbed a lift straight to Ella. After two days of hiking and exploring there, I continued on to Arugam Bay, stopping briefly at Yala National Park along the way. I spent five days surfing and relaxing in Arugam Bay before moving on to Hiriketiya for another three days. My final stop was Galle (two days, one night) before heading back to the airport via Colombo.
Changes I Would Make
While my trip was overall amazing, there are a few things I would do differently next time:
- Kandy as a stopover
I skipped Kandy due to limited time, but many travelers I met spoke highly of the city. Driving directly from the airport to Ella took over six hours, partly because many drivers avoid the highway tolls. A stop in Kandy would break this up into two stretches: three hours to Kandy, then 3.5–4 hours from Kandy to Ella. Plus, you could take the famous Kandy to Ella train, though keep in mind it takes 7–8 hours (sometimes up to 10). Also, a shorter train ride is possible as well, I’ll share a suggestion for that below. - Yala National Park safari
We chose Yala mainly because of a great deal on GetYourGuide: a transfer from Ella to Arugam Bay with a 4.5-hour safari included for 36€ / $42. The experience, however, was anything but peaceful. After being picked up at 2:45 a.m., we entered the park at 6:00 a.m. with 40–50 other safari trucks crowding at the gates. Inside, drivers raced around after leopard sightings, ignoring other animals. While we did glimpse the famous leopard, the chaos really took away from the experience. However, we did see elephants, monkeys, buffalos, deer, hares, crocodiles, and many birds. If you go, I’d suggest a half-day tour rather than a full-day one (12 hours, no breaks). - Being more flexible
I loved having a clear structure for my two weeks, but next time I’d talk earlier to tuk-tuk drivers, hotel staff, and fellow travelers. Locals know the best spots and can help shape a more spontaneous adventure.
Taking all of this into account, and adding tips I gathered from locals and other backpackers, I’ve put together what I believe is the perfect 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary for active travelers. Let’s dive in!
My Detailed 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary for Active Travelers
First up: Sri Lanka has two different monsoon seasons. From November until April, the East Coast gets heavy rain, while the south and southwest stay dry. Packing for both sun and sudden showers is key, check out my Sri Lanka packing list.
This 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary works perfectly for a summer vacation, since it focuses more on the east coast. The trip covers these main areas: Kandy, Ella, Arugam Bay, Hiriketiya, Galle, and Colombo.

Kandy
Day 1 – Arrive at Kandy
Kandy is the perfect starting point for this 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary. After landing at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, hire a private transfer to this marvelous city. Taxi counters are located at the airport exit, but I recommend using the PickMe app for better prices and reliability. If you are an extreme budget traveler, you can also take the train from Colombo to Kandy, but keep in mind that you first need to hire a tuk-tuk or private transfer to get into Colombo, which takes about an hour.
Settle into your accommodation and take it easy after the journey. A relaxed stroll around Kandy Lake, wandering through the lively streets, and a first taste of Sri Lankan curry make for a perfect start.
Day 2 – Explore Kandy
Spend the day exploring cultural highlights. Visit the Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. Then head to the Bahirawakanda Big Buddha for sweeping views and explore the Central Market for a dose of local life. If you have extra time, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya are a gorgeous half-day trip just outside the city.
Day 3 – Transfer from Kandy to Ella
No 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary would be complete without a stop in Ella. You can use the morning for anything you missed. Maybe Udawattakele Forest Reserve or the Ceylon Tea Museum. After lunch, begin your scenic transfer to Ella. You can either take the iconic Kandy to Ella train or hire a private driver. The train is famous for its views, but expect 7–10 hours on board, while the drive takes around 3.5–4 hours.
Ella
Day 4 – Discover Ella’s Tea & Nine Arch Bridge
Start with a tea factory and plantation tour at Uva Halpewatte Tea Factory, learning how Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea is grown and produced (and tasting plenty along the way). No booking is required, just head over and join the next tour.
In the afternoon, head to the Nine Arch Bridge, one of Ella’s most iconic sights. The easiest (and most scenic) way is to start at Ella train station and walk along the tracks. It’s about a 40-minute walk. Along the way, you’ll pass plenty of snack stalls where you can try roasted corn on the cob, mango slices wrapped in banana leaves, or even a cheeky ice cream.
If you time it right, you can see a train crossing the bridge, a truly magical sight. However, I would not plan the entire afternoon around the train since they tend to be delayed on this route. We thought that we missed the 2:30 p.m. train and arrived at the bridge around 4 p.m. We got lucky and caught the delayed train rolling through at 4:45 p.m. Watching it appear from the jungle and curve across the bridge was one of those unforgettable Sri Lanka moments.
