If you’re thinking of visiting Sri Lanka with kids, read on because we recently took this trip with our 3 children and now we’re giving you ALL the details to make your planning easier!
If you’re looking for equal parts excitement and tranquility for a family vacation that really rejuvenates, Sri Lanka delivers! From ancient temples to sun-kissed beaches with gorgeous pristine waters, historical sites, lush nation parks, and more, this destination has it all!
We’re so excited to share the wonders of Sri Lanka, its lovely people, incredible food, and all the many opportunities for adventure with you all! Get ready to have some cherished moments with your family on an incredible journey through Sri Lanka!
Things to Know Before Your Trip to Sri Lanka with Kids
There are some important things you need to know before traveling to Sri Lanka. Get all the details about visas, immigration, and more below!
Visa Requirements
Before arriving in Sri Lanka, you’ll need to make sure that you have the right visa for your visit. The country offers different types of visas: tourist, business, and resident visas. For a vacation, you’ll need a tourist visa. It’s extremely important to apply for the correct visa category based on your reason for traveling to Sri Lanka and how long you’ll be staying!
We applied for a Visa on Arrival when we landed in Colombo. The Family Visa was valid for 30 Days and cost $120 in total. You will find the counter right before you go through Immigration.
10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary to Help Plan Your Trip!
We put together this 10-Day Sri Lanka itinerary to guide you on a journey along the most lovely and family-friendly stops in Sri Lanka. Get the itinerary here!
Immigration Procedures
If you are worried about going through immigration when you arrive in Sri Lanka, don’t be. Just make sure you have all necessary documents ready. These will include your passports, visa approval letters (that you can purchase at the counter before), and any other required paperwork. They probably won’t ask for all of these things but it is safe to have the information with you just in case.
- Passport
- Visa
- Completed Customs Declaration Form
- Airline ticket
- Evidence of financial means (we weren’t asked but the site says that you might be)
- Evidence of accommodations
- Any documents stating purpose of visit to Sri Lanka (e.g. business, educational, or tourist)
- Receipts of any goods purchased in Sri Lanka (for the trip home)
- Certified copies of prescriptions for any medications carried (if applicable)
The immigration officers are generally friendly and helpful, just follow these instructions and be sure to be as prepared as possible.
Language
You generally won’t have a hard time finding people who speak English in Sri Lanka, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots. Still, knowing a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil, the country’s official languages, can be highly appreciated and will make your interactions with locals even better!
Culture and Customs
Sri Lanka’s unique customs and traditions creates a vibrant culture that is so interesting to experience and learn about. As a family, especially when traveling with kids, it’s important to be respectful and open-minded about the local customs. Simple gestures of respect like removing your shoes before going into someone’s home or covering up appropriately when visiting religious sites can go a long way.
Warm Hospitality
Sri Lankans are well known for being warm and welcoming to visitors and as a family, you’re likely to encounter genuine friendliness and kindness during your visit. Don’t be surprised if locals strike up conversations or invite you for tea. If you can, embrace these interactions because they are an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local way of life.
Transportation in Sri Lanka with Kids
The first thing you have to handle when you arrive in Sri Lanka is transportation and the smoother this goes, the better your trip will go. It’s important to keep your budget in mind, but I can’t stress enough how easy and convenient transportation makes all the difference when you’re traveling with kids.
Private Cars and Vans
We flew into Colombo and hired a private van from the airport to our hotel in Unawatuna, which made the whole thing so easy! There was lots of space for us to spread out and enjoy the 2 1/2 hour ride late at night. The van was comfortable and the driver was one of the nicest people.
We also used the same company to take us from Kandy back to the airport at the end of our time in the mountains. We later hired another private car to take us from Unawatuna up to Ella, which took about 3 hours that day.
We highly recommend this option! You can book your own private transfer from the airport to your hotel here.
Check out our arrival and first day in Sri Lanka:
Rental Cars
While you can rent a car, you should know that driving in Sri Lanka can be a challenge, especially if you have never been there before. The roads can be crowded and narrow, plus locals’ driving may be a lot different than you’re used to.
