Sri Lanka Family Friendly 7-day Itinerary

Sunday December 3: Colombo

Start your trip in the capital city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple filled with fascinating artifacts. Afternoon can be spent at Galle Face Green, a seaside promenade perfect for picnics and kiting. In the evening, head to the Pettah Market for a vibrant shopping experience.

• Gangaramaya Temple: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Galle Face Green: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Pettah Market: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Monday December 4: Kandy

Travel to the cultural city of Kandy. Morning can be spent visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the afternoon, take a stroll around the serene Kandy Lake. The evening can be spent watching a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Cost - 1500 LKR, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Kandy Lake: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Kandyan Dance Performance: Cost - 1000 LKR, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday December 5: Sigiriya

Visit the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress. In the morning, climb the ancient rock fortress to admire the breathtaking views. Afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, relax and unwind at your accommodation.

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Cost - 5500 LKR, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Dambulla Cave Temple: Cost - 1500 LKR, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday December 6: Nuwara Eliya

Head to the charming hill station of Nuwara Eliya. In the morning, visit the picturesque Horton Plains National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. In the afternoon, take a scenic boat ride in Gregory Lake. End the day with a visit to the Hakgala Botanical Garden.

• Horton Plains National Park: Cost - 4000 LKR, Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Gregory Lake: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Hakgala Botanical Garden: Cost - 1500 LKR, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday December 7: Yala National Park

Embark on an exciting wildlife safari in Yala National Park. Morning can be spent exploring the park, home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, and exotic birds. Afternoon can be spent at the beautiful Yala Beach. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings.

• Yala National Park: Cost - 6000 LKR, Time Spent - 6-7 hours
• Yala Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Friday December 8: Galle

Visit the historic city of Galle. Morning can be spent exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Galle Fort. Afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the beautiful Jungle Beach and enjoying the pristine waters. In the evening, wander around the charming streets of Galle Fort and indulge in some shopping.

• Galle Fort: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Jungle Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday December 9: Bentota

Head to the coastal town of Bentota. Morning can be spent enjoying water activities like jet skiing or paddleboarding at Bentota Beach. In the afternoon, visit the Brief Garden, a stunning landscaped garden. The evening can be dedicated to enjoying a relaxing boat safari along the Bentota River.

• Bentota Beach: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Brief Garden: Cost - 1000 LKR, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Bentota River Safari: Cost - 3000 LKR, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the beautiful Ella and taking a train ride through the scenic tea plantations. Another hidden gem is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can see adorable rescued elephants up close. For a unique experience, take a boat ride through the Madu River, exploring its mangrove forests and local villages.

For more information on hotel and flight prices, check out Kayak.