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Discover the ultimate two-week Sri Lanka itinerary with kids – top family-friendly spots, hotels & tips for an unforgettable adventure!
Sri Lanka is having a moment, and I am very much here for it.
I first visited Sri Lanka on our honeymoon in 2021, and I completely fell in love with the country. I remember we were having dinner in Sigiriya when in walked a French family of four. The kids ate banana pancakes and drank mango shakes while the parents shared a couple of beers. They made travelling with kids look so effortlessly cool, and I thought it was incredible that these kids were having such enriching experiences in a country like Sri Lanka. I said to Chloe “that will be us one day”. Fast forward a few years, and here we are again, this time with our 2-year-old son Cooper in tow.
Everyone thinks it’s very adventurous and exotic travelling to somewhere like Sri Lanka with kids. Here’s the big secret though – it’s surprisingly easy. I’m not just saying that as hyperbole. Yes, you’ll have days where things don’t quite go to plan, but isn’t that the beauty of travelling?
Chloe and I are always of the viewpoint that parenting can be hard wherever you are in the world. You may as well push the boat out and do it somewhere like Sri Lanka. Trust me, there’s a lot more to distract your kids with than at home. I bet you don’t have elephants at home for starters.
Anyway, if you’re planning a family trip to Sri Lanka, then hopefully this is the blog post for you. In it I’ll tell you all about the best things to do in Sri Lanka with kids, where to stay, and some other top tips too. I really want this to be your Sri Lanka travel guide, so use it as much as you want.
I can’t tell you how much I love Sri Lanka, and I felt very privileged sharing that with our son recently. There’s no better place to expand his horizon than somewhere like this. I’m about to tell you why.
Contents:
Do I need a visa for Sri Lanka?
First things first, you need to get yourself a visa. Tourism is the biggest driver for Sri Lanka’s economy and its GDP. Because of that, visas aren’t the cheapest. For a British national, a visa costs approximately $50. Kids under the age of 12 still need an individual visa but these are free.
There are a lot of different visa companies out there, but it’s best to go direct with the government website here.
When is the best time visiting Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka really only has two seasons: hot and dry, or hot and wet. The southwest monsoon (Yala) runs from May to September, bringing heavy rain and intense humidity to popular spots like Colombo, Galle, and the southern beaches. This is also the hottest time of year, with temperatures often soaring above 35°C – definitely not the most comfortable time to explore, especially with kids in tow.
The best time to visit Sri Lanka is generally from October to March, when the weather is drier, slightly cooler, and the humidity is more manageable – particularly along the southwest and central regions. This is the ideal window for enjoying family adventures, beach days, and sightseeing without being drenched in sweat or caught in tropical downpours.
For our trip, we travelled as a family in late March, and the heat was already starting to ramp up. Most days reached around 33°C with 80–90% humidity, and our son Cooper definitely struggled a bit with the intense conditions – especially during midday.
If you’re planning a family holiday to Sri Lanka, I’d recommend aiming for October to early March, with October being one of the cooler and more comfortable months to explore the island.
Two Weeks in Sri Lanka with Kids
Here is my Sri Lanka itinerary for families. As I said, this should cover all bases when planning a trip here, but if there’s anything I’ve missed out then let me know in the comments – I’m more than happy answering any questions at all.
Day 1 & 2: Colombo
Day 1 and 2 are all about acclimatising yourself while seeing some of the sites that the capital has to offer. Colombo is fast becoming a very modern city with slick skyscrapers and new hotels springing up. I was really surprised at how trendy the city is, so I’d definitely recommend spending a couple of days here to start off your trip.
The Lotus Tower:
One of the new symbols of Sri Lanka is the Lotus Tower. At 351m, this is the tallest building in South Asia. There is a viewing platform at the top, and the views of the city are stunning. You really get a sense of how big the city is from up here.
