Wildlife, Culture & Beaches on a Sri Lanka Family Tour

Colombo

Arrive in Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka and start of your family journey. Check in to your hotel and take an evening stroll around the city. See the grand colonial buildings and historical landmarks that tell the story of Colombo’s past. The atmosphere is lively yet welcoming and this is a great introduction to what Sri Lanka has to offer. Let the kids explore the streets and sights, take in the sounds, colours and culture. Experience the local culture and customs of Colombo, from traditional dress codes at temples to the unique community traditions that shape daily life. It’s a chill start to your adventure and gives everyone time to adjust and look forward to the days ahead. At the end of the day, join a welcome meeting where families are briefed on the itinerary, important travel information, and any requirements for visiting different countries during your trip.

Colombo

Start the day with a visit to Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most important temples. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful statues and sacred spaces. Then head to Seema Malakaya Temple, a temple on a lake and reached by a small bridge. Next, take a tuk tuk ride to the local markets where the stalls are filled with traditional crafts and souvenirs for an authentic experience. While exploring the markets, you can observe local children and families going about their daily routines, adding to the vibrant market scene. Visit the National Museum to learn more about the country's rich history. Finally visit the Fort area, famous for its colonial buildings and past. After a full day of sightseeing, head back to your hotel.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Colombo

Sigiriya

Leave Colombo and drive for about 4 hours to Sigiriya, in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. This region is famous for its ancient cities and archaeological wonders. On the way, you may pass through lush landscapes and even a tea plantation, offering a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s scenic tea-producing regions. Once you arrive, check in to your hotel and the rest of the day is free. Surrounded by countryside and green landscapes, Sigiriya is a great base to explore Sri Lanka’s heritage. Spend time by the hotel’s swimming pool, a family-friendly amenity, or enjoy the views before the next day’s adventure. It’s a calm transition from city life to nature and history and gives your family time to unwind and recharge.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sigiriya

Get up early and head to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Take your time walking up the steps, spot the mischievous monkeys and enjoy the views from the top. The fortress is full of history from ancient frescoes to beautiful gardens below. It's a great climb for kids and adults. In the afternoon head back to your resort and relax. Swim in the pool, lounge in the shade or simply enjoy the surroundings. It's a day of balance of exploration, learning and relaxation for the whole family.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sigiriya

Get ready for a wildlife adventure with jeep safaris in Minneriya National Park. This is the place of the “Gathering” – the largest group of Asian wild elephants in the world, where you can observe wild elephants in their natural habitat. During dry season you might see over a hundred elephants gathered around the water. Keep your eyes open for other animals like spotted deer, water buffalo, monkeys and many birds. It’s a fun experience for kids and adults. The open landscape, peaceful reservoir and excitement of spotting wildlife makes for an unforgettable day. Sri Lanka's national parks are renowned for their biodiversity. Head back to your hotel in the evening with stories and memories from the wild.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sigiriya

Kandy

Drive from Sigiriya to Kandy, a beautiful city surrounded by hills and forest in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country, about 2 hours from Dambulla. Kandy was the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and is a cultural treasure. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, where a sacred relic of Buddha is kept. When visiting religious sites like this, it is important to respect local laws and local culture, including dress codes and customs. The temple is an important pilgrimage site and a place of peace and devotion. Spend time exploring the city’s heritage and calm atmosphere. With its cool climate and spiritual sites, Kandy is a change of pace and a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s traditions and religious life.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kandy

Start the day at Bahirawakanda Monastery where you’ll learn about the daily routines and beliefs of Buddhist monks. It’s a quiet place high up on a hill with great views of Kandy. In the evening head back to the Temple of the Tooth to see it all lit up – a magical sight your family will never forget. If you’re into golf there’s a full course nearby, others can choose tennis, horse riding, swimming or nature walks. You can also take an optional excursion to Horton Plains National Park for dramatic landscapes and hiking. Whatever you want to do today in the hills of Kandy, there’s something for everyone, with a variety of fun activities available for families.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kitulgala

Today drive 90 minutes into the tropical rainforests of Kitulgala for a night of adventure in nature. The area is lush and green, perfect for outdoor fun. The monsoon season shapes the landscape and river conditions here, making the rainforest even more vibrant and affecting the flow of the Kelani River. Choose between an exciting white-water rafting trip on the Kelani River or a peaceful canoe ride through the jungle. End the day at Borderlands camp where you’ll sleep on stilted platforms above the river. It’s simple but special with the sound of the river and the stars above. A unique experience your kids will love, combining comfort, fun and a connection with nature.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bentota Beach

Drive 3 hours south to Bentota, a charming beach town on the west coast of Sri Lanka, famous for its golden sand and peacefulness. Check into Heritance Ahungalle or Saman Villas for a 5 night coastal stay, where families can enjoy the hotel's swimming pool as a relaxing amenity. This part of your holiday is all about rest and time together. The warm sun, gentle waves and peaceful surroundings invite you to slow down. Whether it’s reading by the pool or playing on the beach, today marks the beginning of a more relaxed phase of your journey. Settle in and enjoy the easy pace of life by the sea.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach

Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Project where you’ll learn about the rescue and protection of endangered sea turtles. You might even see baby turtles being released into the ocean – an exciting and emotional moment for all ages. This hands-on experience helps children understand nature and the importance of conservation. Afterwards head back to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. Perhaps take a walk along the beach or cool off in the pool. Optional excursions for dolphin watching and whale watching are available from the Bentota area, offering the chance to observe marine life such as whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Meals included are part of the holiday package for your convenience. A day of meaningful learning and relaxation adding another layer to your Sri Lanka experience.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bentota Beach

Take a day trip to the ancient city of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most historically significant destinations, just 90 minutes away. Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 1600s by the Portuguese and Dutch, reflecting Sri Lanka's colonial history. Walk through the cobblestone streets, see the lighthouse and admire the old buildings that bring the past to life. Lunch at the stylish Lighthouse Hotel where the design tells the story of colonial times and seafarers. A day of history and culture but still easy-going and family friendly with something for everyone. Sri Lanka tours often include Galle as a highlight for its rich heritage and unique charm.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bentota Beach

Bentota Beach

Make the most of your last full day with some fun in the Indian Ocean. Bentota is perfect for water sports with activities like banana boat rides, jet skiing, windsurfing and more. There are English speaking instructors so it’s safe and fun for the whole family. Whether you try something new or just float in the warm sea the day is yours to enjoy. The perfect mix of excitement and relaxation to let everyone play and laugh before the journey ends. Enjoy the sunshine, the sea breeze and the freedom of the beach.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Colombo - Departure

Start your last morning with a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast full of local flavours and spices. Depending on your flight time you may have time for a short swim, a stroll in the gardens or just relax one last time by the sea. When it's time to leave your driver will take you to Colombo airport. As your family journey through Sri Lanka comes to an end you'll take with you wonderful memories of wildlife, culture, adventure and beach time. It's been a holiday of discovery and connection – one you'll never forget.

Meals Included: Breakfast