12-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Colombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Commons Coffee House

Start your day with delicious Sri Lankan hoppers, served with spicy sambol and coconut milk to energize your adventures ahead.
Located in Colombo Fort, easily reachable by taxi from any airport hotel.
LKR2000, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Galle Face Green

Stroll along this beautiful promenade, where the kids can fly kites or play in the open space overlooking the ocean.
A short taxi ride from breakfast, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ministry of Crab

Indulge in fresh seafood at this acclaimed restaurant known for its signature crab dishes.
Close to Galle Face Green, easily accessible on foot.
LKR6000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Colombo National Museum

Discover Sri Lanka's rich heritage and spiritual history through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
A 15-minute taxi ride from lunch.
LKR1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Sunset at Mount Lavinia Beach

Relax at this beautiful beach and watch the sunset while the kids can enjoy the sand.
A 30-minute taxi from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Lagoon

Enjoy a culinary experience with a variety of sushi and local seafood dishes in a relaxed setting.
A 20-minute taxi ride back to the city.
LKR5000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Cultural Richness

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Kandy

Depart Colombo for Kandy, enjoying scenic views along the way.
Private van, about a 3-hour journey.
LKR8000, 3 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Temple of the Tooth

Explore the sacred site housing one of Buddhism's most respected relics.
Close to Kandy's city center and a short drive.
LKR1500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Kandy House

Taste traditional Sri Lankan dishes in this heritage restaurant with a warm atmosphere.
A quick taxi ride from the temple, under 15 minutes.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens

Wander through sprawling gardens featuring diverse flora, perfect for a family picnic.
A 30-minute drive from the restaurant.
LKR2000, 2 hours

6:00PM

Cultural Show

Enjoy a lively performance showcasing Sri Lankan dance and music, captivating for all ages.
Hosted near the temple, accessible by a local tuk-tuk.
LKR1000, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Empire Café

Savor a mix of local and international dishes in a family-friendly setting.
A short walk from the cultural show.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Adventure Awaits

Dambulla, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Dambulla

Head to Dambulla to visit its stunning cave temples filled with priceless Buddha statues.
A 2.5-hour drive from Kandy.
LKR6000, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Dambulla Cave Temple

Marvel at the intricate frescoes and towering statues within the caves.
Short drive and easy accessibility.
LKR2000, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at the Dambulla Hotel

Dine on local Sri Lankan rice and curry, perfect after a morning of exploration.
A 10-minute taxi ride from the temples.
LKR3000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit a Spice Garden

Tour a traditional spice garden to learn about Sri Lankan spices and their significance.
A 15-minute drive from the hotel.
LKR1500, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Evening Nature Walk

Take a peaceful stroll through the beautiful landscapes, observing local fauna.
Accessible from the spice garden.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Green Garlic

Indulge in fusion cuisine with plenty of options for kids, all served in a cozy ambiance.
Easy drive from nature park back to Dambulla.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Climb the Lion's Rock

Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Sigiriya

Head to famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress for a morning of adventure and breathtaking views.
A 30-minute drive from Dambulla.
LKR2000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Climb Sigiriya Rock

Challenge the family to a climb, witnessing 1600-year-old frescoes and spectacular vistas.
Ticketed entry with designed walking routes.
LKR4500, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sigiriya Village Hotel

Enjoy a traditional buffet featuring local curries and fresh fruits perfect for energy-boosting.
Just a short walk from the rock entrance.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit an Elephant Sanctuary

Get close to Asian elephants and learn about their conservation.
A short ride from the hotel, around 30 minutes.
LKR3000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Dambulla

Head back to your lodging or relax after a thrilling day.
A 30-minute ride back.

7:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchen Dambulla

Relax and feast on dishes from the continental and Asian menu, suited for family tastes.
Easy to reach within Dambulla center.
LKR3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Train to the Hills

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Nuwara Eliya

Experience the scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by stunning hill country.
Taxi to Kandy Station, then board the train.
LKR1500, 1 hour (taxi) + 3 hours (train)

12:00PM

Lunch at Grand Hotel

Savor a British-style meal in this historic hotel with beautiful gardens.
Short walk from the train station.
LKR4500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Pool time at The Grand

Let the kids enjoy swimming while parents relax in the hotel's picturesque setting.
On-site at the Grand Hotel.
Free (if staying) or LKR2000 for a day pass., 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Victoria Park

Take a leisurely walk through this well-maintained park, perfect for a family outing.
A 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hill Club

Dine with a colonial vibe in a family-friendly atmosphere, with classic Sri Lankan options.
Short taxi ride from Victoria Park.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Explore Ella

Ella, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Ella

Continue to Ella, featuring stunning vistas and waterfalls, just a beautiful 2-hour drive.
Private van or taxi ride.
LKR2500, 2 hours

10:30AM

Hike to Ella Rock

Embark on a family-friendly hike to catch stunning views over the hillside.
Starting point is accessible from the town center.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at one of Ella's Cafes

