Sri Lanka Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary for December 2023

1. Day 1: Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
   2 hours 55 minutes (95 miles) from Bandaranaike International Airport

   In the morning, explore the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and its stunning frescoes. In the afternoon, head to the Pidurangala Rock and climb to the top for an incredible view. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dinner.

2. Day 2: Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
   30 minutes (11 miles) from Sigiriya Rock Fortress

   In the morning, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, go on an elephant safari in the Minneriya National Park and spot wild elephants. In the evening, enjoy a sunset boat ride on the Kaudulla Lake.

3. Day 3: Explore Kandy
   2 hours 30 minutes (73 miles) from Dambulla Cave Temple

   In the morning, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred temples in Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens and enjoy a picnic. In the evening, watch a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

4. Day 4: Relax in Nuwara Eliya
   2 hours 15 minutes (41 miles) from Kandy

   In the morning, take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, also known as Little England. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Gregory Lake and enjoy a boat ride. In the evening, relax at your hotel and enjoy the cool climate.

5. Day 5: Visit Ella
   2 hours 20 minutes (42 miles) from Nuwara Eliya

   In the morning, take a train to Ella and enjoy the scenic views of tea estates and waterfalls. In the afternoon, visit the Nine Arch Bridge and hike to Little Adam's Peak for a breathtaking view. In the evening, enjoy a Sri Lankan cooking class.

6. Day 6: Explore Galle
   2 hours 40 minutes (80 miles) from Ella

   In the morning, visit the Dutch Fort in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, go on a whale watching tour from Mirissa and spot blue whales. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

7. Day 7: Relax on the Beach
   1 hour 45 minutes (78 miles) from Galle

   In the morning, relax on the beautiful Unawatuna Beach and go snorkeling. In the afternoon, visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda and enjoy the sunset. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at your hotel.

Recommendations

Other attractions to consider include the Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, and the beaches of Mirissa and Tangalle. For a side trip, visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura. To maximize your fun, try local street food and take part in a tea plantation tour. Don't forget to try some Sri Lankan sweets like Watalappan and Kokis. And finally, be sure to take some time to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress (3-4 hours, $30)
• Dambulla Cave Temple (2-3 hours, $10)
• Minneriya National Park Elephant Safari (3-4 hours, $25)
• Kandyan Dance Performance (1-2 hours, $15)
• Boat Ride on Gregory Lake (1-2 hours, $10)
• Sri Lankan Cooking Class (2-3 hours, $30)
• Whale Watching Tour (4-5 hours, $50)
• Japanese Peace Pagoda (1-2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $180 per person