Sri Lanka Family Holiday
14 Days / 13 Nights
14 Days / 13 Nights
Experience unforgettable family moments exploring Sri Lanka's vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, wildlife safaris, beautiful beaches, and exciting activities suitable for all ages and interests.
you will arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where a representative of WonderScapes Travels will warmly welcome you. You will then be transferred to the coastal city of Negombo. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and relax by the beautiful seaside as you prepare for your exciting Sri Lankan adventure. Negombo is a vibrant city enriched by diverse cultural influences. It is home to many beautiful churches and is often referred to as “Little Rome.” The golden sandy beaches here are also well known for their charm and tranquility.
Overnight stay in Negombo.
After a scrumptious breakfast, Visit the Negombo Fish Markets this morning to see the hustle
and bustle of daily trade, then hop in your private vehicle to ancient Anuradhapura,
Commanding a rich Sri Lankan heritage, Anuradhapura is one of the world’s greatest and
oldest civilizations, flourishing for over 1,300 years at its peak. The jewel of the city is
the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi — a revered Bo sapling grown from the tree under which Lord Buddha
attained enlightenment — standing proudly for more than 2,200 years. Stroll through the
sacred sites of this venerated city and admire a legacy that reflects Sri Lanka’s
distinguished culture and spiritual heritage.
Enjoy lunch in Anuradhapura.
Thereafter, proceed to Mihintale, located just 16 km from the sacred city of Anuradhapura.
Known as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale is the sacred site where Arahant
Mahinda preached the first Buddhist sermon to King Devanampiya Tissa on a Poson full moon
day. During your visit, walk past ancient ruins and ascend the famous granite staircase
leading to the temple complex. Explore the remains of an ancient hospital and the Kantaka
Stupa, built in the 1st century BC. Highlights include the Maha Seya, the main dagoba, and
Aradhana Gala, a rock summit offering breathtaking views over the ancient Kingdom of Lakes —
Anuradhapura.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.
After a scrumptious breakfast, proceed on a bicycle tour of Anuradhapura. Enjoy a guided bicycle tour through the ancient city today. Among the historic ruins, you will see the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, a revered symbol connected to the early spread of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and an inspiration for many of Anuradhapura’s magnificent monuments. The ruins are spread across a vast area, with some located within peaceful woodland settings and others surrounded by ancient columns, ponds, and sacred structures. After completing the cycle tour, you will have a free afternoon to relax or explore the city at your own pace. You may also wish to enjoy some delicious local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.
A scenic journey leading you to Sri Lanka's beautiful culture and scenery, providing an unforgettable experience together with your family.
Wear modest, light-colored clothing with shoulders and knees covered when visiting temples and religious sites.
No hats or footwear allowed inside temples. Bring flip-flops (easy to remove) and socks for hot ground surfaces.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent. The tropical sun can be intense, especially during outdoor excursions.
Photography restrictions apply at certain religious sites. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred areas.
Mihintale - Ambasthala Dagoba
Anuradhapura - Bike tour / Bodhi Tree Temple
Polonnaruwa - Bike Tour / Gal viharaya
Dambulla - Cave Temples & Minneriya Jeep Safari
Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress Visit
Kandy - Sri Dalada Maligawa & Elephant Orphanage
Nuwara Eliya - Visit to Tea Estate
Yala/Bundala Wildlife safari & Galle Walking tour
After a scrumptious breakfast, proceed to Polonnaruwa. Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital and a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a well-planned medieval city, Polonnaruwa flourished as a major
commercial and religious centre under King Parakramabahu . Today, visitors can explore its
remarkably well-preserved ruins, including palaces, monasteries, and ancient irrigation systems.
Visit the museum for historical insights and admire the famous Gal Vihara, renowned for its
impressive granite Buddha statues carved from a single rock.
