Sri Lanka Family Holiday

Tour Highlights

What's Included

Experience Overview

Embarking on a 12-day family tour of Sri Lanka sounds like an incredible adventure filled with cultural exploration, outdoor activities, and unforgettable experiences. From temples carved from cliffs to fortresses atop boulders, the journey promises to immerse both children and adults in the rich history and mysticism of the island. Exploring working tea plantations and cycling through peaceful villages offers a unique opportunity for families to engage with different ways of life, providing educational insights into Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and agricultural practices.

Venturing into wildlife-rich parks for safaris in search of wild elephants, deer, and crocodiles promises thrilling encounters with the island’s diverse fauna, offering moments of wonder and awe for both young and old. Chilling out by the beach in Mirissa provides a relaxing respite from the adventures, allowing kids to play and interact with other young travelers on the tour while parents unwind amidst the coastal beauty. It’s important to consider the climate when planning the trip, as Sri Lanka’s equatorial position means hot temperatures year-round, with short, sharp monsoons in the south-west during the summer months. Ensuring that the family is prepared for the weather with appropriate clothing and accessories will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Respecting local cultures and sensibilities is essential when traveling with Intrepid, allowing for meaningful interactions with local people and environments. Visiting temples requires clothing that covers from wrist to below the knee, and a light scarf can be handy for covering shoulders and arms in hot weather. Overall, this family tour of Sri Lanka promises to be educational, active, and leisurely paced, offering everything one could want in a memorable family getaway.

Itinerary Plan

Day 01 | Negombo

Day 02 | Dambula

Embark on your journey by traveling to Dambulla via private vehicle, which entails a scenic 4-hour drive from Negombo. Dambulla is renowned for its awe-inspiring cave temples, adorned with some of the world's most magnificent decorations. Upon reaching your destination, you'll have the option to participate in an excursion to the bustling vegetable wholesale market, a maze of vibrant shops and stalls showcasing the diverse array of produce cultivated in Sri Lanka. Later, delve into the mesmerizing Dambulla cave temples, which served as dwellings for prehistoric Sri Lankans thousands of years ago. Here, you'll encounter an extensive collection of ancient murals and statues depicting the Buddha, offering a captivating glimpse into the island's rich cultural heritage.

Day 03 | Dambulla

Today's escapade leads you from Dambulla to Sigiriya, a monumental stone edifice housing the remnants of a fortress. Encourage the kids to expend their energy by embarking on a climb to the summit of this immense rock, exploring the intriguing murals and caves along the way. Weather permitting, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of lush forests from the peak before making your descent. Upon your return to Dambulla, treat the family to a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque countryside. After a day brimming with adventure, everyone should be pleasantly exhausted by nightfall.

Day 04 | Kandy

Bid farewell to Dambulla as you embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to the enchanting city of Kandy, often hailed as the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst verdant hills and centered around a serene lake, Kandy offers an idyllic backdrop for family photo sessions, while its charming old shops and eateries promise hours of exploration. Spend your afternoon immersed in the splendor of the Royal Botanical Gardens, where rows of vibrant flowers and majestic palm trees await. With over 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal herbs, and various trees, this leisurely stroll promises a kaleidoscope of colors and fragrances. Then, venture to the Spice Gardens to delve into the secrets of Sri Lanka's rich spice heritage, where you'll learn about the cultivation and uses of various spice plants and herbs.

Day 05 | Kandy

Begin your morning with a visit to Dalada Maligawa, also known as the Temple of the Tooth, which enshrines Sri Lanka's most revered relic: a tooth believed to have belonged to Gautama Buddha. Pilgrims have journeyed here since the 16th century to pay homage, and the site continues to draw crowds today, offering a captivating opportunity to introduce children to one of the world's oldest and most practiced religions. In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by joining a warm-hearted family for dinner. During this memorable experience, local performers will offer lessons in traditional Kandyan dance, providing a delightful insight into the region's rich heritage.

Day 06 | Bandarawela

Following breakfast, embark on a picturesque journey by private bus through verdant hills to Nuwara Eliya, a charming former colonial hill station established entirely in the 19th century. The town's architecture exudes an old-world charm reminiscent of an English village, offering a captivating blend of brick Victorian buildings, lush golf courses, and sprawling tea plantations, all set against a backdrop of water buffalo grazing in the fields. From Nuwara Eliya, board a scenic train to Bandarawela, a delightful two-hour ride offering breathtaking vistas of the rolling hills and verdant tea estates. Upon arrival, relish in the serene ambiance of your accommodation, where you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations, making for a truly memorable evening.

