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 65 travelers

A Week of Family Fun in Sri Lanka

Monday, October 16: Colombo

Start your Sri Lankan adventure in Colombo, the vibrant capital city. In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a Buddhist temple known for its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance. Afterward, head to Viharamahadevi Park, where the kids can enjoy the playgrounds and scenic lake. In the evening, explore the bustling streets of Pettah, a vibrant market district with plenty of shopping opportunities.

  • Gangaramaya Temple: Entrance fee - £2 ($2.70), Time spent - 1 hour
  • Viharamahadevi Park: Free admission, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Pettah Market: Variable costs, Time spent - 2 hours
Tuesday, October 17: Kandy

Take a scenic train ride from Colombo to Kandy, a city nestled amidst lush green hills. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred Buddhist site believed to house a tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Kandy Lake in the afternoon, surrounded by picturesque views. In the evening, catch a traditional cultural show to witness vibrant dances and music.

  • Temple of the Tooth: Entrance fee - £6 ($8.10), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Kandy Lake: Boat ride - £5 ($6.75), Time spent - 1 hour
  • Cultural Show: Ticket - £10 ($13.50), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Wednesday, October 18: Nuwara Eliya

Embark on a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England." In the morning, visit the picturesque Gregory Lake and enjoy boat rides or horseback riding. Explore the Hakgala Botanical Garden in the afternoon, filled with colourful flowers and exotic plants. End the day with a visit to a tea plantation to learn about the tea-making process.

  • Gregory Lake: Boat ride - £5 ($6.75), Horseback riding - £10 ($13.50), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Hakgala Botanical Garden: Entrance fee - £3 ($4.05), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Tea Plantation: Guided tour - £8 ($10.80), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Thursday, October 19: Yala National Park

Head to Yala National Park, home to a variety of wildlife species. Embark on an early morning jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, and other exotic animals in their natural habitat. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Sithulpawwa Rock Temple, known for its ancient Buddhist cave paintings.

  • Yala National Park: Jeep safari - £40 ($54), Time spent - 4 hours
  • Sithulpawwa Rock Temple: Entrance fee - £2 ($2.70), Time spent - 1.5 hours
Friday, October 20: Galle

Discover the historic city of Galle, renowned for its colonial charm. Start your day by exploring the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with charming shops and cafes. Visit the Dutch Reformed Church and Galle Lighthouse for a taste of history. In the afternoon, relax and unwind at the stunning Unawatuna beach, known for its clear turquoise waters.

  • Galle Fort: Free admission, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Dutch Reformed Church: Entrance fee - £3 ($4.05), Time spent - 1 hour
  • Galle Lighthouse: Free admission, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Unawatuna Beach: Free admission, Time spent - 3 hours
Saturday, October 21: Sigiriya

Visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient palace perched on top of a massive rock. Start your morning by climbing to the top of the fortress to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the beautiful Sigiriya Gardens in the afternoon, known for their elaborate water features and frescoes. End the day with a visit to the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with stunning Buddhist statues and paintings.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Entrance fee - £22 ($29.70), Time spent - 4 hours
  • Sigiriya Gardens: Entrance fee - £10 ($13.50), Time spent - 2 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Entrance fee - £5 ($6.75), Time spent - 2 hours
Sunday, October 22: Bentota

Head to Bentota, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and water activities. Spend the morning relaxing on the golden sands of Bentota Beach or indulging in water sports like jet skiing and banana boat rides. In the afternoon, visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn about turtle conservation efforts and even release baby turtles into the sea.

  • Bentota Beach: Free admission, Time spent - 3 hours
  • Water Sports: Variable costs, Time spent - 2 hours
  • Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery: Entrance fee - £3 ($4.05), Time spent - 1.5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family experience, consider visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness elephants being bathed and fed. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the Hikkaduwa Coral Sanctuary, perfect for snorkeling and exploring vibrant coral reefs. Locals also love spending time at Ella Rock, offering breathtaking views and hiking trails suitable for families.

To check hotel and flight prices, click 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