16-Day Shoestring Sri Lanka Family Itinerary - Nature, Culture and Beach

Negombo is the perfect starting point for your family trip to Sri Lanka. Just up the road from Colombo, it has a lot to offer, and you’ll get to experience the fisherman’s way of life! Amble along the Dutch canals, explore colourful stalls at the fish markets or wander through the quaint streets of this charming colonial town – you are completely in charge of your own time. Your guesthouse is within walking distance of the beach and local restaurants, so you could take a gentle stroll or hop in a tuk-tuk to explore the town.

Today you’ll travel to Sigiriya. We have found a charming hotel with fantastic countryside views and only a few miles away from the giant Sigiriya Rock. After checking in, have a refreshing dip in the pool and enjoy the views around! The next day you’ll be climbing up to the top of Lion Rock and it’s a fun walk up as you’ll pass cheeky monkeys, countless frescoes, and Buddha images. Once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll be glad you put in the effort, as the panoramic view of the emerald green jungle below is truly remarkable!

The east coast is the best place weather-wise for a beach stay in Sri Lanka during the summer school holiday months. The sandy beaches are long, wide and it’s the perfect place to unwind for a few days. You’ll be staying in resort by the beach, with a nice swimming pool. The time here is free, but if you want do add a little adventure to your otherwise relaxing stay, why not visit the nearby Pigeon Island for some first-class snorkelling?

Over the next few days, you’ll stay in the heart of Kandy. There is a lot to see and do in the city and your location is perfect for exploring the main attractions on foot, see the highlights and marvel at the Temple of the Tooth. For a real cultural immersion, we recommend getting to the temple in time for the evening pooja ceremony! And if you and your family feel slightly overwhelmed with the city buzz, the Royal Botanical Gardens are pretty spectacular and only a couple of miles away from the city centre – a perfect escape.

Ella is a small laid-back village located in-between tea plantations amidst the mountains. You and your family will have plenty of time to take in the beauty of this area. Your hotel is located high in the hills, offering a stunning view for you all to look out on. Whilst you’re here you have the chance to explore the hill-country at your own pace; take a walk around the countryside, have a picnic with a view or take the Little Adam’s Peak hike.

Elephants, monkeys, crocodiles and maybe even a leopard or black bear – this the part of Sri Lanka which the kids will be most excited about. Welcome to Yala National Park! You’ll spend the night in a simple but comfortable hotel not far from the park, with the noises of nature all around you. You’ll set off on a jeep safari with a local guide to seek out some of the country’s most famous residents. It’s an experience the whole family will remember forever.

OK, so maybe Colombo isn’t the place you’re most excited about in Sri Lanka, but the country’s capital has plenty to offer and is a real eye-opener for kids to see daily life in a big working city. Hustle, bustle and honking horns fill the streets, and if you’re after a little culture-shock then it’s a great place to spend a night….the food is amazing too!