Itinerary for 10 day trip to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. Here’s a fun and engaging 10-day itinerary that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

Morning: Arrive at . After clearing customs, head to your hotel in Colombo. Settle in and relax after your journey.

Afternoon: Explore the city! Visit the , where the kids can run around and enjoy some street food. You can also take a stroll along the beach.

Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try for some delicious seafood or for Japanese cuisine.

Day 2: Colombo to Kandy

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Kandy (about 3 hours). On the way, stop at the . The kids will love watching the elephants being fed and bathed!

Afternoon: Arrive in Kandy and check into your hotel. Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids will enjoy the colorful decorations and the stories about the sacred tooth relic.

Evening: Enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dance. It’s vibrant and entertaining for all ages!

Day 3: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Morning: After breakfast, take a train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. The train journey is breathtaking, with lush tea plantations and stunning views. Kids will love the adventure!

Afternoon: Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England." Check into your hotel and then visit . You can rent pedal boats or just enjoy a picnic by the water.

Evening: Explore the town and have dinner at a cozy restaurant. Try some local dishes like kottu roti or hoppers.

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya

Morning: Visit a tea plantation and factory. The kids can learn how tea is made and enjoy some fresh tea (or juice for the little ones).

Afternoon: Head to . It’s a beautiful place for a family walk, and the kids can run around and explore the various plants and flowers.

Evening: Relax at your hotel or enjoy a family game night!

Day 5: Nuwara Eliya to Ella

Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to Ella (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel and get settled.

Afternoon: Hike to or visit the . The hike is manageable for kids, and the views are worth it!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. The Chill Cafe is a great option with a relaxed vibe.

Day 6: Ella to

Morning: Depart for (about 2.5 hours). Check into your accommodation, ideally a family-friendly lodge.

Afternoon: Go on a safari in ! Kids will be thrilled to see elephants, leopards, and a variety of birds. Make sure to bring binoculars!

Evening: Have dinner at your lodge and share stories about the day’s wildlife adventures.

Day 7: Yala to Galle

Morning: After breakfast, head to Galle (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.

Afternoon: Explore the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids can enjoy walking along the ramparts and exploring the quaint shops and cafes.

Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Galle. is a lovely spot with a great atmosphere.

Day 8: Galle to Bentota

Morning: After breakfast, take a short drive to Bentota (about 1 hour). Check into your beach resort.

Afternoon: Spend the day at the beach! The kids can build sandcastles, swim, or try out some water sports like banana boat rides.

Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner. Many resorts have great dining options with fresh seafood and local cuisine.

Day 9: Bentota

Morning: Take a boat ride on the . You might spot some wildlife, including monkeys and various birds.

Afternoon: Visit the Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda. The kids will love seeing baby turtles and learning about conservation efforts.

Evening: Have a relaxing dinner at your resort and enjoy the sunset on the beach.

Day 10: Departure from Colombo

Morning: After breakfast, head back to Colombo (about 2 hours). Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping at or visit the .

Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Traveling with Kids:

Always keep snacks and water handy.
Plan for some downtime to avoid overstimulation.
Engage the kids with stories about the places you visit.
Be flexible with your plans; sometimes the best memories come from unexpected adventures!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Sri Lanka with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌴✈️