Sri Lanka Family-Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, February 10: Colombo

Start your trip in the bustling capital city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Viharamahadevi Park, a beautiful urban park perfect for a family picnic. Then, head to the National Museum to explore Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. In the afternoon, take a stroll along Galle Face Green and enjoy the scenic views of the Indian Ocean. As the evening sets in, visit Arcade Independence Square, a modern shopping complex with a variety of dining options.

• Viharamahadevi Park: Entrance is free, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• National Museum: Entrance fee is LKR 600 (approximately $3.50) per adult, LKR 300 (approximately $1.75) per child, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Arcade Independence Square: Cost varies based on activities, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Sunday, February 11: Kandy

Head to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, Kandy. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. Then, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of flora from around the world. In the evening, enjoy a traditional cultural show showcasing Sri Lankan dance and music.

• Temple of the Tooth Relic: Entrance fee is LKR 1500 (approximately $8.75) per adult, LKR 750 (approximately $4.35) per child, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Royal Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee is LKR 2000 (approximately $11.65) per adult, LKR 1000 (approximately $5.85) per child, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Traditional Cultural Show: Cost varies, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, February 12: Sigiriya

Visit the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, climb to the top of the fortress for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Afterward, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, known for its well-preserved ruins. End the day with a safari at Minneriya National Park, where you can spot elephants in their natural habitat.

• Sigiriya: Entrance fee is LKR 5500 (approximately $32) per adult, LKR 2750 (approximately $16) per child, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
• Polonnaruwa: Entrance fee is LKR 4500 (approximately $26) per adult, LKR 2250 (approximately $13) per child, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Minneriya National Park: Safari cost varies, estimated time spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday, February 13: Dambulla

Explore the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a complex of cave temples adorned with ancient Buddhist murals and statues. In the afternoon, visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla, an impressive Buddhist temple with a golden exterior. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take in the panoramic views of the countryside.

• Dambulla Cave Temple: Entrance fee is LKR 1500 (approximately $8.75) per adult, LKR 750 (approximately $4.35) per child, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Golden Temple of Dambulla: Entrance fee is LKR 1500 (approximately $8.75) per adult, LKR 750 (approximately $4.35) per child, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, February 14: Nuwara Eliya

Experience the charming hill town of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England." In the morning, visit the picturesque Gregory Lake and enjoy boat rides or horseback riding. Then, explore the Hakgala Botanical Garden, known for its stunning collection of roses and ferns. End the day with a visit to a tea plantation and learn about the tea-making process.

• Gregory Lake: Cost varies based on activities, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
• Hakgala Botanical Garden: Entrance fee is LKR 1500 (approximately $8.75) per adult, LKR 750 (approximately $4.35) per child, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Tea Plantation: Cost varies based on activities, estimated time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, February 15: Yala National Park

Embark on an exciting safari adventure at Yala National Park, home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, and crocodiles. Spend the day exploring the park and keep your eyes peeled for rare sightings. In the evening, relax by the beach and enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere.

• Yala National Park: Safari cost varies, estimated time spent: full day
• Beach relaxation: Free, estimated time spent: evening

Friday, February 16: Bentota

End your trip with some relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Bentota. Spend the day enjoying water sports activities such as snorkeling or jet skiing. Explore the Bentota Turtle Conservation Project, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. In the evening, indulge in a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant.

• Bentota Beach: Cost varies based on activities, estimated time spent: full day
• Bentota Turtle Conservation Project: Entrance fee is LKR 500 (approximately $2.90) per adult, LKR 250 (approximately $1.45) per child, estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
• Seafood Restaurant: Cost varies based on selection, estimated time spent: evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe and interact with rescued elephants. Explore the vibrant streets of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the Dutch colonial architecture. Don't miss a visit to the picturesque Ella Rock and enjoy a hike through stunning tea plantations and lush landscapes.

For hotel and flight prices in Sri Lanka, check here.