An unforgettable itinerary in Sri Lanka with kids
If you’re planning a trip to Sri Lanka and need a complete Sri Lanka itinerary with kids, you’ve definitely found the right article!
This gem in the Indian Ocean is an enchanting mix of ancient cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant nature. Known for its dreamy beaches, green tea plantation hills, and historical sites that tell the story of ancient civilizations, Sri Lanka offers an unforgettable travel experience for every type of traveler. From the warm hospitality of its people to the incredible biodiversity in its national parks, every corner of this country invites you to explore. If you’re ready to dive into an adventure filled with culture, nature, and excitement, get ready to uncover the wonders of Sri Lanka!
Keep reading the article to find out what to see in Sri Lanka with kids.
In this article, we’ll discuss:
- What are the must-see stops in Sri Lanka?
- Dreamy beaches: Mirissa and the ocean-side bliss
- The wild beaches of the North, perfect for relaxed days with kids
- What to do in Kandy: the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka
- Nuwara Eliya: The island’s garden
- Yala National Park: A safari with wildlife giants
- Ella: The gateway to the hills
- Polonnaruwa: A journey through time
- Dambulla: The must-see rock temples
- Returning to the cultural heart of the island: Colombo
- Exploring local markets – Pettah and Good Market
- Local life and street food – Galle Face Green and street eats
- The island’s fortress: Sigiriya Rock
- Practical information for planning your trip to Sri Lanka
- Unique Sri Lanka itinerary: authentic experiences
- Jaffna: Discovering unique culture and historic temples
- Haputale: Breathtaking views and tea plantations
- Trincomalee: Between paradise beaches and ancient history
- Non-touristy Sri Lanka with kids: How to enjoy authentic experiences
- Conclusions and final tips for an unforgettable trip
What are the must-see stops in Sri Lanka?
When planning a Sri Lanka itinerary, there are a few must-visit destinations you definitely can’t miss. Here’s a list of places to visit on your trip to Sri Lanka with kids.
Dreamy beaches: Mirissa and the ocean-side bliss
Let’s start with one of the most famous beach destinations in Sri Lanka: Mirissa. This coastal gem is known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. This charming fishing village is the perfect spot for a relaxing getaway where you can also experience the local culture.
Mirissa was once an old whaling port, and today it’s a lively spot for tourism while still retaining its traditional charm.
What to do:
- Whale Watching: Mirissa is famous for whale watching. Daily tours set out at dawn, offering the chance to see blue whales, humpbacks, and even dolphins.
- Beach Relaxation: Mirissa Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkeling. Don’t miss out on the fresh seafood at the beachfront restaurants.
- Surfing: Mirissa is great for both beginners and experienced surfers, with waves that vary depending on the season.
The wild beaches of the North – perfect for peaceful days with kids
If you’re looking for less crowded beaches, head north with the kids to Jaffna and Trincomalee, where you’ll find breathtaking coastal landscapes. Far from mass tourism, these destinations offer tranquility and authentic beauty. With the kids playing on the golden sand and the clear waters nearby, you’ll find paradise closer than you might think.
We’re known for our love of off-the-beaten-path places, and though Trincomalee was a spontaneous detour for us, we ended up falling in love with it so much that we stayed in town for 20 days. If you’re curious to learn more about this part of our adventure, check out our article on spending a month in Trincomalee with kids.
And if you dream of a beach holiday in Sri Lanka, don’t miss our article on the most beautiful beaches in Sri Lanka.
What to do in Kandy: explore the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka with kids
Kandy is a historic and cultural city nestled in the heart of the hills, famous for the Temple of the Tooth, which houses one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics. This is a place where tradition and nature come together in fascinating ways.
Once the final capital of the Sinhalese kings, Kandy resisted multiple invasions, becoming a symbol of cultural resilience. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988.
Things to do:
- Temple of the Tooth: Visit this temple, especially vibrant during religious ceremonies. You can observe Buddhist rituals and admire beautiful frescoes.
- Peradeniya Botanical Garden: Stroll through one of the country’s largest botanical gardens, home to over 4,000 plant species, including an incredible collection of orchids.
- Parks and lakes: Relax around Kandy Lake, where you can rent a boat or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along its banks.
Entrance Fees: Entry to the Temple of the Tooth costs around 1500 LKR (about 5 USD), and the Botanical Garden also costs 1500 LKR.
