Family holiday ideas & recommendations

Our top recommendations in Sri Lanka for …

Yala National Park – Tucked away in southeast Sri Lanka, Yala is one of our favourite family wildlife destinations. Not only can you see elephants, monkeys, crocodiles, leopards, bears and more, but the park is very accessible and great for taking the kids. Aside from excellent guided wildlife tours, you’ll love sleeping under canvas with the sounds of nature all around…and don’t worry, this is very much a ‘glamping’ experience with proper beds.

If your kids love elephants then you need to include a visit to Udawalawe National Park in your Sri Lanka itinerary. As well as a jeep safari in the park you’ll also visit the nearby Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephant calves are cared for.

Kandy – For a real insight into Sri Lankan life and culture, we can arrange for you to stay with a family in a village on the outskirts of Kandy. As well as seeing the city itself and visiting the famous Temple of the Tooth, you’ll get to know your local hosts and learn about their everyday lives. Food is central to Sri Lankan culture so a highlight of your stay is the chance to get involved in the kitchen, and the kids will love creating their own delicious curry dishes.

Another unique experience is found in Negombo, where you can join a local fisherman and head out on his boat to catch your own dinner!

Trincomalee – If you’re heading out to Sri Lanka during the summer holidays, you’ll want to head towards the east coast to get the better weather. The sea is calm and the beach is wide, making it ideal for kids. There’s also some great snorkelling at this time of year, especially off the coast at Pigeon Island. If you’d rather surf than snorkel, you can stay a little further south at Arugam Bay.

Our family pick on the south coast is Tangalle. Think deserted beaches and coconut plantations. It’s the perfect spot for some relaxing family time. The only nightlife you have here are the turtles that come to lay their eggs on the beach at night!

(P.S. For more on where to go when in the school holidays, check out out family weather guide)

Ella – Rolling hills and mountains, lush green countryside and the iconic tea plantations – the highlands of Sri Lanka are a truly beautiful sight. The cooler temperatures may also be very welcome, especially if you want to explore the area on foot. A country stroll will unearth remote local settlements, farms and even waterfalls. A few days in Ella are a wonderful addition to any Sri Lanka family holiday.

Elsewhere, Sigiriya (or Lion Rock) is one of Sri Lanka’s most striking features with incredible views from the bottom and the top. If your kids are up for a little challenge, hiking up to the top is well worth the effort. For a unique experience you can sleep in a treehouse nearby.

Polonnaruwa – In the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa dates back some 1,000 years and is filled with temple ruins and historic relics. Spending time here is like stepping back in time, and it’s a great way to show your kids some of Sri Lanka’s rich history – you can also explore by bike to make things a little more exciting!