Day 5 – Adventure in Ella
If you’re craving adrenaline, spend the day at Ravana Adventure Park. Their waterfall abseiling and trekking package is a real full-body workout. You’ll rappel down Pallewella Waterfall, then hike for about an hour through the jungle to a hidden spot that isn’t even on Google Maps. Along the way, you’ll pass banana trees, guava and jackfruit, rice paddies, and tall lemon grass.
At the waterfall, you can try a confidence jump, ladder jump, and natural rock slides into the pool below. If you’re feeling bold, climb higher for even bigger jumps into shallow pools. Tip: wear shoes that can get wet and have a grip for the slippery trail. Also, arrive early. We went around 10 a.m. and had the place almost to ourselves, but by afternoon, it was packed. (Bonus story: a friendly local dog actually “guided” us part of the way there!)
Many guides recommend Ravana Falls, but when we passed by in a tuk-tuk, it was jammed with tourists. Instead, Pallewella Waterfall offers a more peaceful, authentic adventure.
If you still have energy later in the day, skip the now-crowded, carnival-like Little Adam’s Peak and hike to Ravana Cave instead. The countless stone steps will give you a Sri Lanka-style leg day, the temple ruins are fascinating, and the views over Ella are fantastic. You can even see Little Adam’s Peak from up there.
By evening, head back to your accommodation, grab dinner, and prepare for tomorrow’s transfer to Arugam Bay.
Arugam Bay
Arugam Bay is about surfing in the morning and exploring in the afternoon. While you can surf all day, mornings bring the cleanest waves and smaller crowds. For a full breakdown of surf spots, check out my Sri Lanka surf guide.
Day 6 – Surf & Cook in Arugam Bay
For me, surfing in Arugam Bay is a highlight of any 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary. So start your morning with a surf session in Arugam Bay’s mellow waves. Conditions are best early in the day, and the lineup is usually less crowded. Afterward, relax at a beach café. Many have loungers where you can order food and drinks straight to your spot while watching other surfers in action.
In the evening, I highly recommend a cooking class with Mona. She’s not only one of Sri Lanka’s few female surf instructors but also an incredible cook. Her classes cover two curries (one with hard vegetables, one with soft), plus coconut sambol. You’ll also learn to use traditional Sri Lankan kitchen tools. What I loved most was her focus on making recipes adaptable for your home kitchen. She even sends the recipes afterward and offers help if you get stuck recreating them at home. It ended up being one of my favorite experiences in Sri Lanka. I would recommend arranging the cooking class ahead of time, as she is often fully booked. Just reach out to her via WhatsApp.
Day 7 – Surf & Sunset at Elephant Rock
Catch another morning surf session, then book a tuk-tuk safari in the afternoon. Many drivers offer a combined package: a private wildlife safari around Crocodile Rock followed by a sunset at Elephant Rock. We paid about
Rs 4,000, leaving at 3:30 p.m. and returning around 7:00 p.m.
The safari was unforgettable: elephants crossing the road right in front of us, crocodiles sunbathing, playful monkeys, buffalo, jackals (our driver called them “jungle foxes”), and countless birds. Compared to Yala, the animals were closer, the atmosphere calmer, and the driver stopped whenever something was worth photographing.
Although it was cloudy at Elephant Rock and we didn’t get a dramatic sunset, the view itself was more than worth it.

Day 8 – Safari at Kumana National Park
Take a break from surfing with a full-day safari to Kumana National Park. It’s smaller and less crowded than Yala but offers just as much (if not more) wildlife. Tour operators in Arugam Bay organize day trips, and you’ll find the vibe much calmer and more enjoyable.
Day 9 – Surf & Lagoon Safari
Start with another surf session, then switch things up with a lagoon safari in the afternoon. The Pottuvil Lagoon tour (about 2 hours by boat) is peaceful but still full of wildlife—flying foxes, eagles, countless bird species, and even elephants crossing the water. We also stopped briefly at Pottuvil Point for incredible coastal views. Definitely worth adding to your trip.
Day 10 – Surf & Transfer to Hiriketiya
Enjoy one final surf lesson in Arugam Bay, then grab lunch and pack up. In the afternoon, take a private transfer to Hiriketiya. The drive takes around 4.5 hours and shouldn’t cost more than Rs 25,000 (70€/$83). Once there, settle into your accommodation and get ready for a new surf vibe.
Hiriketiya
Day 11 – Surf & Blue Beach Island
Hiriketiya adds a wellness touch to this 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary with yoga and boutique stays.
