Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 64 travelers

A Week of Family Fun in Sri Lanka

Wednesday, August 23: Arrival in Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Begin your family-friendly adventure by arriving in Colombo, the vibrant capital city. In the morning, explore the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, known for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Afterward, head to Galle Face Green, a seaside urban park, for a leisurely picnic and kite flying. In the evening, visit the Arcade Independence Square, a shopping complex with restaurants, shops, and a kids' play area.

  • Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Arcade Independence Square: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, August 24: Explore Kandy

Take a scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy, a cultural and historical city nestled amidst lush green hills. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Kandy Lake in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance at the Kandy Cultural Show.

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kandy Lake: Cost: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
  • Kandy Cultural Show: Cost: Ticket fee, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, August 25: Sigiriya and Dambulla

Embark on an exciting day trip to Sigiriya and Dambulla. Climb the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya in the morning, marveling at the breathtaking views from the top. Afterward, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a complex of cave temples adorned with Buddhist murals and statues. In the evening, relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of your hotel.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 3-4 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, August 26: Wildlife Safari in Minneriya National Park

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, known for its large population of elephants. Explore the park in the morning and spot various wildlife, including elephants, deer, and birds. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature and soak in the scenic beauty. In the afternoon, head back to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation.

  • Minneriya National Park: Cost: Safari fee, Time Spent: 4-5 hours
Sunday, August 27: Beach Day in Bentota

Travel to the beautiful coastal town of Bentota, known for its pristine beaches and water sports opportunities. Spend the morning enjoying water activities such as snorkeling, jet skiing, or simply relaxing on the beach. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the Madu River, exploring its mangrove forests and visiting the famous Cinnamon Island. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner by the beach.

  • Bentota Beach: Cost: Free, Time Spent: Half-day
  • Madu River Boat Ride: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Monday, August 28: Explore Nuwara Eliya

Head to Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque hill station known as "Little England." In the morning, visit the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Gardens, famous for its stunning flower displays and scenic landscapes. Enjoy a boat ride on Gregory Lake in the afternoon, surrounded by lush green hills. Take a stroll through the town in the evening, experiencing the colonial charm and enjoying a cup of refreshing Ceylon tea.

  • Hakgala Botanical Gardens: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Gregory Lake: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 29: Explore Colombo's Attractions

Return to Colombo and spend the day exploring some of its top attractions. In the morning, visit the National Museum of Colombo, housing a vast collection of historical artifacts. Explore the interactive exhibits at the Colombo Zoological Gardens in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, indulge in some shopping at the lively Pettah Market and enjoy a delicious Sri Lankan dinner at a local restaurant.

  • National Museum of Colombo: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Colombo Zoological Gardens: Cost: Entrance fee, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
  • Pettah Market: Cost: Varies, Time Spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe and interact with rescued elephants. Another hidden gem is the Yala National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. For a unique cultural experience, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which features well-preserved ruins and archaeological sites.

For a taste of local flavor, try Sri Lankan street food, such as kottu roti and hoppers, at food stalls and small eateries. Don't miss out on the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.

Check hotel and flight prices here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version