In the afternoon, depart for Minneriya National Park for an exciting jeep safari. The park is
located near the vast Minneriya Tank and is bordered by Kaudulla National Park and Eco Park,
offering one of the best opportunities to spot wild Asian elephants. Together with the nearby parks
of Wasgamuwa and Kaudulla, Minneriya forms part of the renowned Elephant Corridor. One of its main
highlights is the annual event known as “The Elephant Gathering,” which takes place during August
and September, when hundreds of elephants migrate from neighboring parks to graze on the fresh grass
around the receding lake bed, creating a truly spectacular wildlife experience.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Polonnaruwa.
After a scrumptious breakfast, proceed to Dambulla, Explore the famed Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO
World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century BC. This massive rock complex, comprising five
caves, is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex.The intricate Buddhist mural
paintings that adorn the sloping ceilings — depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha and
covering over 2,100 square meters — are particularly significant. Equally impressive are the 157
statues, including the remarkable 47-foot-long reclining Buddha statue. This sacred site was first
used as a refuge by an ancient king who, after regaining his throne, commissioned magnificent images
to be carved into the rock. The hike up to the caves is short but steep. At the summit, you can
explore the caves and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
In the afternoon, you may like to relax by the hotel pool or take an optional wildlife 4WD safari to
Minneriya, Kaudulla or Eco National Park where you might see some wild elephants!
Included activities
Overnight stay in Dambulla.
After a scrumptious breakfast , Transfer to Sigiriya,One of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage
Sites in Sri Lanka, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, dates backs to the fifth century BC, the onetime
royal abode of King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). The fortress features moats, ramparts and extensive
manicured grounds with the renowned water gardens taking centre stage. Among the special sites to
take in include frescos, the mirror wall and the massive lion paw entrance leading up to the summit
where ancient ruins of the palaces can be seen along with panoramic vistas of the surrounding
region.
On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch
and to learn about the medicinal properties of ingredients used in cooking and treatments. Carry on
to Kandy, where you’ll visit the Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) – Sri Lanka's most important
Buddhist site. Time permitting, you'll also have the option of visiting the National Museum or the
world-class Botanical Gardens.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Kandy.
After a scrumptious breakfast, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975 with just
seven orphaned elephants. Today, some of these elephants have lived long enough to see their
grandchildren born at the sanctuary. Although the orphanage was initially established primarily for
tourism, it soon developed into an important centre for elephant conservation and education. With
the support of both local and international experts, Pinnawala later introduced a scientific
breeding programme for elephants.
The free movement of the herd increased the chances for males and females to interact naturally. The
nearby river also plays an important role in their daily routine, especially during bathing time. In
1984, the first baby elephant was born at Pinnawala. Over the years, the success of Pinnawala has
attracted the attention of researchers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
A visit to the city of Kandy will let visitors immerse themselves in the rich culture and sense of
tradition that pervades it. Explore the bustling bazars and markets a burst with various exotic
sights, smells and sounds. Take a stroll under the paved walkways bordering the picturesque Kandy
Lake after which one can head to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, the temple that houses the Sacred Tooth
Relic of the Lord Buddha to seek the blessing of the Triple Gem. Thereafter watch a cultural show.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Kandy.
After a scrumptious breakfast, transfer to a tea plantation. Visit the plantation and walk around
the lush slopes, observing how dedicated tea pluckers select the finest buds, which are later
processed to produce some of the world’s finest tea. Afterwards, enjoy a freshly brewed cup of tea
to conclude the excursion.
On completion, Transfer to Nuwara Eliya.
The little town of Nuwara Eliya is one of the most popular hill country getaways on the island. It
offers fresh, invigorating mountain air, scenic vistas of misty mountains and verdant valleys to be
appreciated. Sri Lanka’s highest mountain Piduruthalagala (8,282 feet) too is located here. A visit
to the Victoria Golf Course, one of the finest golf links in South Asia too will prove to be an
enjoyable experience
Included activities
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
After a scrumptious breakfast ,This morning, travel to the sacred town of Kataragama. On the way,
stop at the beautiful hill-country town of Ella and visit Ella Gap, which offers breathtaking views
across the surrounding plains.
