7-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary in Sri Lanka

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at 88 East

Start your day with a delectable Sri Lankan breakfast of hoppers at 88 East, a family-friendly restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Located in Colombo’s business district, easily accessible by your rental car.
LKR1500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum

Explore the National Museum, where your family can learn about Sri Lankan history and culture through fascinating exhibits.
Just a 15-minute drive from the restaurant.
LKR2000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Kumbuk

Relish a healthy lunch with fresh local ingredients at Café Kumbuk, catering to both adults and kids.
A short 10-minute drive from the museum.
LKR1800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Galle Face Green

Stroll along Galle Face Green, a scenic oceanfront park ideal for families to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and view local kite flyers.
5-minute drive from Café Kumbuk, park nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Cinnamon Grand Colombo

Settle into your accommodation at Cinnamon Grand Colombo, known for family-friendly amenities and a lovely pool.
Drive 5 minutes back to the hotel.
LKR15000, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Lagoon

Enjoy a seafood feast with the family at The Lagoon, famous for its fresh catch and inviting ambiance.
Located within the hotel, just a short walk.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Kandy Culture and Nature

Kandy, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Theva Residency

Start your day with stunning views and a delicious breakfast including Sri Lankan pancakes at Theva Residency.
A short drive from the hotel in Colombo.
LKR2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kandy

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive to Kandy, where the lush green hills will captivate your family.
Follow A1 road heading east.
LKR0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Kandy House

Savor a local buffet that caters well to families at The Kandy House, surrounded by a tropical garden.
Located 10 minutes from the Temple of the Tooth.
LKR2800, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Temple of the Tooth

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, housing a relic of the tooth of Buddha, providing a cultural insight for everyone.
A 10-minute drive away.
LKR2000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Wander through the expansive Royal Botanical Gardens, where your family can enjoy nature trails and a canopy walk.
20-minute drive from the temple.
LKR1000, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Slightly Chilled Lounge Bar

Relax at Slightly Chilled, offering a serene atmosphere and delicious burgers that kids adore.
35-minute drive back towards city center.
LKR2200, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at Grand Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Grand Hotel, known for their English breakfast and favorites like omelets.
10-minute drive from the hotel in Kandy.
LKR2000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Nuwara Eliya

Take a delightful 2.5-hour journey to Nuwara Eliya, known as 'Little England' for its colonial ambiance.
Drive via A26, taking in stunning tea plantations.
LKR0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Salmiya

Savor delicious Sri Lankan rice and curry which is family-friendly at Salmiya Restaurant.
5-minute drive from your accommodation.
LKR1600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Victoria Park

Explore Victoria Park, ideal for a relaxing family picnic or short nature walks within its verdant surroundings.
5-minute drive from restaurant.
LKR800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit to Tea Plantations

Take a guided tour around one of the famous tea plantations, giving your family insights into tea production.
20-minute drive from the park.
LKR1500, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Jetwing St. Andrew's

Rest at the charming Jetwing St. Andrew’s, offering cozy family rooms and a beautiful garden.
A short 10-minute drive from the tea plantation.
LKR13000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hill Club

Experience a lovely family dinner at The Hill Club, known for its warm atmosphere and a varied menu.
5-minute walk from the hotel.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Ella

Ella, Sri Lanka

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel’s restaurant, offering a mix of Sri Lankan and continental options.
On-site at Jetwing St. Andrew's.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Ella

Take a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Ella, enjoying breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.
Via B131 route, watch for roadside viewpoints.
LKR0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Nine Arches Bridge

Marvel at the architectural beauty of the famous Nine Arches Bridge, perfect for family photos.
A 5-minute drive from the main Ella town.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Hike to Ella Rock

Embark on a family-friendly hike to Ella Rock, offering stunning views as a rewarding experience for everyone.
Start from Nine Arches Bridge; approximately a 1-hour trek.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe One Love

Refuel with delicious pasta and a variety of juices at Cafe One Love, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Return to Ella town, about 20 minutes.
LKR1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Little Adam's Peak

Experience another family-friendly hike to Little Adam's Peak, an easier route with stunning panoramic views.
Start from Cafe One Love; a short trek back towards town.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Ella Jungle Resort

Stay at Ella Jungle Resort, providing family-friendly lodgings and access to nature.
10-minute drive from town center.
LKR11000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at 98 Acres Resort

End the day with a traditional Sri Lankan meal while overlooking the stunning views of the hills.
Short 15-minute drive from the resort.
LKR2200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Wildlife Adventure in Yala

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

6:30AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy an early breakfast at the resort, preparing for a day of adventure ahead in Yala.
On-site at Ella Jungle Resort.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to Yala National Park

Leave early to embark on the 2-hour drive to Yala National Park, known for its diverse wildlife.
Take the A2 route towards the park.
LKR0, 2 hours

9:30AM

Safari at Yala National Park

Join a guided safari tour for thrilling wildlife encounters including elephants, leopards, and diverse bird species.
Book safari through local operators, right at the park entrance.
LKR8000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Yala Village

After the safari, feast on a local buffet at Yala Village, suitable for family palates.
Located near the park entrance.
LKR2000, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at National Park

Take time to explore the elegant surroundings of Yala National Park, or simply relax at your lodge.
Back to your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Cinnamon Wild Yala

Stay at the family-friendly Cinnamon Wild Yala that offers luxurious amenities with natural surroundings.
5-minute drive from park access.
LKR17000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy a delightful dinner at the lodge, featuring an array of local dishes sure to satisfy everyone.
On-site at Cinnamon Wild Yala.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Historic Galle

Galle, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Start your day with a delightful breakfast buffet at Cinnamon Wild Yala with an array of options available.
On-site at the lodge.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Galle

Embark on the scenic 3-hour drive to Galle, taking in views of the countryside.
Via A2 highway towards the coast.
LKR0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fort Printers

Savor delicious fusion cuisine at The Fort Printers, catering excellently to families.
Located inside the historic fort.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Galle Fort

Take a leisurely walk through Galle Fort, with its ancient walls and historic buildings, perfect for family exploration.
A short stroll from the lunch venue.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the National Maritime Museum

Engage with the maritime history of Sri Lanka at the National Maritime Museum, a fun learning experience for all ages.
Walking distance from Galle Fort.
LKR600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at The Fortress Resort & Spa

Relax at The Fortress Resort & Spa, known for its kid-friendly activities and luxurious setting.
A short drive from downtown.
LKR16000, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Fortress

Enjoy a delightful family dinner at The Fortress, offering a selection of international and local dishes.
On-site dining at the resort.
LKR3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return and Relax in Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Indulge in a breakfast buffet at The Fortress with selections for the whole family.
On-site dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Colombo

Begin your journey back to Colombo with scenic coastal views along the 2.5-hour drive.
Take the A2 coastal road.
LKR0, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Viharamahadevi Park

Unwind with a relaxing morning at Viharamahadevi Park, where kids can enjoy its playgrounds.
Located in central Colombo, easily accessible.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Gallery Café

Savor a delicious lunch at a unique café with art adorning the walls, offering a family-friendly atmosphere.
Short 10-minute drive from the park.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Colombo Museum

End your trip with a cultural visit to Colombo Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits the whole family can enjoy.
A 10-minute drive from the café.
LKR2000, 2 hours

4:30PM

Departure or Optional Beach Time

Depending on your flight time, relax on nearby beaches like Mount Lavinia Beach, perfect for a sunset view.
30-minute drive from Colombo Museum.
Free, Rest of the day
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