Overview
Day 1 - BIA to Dambulla
• Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, receive a warm family welcome
• Your LF Lanka Tours Tours representative will assist with pickup and luggage transfer
• Comfortable private transfer to the cultural triangle region – Dambulla
• Check into your family-friendly hotel and settle into your rooms
• Take time to relax and recover from your international journey
• Let the kids enjoy the hotel pool while parents unwind
• Overnight stay in the Dambulla region
Family Arrival:
- Airport arrival with family
- Dambulla area scenery and hotel pool
Day 2 - Dambulla to Sigiriya (via Pinnawala)
• Morning departure from Dambulla toward the magnificent Sigiriya region
En Route – Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:
• Stop at this world-famous elephant sanctuary and orphanage
• Watch adorable baby elephants being bottle-fed (scheduled feeding times)
• See the entire herd walk to the nearby river for bathing
• Walk among these gentle giants in a safe, supervised environment
• Educational experience about elephant conservation for children
• Great opportunity for family photos with elephants up close
Afternoon:
• Continue to the Sigiriya region
• Check into Heritance Kandalama – an architectural marvel
• This iconic hotel blends seamlessly into the natural rock face
• Enjoy the stunning infinity pool with jungle views
• Kids will love spotting monkeys and wildlife visiting the hotel grounds
• Overnight stay in Sigiriya at Heritance Kandalama
Family Elephant Encounter:
- Pinnawala elephants being bottle-fed
- Heritance Kandalama unique architecture and pool
Day 3 - Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa & Lions Rock
• Morning family excursion to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa Exploration:
• Explore the magnificent ruins left by the Chola Dynasty
• Visit the Royal Palace – once home to 1,000 rooms
• Marvel at the Gal Vihara rock Buddha statues carved from granite
• Walk through the Sacred Quadrangle – the religious center
• Visit the audience hall with elephant-carved stone steps
• Discover the ancient bathing pool – Lotus Pond
Special Family Lunch:
• Experience an amazing Sri Lankan Rice and Curry meal at Priyamali House
• Authentic home-cooked local cuisine in a traditional setting
• Kids can try mild versions of flavorful dishes
• Hosts are welcoming and friendly to families
Afternoon – Sunset Adventure:
• Climb and explore the iconic Sigiriya Lions Rock Fortress
• Perfect timing to experience an amazing sunset from the summit
• Approximately 1,200 steps – doable for active families with breaks
• Explore the famous Sigiriya frescoes – ancient paintings of maidens
• See the mirror wall with ancient visitor inscriptions
• Walk through the lion's paws gateway to reach the top
• Stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding jungle from the summit
• Descend as darkness falls – bring flashlights or phone lights
• Return to Heritance Kandalama for overnight stay
Family Heritage Day:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress sunset view
- Polonnaruwa ancient ruins exploration
Day 4 - Dambulla to Kandy
• Morning visit to the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple complex
• This UNESCO World Heritage Site features five sacred caves
• Over 150 Buddha statues in various poses throughout the caves
• Stunning ceiling murals covering 2,100 square meters of rock
• Easy climb of approximately 400 steps – manageable for kids
• Watch for monkeys near the temple entrance
Afternoon Journey:
• Drive to the cultural capital of Kandy
• Undertake an amazing sightseeing tour around scenic Kandy Lake
• Stroll along the lakeside path and watch local life
• Spot monitor lizards swimming in the water
Evening Family Entertainment:
• Enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show
• Watch colorful traditional costumes and rhythmic drummers
• See acrobatics, fire walking, and spinning plates
• Kids will be captivated by the performers
• Show lasts approximately one hour
• Check into The Golden Crown Hotel for overnight stay
• Family-friendly accommodation with modern amenities and pool
• Overnight stay in Kandy
Culture & Performance:
- Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic (reference)
- Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple exterior
Day 5 - Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
• Morning participation in the ceremonial event at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
• Witness the sacred rituals and traditional drumming ceremonies
• Observe devotees making offerings of flowers and incense
• Receive blessings for your family's journey from the monks
• The golden casket containing Buddha's tooth is displayed during puja times
Scenic Drive:
• Begin your journey to the beautiful hill country town of Nuwara Eliya
• Winding roads through lush tea plantations and misty mountains
En Route – Ramboda Water Falls:
• Stop for a visit at the lovely Ramboda Water Falls
• Three-tiered waterfall cascading 109 meters (358 feet)
• Easy access from the road – great family photo opportunity
• Splash water on your face and enjoy the cool mist
Afternoon:
• Arrive in Nuwara Eliya – known as "Little England"
• Check into the historic Grand Hotel
• Colonial-era architecture set in beautiful gardens
• Enjoy the cool mountain climate – much cooler than the lowlands
• Explore the hotel's gardens and perhaps afternoon tea
• Overnight family stay in Nuwara Eliya at Grand Hotel
Hill Country Journey:
- Nuwara Eliya landscapes with Lake Gregory
- Ramboda Falls waterfall stop for family photos
Day 6 - Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains & Tea
• Early morning departure for Horton Plains National Park (pack a jacket – it's cold!)