Depending on conditions (summer is off-season in Hiri), try a surf session in the morning. I recommend Kuma Surf School. They were upfront about the waves and even suggested canceling when conditions weren’t good. (Contrast that with another school where the instructor left me alone while he surfed, so choose wisely!).
In the afternoon, visit Blue Beach Island, connected to the mainland by a narrow sand path. With waves rolling in from both sides, it’s one of the most photogenic spots on the south coast.
Day 12 – Yoga & Train to Galle
Start your day slow with a yoga session and brunch in Hiri. From there, take a tuk-tuk (about Rs 1,200) to Wewurukannala train station, a modern station surrounded by greenery with a giant Buddha statue overlooking it. Buy tickets about 30 minutes before departure (around Rs 300 for second class, which is not even a euro/dollar).
The train ride to Galle takes about 1.5 hours and gives you the iconic Sri Lanka train experience, standing in the open doors with the wind in your hair, without having to commit to the 7–10 hour Kandy–Ella ride.
Once in Galle, check into your accommodation and use the afternoon for a first stroll around Galle Fort. Exploring Galle Fort is the perfect cultural break in my 2 week Sri Lanka itinerary. The mix of colonial architecture, little cafés, and sunset views over the ramparts makes for a perfect introduction to this UNESCO heritage town. Check out the lighthouse, the clock tower, and Flag Rock for a beautiful sunset. If you’re lucky, you might see the famous cliff jumpers who throw themselves head-first into just 1.5 meters of water. It’s their job, and they usually wait until someone pays them before performing the stunt. To wrap up the evening, the old town is full of charm, with colonial-style houses, little boutiques, and cafés, perfect for browsing.

Galle
Day 13 – Sea Turtles & Transfer to Colombo
In the morning, take a tuk-tuk (about Rs 3,000 round-trip) to the Wellabada Sea Turtle Hatchery. Unlike some of the big commercial operations, this one is volunteer-run, donation-based, and feels much more authentic.
Later in the day, catch the train from Galle to Colombo (about Rs 500, 2.5 hours). Pro tip: choose a train that terminates in Colombo instead of one continuing to Kandy. The direct trains are much less crowded, so we let one overflowing train go and 30 minutes later caught another that was practically empty.
Colombo
Day 14 – Explore Colombo
If you have time before your flight, explore a bit of the capital. Use the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s Uber alternative) to get around hassle-free.
Top spots to check out:
- Gangaramaya Temple – colorful, eclectic, and unlike anything else in Sri Lanka.
- Pettah Market – hectic but fascinating if you want to dive into local street life.
- Galle Face Green Promenade – perfect for ocean views, street food, and a final Sri Lankan sunset.
Fitness & Surf Highlights in a 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
One of the best things about Sri Lanka is how easy it is to stay active. Beyond hiking and exploring, you’ll find gyms, yoga studios, and surf schools almost everywhere—often at very affordable prices. Here are some fitness and yoga highlights from each stop on my itinerary:
Kandy
While most people come here for culture, Kandy also has a few solid gyms and yoga classes. It’s a good place to shake off jet lag and ease into your active routine.
Gyms
Locals on Reddit report gym memberships in Kandy generally run from Rs 1,500 to Rs 10,000 LKR – with the cheaper options being basic, mid-range gyms around Rs 3,000, and premium facilities at the top end.
- Iron King Fitness Club offers a day pass for about Rs 1,500.
- Power Re-Create Fitness Center has a day pass that ranges from Rs 600 to Rs 1,000.
- Alpha Zone Fitness Center offers a day pass for s 500 without treadmill and Rs 900 with treadmill use.
Yoga
While dedicated yoga studios are less common than in beach towns, Kandy still has great offerings:
- Yoga Reiki Meditation
- Yoga Noyel Dharamjith
Ella
Gyms
If you want to balance out all the hiking with a gym session, there are two good options:
- Ella Fitness Center is right next to the train station, so super easy to combine with sightseeing. A day pass costs only Rs 700, and you’ll find the basics you need for a workout.
- Fit Forward is located a bit further outside of town, but bigger and better equipped. Just note it only opens in the afternoon/evening (3 p.m. – 10 p.m.), so plan your hikes for the morning and gym later in the day. A day pass costs Rs 1,500.
Yoga
Ella actually has a few nice yoga spots, so it’s easy to fit in a class around your hikes:
- Yoga Ella is probably the best-known studio in town, often described as being run by the only Sri Lankan yoga teacher here (not sure if that’s still 100% true). They run daily classes for about Rs 2,400 per session:
- 08:00–09:15 Vinyasa Flow
- 16:30–17:45 Yin-Restorative
- Ella Yoga Center by Senasuma Homestay is where we stayed, and the vibe was super relaxed. It’s small-scale, but that makes it personal, and rolling out of bed straight into a yoga class was a dream.