Extra Nature Adventure near Kandy – Peradeniya Botanical Garden and Udawattekele Forest Reserve
For a more relaxing, nature-filled experience, enhance your Sri Lanka itinerary with kids by visiting the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya. Kids will be captivated by the variety of plants, flowers, and trees, making it both an educational and enjoyable outing. And if your family loves outdoor adventures, the Udawattekele Forest Reserve offers jungle trails where you can explore local flora and fauna in a wild, untouched setting.
With these activities in Kandy, your family will have the chance to dive into spiritual traditions, explore natural beauty, and make unforgettable memories.
Nuwara Eliya: The garden of the island
Nuwara Eliya is known as “Little England” for its cool climate, tea plantations, and colonial architecture. This area is a paradise for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Founded by the British in the 19th century, Nuwara Eliya was a hill station used as a summer retreat by British settlers. Its streets, buildings, and gardens reflect this colonial heritage.
Things to do:
- Visit a tea plantation: Take a tour of a tea plantation, where you can see the tea-picking process and enjoy fresh Ceylon tea. The most famous plantations include the Pedro Tea Estate and Mackwoods Tea.
- Victoria Park: Explore this beautiful park filled with exotic flowers and plants, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.
- Gregory Lake: Take a boat ride or try fishing on this picturesque lake.
Entrance fees: Entry to tea plantations is usually free, though guided tours may cost between 500 and 1000 LKR (around 3-5 USD).
Yala National Park: A safari among the giants of wildlife
Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most important national parks, known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Here, you can experience the beauty of nature and spot wild animals in their natural habitat. Yala was once a hunting reserve for British settlers, and it is now one of the most visited parks in Sri Lanka, known for its high density of leopards.
If you want to learn more and discover which sustainable safari in Sri Lanka suits you best, check out the dedicated article linked here.
Things to do:
- Safari: Book a safari at dawn or dusk to increase your chances of spotting leopards, elephants, wild boars, and a variety of birds. Jeep safaris depart from various entry points and last about 3-4 hours.
- Visit ancient temples: Inside the park, there are ancient ruins to explore, like the remains of a Buddhist monastery.
Entrance fees: Tickets for adults are around 5000 LKR (about 15 USD), while jeep safaris start from around 6000 LKR (18 USD) per group.
Ella: The gateway to the hills
Ella is a small mountain town nestled among hills, famous for its breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Ella has historically been an important tea-trading center and a stopover for travelers, known for its plantations and temperate climate.
Things to do:
- Ella Rock: Take a walk up to Ella Rock for a spectacular view of the valley and surrounding mountains. It’s a 1-2 hour hike.
- Ravana Falls: Visit this magnificent waterfall, one of the highest in Sri Lanka, where you can swim and take photos.
- Visit tea plantations: Discover the tea production process by visiting a local plantation.
Entrance fees: There are no entrance fees for hiking, but some tea plantations may charge a small entrance fee.
Polonnaruwa: A journey through time
Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka’s historic capitals and is home to extraordinary ruins. It’s a place where you can see the remnants of ancient civilizations, making it an unmissable stop.
Polonnaruwa has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an extraordinary insight into Sinhalese culture and art.
Things to do:
- Explore the ruins: Rent a bicycle to visit the ruins, including the Gal Vihara, with its impressive rock-carved Buddha statues.
- Visit the Royal Palace: Experience the grandeur of the ancient capital by visiting the ruins of the Royal Palace and the Audience Hall.
Entrance fees: The entrance fee to the archaeological site is around 3500 LKR (about 10 USD).
Dambulla: The Must-See Cave Temples
Dambulla is famous for its cave temples, some of the most spectacular in the country. This series of caves houses magnificent Buddha statues and historic frescoes.
Dambulla has a long history of religious worship and served as a refuge for kings during wars. The caves have been used as Buddhist monasteries since the 1st century BCE.
Things to do:
- Golden Temple of Dambulla: Visit the caves, which contain over 150 Buddha statues and beautiful frescoes. The main cave is the most impressive and features a 14-meter Buddha statue.
- Hiking nearby: Explore the surrounding trails and enjoy the panoramic view from the top.
Entrance fee: Admission is approximately 1500 LKR (around 5 USD).
Returning to the Cultural Heart of the Island: Colombo
Your Sri Lanka Itinerary with Kids can, and in our opinion should, begin or end in Colombo, the island’s vibrant capital. While many guides suggest skipping this city, we believe that the beating heart—and political capital—deserves a visit, if only out of respect.
