Family Adventures in Sri Lanka

12 days /11 nights

Sri Lanka is an exceptional destination for families. A wide range of diverse destinations, natural attractions, beaches and wildlife promise to entertain children of all ages. This journey takes in our most family friendly hotels in areas that offer a variety of things to do.

From the airport, travel up to the Cultural Triangle to explore the treasured ruins of former ancient cities, visit sacred temples, see wild elephants on safari and experience a rural way of life. Water Garden – Sigiriya has vast grounds, a children’s pool and 2-bedroom duplexes.

Moving on, travel via Kandy into the Hill Country. Families would enjoy any of the three tea bungalows operated by Teardrop Hotels (Goatfell, Camellia Hills and Nine Skies) as each has a family suite, though a combination of two of them may offer the greatest opportunity to get out and explore. Here we’ve included Camellia Hills, which overlooks a vast reservoir, and Nine Skies, overlooking a valley. All three bungalow hotels offer plenty of opportunity for invigorating walks, relaxing downtime and view-blessed picnics.

From the hills, your last stop will be on or near the coast. Our most family-friendly hotel is Why House, located five-minutes from Dalawella Beach in a secure three-acre walled garden. KK Beach, on Habaraduwa Beach, is another beachfront hotel that welcome children year-round as does The Villa Bentota, on Bentota’s golden beach close to water sports facilities. The Last House (for the over 5s), located on an undeveloped, and much quieter, beach near Tangalle, is another super option for families.

NOTE: between the hills and the south coast, families could book a one-day safari (or overnight stay) at Leopard Safaris by KK Collection, Yala National Park.

Highlights:

  • Regaling the children with tales of a tyrannical king at World Heritage Site Sigiriya
  • Visiting the Cultural Triangle’s other World Heritage Sites – Dambulla and Polonaruwa
  • Travelling along a section of the spectacular Main Line Railway through the hills
  • Enjoying the pristine mountain scenery surrounding the Castlereagh Reservoir on foot
  • Visiting tea plantations, heading off on hikes through tea gardens, and indulging in scenic picnics
  • Watching trains navigate Demodera’s 360-degree loop and the Nine Arch Bridge
  • Spending time near Galle, beach hopping, cycling inland and exploring Galle Fort

Days 1, 2 & 3: Water Garden – Sigiriya, Cultural Triangle

Days 4 & 5: Camellia Hills, Castlereagh Reservoir, near Hatton

Days 6 & 7: Nine Skies, Demodera, near Ella

Days 8, 9, 10 & 11: Why House, Galle