Tuk-Tuks
This popular mode of transport in Sri Lanka is a three-wheeled vehicle that can comfortably accommodate a small family. They’re a really fun way to navigate through streets, especially in cities and towns. You can also negotiate the fare before hopping on!
This was our preferred mode of transportation in the Unawatuna area. We went to most of the area’s beaches, Galle, and even all the way to Mirissa Beach by Tuk-Tuk.
Buses
Sri Lanka has a large-scale bus network connecting the major cities and towns. While they’re a cost-effective option, in our opinion, are not the most comfortable choice for families with young children.
In our experience, the buses are very crowded and very outdated, especially the “government buses” as the locals call them. As fun as they look with fancy lights and decor, it’s not an easy commute for families.
Trains
We decided to take the famous scenic train ride from Ella to Kandy and had the time of our lives! Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is a wonderful experience that we highly recommend. If you plan to take a long-distance train ride, consider booking tickets in advance to make sure you get seats for your whole family.
Check our Train experience below:
Ferries
Since Sri Lanka is an island nation, it offers ferry services between certain coastal regions. Ferries are a unique way to experience the country’s beautiful shorelines and neighboring islands.
Traffic and Delays
Delays are common and sometimes inevitable in the urban areas of Sri Lanka. Traffic congestion happens frequently, so it’s best to be flexible or plan accordingly.
Our Actual Transportation Costs:
- Private Van from Colombo to Unawatuna: $71
- TukTuk Tour of Unawatuna and Galle: $10
- TukTuk Day Tour to visit SeaTurtles, Tea Farm and Mirissa: $25
- TukTuk to Turtle Beach + Angel Beach: $5
- Private Car to Ella from Unawatuna + Waterfall Tour: $150
- Train ride from Ella to Kandy: $50
- Taxi from Nina Oya Station to hotel in Nuwara Eliya: $5
- Private Van from Kandy to Colombo: $120
Where to Stay in Sri Lanka with Kids
Green Escape, Unawatuna
Green Escape is a tropical retreat tucked away in a quiet bay within a coconut grove, surrounded by beautiful sea views. You can relax in the private garden, cool off in the freshwater pool, and take full advantage of the free WiFi throughout the property. The hostel has its own on-site bar and restaurant and activities like yoga, stand-up paddle boarding, beach walks, and more!
Our family had such an amazing stay at Green Escape. The staff was so friendly and kind and made us feel right at home. We had such an awesome time there, that we chose to eat at the restaurant for at least one meal a day our entire stay. Sam and the rest of the team took such great care of us and the food was delicious.
The breakfast was included and we looked forward to eating it each morning, as my husband and I always took the typical Sri Lankan breakfast and the kids were in love with the porridge.
We also met our buddy Harsha there at Green Escape and he became our go to travel guide for everything in the area. He grew up in Mirisa and is very knowledgeable of the South and great with kids! You can find him on Instagram or WhatsApp.
Villa Siriwimal
Villa Siriwimal a beautiful, naturally-abundant, and hip tropical home in Weligama, Sri Lanka. The three-bedroom home features a beautiful front area that resembles a historical Dutch-inspired bungalow but it is the back where the real fun begins. With acres of gardens grown with coconut, mango, and banana trees, the backyard is nothing short of paradise. There is a lap pool and an outdoor lounge for you to relax around and spend some time enjoying the fresh breeze. Minutes away from the beach, this picturesque home is hipster heaven with stunning and functional interiors that will make you feel right at home.
The Horizon Hill Top Villa, Unawatuna
The Horizon Hill Top Villa is a stunning 4 bedroom villa with sweeping panoramic views, and a private swimming pool. It’s conveniently located close to the historic Galle Fort, and its stretch of golden beaches.
The villa was custom built by an experienced local builder, and is equipped with air conditioning, a fully equipped kitchen, and Wi-Fi throughout the house.
This property is owned by the same family that runs the Green Escape. Same great staff with an amazing view of the ocean from the top. Harsha also runs tours for the guests here as well and the restaurant at Green Escape is very close!
Angel Beach, Unawatuna
At Angel Beach Unawatuna, located just 4 minutes on foot from stunning Dalawella Beach in Unawatuna, you and your family can enjoy an outdoor swimming pool, a kids’ club, free private parking, room service, a garden and a shared lounge. They have free WiFi and the on-site restaurant serves American, Chinese, Dutch and British dishes.
