Lush green fields, spectacular wildlife, and heart-warm people – Sri Lanka is Asia’s hidden gem that offers unending family adventure. Whether travelling with babies, kids, or toddlers, you will quickly fall in love with the mesmerising island and its way of life. With our help and deep knowledge of the country, discover the best kid-friendly activities in Sri Lanka. There is something for everyone in Sri Lanka and every member of the family can be catered for. It is a place that will capture every family member’s heart.

1. Visit Elephant Orphanage

   Sri Lanka’s main draw point is its incredible nature and wildlife. Whether you are visiting the beautiful island together with your teenagers or toddlers, you should pay a visit to the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage.There you will find a herd of wild Asian elephants who have been abandoned by their mothers. Set in Pinnewala village, the establishment has become a loved tourist destination. Within the territory, your kids will be able to admire the elegant animals as they are bathing and playing at the riverbank. If you are lucky, you might even catch the moment they are being fed with jackfruit, tamarind, and coconut, or smaller ones – with a bottle. Whenever hunger kicks in, enjoy a picnic at Pinnewala.

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   2. Hop on an air balloon

      If you are planning on going on family holidays to Sri Lanka, enjoying a hot air balloon ride is another bucket-list-worthy activity that will impress you. To do so, you must head to Kandalama. Admire the breathtaking scenery all around and remember to take a photo with the whole family. However, keep in mind that a hot air balloon ride may be a bit too much for toddlers and smaller children.

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      3. Head to Yala West National Park

      To soak in nature during your Sri Lanka family holidays, head to Yala West National Park, which can be found in the Southern and Uva Province of the island. The most exciting part of the park is its wildlife safari. Although Sri Lanka is relatively small, the country has incredible exotic biodiversity. If you look close enough, you might even spot the majestic leopards.

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      4. Take a train ride from Kandy to Ella

      While enjoying the Sri Lanka holidays, don’t miss out on the fantastic opportunity of taking a train ride from Kandy to Ella. Considered one of the most scenic rides in the world, the train journey will take a bit more than 6 hours and will take you through tea plantations, waterfalls, hills, and so much more. This is an incredible experience that allows you to see more of the stunning island. The train runs every day from Colombo fort up to Badulla. 

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      5. Climb the Lion Rock

      Does your family prefer active vacations? Then Sri Lanka is the perfect place to be! Those craving a little challenge will have a blast climbing the Lion Rock in Sigiriya. Since there is so much beauty in the surroundings, your kids won’t even notice the exertion. Although the pathway is manageable for all levels, it may be difficult for little children. However, if you don’t mind using a carrier, you won’t have any problem.

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      6. Enjoy a tuk-tuk ride

      If your kids enjoyed the train ride, they will surely love tuk-tuks. When it comes to family holidays to Sri Lanka, tuk-tuk is an experience that should be on your itinerary. Although tuk-tuks aren’t the best choice for long adventures, they are a fun option for short-distance travel. The unique mode of transport is something you won’t see in many places of the world, so make sure to try it!

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      7. Watch the blue whales

      Sri Lanka is one of the best destinations in the world to spot Blue Whales. So if you are planning your holiday during Christmas or Easter break, you have the fantastic opportunity to see the beautiful animals migrating. Boats take off from Mirissa, and there are many different to choose from, depending on your budget and needs.

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      8. Have a fun-filled beach day

      Of course, Sri Lanka family holidays couldn’t be imaginable without proper beach days. All around the island, you will find stunning places to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, and having fun, but Bentota, Beruwala, and Unawatuna are considered to be child-friendly.

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      9. Spot the island’s birds

      Sri Lanka is home to extraordinary birds in all kinds of colours, sizes, and shapes. Head to Chundikulam National Park to see them up and close. Curlew sandpiper, greater flamingo, Eurasian Coot, Eurasian wigeon are just a few examples of birds you may get to see. Remember to bring your binoculars and learn more about their incredible lives.

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      10. Hike through tea plantations

      Visiting Sri Lanka’s tea estate is one of the best things to do on the island. Learn more about the tea-making process and admire the awe-inspiring surroundings – there is no doubt you and your family will have a great time. And its slow paced with plenty of natural surrounding, ideal for younger kids. 

       

      What Next?

      If you like what you’ve read here about kids friendly activities in Sri Lanka and want to find out more, do get in touch. We are passionate about Sri Lanka and travel is what we do best.  We will listen, explain and answer all sorts of questions you might have and make bespoke suggestions to you for your India holiday. Whatever stage you are at in your Sri Lanka holiday planning, the first discussions are always the most inspiring. Give us a call for a quick chat.