- Ella Yoga Hub is ideal if you’re more into being outdoors; this place offers open-air yoga classes surrounded by greenery. Great option if you like a natural setting instead of a studio.
Other Active Options
While Ella doesn’t have as many structured sports facilities as larger towns, it’s a treasure trove for bodyweight workouts and outdoor movement:
- The surrounding hiking trails like Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Cave, and tea plantation paths, double as natural fitness circuits.
- Many accommodations offer bike rentals or walking tours, ideal for light cardio or scenic strolls (see campsites with onsite fitness offerings)
Arugam Bay
Gym
Karma Fitness Club is the only proper gym in town, and it’s a little hidden. Inside, it’s basic but has everything you need for a solid session. I felt totally safe there—even saw a few local women training, which gave it a welcoming vibe. Prices are fair: Rs 1,000 for a day pass, Rs 3,000 for a week, or Rs 9,000 for a month.
Yoga
Stay Golden Yoga is a perfect option if you’d rather stretch than lift. This place has a beautiful open-air shala with ocean views. They run daily drop-in classes like Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Restorative, and even Pilates — for
Rs 3,000 and provide mats and props. You can pay per class or opt for a 7-day pass (Rs 12,000) or 28-day pass (Rs 30,000) if you’re here longer.
Surf & Runs
Of course, the most obvious fitness choice here is surfing. Mornings are best: clean waves, smaller crowds, and the ultimate full-body workout. If you’re into running, the beach is perfect for a barefoot jog at sunrise. I also spotted plenty of people running along the main street in Arugam Bay—though with tuk-tuks flying by, I’d honestly classify that as extreme sports.
Hiriketiya: Fitness & Yoga
Gyms
Fitness Jungle is an amazing outdoor gym right in the middle of the greenery. A day pass costs Rs 1,500, and in addition to the usual weights and functional gear, they also offer extras like Muay Thai sessions, an ice bath, and even protein bars for sale. It’s a great option if you’re missing structured training after days of surfing.
Yoga
- Yoga & Fitness at Dots is probably the most reliable spot in Hiri for group classes. They run 3–4 sessions daily, ranging from yoga to Pilates to “Dots Fit.” A class pass is Rs 3,000. The vibe is social and international, and there is a good chance that you will meet other travelers while you sweat.
- Jasper House offers more of a boutique experience: yoga plus brunch for Rs 5,000. Pricey compared to other options, but if you’re after something a little more upscale (and delicious), it’s worth a splurge.

Surf & Runs
Like in Arugam Bay, surfing is the obvious workout here. Summer is off-season, so conditions can be a hit or miss, but when it works, the bay is beautiful. If waves aren’t on your side, go for a jog around the bay or along the main road. I saw plenty of runners here as well.
Galle
Gyms
If you’re after weights and machines, Galle has some decent options. The best-known are Tecno Gym and Metroflex Fitness, but there are numerous smaller local gyms scattered throughout town. Expect to pay around
Rs 1,000–1,500 for a day pass, depending on the place.
Yoga
Inside Galle Fort, you’ll find boutique studios offering drop-in yoga classes—usually Vinyasa in the morning and Yin or Restorative in the evening. Practicing in a colonial building with ocean breeze drifting through the windows feels pretty special compared to a regular studio vibe.
Surf & Runs
Galle itself isn’t a surf spot, but Unawatuna Beach is just a short tuk-tuk ride away if you’re itching for waves. For runners, taking a lap around the Galle Fort walls at sunrise or sunset is a workout and sightseeing rolled into one.
Colombo
Gyms
Fitness First LK is one of the top gyms in town and is highly recommended. They offer a free one-day trial, and after that, a day pass costs Rs 2,500 for full access. If you’re staying longer, they offer plenty of packages, and the best part is you can book everything online via their website. Clean, modern, and packed with equipment. It’s basically everything you’d expect from a big-city fitness club.
Yoga
There are countless options here, from traditional studios to modern wellness centers. Many hotels also host daily yoga classes for guests and non-guests. Prices are higher than in smaller towns, but the facilities are top-notch.
Other Active Options
If you’re craving movement outside the gym, head to Galle Face Green Promenade. It’s a popular spot for jogging along the ocean, joining impromptu games of cricket, or just doing your own bodyweight workout on the grass.
Accommodation in Sri Lanka
For all our bookings, I used Booking.com. The free cancellation policy (usually up to a few days before arrival) and payment upon arrival made planning super flexible. We chose budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses and were really happy with all of them.

Bonus tip: If you’re traveling solo, you’ll still find private rooms at the same affordable rates—it’s not more expensive just because you’re one person (which is often the case elsewhere).
