Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Day 1: City Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Barefoot Garden Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for families looking to relax.
Located in the heart of Colombo, easily accessible by taxi or tuk-tuk from most hotels.
LKR 1500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Gangaramaya Temple

Visit this iconic temple with intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere, great for kids to explore and learn about Sri Lankan culture.
Short tuk-tuk ride from Barefoot Garden Cafe.
Free entry, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Enjoy a sumptuous seafood lunch at one of Colombo's best restaurants, known for its delicious crab dishes.
Short taxi ride from Gangaramaya Temple.
LKR 4000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Viharamahadevi Park

Spend the afternoon at this family-friendly park, perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
Walking distance from Ministry of Crab.
Free entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Nuga Gama

Experience traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a village setting, complete with cultural performances for entertainment.
Short taxi ride from Viharamahadevi Park.
LKR 3000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Historical Exploration

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Visit Temple of the Tooth Relic

Explore this sacred Buddhist temple housing the relic of the tooth of the Buddha, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's spiritual heritage.
Take a train from Colombo to Kandy (approx. 3.5 hours). The temple is a short tuk-tuk ride from the Kandy train station.
LKR 1500, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Helga's Folly

Dine at this quirky and artistic restaurant with a unique ambiance, perfect for a memorable family meal.
Short tuk-tuk ride from the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
LKR 2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Peradeniya Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush gardens with exotic flora, ideal for a leisurely stroll and enjoying nature with the family.
Short tuk-tuk ride from Helga's Folly.
LKR 1500, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Empire Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner at this charming cafe known for its delicious food and welcoming ambiance.
Short tuk-tuk ride from Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
LKR 2000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Train Journey

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Scenic Train Ride from Kandy to Ella

Embark on one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, passing through misty mountains, tea plantations, and picturesque valleys.
Take a morning train from Kandy to Ella (approx. 6-7 hours).
LKR 1500, 6-7 hours

3:00PM

Visit Nine Arch Bridge

Explore the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of engineering nestled amidst lush greenery, offering breathtaking views for the whole family.
Short tuk-tuk ride from Ella train station.
Free entry, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Matey Hut

Dine at this cozy restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of travel.
Walking distance from Nine Arch Bridge.
LKR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Wildlife Safari

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

6:00AM

Morning Safari at Yala National Park

Embark on an exciting safari adventure to spot leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Take a jeep safari from Ella to Yala National Park (approx. 2 hours).
LKR 6000, 4 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Yala

Enjoy a scenic picnic amidst the wilderness of Yala National Park, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Lunch can be arranged by the safari guide.
LKR 1000, 1 hour

3:00PM

Evening Safari at Yala National Park

Continue your wildlife exploration with an evening safari to observe more animals and witness a stunning sunset.
Stay within the park for the second safari experience.
LKR 6000, 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Jetwing Yala

Indulge in a delicious dinner at the resort while sharing stories of your wildlife encounters.
Located within Yala National Park.
LKR 3000, 2 hours
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Day 5: Coastal Charm

Galle, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Explore Galle Fort

Discover the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its charming streets, boutique shops, and ocean views.
Take a private car from Yala National Park to Galle (approx. 3 hours).
LKR 1000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at A Minute by Tuk Tuk

Enjoy a delicious meal at this rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the ocean and fort.
Located within Galle Fort.
LKR 2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Maritime Museum

Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about the maritime history of Sri Lanka and explore interesting exhibits suitable for all ages.
Walking distance from A Minute by Tuk Tuk.
LKR 500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Jungle Beach

Unwind at Jungle Beach, a secluded paradise perfect for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Short tuk-tuk ride from Galle Fort.
Free entry, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fort Printers

Dine at this elegant restaurant housed in a historic building, offering a blend of local and international cuisine.
Short walk or tuk-tuk ride from Jungle Beach.
LKR 2500, 2 hours
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Day 6: Beach Relaxation

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

10:00AM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching tour from Mirissa, where you can spot majestic whales in their natural habitat.
Take a short drive from Galle to Mirissa (approx. 1 hour) to join the tour.
LKR 6000, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Zephyr Restaurant

Enjoy a seafood lunch at this beachfront restaurant with stunning views of the ocean, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Located near the Mirissa Beach.
LKR 3000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Mirissa Beach

Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the golden sands of Mirissa Beach, swimming, and soaking up the tropical sun.
Walking distance from Zephyr Restaurant.
Free entry, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dewmini Roti Shop

Try delicious Sri Lankan rotis and curries at this local eatery, perfect for a casual family dinner.
Short walk from Mirissa Beach.
LKR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxation and Farewell

Negombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Negombo Beach

Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores of Negombo Beach, ideal for a leisurely family time by the sea.
Take a private car from Mirissa to Negombo (approx. 3.5 hours).
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lords Restaurant Complex

Enjoy a variety of cuisines at this restaurant complex overlooking the beach, offering a pleasant dining experience.
Located near Negombo Beach.
LKR 2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Negombo Fish Market

Explore the bustling fish market of Negombo, where you can witness fishermen bringing in their fresh catch of the day.
Short walk from Lords Restaurant Complex.
Free entry, 1 hour

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Lavinia Breeze

Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at this beachfront restaurant, enjoying the sunset as you bid farewell to Sri Lanka.
Short drive from Negombo Fish Market.
LKR 3000, 2 hours
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