Angel Beach offers beautiful modern accommodations, with an awesome pool and beach club. We spent an entire day there poolside with other families having fun in the sun, while eating snacks and having delicious drinks. Watch some of the footage on our social media here.
Villa Sepalika
Villa Sepalika is a vibrant island haven featuring a sprawling 16-metered private pool and 3 spacious suites. Located in the historical town of Galle, this is a perfect spot for families.
White House Villa, Galle
White House Villa Dallawella, located in Talpe, Unawatuna, Galle, is just a short 2-minute walk from Dalawella Beach and 600 yards from Mihiripenna Beach. It has a balcony, free private parking, and a garden.
Green Hill, Ella
Nestled in the foothills of the majestic mountains, Green Hill offers a restful and intimate atmosphere. There is such an awesome view from the terrace at Green Hill. We also had quite a view from our family room suite that overlooked the Ella Valley and Adam’s Peak.
The host was awesome and greeted us like family. The girls played with their pet Guinea Pigs and had a blast exploring the property up in the fresh mountain air. The walk is a little far up the hill from the town at night and can be a bit dark, but we found it fun, exciting, and very safe!
Stella Beach House
Stella Beach House is a newly-renovated holiday property on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, right next to the beautiful and popular Mirissa beach. With private beach access, sprawling gardens with towering palm trees and stunning views of the ocean, the villa is quintessentially meant for family vacations.
The four-bedroom home is perfect if you’re traveling with children as there is much ground to cover right on the property and they can run around with ease. The house has been designed in proper Sri Lankan style with whitewashed walls and red, shingled roofs.
Ella Flower Garden Resort, Ella
The resort is spread over a 5-acre land and offers deluxe and standard rooms. There’s also a large pool with a pool bar and a spa with a range of treatment options. The hotel has a restaurant serving both local and international cuisines and a friendly staff to attend to all your needs.
The Chillout Ella
This is a popular guest house in the city of Ella. It offers a range of accommodation options from budget to luxurious. With a peaceful location, close proximity to the beach, and a wide range of modern amenities. This is an ideal holiday destination for travelers with families looking for a convenient and comfortable stay.
Villa Ronnaduwa
Villa Ronnaduwa is located in the town of Ambalangoda, just few kilometres away from the popular tourist destination of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa. The guest house has four air-conditioned bedrooms, which have private verandas. Expansive lawns and tropical gardens with ample greenery border the sparkling, large swimming pool. Walled gardens provide privacy and exclusivity. Ideal for a holiday with family and friends, the villa is well-suited for those traveling in large groups!
The Ramp, Nuwara Eliya
The Ramp, a newly built property in Nuwara Eliya, offers accommodations with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. This is a charming little castle very near the famous Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya. The owner and staff were super friendly and very accommodating. Breakfast was included and they gave us great suggestions of things to do with the kids.
The Grand Hotel ~ Nuwara Eliya
Nestled atop Nuwara Eliya Hill, adjacent to the renowned Nuwara Eliya Golf Course, is the Grand Hotel. This hotel has two restaurants on its grounds.
The Walden, Nuwara Eliya
The Walden Nuwara Eliya is a luxury hotel located in the hill station of Nuwara Eliya. The hotel is situated at an altitude of over 2000 meters above sea level, giving it breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys and tea estates. It has a fine-dining restaurant, a lounge bar, a spa, a pool and other leisure and recreational activities.
The Grand Kandyan, Kandy
The hotel is located near the historic Kandy City Center and is close to many of the city’s attractions, from the Royal Botanical Gardens to the Temple of the Tooth. The hotel also has a selection of restaurants, a spa, and a fitness center.
The Summit, Kandy
The Summit is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Kandy City. The hotel is well-known for its spectacular views of the surrounding scenery, its quality services, and its award-winning restaurants.
Kings Pavilion, Kandy
Kings Pavilion, located in Kandy, provides its guests with a free WiFi connection. For outdoor fun, the hotel features a year-round swimming pool, barbeque area, and sun terrace. Have a bite to eat in the restaurant while relaxing with a beverage at the bar.