The Lotus Tower also has a revolving restaurant which is pretty trippy, and at the bottom there are a number of immersive rooms which tell you about the history of Sri Lanka. I’m not going to lie, Cooper loved these displays as they were full of bright colourful cartoons. The last room is an interactive display where animals jumped out of a jungle in a kaleidoscope of colours. Hard to describe but it was really cool!
Lunch: Headquarters by W15
If you’re looking for a new-age lunch spot, then head on over to Headquarters by W15. Not only does this place serve up some delicious dishes like the fish roti wrap, but the views of the Lotus Tower are awesome. I can imagine this would be a really good early evening cocktail spot, and there’s plenty of room for the kids to run around on the rooftop terrace.
Kelaniya Temple:
Just on the outskirts of Colombo is Kelaniya Temple. This is one of the holiest Buddhist temples in the city where people flock to pay their respects to Buddha. Just being here you get a sense of peace, and it was heart-warming seeing so many people dedicate their prayers to loved ones.
The scent of incense filled the air as families gathered with flowers and offerings, and the sound of chanting echoed softly in the background. Whether you’re religious or not, Kelaniya Temple offers a moving glimpse into Sri Lankan culture and spirituality – it’s a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Colombo and well worth a stop.
Stay at: Cinnamon Life
One of the newer hotels in Colombo is Cinnamon Life. This is a glitzy skyscraper that really wows you with its skyline views from the 24th floor. As we were getting used to the hustle and bustle of city life in Colombo, our hotel room became a little haven that we retreated to each evening.
The hotel has a couple of swimming pools which were perfect for escaping the heat. We didn’t get to use, but the hotel also comes with a very decent kid’s club where you can drop your kids off at. If we were staying in the city for longer then we definitely would’ve used this!
I have to say that the Cinnamon Life had the best hotel buffet I’ve ever eaten at. I’m not just saying that, this was the best I’ve ever had. Ever. The curry section was giant, every dish was delicious, and that’s before we even talk about any of the other cuisines available here. Honestly, stay here, eat the buffet, thank me later.
Day 3, 4 & 5: Habarana & Anuradhapura
The drive from Colombo to Habarana can be a bit of a long one, approximately 4 to 5 hours with stops along the way. That’s why I think it’s important staying for a few days, so you can chill and have lots of downtime while getting to explore the area. Habarana is where you can go on elephant safari, so I’d definitely recommend that with the little ones.
Elephant safari:
We did a sunset safari from our hotel and it was just brilliant. Cooper has only ever seen elephants in books before, so imagine how happy he was when he got to see one in real life for the first time ever. This was such a special day for us as a family, and it was moments like this which is why we wanted to visit Sri Lanka in the first place.
We saw dozens of elephants on safari, and it was such a great day out. If you’re debating whether to go on a morning, afternoon or full-day safari, then I’ve got you covered! I’ve written all about what option is best here – no matter which one you choose, you will absolutely love it.
Sigiriya:
Climbing the legendary Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is one of those epic experiences you won’t forget – and yes, it’s totally doable with kids! This ancient rock fortress dates back to King Kasyapa’s reign (477–495 AD) and is packed with history, from vibrant frescoes to jaw-dropping rock carvings and the ruins of an old palace perched right on top.
There are 1,202 steps to the summit, but the climb is surprisingly manageable. With a steady pace, you should reach the top in under an hour. My tip? Start early – either at sunrise or just after – to beat the heat and the crowds.
Our little one loved messing about in the sand at the top while we soaked in those panoramic views stretching out across the jungle. It’s a magical place. Just make sure to wear proper shoes, light gear, and bring plenty of water and snacks. And of course, keep a close eye on your kids – the views are incredible, but those edges are no joke!
Anuradhapura:
We really wanted to take Cooper to places like Anuradhapura so he could learn all about the culture of Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura is the name of the city and it encompasses a number of religious monuments like Ruwanwelisaya and Abhayagiriya. I was really surprised to learn these monuments date back over 2,000 years – why is no one talking about them more! They are like Sri Lanka’s version of the Parthenon in Athens, but with more religious significance.
