Sri Lanka Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in December 2023

1. Day 1: Colombo
   30 minutes (21.5 miles) from Bandaranaike International Airport

   Start your Sri Lanka adventure in the capital city of Colombo. In the morning, explore the historic Colombo Fort area and visit the National Museum. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll along Galle Face Green promenade. In the evening, immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene at Galle Face Beach Park.

   • National Museum of Colombo: $5, 2 hours
2. Day 2: Kandy
   2 hours (75.6 miles) from Colombo

   Travel to the lush city of Kandy in the morning. Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, surrounded by beautiful gardens. Afternoon visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to witness elephants bathing and feeding. In the evening, enjoy a traditional cultural dance performance.

   • Temple of the Tooth Relic: $10, 2 hours
   • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: $15, 2 hours
   • Cultural Dance Performance: $8, 1 hour
3. Day 3: Nuwara Eliya
   2 hours 30 minutes (69.8 miles) from Kandy

   Embark on a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England." Enjoy the morning exploring Victoria Park and learning about tea production at a local tea estate. In the afternoon, visit the serene Seetha Amman Temple and stroll around Gregory Lake. Wrap up the day with a boat ride.

   • Victoria Park: $5, 1-2 hours
   • Tea Estate Tour: $10, 1-2 hours
   • Seetha Amman Temple: $2, 1 hour
   • Boat Ride on Gregory Lake: $10, 1 hour
4. Day 4: Sigiriya
   3 hours 30 minutes (91.2 miles) from Nuwara Eliya

   Visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress early in the morning to avoid crowds. Marvel at the ancient frescoes and enjoy panoramic views from the top. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. End the day with a wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park.

   • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: $30, 2-3 hours
   • Dambulla Cave Temple: $15, 1-2 hours
   • Minneriya National Park Safari: $25, 3-4 hours
5. Day 5: Bentota
   4 hours (117 miles) from Sigiriya

   Head to the coastal town of Bentota for a day of relaxation and water activities. Spend the morning at Bentota Beach, known for its golden sands. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari along the Madu River and visit the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project.

   • Bentota Beach: Free, all day
   • Madu River Boat Safari: $15, 2-3 hours
   • Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project: $5, 1 hour
6. Day 6: Yala National Park
   2 hours 30 minutes (83.5 miles) from Bentota

   Embark on an exciting safari adventure at Yala National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife, including leopards and elephants. Explore the park in a 4x4 vehicle and keep your eyes peeled for rare sightings. In the evening, relax at your accommodation within the park.

   • Yala National Park Safari: $40, 4-5 hours
7. Day 7: Galle
   2 hours (82.9 miles) from Yala National Park

   Conclude your trip with a visit to the historic city of Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, stroll along the picturesque ramparts, and wander through the charming streets filled with colonial-era buildings. Enjoy the beautiful sunset at Jungle Beach before departing.

   • Galle Fort: $8, 2-3 hours
   • Jungle Beach: Free, 1-2 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the beautiful beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna. Day trips to Horton Plains National Park and Adams Peak are also great options. To maximize your fun, engage with the friendly locals, try traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, and indulge in adventurous activities like hiking or surfing.

For the best deals on hotels and flights, check out this website.