Day 07 | Bandarawela

After a few busy days on the road, today unfolds at a slower pace. Bandarawela is an unhurried, unpretentious hill town that exists to supply the needs of the tea plantation workers and their families. Another distinctive feature of Bandarawela is the colonial flavour still preserved in the many old buildings, including the Bandarawela Hotel and the old supermarket. Enjoy a leisurely morning walk through the countryside, past tea workers plucking the tips of the plants and throwing them into the baskets on their backs before settling in for a local home cooked lunch. The afternoon is free for your enjoyment

Day 08 | Udawalawa

After a satisfying breakfast and a prompt 8:30 am checkout, embark on a scenic drive to Udawalawe National Park, a journey of approximately three hours. This park boasts an astonishing diversity of wildlife, including the largest herds of wild elephants in Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, indulge in a delicious lunch before embarking on an exhilarating jeep safari within the park. Keep your eyes peeled for an array of fascinating creatures, from playful macaques and majestic monkeys to graceful spotted deer and elusive leopards. With crocodiles basking along the waterways, every moment promises a genuine safari experience, far removed from the confines of a zoo or safari park—a thrilling adventure suitable for adventurers of all ages! Cap off your day by checking into the campsite around 6 pm, where you can unwind and relive the excitement of your wildlife encounters.

Day 09 | Mirissa

Start your day with an invigorating early morning stroll alongside your leader, covering a scenic four-kilometer route to a nearby lake renowned for its abundant birdlife. Upon returning to camp, replenish your energy with a hearty meal before embarking on a journey to the laid-back beach town of Mirissa. Mirissa is celebrated as one of the premier destinations in Sri Lanka, offering ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Enjoy some leisure time with your family to discover the charms of this coastal gem at your own pace. Whether you prefer lounging on the stunning beach or frolicking in the waves, Mirissa's tranquil shores promise rejuvenation and fun for all. For dinner, don't hesitate to seek recommendations from your leader for a delectable culinary experience, ensuring a perfect end to your day of adventure.

Day 10 | Mirissa

Today offers a perfect opportunity to unwind amidst the scenic waterfront of Mirissa or explore the local attractions at your leisure. The crystalline waters of the Laccadive Sea beckon for a refreshing swim, or you can indulge in the freshest catch of the day with a delightful seafood meal shared with your loved ones. For those intrigued by the local fishing industry, consider embarking on a family excursion to nearby Weligama, accessible by tuk-tuk or bicycle. Here, you can witness the vibrant spectacle of colorful fishing boats arriving to sell their bountiful catches along the shoreline. Don't miss the chance to explore the local cottage industry, known for its exquisite lace products. As evening descends, venture to the Dutch Fort in Galle for a memorable kite flying experience. Marvel at the kaleidoscopic hues of the sunset as you send your colorful kite soaring into the sky, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of this historic fort.

Day 11 | Colombo

As you bid farewell to your hotel, set your course towards Colombo. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the bustling bazaar, where you can stroll amidst a tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas, absorbing the essence of this dynamic market. Following your explorations, take advantage of some free time in the commercial hub of Sri Lanka, where countless activities await to captivate the entire family. The waterfront teems with life and offers an ideal starting point for your adventures. Later in the afternoon, reconvene with your fellow families and make your way to Galle Face Green, a sprawling five-hectare ocean-side park that epitomizes bliss. Here, you can relax, unwind, and soak in the picturesque vistas, creating cherished memories amidst the tranquil beauty of this coastal haven.

Day 12 | Colombo

Your Sri Lankan family adventure draws to a close this morning following a delightful breakfast. Today is free of scheduled activities, allowing you the flexibility to depart the hotel at your convenience after the standard checkout time of 12 pm. For those with later departure times, arrangements can be made for luggage storage at the hotel, ensuring a hassle-free transition. Should you wish to extend your stay or require additional accommodation, please liaise with your agent at the time of booking, keeping in mind that availability may vary. As you bid adieu to this captivating journey, cherish the memories created with your loved ones, and may your travels ahead be filled with continued joy and discovery.

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