Ruwanwelisaya temple is believed to be the holiest site in Sri Lanka, and millions make their pilgrimage here each year. Dating back to 140 BC, it is said to house seven relics of Buddha. The sense of peace and tranquillity irradiates from the site, and I am really glad we made the trip here.
There are so many of these monuments dotted around Anuradhapura. Instead of seeing them all, I would recommend visiting the three most popular ones – Ruwanwelisaya, Abhayagiriya and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. You can hire a driver for the day to take you around and then back to Habarana.
Stay at: Cinnamon Lodge
The Cinnamon Lodge was our little oasis in the middle of the jungle. One of the selling points of this place is the gorgeous swimming pool at the heart of the hotel. Overshadowed with palm trees and playful monkeys looking to steal chips, it’s very easy to spend the whole day lazing by the pool and watching the world go by.
The rooms are lovely too. Each one is like an old colonial cabin decked out in teak. The cabins were really spacious, so there was plenty of room for Cooper in his cot.
No matter where you stay, they will be able to help out organising day trips like the elephant safari and to Anuradhapura.
Day 6 & 7: Kandy
Kandy often gets overlooked as a stepping stone to other places in Sri Lanka, but I think it’s worth staying here for a day or two. Kandy is surrounded by these gorgeous rolling mountains – it’s a lot prettier than people give it credit for.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic:
I know what you’re thinking, another temple. This one is really different to any of the others I’ve listed so far, and it’s fairly quick to visit. Sri Dalada Maligawa, otherwise known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, is said to house Buddha’s tooth. I really liked the architecture of the temple with its stark-white columns and dark ominous roof.
Inside, the atmosphere is both peaceful and deeply respectful, with devotees offering prayers throughout the day. The temple is not only a spiritual centre but also a cultural hub, hosting traditional Kandyan dance performances and ceremonies that bring the history and heritage of Sri Lanka vividly to life. Visiting Sri Dalada Maligawa gives you a unique glimpse into the country’s Buddhist traditions, making it much more than just another temple stop.
Train to Ella:
There are so many blogs on what’s the best train to take to Ella. Do you drive the first bit to Nuwara Eliya and take the train from there? Do you just take the train to Nuwara Eliya which is slightly shorter? Or do you do the full 7-hour journey from Kandy to Ella?
I have to admit, sitting on a train for 7 hours with a 2-year-old didn’t exactly fill me with joy, but Cooper absolutely loved it. He is very much in his train era, so this was like the best day out ever for him (apart from seeing the elephants of course…)
I can’t tell you how we passed the time. We played with stickers, we ate lots of breadsticks, but mainly we looked out the window and watched the world go by. Once you get up into the mountains and tea plantations, the views really are stunning.
It’s a bit different doing this train with kids when you see everyone else hopping up to get that shot, but we still really enjoyed it. This can be a full day’s activity, so plan accordingly and bring lots of snacks.
Stay at: The Radh
The Radh was a real find tucked away in the heart of Kandy. From the moment we arrived, it felt like a peaceful retreat away from the city buzz, with lush greenery all around and a lovely pool perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring.
The rooms are stylish yet cozy, blending modern comfort with traditional Sri Lankan touches — think warm wood accents and airy spaces. Our room had plenty of space for Cooper to play and relax, which made all the difference when travelling with a toddler.
What really stood out was how helpful the staff were. They happily arranged everything from temple visits to city tours, making it easy for us to explore Kandy’s rich culture without any hassle. Whether you want to soak up the local vibe or simply unwind, The Radh hits the perfect balance.
Day 8 & 9: Ella
Ella is everything to everyone at once. It is the cool hipster spot where you can learn yoga; it’s the hiking haven where you can base yourself before exploring the mountains; it’s where you can immerse yourself in banana pancake trail and live your backpacker life to the full.