Recommended Neighborhoods to Stay in Sri Lanka with Kids
Galle District
Galle District is a great place for families to stay in Sri Lanka because it has a wide variety of activities, attractions, and accommodations. You can enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful Galle Fort, explore local markets, and visit some of the nearby beaches for water sports and relaxation.
There are also many kid-friendly attractions like a unique aquarium, a zip line across the fort walls, and the National Maritime Museum. Plus, the city also has various accommodations to suit different budgets, with many places offering discounted rates for families.
Kandy District
Kandy district is a great place for families to stay because it’s rich in culture and history, has variety of tourist attractions, and stunning natural beauty. Families can explore the palace of the last Sri Lankan king, take part in traditional ceremonies at the Temple of the Tooth, or take part in cultural activities such as Galle Face Green.
There are breathtaking viewpoints with stunning views of the countryside and Kandy Lake. There are also plenty of activities for children such as the Udawattekele Sanctuary and numerous adventurous activities in the nearby areas. The picturesque surroundings of the beautiful city of Kandy makes it the perfect place for a memorable family getaway.
Nuwara Eliya District
Nuwara Eliya District has beautiful and varied scenery, located in the heart of tea country. This area has rolling hills and stunning views of the mountain ranges. The area is also incredibly lush and full of vibrant plant life, providing plenty to explore and discover and making it a great place for families to stay.
For an outdoor enthusiast, the opportunities for hikes, treks, and other outdoor activities are abundant. The tranquil lake Gregory provides plenty of water activities to choose from, such as banana boating, canoeing, or a calm boat ride.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is an ideal destination for families to visit. It’s the most visited and second largest national park in Sri Lanka. It has lots to explore including a beach, jungle, lakes, and lagoons, making it the perfect setting for any family vacation.
It is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Yala National Park offers educational and fun activities for children and adults, like safari tours, walks through nature trails, camping, and exploration of the nearby Buddhist ruins. There are plenty of hotels, resorts, and lodges scattered throughout the area, so families can find conveniently located accommodations that cater to their needs.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is a great place for families to stay in Sri Lanka because it has so many exciting activities to do, incredible wildlife to witness, and a range of accommodations to suit families of all sizes.
Families can take guided safaris into the park to explore the unique landscape and to see elephants, deer, leopards, water buffalo and a variety of birds.
Udawalawe National Park also offers comfortable lodging that can accommodate groups of any size. Families can stay in cottages, safari encampments, camping sites or luxury beach resorts, depending on their preferences and budgets.
Where to Eat in Sri Lanka with Kids
Sri Lankan cuisine is so delightful with its amazing blends of flavors and spices. Take this chance to indulge in traditional dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, kottu roti, and a big variety of tropical fruits.
Green Escape Restaurant, Unawatuna
This restaurant is a hidden gem that offers up some of the tastiest Sri Lankan cuisine around. The menu includes dishes like sambals, curries, roti, string hoppers, fried rice, and more.
The restaurant also specializes in seafood dishes, like grilled seafood platters, that are sure to please the whole family. The views of the Unawatuna Beach from the restaurant’s balcony offer a perfect backdrop for dinner and drinks.
Coral Light Restaurant, Unawatuna
This restaurant is a popular destination in Unawatuna! They serve international and local cuisine and are known for their selection of fish, seafood, and vegetarian dishes, with a particular focus on Sri Lankan cuisine.
Coral Light is on the beach and has stunning views of the Indian Oceand and Unawatuna beach. The restaurant has an informal, relaxed feel and the staff is really friendly!
Angel Beach Club, Unawatuna
This restaurant specializes in Sri Lankan cuisine but has a variety of international dishes. You can get everything from Italian pasta dishes, Indian curries, and Chinese stir-fries. They also serve handpicked wines, cocktails, and beers. The restaurant has comfortable seating areas, where you can relax after youir meal.
