Itinerary for 10 day trip to Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a relaxed 10-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, nature, and some downtime. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

Morning: Arrive at . After clearing customs, take a private transfer to your hotel in Colombo.

Afternoon: Settle in and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a family-friendly restaurant. Try some local dishes like hoppers or kottu.

Evening: Take a stroll along , where the kids can run around and you can enjoy the sunset. Grab some street food for dinner—don’t miss the fresh seafood!

Day 2: Colombo to Kandy

Morning: After breakfast, visit the to learn about Sri Lanka’s history.

Afternoon: Head to Kandy (about a 3-hour drive). Check into your hotel and have lunch.

Evening: Visit the , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids will love the stories of the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Enjoy a cultural dance show in the evening.

Day 3: Explore Kandy

Morning: After breakfast, take a family-friendly walk around . You can rent a paddle boat if the kids are up for it!

Afternoon: Visit the in Peradeniya. The kids will enjoy the vast gardens and the giant bamboo trees. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy there.

Evening: Return to Kandy for dinner. Try a local restaurant that offers a buffet, so everyone can pick what they like!

Day 4: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Morning: Depart for Nuwara Eliya (about a 2.5-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views of tea plantations along the way.

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Explore the town, visiting the post office and the beautiful . You can rent a swan boat for some fun on the water!

Evening: Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant. Nuwara Eliya has a charming colonial vibe, so it’s a lovely place to relax.

Day 5: Tea Plantations and Safari

Morning: Visit a tea plantation and factory. The kids will love seeing how tea is made and tasting some fresh brews!

Afternoon: Head to for a family-friendly hike to World’s End. The views are breathtaking, and it’s a great way to enjoy nature together.

Evening: Return to Nuwara Eliya for dinner. Perhaps try some traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry!

Day 6: Nuwara Eliya to Ella

Morning: Depart for Ella (about a 2-hour drive). The journey is filled with stunning views, so keep your cameras ready!

Afternoon: Check into your hotel and have lunch. Visit the , a beautiful spot for photos.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local café. Ella has a laid-back vibe, perfect for winding down.

Day 7: Explore Ella

Morning: Hike up . It’s a relatively easy hike, and the views from the top are rewarding!

Afternoon: Visit a local spice garden or take a cooking class. The kids can get involved in making some simple dishes.

Evening: Have dinner at a restaurant with a view. Ella is known for its stunning sunsets!

Day 8: Ella to

Morning: Depart for (about a 2.5-hour drive).

Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and have lunch.

Evening: Go on a safari in . Keep an eye out for elephants, leopards, and a variety of birds. The kids will love the adventure!

Day 9: Yala to Galle

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a morning safari if you’re up for it!

Afternoon: Depart for Galle (about a 2-hour drive). Check into your hotel and have lunch.

Evening: Explore , a UNESCO World Heritage site. The kids can run around the fort walls, and you can enjoy the charming shops and cafes.

Day 10: Relax in Galle and Departure

Morning: Spend a relaxed morning at the beach. Unwind and let the kids play in the sand.

Afternoon: Have a leisurely lunch and do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.

Evening: Depending on your flight time, head back to Colombo for your departure. If you have time, stop by a local restaurant for a final taste of Sri Lankan cuisine.