Don’t be intimidated by the city, as it has much more to offer than you might expect. With your kids in tow, explore the National Museum for a quick immersion into the country’s rich history.
A highlight of our journey is Colombo’s National Institute, where science meets fun. Your kids will have the chance to learn through hands-on and interactive experiences, making education an adventure itself. Colombo is also a great destination if you happen to be in Sri Lanka during the rainy season; if you want more tips on what to do in Sri Lanka when it rains, check out our article When Not to Go to Sri Lanka, and discover a lesser-known side of the island!
Exploring Local Markets - Pettah and Good Market
Our Sri Lanka Itinerary with Kids continues as you head to Pettah, the bustling center of trade in Colombo. Your kids will be fascinated by the stalls overflowing with spices, exotic fruits, and handmade goods. And if you’re looking for sustainable and organic products, the Good Market is the ideal spot. Here, you can experience the lively local community promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.
Local Life and Street Food - Galle Face Green and Street Eats
To fully immerse yourself in the local vibe, head over to Galle Face Green at sunset. This open space by the ocean is perfect for a relaxing walk or a family picnic. Explore the street food stalls and let the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka guide you. Your kids can try local delights like kottu roti and hoppers, making the experience even more memorable.
If your family enjoys Italian food, check out my article on introducing spicy food to kids in Sri Lanka.
The Island Fortress: Sigiriya Rock
Last but certainly not least is Sigiriya Rock, the famous fortress built on a rock.
Sigiriya may have been inhabited since prehistoric times. The rock was used as a site for a monastery from the 3rd century BCE, with caves prepared by followers of the Buddhist Sangha.
The gardens and palace were erected by King Kashyapa. After his death, they fell into disuse but later became a monastery until the 14th century, after which the site was abandoned.
Interest in Sigiriya was revived in the 19th century, following reports from British explorers, and it became an attraction for antiquarians and archaeologists. The many Sigiri inscriptions were deciphered by archaeologist Paranavithana, who published a two-volume work from Oxford, Sigiri Graffiti.
If you’d like to learn more about this archaeological site, read the article: Sri Lanka, How to Climb Sigiriya Rock.
Practical Information for Organizing Your Trip to Sri Lanka with Kids
What Visa Do You Need to Enter Sri Lanka?
To enter Sri Lanka, you’ll need a passport that’s valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Citizens of many countries can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before departure. It’s a simple process that you can complete online, and the visa is valid for 30 days, with the option to extend up to 90 days.
What to Do:
- Visit the official site for visa applications.
- Fill out the online form with your personal details and purpose of travel.
- Pay the visa fee (around 35 USD) and receive your visa by email.
- Don’t forget to bring a printed copy of your visa upon arrival!
Note: Children under 12 do not need a visa!
What’s the Currency in Sri Lanka?
The official currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500, 1,000, and 5,000 LKR, while coins range from 1 to 10 LKR.
Payments:
- Cash: It’s advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities.
- Credit cards: Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and large stores, though you may need cash in smaller establishments.
- Currency exchange: You can exchange money at banks or exchange counters, but make sure to use official places to avoid unfavorable rates.
Weather and Climate: When to Visit Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two monsoon seasons that affect different regions of the country.
- Dry season (December-April): The best season for visiting the southern and western coasts, ideal for beach days.
- Wet season (May-September): Rain affects the southwest, but the northern and eastern regions, like Trincomalee, remain drier.
Temperature: Coastal temperatures range between 25°C and 32°C, while in the highlands, like Nuwara Eliya, they can drop to 15°C.
We personally lived in Sri Lanka for a few months during the rainy season, and it was a unique experience, allowing us to fully embrace the island. For more on this adventure, read our article When Not to Go to Sri Lanka.
Language and Communication: Navigating with Ease
The official language is Sinhala, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Communication:
- Road signs and information: Most signs are in English, making it easy to navigate.
- Useful apps: Download a translation app to facilitate communication, particularly in less touristy areas.
- Local help: Locals are generally very friendly and ready to assist, even if they don’t speak fluent English!
Electricity and Time Zone: Prepare for Your Stay
In Sri Lanka, the voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. Power outlets are types D and G, so it’s best to bring a universal adapter.