• Family trek through montane grasslands and cloud forest
• Approximately 9.5 kilometers (5.9 miles) round trip
World's End:
• Walk the trail to the famous "World's End" viewpoint
• Dramatic cliff with an 870-meter (2,850-foot) sheer drop
• Arrive early before clouds roll in for the best views
• Also visit beautiful Baker's Falls waterfall along the trail
• Look for sambar deer grazing on the plains
• Keep children close near cliff edges
Afternoon Activities:
• Visit the lavish tea plantations stretching across rolling hills
• Learn why Sri Lankan tea is world-famous
• Tour Pedro Tea Factory – see the tea-making process
• Watch plucking, withering, rolling, fermentation, drying, and grading
• Enjoy fresh tea tasting – kids can try plain or with milk and sugar
• Enjoy a scenic boat safari on Gregory Lake
• Choose from rowboats, pedal boats, or motorboats
• Fun for the whole family on the water
• Return to Grand Hotel for overnight stay
Family Nature Day:
- Horton Plains landscapes with World's End viewpoint
- Tea plantation tour and factory visit
Day 7 - Nuwara Eliya to Ella
• Morning – beautiful train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella
• One of the most scenic rail journeys in the world
• Approximately 2.5 hours through tea plantations and mountains
• Kids will love leaning out open doorways with adult supervision
• Pass through dark tunnels that excite young travelers
• Wind over soaring viaducts with valley views
Upon Arrival in Ella:
• Visit "Little Adams Peak" – gentle family-friendly hike
• Approximately 45 minutes to the summit through tea fields
• Well-marked path suitable for children with supervision
• Stunning views over Ella's green valley from the top
• Continue to the beautiful Rawana Water Falls
• Picturesque 25-meter cascade named after legendary King Ravana
• Great spot to cool off – kids can splash in shallow areas (with supervision)
Evening Family Cooking Experience:
• Unique opportunity to take part in a cookery class
• Learn how to make authentic Sri Lankan Rice and Curry
• Kids can help with safe tasks like mixing spices and washing rice
• Watch as the chef demonstrates traditional techniques
• Enjoy the delicious meal you prepared together as a family
• Taste the pride of creating local cuisine yourselves
• Check into 98 Acres Resort and Spa for overnight stay
• Luxury resort with stunning mountain views and infinity pool
• Overnight family stay in Ella
Train & Cuisine:
- Little Adam's Peak viewpoint
- Nine Arches Bridge (reference) and family cooking class
Day 8 - Ella to Yala
• Morning family transfer from Ella toward the southern coast
• Journey through scenic hill country descending to lowlands
En Route – Buduruwagala Buddha Statue:
• Visit this impressive ancient Buddha statue carved into a rock face
• The central standing Buddha is approximately 16 meters (52 feet) tall
• Seven figures in total – dating back to the 10th century
• Less crowded than other sites – peaceful atmosphere for families
• Kids will be amazed by the sheer size of the carvings
Afternoon Wildlife Adventure:
• Arrive in the wildlife-rich Yala region
• Embark on an exciting open-air jeep safari in Yala National Park
• Search for leopards – Yala has the highest density in the world
• Spot elephants, crocodiles, deer, wild boar, and abundant birds
• Professional driver-guide helps spot wildlife for your family
• Kids will love bouncing along the rugged tracks
• Check into Cinnamon Wild, Yala for overnight stay
• Unique jungle-lodge experience with wildlife roaming nearby
• Rooms have views of the jungle or ocean
• Overnight family stay in Yala
Family Safari:
- Yala jeep safari adventure with elephant sighting
- Yala National Park wilderness views
Day 9 - Yala to Mirissa
• Morning family transfer from Yala to the coastal paradise of Mirissa
• Journey through southern Sri Lanka's scenic coastline
En Route Cultural Experiences:
• Visit the local fish market – colorful, bustling, and authentic
• Watch fishermen bringing in the morning catch of tuna and other fish
• Observe the old and mind-boggling tradition of stilt fishing
• Fishermen perched on wooden poles in the shallow waters
• This ancient technique dates back centuries
• Great photo opportunity for the family album
Afternoon Beach Relaxation:
• Continue to Mirissa – famous for its crescent-shaped beach
• Check into Sri Sharavi Beach Villas
• Spacious villas perfect for families
• Settle into your beachfront accommodation
• Rest of the day at leisure on the beautiful beach
• Let the kids build sandcastles and splash in gentle waves
• Parents can relax with a book or swim in the ocean
• Overnight family stay in Mirissa
Coastal Culture:
- Parrot Rock, Mirissa beach view
- Beach relaxation and stilt fishing demonstration
Day 10 - Mirissa to Bentota (via Whale Watching & Galle)
• Early morning whale watching tour from Mirissa harbor
• Set sail in search of magnificent blue whales – the largest animals on Earth
• Watch for playful spinner dolphins swimming alongside the boat
• Peak season (December to April) offers the best sightings
• Professional guides share knowledge about marine life
• Children will be awed by the size of the whales