In the afternoon, continue to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserve. Here, you
will board a 4WD vehicle for an exciting safari through open grasslands, dense forests, and scenic
lagoons. During the safari, keep an eye out for wildlife such as crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, and
buffalo. With a bit of luck, you may even spot the elusive leopard, as the park is considered one of
the best places in the world to see these magnificent big cats.
After an adventurous day of wildlife exploration, return to your resort for dinner. Located near the
quieter back entrance of Yala National Park, your accommodation offers convenient access to the park
while avoiding the crowds often found at the main entrance.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Yala.
After a scrumptious breakfast, today enjoy another safari in Yala National Park. As the
second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, it offers a remarkable diversity of wildlife and natural
landscapes waiting to be explored.
You may also have the opportunity to enjoy some birdwatching, as the park is home to more than 200
bird species, including the Sri Lanka wood pigeon, Painted stork, and Crimson-fronted barbet. Keep
an eye out for colorful peacocks proudly roaming through the park. If Yala National Park is closed
on this day, the group will instead visit Bundala National Park, another excellent wildlife reserve
known for its rich birdlife and coastal lagoons.
Special Information
Included activities
Overnight stay in Yala.
After a scrumptious breakfast, take an optional visit to Kataragama Temple this morning to see the
shrine dedicated to Kataragama Deviyo.
Later, transfer to Galle, a beautiful seaside town near Sri Lanka’s southern coast. After settling
into your hotel, travel just outside Galle to a small village to experience Beeralu Lace Weaving in
a local home. This is a traditional craft practiced in the region for generations. During this
exclusive experience, you will have the opportunity to observe the weaving process and even try it
yourself. If you wish, you may also support the local community by purchasing handmade lace
products.
Afterwards, join your tour leader for a walking tour of Galle Fort, the best-preserved Dutch
colonial town in Sri Lanka. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean, the fort is home to historic
churches, mosques, museums, boutiques, and charming streets. Discover the rich history of Galle as
your guide shares stories of its past and present.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Galle.
After a scrumptious breakfast, this morning is free for you to spend at your leisure. You may choose
to visit a cinnamon plantation just outside Galle to learn about the process of cultivating and
preparing this iconic Sri Lankan spice. Bird watchers may wish to explore the Hiyare Rainforest
Reservoir, located on the outskirts of the city. Your knowledgeable tour leader can provide guidance
on how to book or access these optional activities.
In the evening, join your leader for a visit to the local markets, where you can learn about the
fresh ingredients that create the rich flavours and aromas of Sri Lankan cuisine. After exploring
the colourful market stalls, visit a local host’s home for a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class,
followed by a delicious dinner. Learn to prepare traditional dishes such as Ambulthiyal fish curry,
lentil dhal, eggplant curry, and a sweet dessert, gaining a behind-the-scenes understanding of Sri
Lanka’s culinary traditions.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Galle.
After a scrumptious breakfast, bid farewell to Galle and travel to Colombo, the bustling capital of
Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, enjoy a northern Sri Lankan lunch at a courtyard restaurant located in the
former home of a family from Jaffna.
In the afternoon, embark on a leader-led orientation walk through the city. Visit the Pettah Market,
where you will be fully immersed in the sights, sounds, and aromas of Colombo as vendors and
shoppers go about their daily business. Stop at the striking Red Mosque with its soaring minarets,
visible from across the city. Continue exploring the city to discover Dutch and British-influenced
architecture, remnants of Colombo’s colonial past.
This evening, you may choose to join your leader and fellow travellers for a final group dinner,
celebrating the conclusion of your Sri Lankan adventure.
Included activities
Overnight stay in Colombo.
After breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight. Ayubowan, and we wish you a pleasant journey home.
Your accommodation, meal plan and transfers are tailored to your preferences & budget
Bring cool & comfortable clothing!
Sunscreen, flip flops, shoes and insect repellent will always come in handy
At all religious sites in Sri Lanka everyone is expected to dress respectfully in modest light coloured clothing with shoulders & knees covered
NO hats or footwear are allowed inside temples, so flip flops (which you would have to leave at the entrance) and an extra pair of socks are a good idea so you do not have to walk barefoot on the hot ground.