Mama’s Kitchen, Mirissa Beach
Mama’s Kitchen is an open-air restaurant that serves traditional Sri Lankan favorite dishes like curries, rice and various seafood specialties. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and a laid-back beach setting with this amazing food. Mama’s Kitchen emphasizes quality ingredients, fresh locally-sourced produce and flavors that range from mild to fiery. The restaurant is popular with both local and international tourists because it has a reasonably priced menu and friendly atmosphere
PettiPetti, Mirissa
PettiPetti Restaurant is one of the most popular dining spots in Mirissa. It sits right on the beach and has a wide variety of local dishes like freshly-caught seafood, spicy curries, and delicious seafood platters. They also serve a variety of refreshing drinks, like homemade fruit juices, smoothies, and iced tea. PettiPetti also has an outdoor seating area, so you can enjoy the beautiful views of Mirissa while you dine. The restaurant is open all day, so you can always enjoy a delicious meal here no matter what time of day it is.
Hiking Bar, Ella
Hiking Bar is a bar and restaurant located on a historic hill overlooking the beautiful tea plantations of Ella. Local brews, inventive cocktails, and a variety of snacks make Hiking Bar a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It has a unique location and stunning views that offer a relaxing spot for people to socialize and enjoy great food and drinks.
Kiri Kopl, Ella
The restaurant specializes in Sri Lankan cuisine prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. You can choose from a variety of dishes, like curries, rice, and other traditional flavors. The restaurant also serves traditional Sri Lankan desserts and alcoholic beverages. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere and friendly staff who are always happy to help.
Rainbow Cafe, Ella
This unique local cafe offers local specialty dishes and drinks. Choose from dishes like curries, kottu, stir-fries, and fish dishes. They also provide vegetarian options as well as vegan and gluten-free dishes.
Rainbow Cafe is renowned for its delicious and freshly made Sri Lankan roti – thin wheat crepes served with vegetables, eggs and a variety of sauces. You can also enjoy freshly squeezed juices, teas, and coffees or sample local delicacies like Hoppers, Sambal Fried Prawn Rolls and String Hoppers.
Beyond Nomad Pizza, Ella
Beyond Nomad Pizza is a stylish and vibrant pizzeria beachside that specializes in Italian and Sri Lankan flavors, using top-notch ingredients. Menu highlights are the popular Calamari Pizza, as well as a variety of wood-fired pizzas.
The Grand Hotel, Nuwara Eliya
The Grand Hotel restaurant is a fine dining restaurant that serves a range of international cuisine from all 4 corners of the world from French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Asian, to local flavors from Sri Lanka.
They have an extensive ala carte menu and are well known for their signature Sunday buffets. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the lush mountains in the background while you’re dining! The warm atmosphere coupled with the excellent food from the kitchen team makes for an unforgettable experience for everyone!
Rest House, Kandy
The Rest House is a popular hotel restaurant known for serving traditional Sri Lankan dishes including curries, stews, rice dishes, and other local favorites. The restaurant is cozy and friendly, with the staff going the extra mile to make guests feel at home. The menu features a variety of dishes, including vegan and vegetarian options. The restaurant also serves a variety of drinks, including local beers on tap. The Rest House is an ideal spot to while away an afternoon or evening, enjoying the warm hospitality and delicious food.
What to See in Sri Lanka with Kids
Pristine Beaches:
Sri Lanka boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world! Treat your family to sun-kissed shores and turquoise waters throughout Sri Lanka. If you have the time, visit destinations like Bentota, Mirissa, and Unawatuna.
You can relax in the shade, build sandcastles, try out some water sports, and swim in the gentle waves. The beaches in Sri Lanka offer the perfect place for quality family time.
Unawatuna Beach Spots
- Turtle Beach
- Angel Beach
- Mihiripenna Beach
- Koggala Beach (Turtle Center)
Mirissa Beach Spots
- Weligambay Beach
- Turtle Point
- Coconut Tree Hill
- Secret Beach
What to Do in Sri Lanka with Kids
Check out all the cool stuff we did:
Galle and the Galle Forte Tour
Discover the incredible attractions of Sri Lanka’s southwest coast with a captivating day trip from Colombo. Guided trips are a great option for families! Your expert driver-guide will lead you to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery where you can observe endangered turtles, then admire the fascinating stilt fishermen at Weligama.
Spend time exploring the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, with its 17th-century ramparts surrounding dazzling colonial buildings, museums, and stores. Take some time to understand the rich maritime history of Galle before visiting Talwatte’s emotive Tsunami Photo Museum to gain insight into the 2004 tragedy. Finally, fuel up with lunch and a pitstop at Bentota Beach before you depart for Colombo.
