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 51 travelers

A Week in Sri Lanka: A Family-Friendly Itinerary

Saturday, December 16, 2023: Arrive in Colombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start your journey in Colombo, the capital city. In the morning, explore the vibrant streets of Pettah, where you'll find bustling markets and colorful shops. Afternoon visit to the National Museum to learn about the country's rich history. Spend the evening at Galle Face Green, a waterfront park perfect for strolling and enjoying local street food.

  • Pettah Market: ₹200 (Estimated cost), 3 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • National Museum: ₹500 (Estimated cost), 2 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Galle Face Green: Free, 2 hours (Estimated time spent)
Sunday, December 17, 2023: Cultural Triangle

Head to Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle, home to ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Begin your day exploring the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a magnificent ancient rock citadel. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to admire its archaeological ruins. End your day with a scenic sunset by the lakeside in Kandy, renowned for its sacred Buddhist sites.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: ₹4,000 (Estimated cost), 4 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Polonnaruwa Ancient City: ₹2,500 (Estimated cost), 3 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Sunset at Kandy Lake: Free, 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
Monday, December 18, 2023: Exploration in Kandy

Today, immerse yourself in the cultural delights of Kandy. In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site. Take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in the afternoon. Enjoy an evening cultural show, featuring traditional dance and music performances.

  • Temple of the Tooth Relic: ₹1,500 (Estimated cost), 2 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: ₹1,000 (Estimated cost), 2 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Kandy Cultural Show: ₹500 (Estimated cost), 1.5 hours (Estimated time spent)
Tuesday, December 19, 2023: Hill Country Bliss in Nuwara Eliya

Embark on a scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England" for its colonial charm and lush tea plantations. Begin your day with a visit to a tea estate and learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on Lake Gregory and explore the Hakgala Botanical Garden. Enjoy the cool climate and serene atmosphere.

  • Tea Estate Visit: ₹1,000 (Estimated cost), 3 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Lake Gregory Boat Ride: ₹500 (Estimated cost), 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
  • Hakgala Botanical Garden: ₹750 (Estimated cost), 2 hours (Estimated time spent)
Wednesday, December 20, 2023: Wildlife Encounter in Udawalawe

Today, get ready for an exciting wildlife adventure in Udawalawe National Park. Enjoy a morning jeep safari to spot elephants, leopards, and various other animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Udawalawe Reservoir or visit the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephants are cared for.

  • Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari: ₹5,000 (Estimated cost), 4 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Udawalawe Reservoir: Free, 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
  • Elephant Transit Home: ₹500 (Estimated cost), 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
Thursday, December 21, 2023: Coastal Retreat in Mirissa

Head towards the picturesque coastal town of Mirissa. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Parrot Rock and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean. Spend your afternoon relaxing at Mirissa Beach or embark on a dolphin and whale watching excursion. In the evening, witness a stunning sunset at Coconut Tree Hill.

  • Parrot Rock: Free, 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
  • Mirissa Beach: Free, 3 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Dolphin and Whale Watching: ₹3,000 (Estimated cost), 4 hours (Estimated time spent)
Friday, December 22, 2023: Leisure in Galle

On your way back to Colombo, make a stop in the charming city of Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a historic colonial fortress with cobbled streets and boutique shops. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the fort walls and visit the Dutch Reformed Church and the National Maritime Museum. Spend the evening exploring the vibrant streets of Galle.

  • Galle Fort: Free, 3 hours (Estimated time spent)
  • Dutch Reformed Church: Free, 1 hour (Estimated time spent)
  • National Maritime Museum: ₹500 (Estimated cost), 1 hour (Estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For an off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe and even bathe with elephants. For a tranquil escape, visit the idyllic Ella, surrounded by tea plantations and offering breathtaking views from Ella Rock. Don't miss the charming village of Hikkaduwa, known for its coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling or diving adventures.

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