For those of you with kids, let’s just say it’s a charming little town where you can do lots of activities with the little ones.
Little Adam’s Peak:
I really love this spot. Instead of hiking for hours and hours to get gorgeous views, this one can be reached after climbing 450 steps to the top. It’s like a landscape attraction park, but well worth the visit. At the top the views of the surrounding mountains are just incredible – the photos will never do it justice.
At Little Adam’s Peak there are a few other attractions too. There is a zip-line depending on how old and adventurous your kids are, and there’s a Bali-style beach bar but up in the mountains if you’re looking for a cool lunch spot.
Ravana Falls:
Are you looking for one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka? Then look no further than Ravana Falls just outside Ella!
This is a super easy waterfall to visit – it’s just a short 5/10 minute tuk-tuk ride to the base of the falls. There are a few stalls around so my recommendation is grab yourself a fruit shake and enjoy the views at the falls!
Halpewatte Tea Factory Tour:
One of the reasons Ella is so famous is for its tea plantations. Whether you drink 4 cups a day or can’t stand the stuff, it’s still really cool going on a tour here and learning all about how tea is harvested. This is a particularly good indoor activity if it’s raining.
After the tour, you get to go upstairs to the tasting room where you can have a cuppa overlooking the mountains. I’m not saying having a tea with this as your backdrop makes the tea taste better, but it certainly helps.
Shopping:
Apart from Galle, I would say Ella has the best shopping in Sri Lanka with some really unique shops selling things like prayer bowls to hipster art. If you’re looking at picking up a few bits for home, then I would say Ella is your best bet.
Also, there are a number of gelato shops here, so if you’re looking for a guaranteed way of making the kids happy, gelato is your answer.
Stay at: Morning Dew Boutique Hotel
Tucked high up in the hills of Ella, Morning Dew Boutique Hotel gave us some of the best views of the trip. Waking up to misty mountains and sipping coffee on the balcony was just magic. The rooftop infinity pool was the real highlight though – perfect for a post-hike dip after climbing Little Adam’s Peak or visiting the Nine Arches Bridge. The hotel is only a short walk from the centre of town, but far enough to feel peaceful and quiet, which made it ideal for winding down in the evenings.
The rooms were spacious, clean, and had everything we needed – comfy beds, air con, and those epic mountain views. The staff were incredibly helpful, always happy to organise tuk-tuks or give local tips. Breakfast was a winner too, with fresh fruit, hoppers, and strong Sri Lankan coffee to kick-start the day. If you’re looking for a stylish but laid-back base in Ella, this place is spot on.
Day 10 & 11: Udawalawe
We had the big debate on do we go to Udawalawe or Yala National Park for our big safari. In the end we decided Udawalawe as we researched it was much quieter with bigger herds of elephants compared to Yala. Well, it did not disappoint! I would recommend one big day on safari here, and then the other day chilling and talking about it. This was a real highlight of our trip.
Full-day elephant safari:
I go into detail why I loved our full-day elephant safari in Udawalawe here, but it was such a magical day. If you’re looking for big herds of elephants, then this is the place for you. I honestly lost count of how many elephants we saw here, but it was well over 50-100.
One of the things I really liked about Udawalawe was the landscape – there were wide open vistas often with lakes and waterholes for the elephants. Just beautiful. We also saw lots of water buffalo and crocodiles on this tour.
I really do go through everything about this tour in the above blog post, so give it a click and read all about it.
Stay: Eliyanth Udawalawe
Tucked away just a few kilometres from Udawalawe National Park, Eliyanth Udawalawe is a peaceful boutique hotel that makes for an ideal base before or after a safari. Surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking a quiet river, the hotel offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, outdoor rain showers, and private balconies – perfect for relaxing after a day of wildlife spotting.
Also, and the best bit, the price. I think we paid £30 a night here – it’s so cheap! The staff were amazing and helped sort out our safari, so I can’t recommend this place enough.
