7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Explore the Best of Sri Lanka

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Gallery Café

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at this chic café in Colombo, known for its fusion cuisine and historic building setting.
LKR1500, 1h

9:30am

Colombo City Tour

Visit key highlights like Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, and the Colombo National Museum to get a feel for the city’s culture and history.
LKR2000, 3h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Upali's by Nawaloka

Savour authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in a family-friendly setting with a variety of traditional dishes perfect for everyone.
LKR1200, 1h

2:30pm

Relax at Galle Face Green

Enjoy a late afternoon stroll or kite flying at this scenic oceanfront urban park, a favourite local spot.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Dine at one of Colombo’s top restaurants specializing in fresh seafood, particularly crab specialties, suitable for a special family dinner.
LKR4000, 2h
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Day 2: Cultural Heritage

Kandy, Sri Lanka on April 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at the hotel

Start early with a buffet breakfast at your hotel before heading out to Kandy.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Kandy by car

Drive approximately 3 hours through scenic landscapes to reach the cultural city of Kandy.
Transport cost varies, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Balaji Dosai

Enjoy delicious South Indian vegetarian cuisine, ideal for families seeking light and flavoursome meals.
LKR800, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Temple of the Tooth

Explore the sacred Buddhist temple housing the relic of the tooth of Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site open till 7:30pm.
LKR1500, 1h30m

4:00pm

Kandy Lake Walk

Take a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake, a lovely spot for family photos and relaxation.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Empire Café

Dine at this charming café offering both local and international dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
LKR1500, 1h30m
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Day 3: Hill Country Exploration

Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka on April 24, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast before heading into the hills.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya

Take a stunning train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, enjoying tea plantations and lush mountainous scenery. Train schedules vary, so book in advance.
LKR600, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Grand Indian

Enjoy a variety of classic Indian dishes in Nuwara Eliya, perfect to replenish after your scenic train trip.
LKR900, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Victoria Park

Relax in this charming botanical garden ideal for families, with plenty of open space and playgrounds.
LKR200, 1h30m

4:30pm

Explore Gregory Lake

Enjoy boating or walking by the lake with beautiful mountain views, open till sunset.
LKR500, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Hill Club

Dine in colonial ambiance featuring Sri Lankan and Western dishes, a relaxing end to your day.
LKR2500, 1h30m
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Day 4: Nature & Waterfalls

Ella, Sri Lanka on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before a short journey to Ella.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Travel to Ella

Drive or take a train to Ella, known for its stunning viewpoints and natural beauty.
Transport cost varies, 2-3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Matey Hut

Taste fresh local Sri Lankan cuisine with friendly service in the heart of Ella.
LKR800, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Nine Arch Bridge

A famous colonial-era railway bridge with scenic surroundings. It’s a great family photo spot and easily accessible.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Hike to Diyaluma Falls

Explore Sri Lanka’s second highest waterfall. The hike takes about 1-2 hours; ensure children are prepared for walking.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Chill Café

Enjoy a casual dinner with a variety of dishes, ideal for families looking for a relaxed atmosphere.
LKR1000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Safari Adventure

Yala National Park, Sri Lanka on April 26, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Eat an early breakfast for your safari adventure in Yala National Park.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Safari in Yala National Park

Explore Yala’s wildlife with chances to see elephants, leopards, and diverse birds. The park is open from 6:00am to 6:00pm.
LKR6000 (per vehicle approx), 4h

12:00pm

Lunch at local lodge

Relish local meals at your safari lodge, often home-style and comforting after active safari.
LKR1000, 1h

1:30pm

Relax at the lodge

Enjoy downtime with family by the pool or in natural surroundings to recover from the morning safari.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at lodge

Dine on fresh Sri Lankan dishes in a serene setting before an early night.
LKR1500, 1h30m
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Day 6: Beach and Relaxation

Mirissa, Sri Lanka on April 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at lodge

Begin with a hearty breakfast before traveling to the coast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Travel to Mirissa Beach

Drive approx 3 hours to Mirissa, a perfect spot for family beach time and relaxation.
Transport cost varies, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Zephyr Restaurant

Casual beachfront dining with fresh seafood and kid-friendly meals, open till 10pm.
LKR1200, 1h

2:00pm

Beach time and snorkeling

Relax on the sandy beach and explore clear waters via snorkeling in shallow areas safe for children.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Whale Watching Tour (optional)

Seasonal (Nov-April) whale watching tours depart early morning; check local operators if timing fits.
LKR8000, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Eatery Mirissa

Enjoy an evening meal featuring local and international cuisine with a family-friendly menu.
LKR1000, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Return and Departure

Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with breakfast and pack up for the journey back to Colombo.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Travel back to Colombo

Drive approximately 3-4 hours to Colombo, allowing time for airport transfer or last-minute shopping.
Transport cost varies, 3.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Lagoon

Dine at The Lagoon in Colombo, famous for its fresh seafood and elegant setting, perfect for your final meal in Sri Lanka.
LKR3000, 1h

2:00pm

Shopping at Colombo City Centre

Explore Colombo City Centre for souvenirs, souvenirs, and local crafts before heading to the airport.
Free entry, 2h
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