5-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

Day 1: Ancient Wonders

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7:30AM

Breakfast at Jaya Hotel

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Jaya Hotel, known for its local Sri Lankan cuisine and fresh fruit.
Located near the main city area, a short tuk-tuk ride will get you there.
LKR1500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Sri Maha Bodhi

After breakfast, head to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest living historical tree in the world.
5-minute ride from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

Next, marvel at the magnificent Ruwanwelisaya, an iconic stupa known for its stunning architecture.
Just a short walk from Sri Maha Bodhi.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Apsara Hotel

Enjoy a tasty lunch at Apsara Hotel, which offers both local and international dishes.
5-minute tuk-tuk ride back towards the city centre.
LKR2000, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Abhayagiri Museum

Take the family to the Abhayagiri Museum, which offers insights into the ancient civilization of Anuradhapura.
10-minute tuk-tuk ride from the restaurant.
LKR700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Bike Tour of Anuradhapura

Rent bicycles and embark on a fun bike tour around the ancient ruins, offering a great way to see vast sites at your own pace.
Nearby bike rental shops can be found along the main road.
LKR1000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Heritage Hotel

Cap your first day with a family dinner at Heritage Hotel, where you can indulge in a variety of local specialties.
A short distance from your hotel.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and Wildlife

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of exploration.
On-site.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Wilpattu National Park

Embark on a morning safari to Wilpattu National Park where your family can experience Sri Lanka's rich wildlife, including leopards and elephants.
Hire a guide, and travel will take about 1.5 hours.
LKR7500, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Palmyrah

Delight your taste buds with local dishes at Palmyrah, which is famous for its authentic flavours.
30-minute drive back to Anuradhapura.
LKR2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Elephant Orphanage

Following lunch, visit the Elephant Orphanage to interact with these gentle giants and learn about wildlife conservation.
A short 15-minute tuk-tuk ride.
LKR1000, 2 hours

3:30PM

Cultural Dance Performance

Attend a local cultural dance performance to experience traditional Sri Lankan music and dance, a treat for the whole family.
Performance venues are commonly found in local parks.
LKR800, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Trio

Close the day with a family dinner at The Trio, which combines Asian flavours with a cosy ambiance.
A quick tuk-tuk ride away.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Savour a delightful breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day filled with cultural exploration.
On-site.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Isurumuniya Temple

Explore the Isurumuniya Temple, famous for its beautiful rock carvings and serene pond, making it a peaceful morning adventure.
10-minute tuk-tuk ride from your hotel.
LKR300, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Binara Lake

After visiting Isurumuniya, enjoy a family trek around Binara Lake featuring stunning landscapes—perfect for photos!
A short 15-minute bicycle ride.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at White House Restaurant

Stop for lunch at White House Restaurant, known for its friendly service and delicious dishes.
20-minute tuk-tuk ride back into Anuradhapura.
LKR1800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Thuparamaya Stupa

In the afternoon, visit the Thuparamaya, the first stupa in Sri Lanka, which is a majestic red-brick monument.
15-minute ride from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Jetavanaramaya

Continue the exploration at Jetavanaramaya, where the colossal stupa makes for a fascinating historical site.
Adjacent to Thuparamaya.
Free, 1 hour 15 minutes

4:00PM

Refresh at Hotel

Head back to your hotel for some downtime between your adventures.
15-minute ride back.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Ceynor

End your day with dinner at Hotel Ceynor, famous for its Sri Lankan buffet with a varied menu sweet and spicy dishes.
Short drive from your hotel.
LKR3000, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Eco-Adventure

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast to fuel up for an exciting eco-adventure day.
On-site.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit Mihintale

Set out to Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, with a hike that rewards with breathtaking views.
A 30-minute tuk-tuk ride is necessary.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Footprint of Buddha

During your visit to Mihintale, do not miss the sacred Footprint of Buddha—a key attraction for spiritual tourists.
Within walking distance around Mihintale.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Visit ancient ruins

Visit the ancient ruins of Mihintale, witnessing the rock-cut architecture that dates back to the 3rd century BC.
Wander to various sites around Mihintale.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mihintale Restaurant

Refuel with lunch at Mihintale Restaurant, serving traditional Sri Lankan meals.
5-minute drive from Mihintale ruins.
LKR2000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at a Local Resort

Spend your afternoon relaxing comfortably at a local resort, enjoying the peaceful ambience.
Return to Anuradhapura for about 30 minutes.
Free with access, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Old Anuradhapura Town

Explore the quaint lanes of Old Anuradhapura, filled with historical buildings and charming cafes.
A 15-minute tuk-tuk ride from the resort.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Royal Lotus Restaurant

Wrap up the day with a lovely family dinner at Royal Lotus Restaurant, serving an array of scrumptious dishes by the lake.
Tuk-tuk ride back to dining area.
LKR2500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation and Reflection

Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

8:00AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, indulging in local flavours one last time.
On-site.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Stroll in the Sacred City

Take a peaceful stroll in the Sacred City area, reflecting on the journey and beauty of historical Anuradhapura.
Walking distance from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Museum of Anuradhapura

Discover local history at the Museum of Anuradhapura, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
A short tuk-tuk ride will take you there.
LKR500, 1 hour

11:30AM

Free Time at the Hotel

Relax and pack at your convenience, making the most of your last moments in this historical gem.
Located within your accommodation.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at your Hotel or Nearby Café

Choose a light lunch at your hotel or at a nearby café for convenience and comfort.
On-site or a quick walk.
LKR1500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Farewell Stroll

Enjoy a farewell stroll around the gardens of your hotel, cherishing the breezy afternoon.
On-site.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Departure

Check-out from your hotel and take with you wonderful memories of Anuradhapura as you bid farewell.
Arrange transportation for departure.
Varies, Depends on travel plans.
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