Enjoy a light lunch at a cozy café, sampling local coffee and snacks.
Many options available within walking distance.
LKR2000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Nine Arches Bridge

Marvel at this iconic railway bridge hidden amid lush greenery; perfect for family photos.
A leisurely walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore the picturesque tea plantations

Discover the beautiful tea estates, learn about tea production, and take in breathtaking views.
A short drive from the bridge.
Free (with guided tour costs around LKR1000 if desired)., 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dream Café

Finish the day with a delicious homemade meal featuring local ingredients.
Short drive or walk back to town.
LKR3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Wildlife Safari

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

7:00AM

Travel to Yala National Park

Take an exciting trip from Ella to Yala for wildlife exploration!
Private van, approximately 2-hour journey.
LKR3000, 2 hours

9:00AM

Safari Tour

Embark on an exhilarating safari tour, encountering elephants, leopards, and various wildlife.
An organized tour starts at the park entrance.
LKR7000 per person., 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yala Safari Camp

Enjoy lunch at a safari camp while sharing stories of your adventures.
Provided by the tour.
Included, 1 hour

1:30PM

Afternoon Safari Tour

Continue your wildlife adventure in the afternoon for more thrilling sightings.
Same as morning safari.
Included, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Accommodation

Head back to relax after an exciting day in nature.
Return by the same mode as entering the park.
LKR2000, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Shany's Seafood Restaurant

Indulge in fresh seafood and local cuisine after a thrilling safari.
Located near your lodging.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Beach Retreat

Mirissa, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Travel to Mirissa

Enjoy palm-fringed beaches for relaxation and water sports.
Private van, around 2.5 hours drive.
LKR3000, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Beach Time

Spend the morning sunbathing and playing at the beach.
Public beach area easily accessible.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aloha Villa

Enjoy a relaxed meal with fresh seafood and family-friendly dishes.
Conveniently located near Mirissa beach.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Whale Watching Tour

Embark on a thrilling whale-watching excursion, perfect for marine wildlife lovers.
Boat tour departs from the beach.
LKR5000 per person., 3 hours

6:30PM

Return to Beach

Enjoy the beach sunset while relaxing with your family.
Same beach area as earlier.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at the Beach Club

Savor a delightful dinner with ocean views and a refreshing ambiance.
Onsite dining at Mirissa.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Cultural Exploration

Galle, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Travel to Galle

Explore Galle's historic fort and vibrant culture along the way.
A short drive of about 30 minutes.
LKR1000, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Galle Fort Exploration

Wander through the cobblestone streets of Galle Fort, exploring shops and cafes.
Walking tour accessible from the entrance.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Maritime Museum

Discover maritime history and diverse marine life of the region.
A 5-minute walk from Galle Fort.
LKR1000, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fortify

Taste local dishes at a cozy café located within the fort.
Nearby in Galle Fort.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Unawatuna Beach

Head to nearby Unawatuna for some fun beach time with the family.
Short taxi ride, about 15 minutes.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Kitchen at The Fort

Enjoy delicious fusion cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere to end your day.
Return by taxi back to Galle Fort.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Beach Day

Unawatuna, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Morning Beach Time

Relax on the beautiful sandy beaches of Unawatuna, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
On-site at the beach.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Snorkeling Adventure

Experience the colorful underwater world through a family-friendly snorkeling tour.
Numerous rental places near the beach.
LKR3000 per person., 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Thaproban Beach House

Enjoy a seaside meal with fresh local seafood and international favorites.
Close to the beach.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax and Explore Unawatuna

Explore local shops or relax at the beach to soak in the sun.
Various shops easily accessible nearby.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Beach

Savor dinner on the beach, enjoyed with a gentle sea breeze and soft waves.
Choose any beachfront restaurant.
LKR3500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Last Day in Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

9:00AM

Travel back to Colombo

Make your way back for some last-minute shopping and sightseeing.
Private van to Colombo, around 2.5 hours.
LKR3000, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Colombo City Centre

Enjoy a meal with various international options and local favorites.
City center, accessible by taxi.
LKR4000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Odel

Visit Odel for great Sri Lankan souvenirs, clothes, and gifts.
A 10-minute taxi ride.
Free to browse, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Viharamahadevi Park

Enjoy a leisurely family walk in this beautiful park filled with trees, flowers, and a playground.
A short taxi ride from Odel, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Farewell Dinner at The Ocean

Celebrate your journey with a final dinner at one of Colombo's best seafood restaurants.
Near the waterfront, short taxi ride.
LKR6000, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Departure Day

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast at your hotel to start your departure day.
On-site dining at your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Pick up any last-minute gifts or souvenirs before you leave.
Take a taxi to your favorite nearby market.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Travel to Airport

Head to the airport to conclude your family adventure in Sri Lanka!
Private transport arranged by your hotel.
LKR2000, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability