Begin your coastal journey with a warm pickup from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Colombo city, or Negombo. Your driver will greet you and assist with your transfer toward Sri Lanka’s scenic southwest coast.
Optional: Madu Ganga River Safari (Subject to Arrival Time) - If you arrive early enough, you may opt for a tranquil boat safari on the Madu Ganga River near Balapitiya.
- Glide through a network of mangrove islets, observe local birdlife, and visit a tiny Buddhist island temple.
- It’s a peaceful introduction to Sri Lanka’s rich biodiversity and riverine culture.
Relax or Enjoy Water Sports at Bentota Beach - Stop in Bentota, a coastal town known for its wide golden beaches and adventure activities.
- Spend some time relaxing by the sea or try optional water sports like jet skiing, banana boating, or windsurfing, depending on your energy levels after travel.
Visit Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery - Continue south with a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles.
- Learn about the life cycle of turtles, hatchling release programs, and ongoing environmental efforts.
- You'll also get a chance to see adult turtles and baby hatchlings up close.
Scenic Coastal Drive to Galle - Take a leisurely drive along the beautiful coastline to Galle, a charming city blending colonial history, ocean views, and a relaxed vibe.
- En route, you’ll pass palm-fringed beaches, stilt fishermen, and picturesque towns.
Check-in and overnight stay in Galle

Note: If you're more interested in snorkeling, Hikkaduwa can be an alternative to Bentota. However, it’s best to keep Day 1 relaxed depending on your arrival time to avoid travel fatigue.

Morning Exploration of Galle Fort & Old City - Start your day with a guided or self-paced walk around Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Portuguese and expanded by the Dutch.
- Stroll along the ramparts, visit the Lighthouse, and take in the colonial-era churches, museums, and cobblestone streets.
- Discover boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafés nestled in centuries-old buildings.
- The fort is still a living community, blending history with modern life.
Optional Visit to the National Maritime Museum - If you're interested in Sri Lanka’s nautical past, stop by the National Maritime Museum, located within the Fort walls.
- Exhibits include ancient maps, shipwreck artifacts, and models that reflect Sri Lanka's maritime history.
Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda - Drive or hike up to the serene Japanese Peace Pagoda, located on Rumassala Hill between Galle and Unawatuna.
- This all-white Buddhist stupa offers panoramic views of Galle Bay, and is a symbol of peace gifted by Japanese monks.
- The peaceful setting is ideal for reflection or photography.
Leisure Time at Unawatuna Beach - Spend your afternoon unwinding at Unawatuna Beach, one of the most popular southern beaches for its gentle waves and relaxed vibe.
- Lounge under a palm tree, swim in the calm waters, or enjoy a meal at a beachfront café.
- For those feeling adventurous, take a short walk or tuk-tuk ride to Jungle Beach, a secluded bay tucked beneath the jungle canopy.
Transfer to Mirissa or Weligama for overnight stay

Early Morning Whale Watching Cruise - Start your day early with a whale watching excursion from Mirissa Harbor, departing between 5:30 – 6:00 AM.
- This region is world-renowned for sightings of blue whales, sperm whales, spinner dolphins, and even flying fish.
- The cruise typically lasts 3–5 hours and includes upper deck viewing, safety gear, and expert marine spotters.

Return to Hotel for Breakfast & Rest - After the cruise, return to your hotel for a relaxing breakfast and some rest. Whale watching can be exciting but physically tiring, so take a moment to recharge.

Visit Coconut Tree Hill & Parrot Rock - In the late morning or early afternoon, visit two of Mirissa’s most scenic landmarks:
- Coconut Tree Hill – A popular viewpoint dotted with swaying palms overlooking the Indian Ocean; perfect for panoramic photos.
- Parrot Rock – A small reddish rock formation just off the beach. During low tide, you can walk out to it for unique views of the bay.
Relax on Mirissa Beach or Choose Optional Activities - Enjoy free time on Mirissa Beach, where you can:
- Lounge under a cabana or sip a drink at a beach café
- Go snorkeling or try beginner-level surfing, depending on wave conditions
- Enjoy a seafood lunch or a refreshing king coconut by the sea
Visit the Famous Stilt Fishermen (Koggala Area) - Later in the day, take a short drive toward Koggala to witness the iconic stilt fishermen, a unique and photogenic traditional fishing method.
- This practice is best viewed around sunrise or sunset, but you can still spot a few during daylight hours.
- While some fishermen now pose for photos, it’s still a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lankan coastal culture.
Overnight stay in Mirissa or Weligama

Note: We’ve skipped safari activities today due to the long travel distances involved. However, if you're eager to include a Yala or Udawalawe safari, it can be arranged with early departure and tight time management. Let your driver know in advance to help adjust the schedule accordingly.

Morning Departure from Mirissa or Weligama - After a relaxed breakfast, begin your journey back to Colombo via the Southern Expressway, passing tropical villages, lush greenery, and coastal towns. Travel Time: Approx. 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic conditions
Colombo City Highlights Tour (Time Permitting) - Upon arrival in Colombo, enjoy a flexible city tour of Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital — a dynamic mix of colonial charm, modern development, and cultural heritage.
- Gangaramaya Temple – A unique temple combining modern architecture with traditional Buddhist elements, housing an eclectic museum and sacred relics.
- Independence Square – A peaceful open-air monument marking Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, surrounded by colonial-style architecture and gardens.
- Lotus Tower (External View or Optional Entry) – Marvel at the striking Lotus Tower, the tallest structure in South Asia, symbolizing Colombo’s modernization.
- Pettah Market & Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar) – Dive into Colombo’s energetic bazaar district, full of colorful shops, street vendors, and the iconic red-and-white Islamic mosque.
- Optional Shopping – Based on your interest, you can stop at local craft shops, tea boutiques, or modern shopping centers for souvenirs, textiles, or gems.
Drop-off at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo hotels, or Negombo