South Coast TukTuk Tour
Take in all the spectacular views that the Galle countryside has to offer on an exclusive tour with your own private party! You’ll ride in a charming tuk tuk and be accompanied by a guide who will create a commentary and activities catered to your individual needs and interests. This includes a Buddhist temple meditation program, a toddy-tasting experience, an exploration of nearby spices, and a trip through a local village.
Sea Turtles and Stilt Fisherman Tour
If you’re searching for an unforgettable travel adventure, this Galle Day Trip is a must-see excursion that provides an opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Galle Dutch Fort and enjoy a fascinating mangrove river safari. Don’t miss this opportunity to create remarkable memories!
Private Tea Plantation Tours
Come and explore the renowned tea-producing area of Hatton, known as the Heart of Ceylon! This exclusive Tea Tour offers a unique insight into the entire process of creating tea from leaf to cup. You’ll be able to take a walk around the tea fields or take part in plucking, visit the factory to learn about the process of withering, rolling, drying, shifting, testing, and packing before tasting the results – a freshly-brewed cup of tea.
The Handunugoda Tea Estate (Herman Tea Plantation) – Private Tours with Harsha
This tea estate is nestled in picturesque lush green rolling hills and is surrounded by acres of rainforest. The Herman Tea Plantation is run by Harsha, its owner/operator. Harsha and his team offer private tours of the estate for visitors so that they can fully appreciate the beauty of the area and learn about their plantation. On the tour, you can explore the plantation gardens and learn about tea-making processes, as well as visit the tea factory for a hands-on experience, and more!
Koggala SeaTurtle Conservancy
Take a captivating day trip with an experienced driver-guide, and explore the wonders of Galle Dutch Fort and Sri Lanka’s ravishing southwest coast. Enjoy unique sights such as the Turtle Hatchery, a Mangrove River Safari, a Tea Factory and Plantation, and the UNESCO-listed 17th century-built Galle Fort.
Buduruwagala Temple Tour
This day-trip has been designed so that you and you’re family can see witness the most extensive group of rock-cut statues on the Buddhist Isle. On the ride back, you can take part in an exciting jeep safari in the renowned Udawalawe National Park located in the south of Sri Lanka.
Ella Hiking Tours
Ella Rock is an iconic hike that towers over Ella and provides stunning views, along with a waterfall, rubber plantations, and tea gardens. With this private tour, enjoy the ease of round-trip private transfers from any hotel in Uva Province, as well as a guide, hot drinks, snacks, and bottled water.
Waterfall Hunting Tours
On this special journey, you will be guided on a hike to explore tea fields, villages, and waterfalls. An experienced guide will be with you during the entire tour. Start your adventure by being picked up from your hotel by our knowledgeable guide. From Ella railway station you’ll embark on a 2-hour train ride to Ohiya. Then the trek to the tallest waterfall of Sri Lanka begins! Get ready to refresh and immerse yourself in the untouched nature; take a dip in natural pools to cool off or take in the pleasant mountain air.
High Tea at The Grand Hotel
The Grand Hotel in Sri Lanka offers a luxurious High Tea experience for guests to enjoy. They have an exquisite selection of savory snacks, tea, and pastries that make for a pleasant, relaxed afternoon.
Kandy Day Tour
Spend the day in Sri Lanka’s old hill capital, transportation is included! Your friendly tour guide will ensure your trip is tailored to your interests and they will happily answer all of your questions. Be sure to visit the Kandy Market, the Temple of the Tooth, and the stunning Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Enjoy the scenery on the journey to and from the city.
Wildlife Adventures
Sea Turtle Encounters, Unawatuna
Maximize your chances of seeing turtles on this memorable small-group adventure! You’ll be taken to a hidden marine-life location, put on the provided snorkeling gear, and be guided to a known turtle hotspot to swim with these amazing creatures at a respectful distance. This trip also includes tea, cookies, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making it an experience that you won’t soon forget! Don’t waste your time on a random sighting in Mirissa – make sure you get to see them up close!