Kandy
Holiday Stay Inn – about 12€ / $13 per night
I didn’t stay here personally, but several other travelers recommended it as a solid budget option.
Ella
Senasuma Homestay – about 30€ / $33 per night
This was our base in Ella, and we loved it. Friendly hosts, comfortable rooms, and even yoga classes on-site.
Arugam Bay
Royal Point Arugambay – about 33€ / $36 per night
Hiriketiya
Shady Homestay – about 25€ / $28 per night for a private villa. We were lucky to grab this rate—prices have since doubled, but it’s still worth it for the value and vibe. The owners prefer longer stay so I am not sure whether you will be able to book it.
Abinu”s Place – about 21€ / $23 per night. This might be a good alternative.
Galle
Wijenayake’s – Beach Haven Guest House (Galle Fort) – about 29€ / $32 per night
Perfect location inside the fort, simple but cozy, and ideal for exploring Galle on foot.
Near the Airport
Airport City Hotel – about 22€ / $24 per night
Very basic, but great for a short stay before or after your flight. Just a few minutes from Bandaranaike International Airport.
Budget for a 2-Week Sri Lanka Itinerary
Here’s exactly what I spent on my two-week trip in August 2025.

Practical Tips for Your 2 Weeks in Sri Lanka
There are a few things that make traveling in Sri Lanka much smoother if you know them in advance. Here’s what I knew beforehand and what I wish someone had told me before my trip:
SIM cards
The easiest option is Dialog. They’re cheap, reliable, and available right after immigration at the airport. Other providers might try to stop you before you even exit—just keep walking. A 30-day tourist package with data and calls costs around 2,000–3,000 LKR (6–9 € / $7–10).
Visas
You’ll need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. The simplest way is to buy it online before departure at the official immigration website. It costs about 46€ / $50 for 30 days, and approval is usually quick.
Money & ATMs
Sri Lanka is still a mostly cash-based economy. Bring a credit card with low or no foreign transaction fees. I used Revolut, and it worked fine. Some ATMs charge withdrawal fees, others don’t—Bank of Ceylon and People’s Bank are usually free. In Arugam Bay, all ATMs charge fees, so it’s smart to withdraw cash before arriving or make a side trip to Pottuvil.
Transport
In Colombo, the PickMe app (Sri Lanka’s Uber) works perfectly. Outside of the capital—Ella, Arugam Bay, Hiriketiya, Galle—local tuk-tuk drivers run the business and usually push PickMe drivers away. For long transfers, it’s worth hiring a private driver, while for short trips tuk-tuks are the way to go. You can also rent a scooter (about Rs 1,500–2,000 per day), officially with an international license, though many travelers get by without one.
Trains are a travel experience on their own, but they can be packed. If possible, choose a train that terminates near your destination—they’re much less crowded. For example, on the Galle → Colombo route we let one overflowing train go and half an hour later boarded another that was almost empty.

Laundry
Guesthouses and laundries will wash your clothes for around Rs 350 per kilo (~1€ / $1.10). It’s quick and affordable, which makes traveling light much easier.
Toilets
Western-style bathrooms aren’t everywhere. At Yala National Park, for example, it was literally just a hole in the ground. Always carry tissues and hand sanitizer.
Mosquito nets
Not every guesthouse has one. Packing a lightweight travel mosquito net can save you a lot of bites (and sleepless nights).
Health & safety
Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Stick to bottled water or bring a filter bottle to cut down on plastic. The heat and humidity make dehydration real—carry electrolyte packets. I’d also pack a small first-aid kit with mosquito spray, sunscreen, antihistamines, painkillers, and rehydration salts.
Power & plugs
Sri Lanka uses a mix of plug types (D, G, and M). A universal adapter is the safest bet. Power cuts do happen, so a power bank is handy.
Cultural etiquette
Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples, and always take off shoes and hats before entering. Carrying a light scarf or sarong in your daypack makes it easy to be respectful without overthinking your outfit. Worst case scenario, you could also wrap a towel around you in case you add a temple stop on the way home from the beach.
Sri Lanka: Active Travel at Its Best
That’s my take on a 2-week Sri Lanka itinerary. Think hikes that double as workouts, surf sessions that end with sunsets, and street food that fuels the next adventure. Sri Lanka really does make fitness part of the journey instead of something you have to plan around.
If you’re curious about what to eat while staying active, I’ve shared my favorite finds in a Sri Lanka fitness-food guide. For the practical side of things, my ultimate packing list will help you travel lighter, and if surfing is high on your list, don’t miss the Sri Lanka surf guide.