Day 12 & 13: Marissa
I appreciate your Sri Lanka itinerary has been pretty full on at this point, so it’s a good idea factoring in some chill time towards the end of your trip to either laze on the beach or by the pool. We always like having a few days at the end of the trip to just relax and digest everything we’ve done up until that point.
There are so many vibey beach towns dotted along the south of Sri Lanka. From Mirissa to Weligama to Hiriketiya, you can take your pick of any of these to base yourself at.
Beach time:
We spent a couple of days soaking up the laid-back vibes of Mirissa, and honestly, it was exactly what we needed. Tucked along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Mirissa is one of those beach towns where time slows down in the best way. Mornings were all about strong coffee and smoothie bowls by the sea, while the afternoons melted into beach walks and lazy swims in the turquoise water. I even managed a cheeky surf session while Macca chilled with Cooper under the palm trees.
One of the best spots in town is Coconut Hill – a quick scramble up gives you panoramic views of the bay, especially beautiful at sunset. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also book a whale watching tour from the harbour. Mirissa is one of the top places in the world to spot blue whales, and the early morning boat rides are well worth it if you’re up for something memorable.
Evenings here are pure beach bliss – think grilled seafood, cold beers, and fire dancers lighting up the sand. There’s something magical about eating dinner with your toes in the sand and the sound of waves in the background. If you’re heading to Sri Lanka, I’d definitely recommend a couple of chilled-out days in Mirissa to recharge and soak in that classic island vibe.
Stay: D Canal House
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Mirissa, D Canal House offers a tranquil retreat just a short distance from the bustling beach scene. This boutique hotel features spacious, air-conditioned rooms adorned with thoughtful decor, some equipped with kitchenettes and private verandas.
You can unwind by the serene pool overlooking the canal, immersing yourself in the surrounding nature. The hotel is a short walk into town, but they also offer a free tuk-tuk service which is nice. It’s a really tranquil hotel, and I really love this section on beach as it’s much quieter.
Day 14: Galle
On our honeymoon we didn’t visit Galle, so I was really pleased we made time for it on this trip. It’s quite hard describing Galle because it’s a big city, but the main place people visit is Galle Fort.
Galle Fort:
If you’re planning your Sri Lanka itinerary then make sure you add Galle to the list! This place really is stunning!
Galle Fort with it’s iconic lighthouse is perfectly placed with beautiful beaches either side of it. For a photographer it’s a pretty dreamy spot.
As for Galle Fort itself, inside is a succession of cute cafes, chic shops and lots of places to cool down with a gelato. I absolutely loved the old colonial architecture too.
Galle is quickly changing with new cocktail spots and bougie boutiques, but it still has a lot of that old world charm too which is why it’s a must visit place!
Stay: The Fort Printers
Nestled within the historic walls of Galle Fort, The Fort Printers is a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion that seamlessly blends colonial charm with contemporary elegance. Once a former printing press, this boutique hotel now offers spacious, minimalist suites adorned with four-poster beds, high ceilings, and tasteful décor.
You can kick back by the peaceful courtyard pool or treat yourself at the hotel’s charming bistro, where the menu is packed with fresh seafood and flavourful Sri Lankan dishes. The staff are a real highlight here too – always friendly and welcoming, they go out of their way to make your stay feel special.
Travel tips for families
In this blog post I really wanted to give you my Sri Lanka itinerary. This should give you a really good overview of what the country is like and some of the best things you can do here.
In this blog post, I’ve written about some of my best travel tips for families travelling here. I thought it would be useful having both guides, one to tell you where you’re going, and one to tell you what you what you’re doing.
As ever, if you have any questions, please let me know in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help. Hopefully this itinerary should act as a good starting point for planning the holiday of a lifetime. And I really hope you love it here as much as we do! I have a feeling we’ll be coming back again once the second sprog comes along…
