10 day itinerary
Sri Lanka
Itinerary
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 you and your little ones!
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Morning: Arrive at . After clearing customs, head to your hotel in Colombo. A family-friendly option is the Cinnamon Grand or the .
Afternoon: After settling in, take a leisurely stroll at . Kids can run around, and you can enjoy some street food like kottu roti or fresh coconut water.
Evening: Visit the . It’s spacious and has interesting exhibits that can capture the kids' attention. Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like The Gallery Café.
Day 2: Colombo to Kandy
Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Kandy (about 3 hours). The views are beautiful, and you can stop for a quick snack at a roadside café.
Afternoon: Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids will love 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 engaging for kids! Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Kandy to Pinnawala and
Morning: Head to (about 1.5 hours from Kandy). The kids will be thrilled to see elephants up close, and you can even feed them!
Afternoon: After lunch, continue your journey to (about 2.5 hours). This charming town is known for its tea plantations and cool climate. Check into a family-friendly hotel like the Grand Hotel.
Evening: Explore the town and visit the beautiful . You can rent pedal boats or just enjoy a picnic by the water.
Day 4:
Morning: Take a tea plantation tour. Many places offer kid-friendly tours where they can see how tea is made and even try some fresh tea.
Afternoon: Visit the . The kids can run around and explore the beautiful flowers and plants.
Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant. Don’t forget to try some Sri Lankan rice and curry!
Day 5: to Ella
Morning: Depart for Ella (about 2 hours). The drive is stunning, with tea plantations and waterfalls along the way.
Afternoon: Once in Ella, hike to . It’s a relatively easy hike, and the views are breathtaking. Kids will love the adventure!
Evening: Relax at your hotel and enjoy dinner. The is a great family-friendly option with beautiful views.
Day 6: Ella to
Morning: After breakfast, head to (about 2.5 hours). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way!
Afternoon: Check into a family-friendly lodge near the park. After lunch, go on an afternoon safari. Kids will be excited to spot elephants, leopards, and various birds.
Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at your lodge, sharing stories about the day’s adventures.
Day 7: Yala to
Morning: If you’re up for it, take an early morning safari for a chance to see more wildlife. Afterward, head to (about 2 hours).
Afternoon: Check into a beach resort. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach. The shallow waters are perfect for kids to play in.
Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner. has some great seafood options, and the sunset views are stunning!
Day 8:
Morning: Go on a whale-watching tour! is famous for this, and it’s an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Afternoon: After lunch, visit the nearby for some surfing lessons. Many schools offer kid-friendly options.
Evening: Return to for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beach café.
Day 9: to Galle
Morning: Depart for Galle (about 1 hour). Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids will love exploring the old fortifications and the lighthouse.
Afternoon: Have lunch in Galle and then visit the . It’s small but interesting, and kids often enjoy the exhibits.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in Galle. The fort area has many options with a lovely atmosphere.
Day 10: Galle to Colombo and Departure
Morning: Head back to Colombo (about 2 hours). Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping at the or explore the local markets.
Afternoon: Enjoy a farewell lunch at a nice restaurant.
Evening: Depart for the airport for your flight home, filled with wonderful memories of your Sri Lankan adventure!
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an amazing trip! Sri Lanka is full of surprises, and your kids are sure to have a blast exploring this beautiful island. Safe travels! 🌏✈️