Sri Lanka is like a smaller version of Asia. You can find tea plantations like in Malaysia, ricefields like Indonesia, temples like in Thailand, Indian curries and on top of all of this: wildlife and tropical beaches. It’s a small island which you can explore easily by car in three weeks. If you have the chance, arrange a local driver. They know the country by heart and many times, they appear to be very good guides as well. We have spoken with the travelling mums of Sri LankaKids about their top 5 highlight for Sri Lanka with kids. Curious what their tips are?
Top 5 Sri Lanka with kids
- Snorkling
The best spot for snorkeling? Pigeon Island, by far! It’s close to the east coast, near Nilaveli and Uppuveli. White beaches, swaying palm trees, and the best thing is you will have the whole beach to yourself when you arrive early. We saw our first reef shark after only seconds of snorkeling. They are every impressive, luckily the kids brought their go pro, so we even have them on camera. Done snorkeling? No worries, you can lay back and relax on one of the wooden benches.
- Safari
Red sand, dry bushes and muddy puddles: Yala National Park. There are several National Parks in Sri Lanka, but this is the place for going on a safari in Sri Lanka with kids. The leopard is one of Sri Lanka’s inhabitants, we really hoped to see one, and we did!! We were also lucky enough to see crocodiles, wild elephants, buffalo’s and a black bear. To end the day in style we sleep in a luxurious safari tent with a private toilet and shower, but not before we enjoyed a tasty meal under the stars.
- Lion Rock
The well known Lion Rock is close to Sigiriya, being 200 meters high it dominates the jungle. The stair is cut out of rocks, during you trip up the stairs you will find several old rock paintings. When you are lucky you will see monkeys playing around. The climb is challenging (and hot!), but all worthwhile when you see the magnificent view of the jungle from the top.
- Temple ruins at Polonnaruwa
The old king city of Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka’s biggest archaeological sites. The best way to explore this widespread temple complex? By bike! It can be quite warm at some days, but the locals you will meet during your cycling trip, love to sell you a refreshing coconut. Start in the back and take your time cycling back to the entrance. You will probably meet some monkey here as well.
- Ella
Ella is known for the tea plantations. This laidback village, up in the cooler mountains, is the perfect place for some outdoor fun. The best way to get here is by train. It takes you through the tea plantations, uphill to Ella. The views along the train ride are amazing. Don’t forget to hike to Little Adam’s Peak.
Are your kids a little older and into some fun? Check out these 5 adventurous things to do in Kalpitiya or check out this ultimate Sri Lanka itinerary and these tips when you are travelling Sri Lanka solo.
This guest blog is written by the travel experts of SriLankaKids, a sister company of touroperator RiksjaKids. Are you curious to make a trip to Sri Lanka with kids? SriLankaKids offers special holidays for families with (young) kids. Our travel experts know Sri Lanka very well, and travel with their family regularly as well. They love to help you choose the holiday of a lifetime!
Tea plantations[/caption]
Adams Peak
Safari
Train