• Approximately 3-4 hour excursion including travel time
Late Morning:
• Drive to the historic coastal city of Galle
• Explore the Galle Dutch Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Walk along the 17th-century ramparts with ocean breezes
• Visit the iconic lighthouse – great family photo spot
• See the old Dutch Church and colonial-era buildings
• Kids will enjoy climbing the fort walls (with supervision)
Afternoon:
• Continue to Bentota on the southern coastline
• Check into Vivanta by Taj – family-friendly beach resort
• Let the kids swim in the pool while parents relax
• Overnight family stay in Bentota
Marine & Heritage:
- Whale watching boat with blue whale sighting
- Galle Fort ramparts and lighthouse
Day 11 - Bentota – Family Beach Day
• Full day dedicated to relaxing at the beautiful Bentota beach
• Give yourself a nice sun tan while kids play in the sand
• Spend quality time with your family away from busy schedules
Beach Activities:
• Swim in the warm Indian Ocean waves (calm waters good for children)
• Build elaborate sandcastles with the little ones
• Play beach games – frisbee, beach volleyball, or catch
• Take long walks along the beautiful shoreline
• Collect seashells as souvenirs of your coastal days
Water Sports (Optional at Additional Cost – Age/Height Restrictions Apply):
• Banana boat rides – fun for older kids and teens
• Jet skiing for adventurous family members
• Paddle boarding – test your balance together
Hotel Facilities:
• Enjoy the resort pool and kid-friendly amenities
• Perhaps a spa treatment for parents
• Kids' club may be available – inquire at hotel
• Overnight family stay in Bentota
Pure Relaxation:
- Family beach day with sandcastles
- Bentota coastal paradise sunset
Day 12 - Bentota – Second Family Beach Day
• Another leisurely day at the beach in Bentota
• Continue your family bonding and relaxation time
Optional Activities (On Request – Additional Cost):
• Visit nearby Madu River for a boat safari through mangroves
• Explore the Brief Garden – tropical garden estate designed by Bevis Bawa
• Take a cooking class at the resort to bring skills home
• Visit the nearby turtle hatchery if missed earlier
More Beach Time:
• Read your book while children play safely in view
• Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants
• Watch local fishermen at work from the shore
• Simply do nothing – that's the point of family vacation!
• Second overnight family stay in Bentota at Vivanta by Taj
Extended Relaxation:
- Bentota beach water sports activities
- Family enjoying sunset together on the beach
Day 13 - Bentota to Colombo
• Morning journey to Sri Lanka's vibrant capital city – Colombo
En Route Family Conservation Activity:
• Visit a Sea Turtle Hatchery conservation center (location near Bentota)
• Learn about protecting endangered sea turtles and their eggs
• See baby turtles in tanks before they are released
• Release young turtles into the ocean (seasonal – inquire timing)
• Children will treasure this meaningful, hands-on experience
• Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the Madu Lake
• Cruise through peaceful mangrove forests and small islands
• Spot monitor lizards, water birds, and maybe crocodiles
• Visit a small island temple accessible only by boat
Afternoon:
• Arrive in Colombo and check into Galle Face Hotel
• Historic colonial-era hotel dating back to 1864
• Ocean view rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean
• Explore the famous Galle Face Green promenade right outside
• Kids can run and fly kites in the open space
• Overnight family stay in Colombo
Conservation & Lake:
- Turtle hatchery with baby sea turtles
- Madu Lake boat safari through mangroves
Day 14 - Colombo to BIA Departure
• Last day of your wonderful family tour with LF Lanka Tours Tours
Colombo Exploration (Time Permitting – Based on Flight Schedule):
• Explore the vibrant capital city of Colombo
• Visit Gangarama Temple – eclectic and highly photogenic
• Learn about Sri Lanka's Buddhist and colonial heritage
• Go shopping for souvenirs and gifts at local markets
• Oodles of vibrant fabric, world-famous Ceylon tea, aromatic spices, and handicrafts
• Take a final family photo at Independence Square memorial
• Walk along Galle Face Green – perfect for kids to run and play
Shopping Recommendations:
• ODEL shopping mall – popular for clothing and souvenirs
• Barefoot – handmade textiles, crafts, and caf√©
• House of Fashion – budget-friendly clothing options
• Local markets for authentic Sri Lankan spices
Afternoon:
• Private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport
• Arrive with ample time for check-in and security screening
• Last chance for duty-free shopping at the airport
Departure:
• Bid farewell to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka
• Take home amazing family memories that will last a lifetime
• End of your wonderful and luxurious tour
We hope your family enjoyed this unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka. Our team can customize this itinerary based on your children's ages and interests. Please contact us for any modifications or to extend your stay.
Family Farewell:
- Colombo Gangarama Temple visit
- Airport departure with family memories
