Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Saturday, December 9: Colombo

Start your trip in the bustling city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Viharamahadevi Park, a beautiful green space perfect for picnics and leisurely walks. In the afternoon, head to the National Museum of Colombo to explore the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along Galle Face Green promenade and enjoy the sunset with your family.

• Viharamahadevi Park: Entrance fee: LKR 200, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• National Museum of Colombo: Entrance fee: LKR 1,000, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Galle Face Green: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The English Cake Company, a charming bakery known for their delicious pastries and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
• For lunch, try Nuga Gama, a traditional Sri Lankan restaurant located in the premises of the Cinnamon Grand Hotel. They offer a wide range of authentic Sri Lankan dishes in a rustic setting. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For dinner, visit The Lagoon, a seafood restaurant situated at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel. They specialize in serving mouthwatering seafood dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.

Sunday, December 10: Kandy

Head to the charming city of Kandy, known for its lush greenery and cultural sites. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the morning prayer ceremony. In the afternoon, explore the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of tropical plants and trees. In the evening, enjoy a traditional cultural show depicting Sri Lankan dance and music.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Entrance fee: LKR 1,500, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: LKR 1,500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Traditional Cultural Show: Entrance fee: LKR 1,000, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Monday, December 11: Sigiriya

Embark on a journey to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. In the morning, climb the ancient rock fortress and marvel at the breathtaking views from the top. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Pidurangala Rock, offering a unique perspective of Sigiriya. Don't miss the chance to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in the evening.

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Entrance fee: LKR 5,500, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Pidurangala Rock: Entrance fee: LKR 500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Polonnaruwa Ancient City: Entrance fee: LKR 3,750, Time spent: 3-4 hours

Tuesday, December 12: Dambulla

Explore the historical and cultural wonders of Dambulla. Start your day by visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, housing stunning cave paintings and statues. In the afternoon, take a safari ride at Minneriya National Park to witness the incredible wildlife, including elephants. Enjoy a peaceful evening at the serene Kandalama Lake.

• Dambulla Cave Temple: Entrance fee: LKR 1,500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Minneriya National Park Safari: Entrance fee: LKR 4,500, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Kandalama Lake: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Wednesday, December 13: Nuwara Eliya

Experience the cool climate and scenic beauty of Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England. Start your day with a visit to Horton Plains National Park, known for its breathtaking viewpoints and the iconic World's End. In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat ride on Gregory Lake and enjoy the surrounding tea plantations. Spend the evening exploring the picturesque town center of Nuwara Eliya.

• Horton Plains National Park: Entrance fee: LKR 3,750, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Gregory Lake: Boat ride cost: LKR 500 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Nuwara Eliya Town: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 14: Ella

Visit the charming hill town of Ella, famous for its stunning views and tea plantations. In the morning, hike up to Little Adam's Peak for panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a scenic train ride to the Nine Arch Bridge and witness the train passing through the picturesque bridge. Spend the evening exploring the local markets and tasting delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.

• Little Adam's Peak: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Nine Arch Bridge: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Exploring Markets: Cost depends on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, December 15: Galle

End your trip in the coastal city of Galle, known for its colonial history and charming ambiance. Start your day by exploring the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through its narrow streets lined with boutique shops and cafes. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Unawatuna Beach and soak up the sun. Enjoy a memorable sunset boat ride to witness the stilt fishermen in action.

• Galle Fort: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Unawatuna Beach: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Sunset Boat Ride: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Sri Lanka, don't miss the chance to visit the charming village of Hiriwadunna near Sigiriya. Take a bullock cart ride through the village, enjoy a catamaran ride along the lake, and savor an authentic Sri Lankan meal prepared by a local family. This off-the-beaten-path experience provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and is perfect for families.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, you can check here.