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Sri Lanka Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary: December 12-17, 2023

Tuesday, December 12: Colombo

Start your Sri Lankan adventure in the bustling capital city of Colombo. In the morning, explore the historic Colombo Fort area, filled with colonial-era buildings and vibrant markets. Head to the National Museum to learn about the country's rich history and cultural heritage. In the afternoon, visit the Galle Face Green, a seaside promenade perfect for picnics and kite-flying. As the evening sets in, indulge in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Colombo Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
  • National Museum: Entrance fee: 1000 LKR (approximately $5.50), 2-3 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 13: Bentota

On the second day, head to the coastal town of Bentota. In the morning, relax on the golden sandy beaches and take a dip in the warm Indian Ocean. Enjoy water sports activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, or banana boat rides. In the afternoon, visit the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project to learn about the conservation efforts and even release baby turtles into the sea. In the evening, take a scenic boat ride along the Bentota River.

  • Bentota Beach: Free, leisure time
  • Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project: Entrance fee: 500 LKR (approximately $2.75), 1-2 hours
  • Bentota River Boat Ride: 1500 LKR (approximately $8.25), 2 hours
Thursday, December 14: Kandy

Travel to the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. In the morning, visit the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Explore the beautifully landscaped Royal Botanical Gardens in the afternoon, filled with exotic plants and vibrant flowers. As the evening approaches, witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance showcasing the country's rich artistic heritage.

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic: Entrance fee: 1500 LKR (approximately $8.25), 2-3 hours
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Entrance fee: 1500 LKR (approximately $8.25), 2-3 hours
  • Kandyan Dance Performance: Entrance fee: 1000 LKR (approximately $5.50), 1-2 hours
Friday, December 15: Sigiriya

Embark on a journey to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the morning, marveling at the ancient rock paintings and breathtaking views from the top. Afterward, visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with intricate Buddhist murals. In the evening, take a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park to spot elephants in their natural habitat.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Entrance fee: 5500 LKR (approximately $30), 3-4 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Entrance fee: 1500 LKR (approximately $8.25), 2-3 hours
  • Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari: 4000 LKR (approximately $22), 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 16: Nuwara Eliya

Travel to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England" due to its colonial architecture and cool climate. In the morning, explore the picturesque tea plantations and learn about the tea-making process at a tea factory. Enjoy a scenic boat ride on Gregory Lake in the afternoon, surrounded by lush green hills. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the beautifully manicured Victoria Park.

  • Tea Plantations: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Tea Factory Visit: Entrance fee: 500 LKR (approximately $2.75), 1-2 hours
  • Gregory Lake Boat Ride: 1000 LKR (approximately $5.50), 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Galle

On the final day, visit the charming coastal town of Galle. Explore the well-preserved Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the morning. Admire the colonial architecture, boutique shops, and cozy cafes within the fort. In the afternoon, relax on the beautiful Unawatuna Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters. Catch a mesmerizing sunset at the Rumassala viewpoint before concluding your Sri Lankan journey.

  • Galle Fort: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Unawatuna Beach: Free, leisure time
  • Rumassala Viewpoint: Free, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Sri Lanka, don't miss the chance to visit Mirissa Beach, a secluded paradise known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. Take a whale watching tour from Mirissa, and you might spot blue whales, sperm whales, or dolphins. Another hidden gem is Ella, a small town nestled in the hill country. Enjoy breathtaking hikes to Little Adam's Peak or Ella Rock, and don't forget to visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge for stunning views.

To find the best hotel and flight deals for your Sri Lanka trip, click here.

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