The Perfect 10-Day Itinerary for December. December is one of the best months to visit Sri Lanka, with its pleasant weather, lush greenery landscapes, and festive atmosphere to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Sri Lanka offers a little bit of everything, with Sri Lanka Itinerary in December being one of the most popular for tourists across the UK & Europe looking to escape the winter.
Our Sri Lanka 10-day itinerary in December covers the island’s most iconic destinations, giving you the chance to experience its diverse beauty in just over a week.
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Your Sri Lanka itinerary for December kicks off in Colombo, which is the bustling capital city in Sri Lanka. After arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport, check into your hotel and spend the day exploring the city’s highlights. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, stroll through Galle Face Green, and enjoy the sunset by the beach facing the Indian ocean. Depending on time, a visit to the Pettah Market in Colombo will give you a glimpse of a typical local shopping experience in Sri Lanka.
Spend the night in Colombo and treat yourself to some amazing street food or immense on a 5 star dinner at one of many 5 star hotels in Colombo. These hotels in Colombo would also offer the best experience in December with a Christmas/festive atmosphere.
Day 2: Pinnawala and Kandy
On day two of your Itinerary, head towards Kandy, stopping at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage along the way. Watch elephants bathe and learn more about the Sri Lanka’s efforts in conservation. Don’t forget to bottle feed baby elephant and a must to do if you are especially on a family hoiday to Sri Lanka with Kids.
Continue your journey to Kandy and visit one of the most popular places to visit in Kandy which is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a significant cultural and spiritual site. Take a walk around the Kandy Lake and enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance in the evening.
Spend the night in Kandy.
Day 3: Kandy to Sigiriya
Start your day early with a journey to Sigiriya and home to the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks and one of the most popular places visited by tourists and locals. Experience best panoramic views across Sigiriya by Climbing  to the top.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple which has Buddhist statues etc.
Spend the night at one of the iconic hotels in Sigiriya.
Day 4: Polonnaruwa and Minneriya National Park
Get a glimpse of the ancient history of Sri Lanka by paying a visit to Polonnaruwa which is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. A visit to Polonnaruwa would ensure you can explore the well-preserved ruins of temples, stupas, and palaces.
In the afternoon, embark on a safari at Minneriya National Park to witness the famous elephant gathering and spot other wildlife such as deer, leopards, and exotic birds.
Continue your night in Sigiriya.
Day 5: Sigiriya to Nuwara Eliya
A typical Sri Lanka Itinerary in December would never be completed with a visit to Nuwara Eliya and also famously known as ‘Little England’. Nuwara Eliya offers a cool climate and colonial architecture.
On your way to Nuwara Eliya, make sure to stop at a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea and get a glimpse of the tea manuafacturing process. .
Places to visit in Nuwara Eliya includes Victoria Park, Lake Gregory and take walk around the lush surroundings.
Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya
Day 6: Horton Plains and Ella
Another popular item in any Sri Lanka December Itinerary is to visit the Horton Plains National Park. This scenic viewpoint known as World’s End offers stunning views. Afterward, take the scenic train ride to Ella, a small town nestled in the mountains, famous for its laid-back vibe and beautiful surroundings.
The train ride to Ella is known to be one of the most beautiful train rides in Sri Lanka.
Spend the night in Ella.
Day 7: Exploring Ella
Begin a cooler morning at the beautiful city of Ella with a hike up to Little Adam’s Peak for stunning views of tea plantations and rolling hills. Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge to capture some beautiful photos. Another must visit place in Ella includes the Ravana Falls, a picturesque waterfall.
Overnight stay: Ella
Day 8: Yala National Park
Spot leopards and get a glimpse of the amazing wildlife in Sri Lanka with a visit to the famous Leave Yala National Park. Spend the afternoon on a jeep safari through the park, where you’ll also encounter elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and a variety of birds.
Spend the night at one of the best hotels situated within the vicinity of Yala National Park.
Day 9: Galle and Bentota
Travel to Galle which is a historic city situated along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Things to do in Galle includes. Exploring the world famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galle Fort and stroll along the streets lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and colonial architecture.
From Galle, head to the beautiful beach town of Bentota, known for its golden sandy beaches and water sports.
Spend the night at one of the beach hotels in Bentota offering the best vibes for an ideal December stay in Sri Lanka
Day 10: Beach Day in Bentota and Departure
Spend your final day of this Sri Lanka 10-day December itinerary relaxing on the sandy beach in Bentota. Bentota offers some of the best water sports in Sri Lanka like jet skiing, windsurfing, or snorkeling. Its time to head back home from an amazing well spent Sri Lanka tour in December.
Why December is the Best Time for This Sri Lanka Itinerary
December marks the start of the dry season in the west and south of Sri Lanka, making it an ideal time to explore these regions. The weather is pleasant, perfect for outdoor activities and beach time. Additionally, December is a festive month in Sri Lanka, with Christmas celebrations and New Year’s Eve festivities adding to the charm of your trip.
If you’re planning your trip, be sure to bookmark this Sri Lanka 10-day itinerary and pack your bags for a December adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!
