Experience the scenic beauty and cultural treasures of Sri Lanka with your family. From the misty hills of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya to the wildlife safaris in Yala and the golden beaches of Bentota, this journey balances exploration, adventure, and relaxation. Every day offers family-friendly activities, cultural immersion, and opportunities to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural wonders together.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and meet your private driver-guide. Begin your scenic journey to Kandy, approximately 3.5 to 4 hours by car through lush countryside and small towns. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax after the flight. In the evening, take a calm stroll around Kandy Lake, enjoy the serene surroundings, and have dinner at the hotel with traditional Sri Lankan cuisine suitable for all ages.
Start the day with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, home to one of Buddhism’s most important relics. Observe the traditional rituals and explore the temple complex. After lunch, visit a local handicraft center where children can watch artisans at work and try simple crafts. In the evening, enjoy a vibrant Kandyan dance performance featuring traditional drumming and colorful costumes, followed by a stroll through Kandy city and its lakeside promenade.
Travel from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, about 2.5 to 3 hours via scenic highland roads. Stop at a tea plantation and factory along the way to see how Ceylon tea is produced, from leaf plucking to packaging, and taste fresh tea. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and visit Gregory Lake, where the family can enjoy boating, pony rides, or a relaxed walk along the promenade. Evening free for leisure or exploring the hotel grounds.
Depart early for Horton Plains National Park, approximately 1.5 hours from Nuwara Eliya. Take a guided walk on the 9 km circular trail leading to World’s End, a dramatic cliff with panoramic valley views. Stop at Baker’s Falls along the way and enjoy spotting birds and unique plants. Return to Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon and relax at the hotel, or take a gentle city walk to explore local shops and gardens.
After breakfast, drive to Yala National Park, approximately 4 to 5 hours. Stop along the way for photos at waterfalls, small villages, and scenic viewpoints. Arrive at your lodge in time to relax, explore the surroundings, and enjoy family-friendly amenities before dinner.
Set out early in the morning for a jeep safari in Yala National Park. Spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge in the afternoon for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Evening at leisure with dinner at the lodge.
Drive west to Bentota, approximately 4 hours. Check into your beachfront hotel and spend the afternoon on the sand, swimming, or playing beach games. Families may also enjoy optional water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or a river cruise along the Bentota River. Evening free for relaxation or a family beachside dinner.
Enjoy a full day at leisure on the beach. Families can swim, snorkel in shallow waters, or take a glass-bottom boat ride along the river. Optionally, visit a nearby fishing village to experience local life, try traditional snacks, and meet local children. Evening free at the hotel for relaxation.
After breakfast, drive to Colombo, approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Depending on your flight schedule, take a brief city tour including Independence Square, Galle Face Green, or Pettah Market for shopping and souvenirs. Your driver will transfer you to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure, bringing home memories of Sri Lanka’s hills, wildlife, culture, and beaches enjoyed as a family.