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7-Day Family Friendly Sri Lanka Itinerary

Thursday, December 14: Colombo

Start your trip in the capital city of Colombo. In the morning, visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple known for its elaborate architecture and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of Pettah Market, where you can find a wide variety of local goods and spices. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along the Galle Face Green, a popular waterfront promenade, to enjoy beautiful sunset views over the Indian Ocean.

  • Gangaramaya Temple: Approx. Cost: Entrance is free, donations accepted; Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Pettah Market: Approx. Cost: Depends on purchases; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Galle Face Green: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 15: Kandy

Head to the enchanting city of Kandy, known for its rich cultural heritage. Start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses a sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of plants and trees. In the evening, attend a captivating traditional cultural dance performance, showcasing various dance forms and music of Sri Lanka.

  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Approx. Cost: Entrance fee of USD 10 per person; Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Approx. Cost: Entrance fee of USD 10 per person; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Cultural Dance Performance: Approx. Cost: USD 10 per person; Time spent: 1-2 hours
Saturday, December 16: Sigiriya

Visit the historic site of Sigiriya, where you'll find the ancient rock fortress. In the morning, climb the towering rock and explore the fascinating frescoes, gardens, and ancient ruins at the top. In the afternoon, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a complex of caves adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk around the serene Kandalama Lake.

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Approx. Cost: Entrance fee of USD 30 per person; Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Dambulla Cave Temple: Approx. Cost: Entrance fee of USD 10 per person; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Kandalama Lake: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Nuwara Eliya

Travel to Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England," famous for its tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Start your day with a visit to a tea estate, where you can learn about the process of tea production and sample some delicious Ceylon tea. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque Hakgala Botanical Garden, known for its diverse flora and stunning views. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll around Gregory Lake and enjoy the cool mountain air.

  • Tea Estate Visit: Approx. Cost: Free (guided tours available for a fee); Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Hakgala Botanical Garden: Approx. Cost: Entrance fee of USD 10 per person; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Gregory Lake: Approx. Cost: Free (boat rides available for a fee); Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 18: Ella

Continue your journey to the charming town of Ella, surrounded by lush green hills and tea plantations. In the morning, embark on a stunning hike to the iconic Ella Rock, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the landscape. In the afternoon, visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a picturesque railway bridge nestled amidst the scenic countryside. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk around the town and savor delicious Sri Lankan cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Ella Rock Hike: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Nine Arch Bridge: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Exploring Ella Town: Approx. Cost: Varies depending on activities; Time spent: 2-3 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Yala National Park

Head to Yala National Park, one of the most popular wildlife destinations in Sri Lanka. In the morning, embark on an exciting safari tour and spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and birds. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the natural beauty of the park. As the evening approaches, relax and unwind in a comfortable eco-lodge surrounded by nature.

  • Yala National Park Safari: Approx. Cost: Varies depending on the package; Time spent: 6-7 hours
  • Picnic in Yala National Park: Approx. Cost: Depends on arrangements; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Stay in an Eco-lodge: Approx. Cost: Varies depending on accommodation; Time spent: Overnight
Wednesday, December 20: Galle

Visit the charming coastal city of Galle, known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. In the morning, explore the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in its rich history. In the afternoon, take a relaxing walk along the beautiful Unawatuna Beach and soak up the sun. As the evening sets in, indulge in delicious seafood at one of the seaside restaurants.

  • Galle Fort: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Unawatuna Beach: Approx. Cost: Free; Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: Approx. Cost: Varies depending on restaurant; Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have extra time during your trip to Sri Lanka, consider visiting the following family-friendly hidden gems:

  • Whale watching in Mirissa: Embark on a thrilling whale watching excursion from Mirissa and witness majestic blue whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
  • Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda: Visit a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda and learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered sea turtles.
  • Waterfalls in Ella: Explore the enchanting waterfalls around Ella, such as Ravana Falls and Diyaluma Falls, where you can swim and enjoy the scenic beauty.

For hotel and flight prices in Sri Lanka, you can check here.

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