Time zone: Sri Lanka is 5.5 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5:30). Be mindful of prayer times and local celebrations, as they may affect opening hours for shops and services.
An Original Sri Lanka Itinerary with Kids: Authentic Experiences
When thinking of Sri Lanka with kids, tropical beaches, ancient temples, and breathtaking landscapes come to mind. But beyond the most popular destinations, this extraordinary country offers a wealth of authentic experiences waiting to be discovered. Prepare to embark on a journey that goes beyond typical attractions. In this section, I’ll take you on a unique adventure through lesser-known corners where culture, nature, and local life blend into a fascinating story of authenticity. From lively markets to traditional villages and historical landmarks, you’ll find ways to experience the true Sri Lanka and create unforgettable memories with your kids, all while embracing the warmth of its people.
Jaffna: Discover Unique Culture and Historic Temples
Jaffna, located in northern Sri Lanka, is a fascinating destination offering a rich cultural experience. This area is known for its Tamil heritage, with historic temples like the famous Nallur Kandaswamy Temple and the ruins of Jaffna Fort. Here you can immerse yourself in local life, savor traditional dishes like Jaffna Crab Curry and Paneer.
What to Do:
- Visit the Jaffna Museum to learn about the local history.
- Explore Jaffna Market to buy fresh spices and local crafts.
- Cost: Entry to temples is usually free, while the museum may charge an entry fee of around 500 LKR.
Haputale: Breathtaking Views and Tea Plantations
Located among the mountains, Haputale is the perfect place to enjoy stunning views and visit the famous tea plantations. Don’t miss a visit to Lipton Tea Plantation, where you can learn about the tea production process and sample various varieties.
What to Do:
- Hike to Buddha’s Rock for a breathtaking panoramic view.
- Take a tour of the tea plantation to understand how tea is grown.
- Cost: Entry to the plantation is free, but tastings may cost around 1000 LKR.
Sri Lanka is famous for its tea plantations, and if you’re interested in exploring this topic further and discovering the best places to experience it, check out our articles:
Trincomalee: Paradise Beaches and Ancient History
Trincomalee, on the eastern coast, is known for its beautiful beaches and rich history. You can visit the Koneswaram Temple, located on a cliff, and enjoy a sunny day at Nilaveli Beach.
What to Do:
- Go snorkeling or diving to explore the marine life.
- Visit Fort Frederick for a dose of colonial history.
- Cost: Entry to temples is usually free, while water activities may cost between 2000 and 5000 LKR.
We lived in Trincomalee for over a month, so if you want to dive deeper into all the things you can do in this charming and authentic fishing village, read our article: A Month in Trincomalee with Kids.
A Taste of Local Life: Village and Market Tours
For an authentic experience, join tours in rural villages where you can interact with locals and discover their traditions. Local markets are a great place to taste fresh food and buy handmade crafts.
Sri Lanka with Kids, Off the Beaten Path: How to Have Authentic Experiences
The Importance of Responsible Tourism in Sri Lanka with Kids
Traveling responsibly in Sri Lanka means respecting the environment and local cultures. The country is vulnerable to ecological issues, so it’s crucial to adopt sustainable practices during your stay. Choosing eco-friendly activities and supporting local communities helps preserve the natural and cultural beauty of Sri Lanka.
How to Contribute to the Local Community During Your Trip
During your travels, you can actively contribute to the local community by participating in volunteer initiatives or simply buying handmade products at local markets. Consider joining beach clean-up programs or supporting local schools for an experience that enriches both you and the community you visit.
Conclusions and Final Tips for an Unforgettable Trip
Ideas for an Experience that Will Stay in Your Heart
Sri Lanka is a place that promises unique adventures and memorable encounters. From its vibrant culture to its breathtaking natural beauty, every corner of the country has something to offer. Take your time to explore and immerse yourself in the local traditions, allowing each experience to enrich your journey.
Don’t Forget to Experience Sri Lanka Beyond the Guidebooks!
Explore off the beaten path, meet the locals, taste the typical dishes, and let the country’s beauty surprise you. Remember, the most beautiful moments are often found in the small things and in interactions with the local people.
Don’t forget to bring along our MiniLonely Sri Lanka, where you’ll find helpful guides and practical tips to make your trip with kids even more special.
Get ready for an adventure that will allow you to discover the true spirit of Sri Lanka and create unforgettable memories with your family.
Safe travels!
Buon viaggio!