Safari and Elephant Feeding, Udawalawa
If you’re searching for a thrilling safari excursion, look no further than a tour of Udawalawe National Park. Beyond Escapes Safari Team will show you the incomparable wonders of the Sri Lankan wilderness, with a breathtaking view of wildlife and unique habitats. Udawalawe is known for its giant elephants, merrily socializing with one another. Once the safari is over, you’ll have the option to visit Asia’s premier elephant rehabilitation center – the Elephant Transit Home – allowing for even more wonderful memories to be made with the wild elephant population of Sri Lanka.
Yala National Park: Janaka Safari
Visit Yala National Park on an exciting safari adventure! You may be lucky enough to come across an amazing leopard as you explore the many animals that call Sri Lanka home, like elephants, buffalo, snakes, sloths, jackals, and more.
A professional tour guide will be happy to show you around the park, while taking the time to rest and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast and lunch. Don’t miss out on all the wonders of the Sri Lankan wilds!
Whale Watching Tour from Unawatuna
Take a 6-hour cruise to witness the beauty of Sri Lanka’s underwater creatures, and enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, making it stress free to begin your journey with your family. Before venturing out on the ocean, you’ll be provided with a complimentary continental breakfast. Throughout the cruise, look out for the different types of whales, like whale sharks, blue whales, humpback whales, and killer whales.
Whale Watching Tour Trincomalee
This tour picks you up from your accommodations to board a private motor boat and go on a whale and dolphin watching adventure! The east coast is renowned for blue whales, sperm whales, and Bryde’s whales, and a variety of dolphins including bottlenose, spinner, and Risso’s dolphins may be spotted.
They provide a complimentary picnic breakfast as you take it all in. At the end of the experience, we will take you back to where you are staying in Trincomalee, Nilaveli or suburbs, leaving you with lasting memories of these incredible marine creatures.
Kalametya Bird Sanctuary
An air-conditioned car, van, or even a tuk tuk can be used for hotel pickup if you are staying close by. You’ll explore the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary by catamaran boat (or opt for the paddle experience) for a 2-3 hour tour. Afterwards, you’ll be dropped back to their original departure point.
Bentota River Safari
Embark on an unforgettable boat safari tour, available for a group of up to four people, including round-trip hotel transfers. Experience the beauty and surprise of nature while sailing through these waters and encountering breathtaking wildlife–from crocodiles to water monitors and stunning birds. You never know what majestic sights you’ll take in along the way!
Things to Know About Traveling to Sri Lanka with Kids
Start Planning Early
Sri Lanka offers a lot of options for activities and attractions for families, so it’s important to plan ahead for the best experience. It’s a good idea to research the culture of the country, different accommodation options, and activities you and the kids may be interested in.
Get Vaccinated
Sri Lanka is considered a low-risk country for many infectious diseases, but vaccinations are still recommended for anyone entering the country, particularly young children. Speak to your doctor before your trip to get more information.
Consider a Tour
Taking a tour is a great way to ensure that you see the best sights and do the most interesting activities with limited time. We listed lots of tours to choose from here and highly recommend this option!
Bring Snacks
While you will be able to find snacks throughout the country, it may take a while to find those suited for young children. It’s a good idea to bring some of their favorite snacks from home.
Pack Appropriate Clothing
Sri Lanka has heat year round, so be sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Hats, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen are also essential. If you plan on visiting any temples on your trip (which you totally should) make sure you bring something that will cover your shoulders and knees. It is customary for women to cover when visiting these sacred spaces. I love linen sets for visiting temples. They were lightweight for the Sri Lanka heat.
Stay Hydrated
Sri Lanka is a hot and humid climate, so staying hydrated is very important, especially for young children. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.
Have Fun!
Our family had the best time exploring Sri Lanka and all its beauty! The culture, the beauty, the food, and the people of Sri Lanka will surely mesmerize your family and leave you with memories that will last forever!
Sri Lanka is a gem for family vacations and having a memorable time with the kids is guaranteed on this island nation! With the best wildlife parks, natural attractions, sacred sites, and fun activities, Sri Lanka offers an exciting experience to all kinds of travelers. So, if you are looking for an unforgettable experience with your family, it is time to plan a trip to this extraordinarily vibrant tropical paradise!
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