10 day itinerary
Sri Lanka West And South
Itinerary
Sri Lanka is a treasure trove of natural beauty, stunning beaches, and exciting adventures, making it a perfect destination for a family trip. Here’s a fun and engaging 10-day itinerary that balances nature, beaches, national parks, and adventure, all while being family-friendly!
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Morning: Arrive at . After clearing customs, head to your hotel in Colombo. Settle in and refresh.
Afternoon: Explore Colombo! Visit the for a leisurely stroll and enjoy some street food. Don’t miss the to learn about Sri Lanka’s rich history.
Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like The Gallery Café, which offers a mix of local and international cuisine.
Day 2: Colombo to Pinnawala and Kandy
Morning: After breakfast, drive to (about 2 hours). Watch the elephants being fed and bathed – it’s a hit with kids!
Afternoon: Continue to Kandy (about 1.5 hours). Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Evening: Enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dance. Dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps try some Kandy specialties.
Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Morning: Depart for Nuwara Eliya (about 2.5 hours). The drive is scenic, with tea plantations lining the hills. Stop at a tea factory for a tour and tasting!
Afternoon: Explore Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England." Visit the beautiful , where you can rent pedal boats or just enjoy a picnic.
Evening: Stroll through the town and have dinner at a cozy restaurant like The Hill Club, which has a lovely atmosphere.
Day 4: Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. The views are breathtaking!
Afternoon: Once in Ella, hike up to or for stunning views. Both hikes are family-friendly and offer a sense of adventure.
Evening: Relax in Ella and enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Try the famous Sri Lankan rice and curry!
Day 5: Ella to
Morning: Depart for (about 2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation, ideally a family-friendly lodge.
Afternoon: Go on an afternoon safari in . Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, and a variety of birds!
Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner. Share stories about the day’s wildlife encounters!
Day 6: Yala to Mirissa
Morning: After breakfast, head to Mirissa (about 2 hours). Check into your beach resort.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach. Mirissa is known for its beautiful sandy shores and calm waters, perfect for families.
Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner. Try some fresh seafood while the kids play in the sand!
Day 7: Whale Watching in Mirissa
Morning: Go on an early morning whale-watching tour. It’s an unforgettable experience, and you might spot blue whales or dolphins!
Afternoon: After returning, relax at the beach or explore the nearby coconut plantations.
Evening: Have a laid-back dinner at a beach restaurant. Enjoy the sunset views!
Day 8: Mirissa to Galle
Morning: Depart for Galle (about 30 minutes). Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the charming streets, shops, and cafes.
Afternoon: Visit the and the . Kids will love the interactive exhibits!
Evening: Enjoy dinner in Galle, perhaps at a restaurant with a view of the fort.
Day 9: Galle to Bentota
Morning: Head to Bentota (about 1 hour). Check into your beach resort.
Afternoon: Enjoy water sports like jet skiing or banana boat rides. The beach is family-friendly and offers plenty of activities.
Evening: Have a beach BBQ dinner at your resort or a nearby restaurant.
Day 10: Bentota to Colombo
Morning: Spend your last morning relaxing on the beach or visiting the nearby turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.
Afternoon: Depart for Colombo (about 1.5 hours). If time permits, do some last-minute shopping at the local markets or visit the .
Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Colombo before heading to the airport for your departure.
Tips for Traveling with Family:
- Always keep snacks and water handy for the kids.
- Consider hiring a private driver for convenience and comfort.
- Make sure to pack sunscreen and hats for beach days.
- Engage the kids in planning some activities to keep them excited!
This itinerary offers a delightful mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, ensuring that your family has a memorable time in Sri Lanka! Enjoy your trip! 🌴🐘🏖️