Sri Lanka is a wonderful country for family vacations. It is a small island, but it has everything a family could ask for - beautiful beaches, green mountains, exciting wildlife, and rich history. Whether you love nature, adventure, or culture, Sri Lanka has something special for everyone.
For families with kids, there are many places to explore. You can visit elephant orphanages, national parks, and turtle hatcheries to see animals up close. If your family enjoys history and culture, you can explore ancient temples, colonial forts, and colorful festivals. For fun and relaxation, Sri Lanka has amazing beaches where you can swim, build sandcastles, or take a boat ride.
Another great thing about Sri Lanka is its friendly people. The country is known for its warm hospitality, and families traveling with children feel safe and welcomed. There are many family-friendly hotels and resorts with play areas, pools, and activities for kids. The food is also delicious, with options for every taste, including rice, curry, fresh fruits, and snacks like hoppers.
Sri Lanka has good roads and transport, making it easy to travel between cities and attractions. Whether you want to ride a train through tea plantations, go on a safari, or visit a cool hill station, everything is just a few hours away. Confused about documents? Learn if youneed a passport for Sri Lanka travel.
In this guide, we will explore the top 15 places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. These destinations offer the perfect mix of fun, learning, and adventure for an unforgettable family trip!
15 Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka with FamilyÂ
Galle Dutch Fort
Galle Dutch Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best family-friendly attractions in Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, this historic fort offers a mix of European and Sri Lankan culture. Families can walk along the fort’s walls, visit museums, explore charming cafes, and shop for souvenirs. The fort also has beautiful sunset views over the ocean, making it a perfect place for an evening stroll. The Galle Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Sri Lanka, is a great spot for photos. Kids will love exploring the ancient tunnels and watching street performances. The cobbled streets, boutique shops, and colonial architecture make Galle Dutch Fort a must-visit for every traveler.
Popular Activities:
Walk along the fort walls and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Visit the Galle Lighthouse for stunning views.
Explore museums and historical buildings.
Highlight: A well-preserved colonial fort with stunning sea views and charming streets.
Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage
Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is one of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka with family to see elephants up close. It is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured elephants, providing them with care and protection. Families can watch baby elephants being bottle-fed and see adult elephants bathing in the river. Visitors can also learn about elephant conservation and how the center helps in their rehabilitation. The orphanage has a peaceful, natural setting with lush greenery, making it a great place for kids to enjoy nature. There are also viewing platforms where visitors can take pictures and observe the elephants in their natural behavior. It is a fun and educational experience for families.
Popular Activities:
Watch baby elephants being bottle-fed.
See elephants bathing in the river.
Learn about elephant conservation.
Highlight: A rescue center where families can watch elephants being fed and bathed.
Sea Turtle Hatchery
The Sea Turtle Hatchery is a great place for families to learn about sea turtles and their conservation. These centers rescue and protect injured, sick, or endangered turtles. Families can see different types of sea turtles, including green turtles, hawksbill turtles, and leatherback turtles. The hatchery staff explains the importance of protecting turtle eggs and releasing baby turtles safely into the ocean. Visitors may even get a chance to help release baby turtles into the sea. The hatcheries also take care of turtles that are unable to survive in the wild, ensuring their safety. This is a wonderful place for kids to connect with nature and understand the importance of wildlife conservation.
Popular Activities:
See baby turtles before they are released into the sea.
Learn about turtle conservation efforts.
Watch the rescued turtles being taken care of.
Highlight: A conservation center where families can see baby turtles before they are released into the sea.
Galle Face Green
Galle Face Green is a large oceanfront park in Colombo, perfect for a relaxing evening with family. This lively place is filled with street food stalls, kite flyers, and families enjoying the sea breeze. Children can run around freely, play games, or fly kites, while parents can enjoy stunning sunset views over the Indian Ocean. It is also a great place to try local street food like isso wade (prawn fritters), kottu roti, and fresh king coconut. The park is surrounded by important landmarks like the Galle Face Hotel and the World Trade Center, making it a must-visit spot in Colombo. Families love visiting in the evening when the area becomes lively with music, performances, and cultural activities.
Popular Activities:
Fly kites and play on the open lawn.
Enjoy delicious Sri Lankan street food.
Watch the sunset by the ocean.
Highlight: A lively beachfront park where families can enjoy local street food and kite flying.
Manawari Temple
Manawari Temple is among the beautiful places to visit in Sri lanka with family. It is a Hindu temple in Chilaw, known for its spiritual importance. It is believed to be one of the first places where Lord Rama prayed after his battle with Ravana. The temple has stunning carvings, colorful statues, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place for families to learn about Sri Lanka’s Hindu culture. Devotees visit the temple to seek blessings and participate in religious rituals. The temple grounds are calm and quiet, offering a perfect place for meditation and prayer. Families can also explore the nearby Munneswaram Temple, another important Hindu site.
Popular Activities:
Explore the beautifully decorated temple.
Participate in Hindu religious ceremonies.
Learn about the connection between the temple and the Ramayana.
Highlight: A sacred Hindu temple believed to be visited by Lord Rama, offering peace and spirituality.
Udawalawe National Park
Udawalawe National Park is a fantastic place for families to see wild animals in their natural habitat. The park is famous for its large population of elephants, and visitors can go on a jeep safari to spot these majestic creatures up close. Along with elephants, the park is home to leopards, crocodiles, deer, water buffalo, and many species of birds. The landscape of Udawalawe is stunning, with open grasslands, rivers, and small forests. Families will love the excitement of a safari adventure, making it a memorable experience for kids and adults alike.
Popular Activities:
Go on a thrilling jeep safari.
Spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.
Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home.
Highlight: A wildlife park famous for its elephant population, offering exciting safaris for families.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is an ancient rock fortress and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Families can climb to the top of this massive rock and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. The fortress was built by King Kasyapa in the 5th century, and visitors can see beautiful frescoes, ancient gardens, and the famous Lion’s Paw entrance. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous landmarks, making it a must-visit for travelers. The climb has around 1,200 steps, so it’s an adventure for kids and adults alike. The historical and architectural beauty of Sigiriya makes it an amazing family-friendly destination.
Popular Activities:
Climb to the top and enjoy the stunning view.
Explore the ancient gardens and frescoes.
Visit the Sigiriya Museum to learn about its history.
Highlight: An ancient rock fortress with beautiful views, gardens, and historic ruins.
Thirukoneswaram Temple
Thirukoneswaram Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Trincomalee, located on a cliff overlooking the ocean. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple has beautiful carvings, colorful statues, and a peaceful environment. Families visiting can enjoy the breathtaking sea views, explore the sacred shrine, and learn about the history and legends of the temple. It is also known as the Temple of a Thousand Pillars and has a strong connection to the Ramayana epic. The nearby Lovers' Leap viewpoint offers an amazing spot to take family photos.
Popular Activities:
Offer prayers and participate in temple rituals.
Enjoy stunning ocean views from the temple.
Visit Lovers’ Leap for scenic views.
Highlight: A sacred Hindu temple on a cliff with breathtaking sea views and spiritual significance.
Beira Lake is a beautiful lake in Colombo, surrounded by greenery and peaceful walkways. Families can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, visit the famous Seema Malaka Temple on the water, and feed the fish and birds. The lake is a perfect spot for a calm evening walk or a fun outing and is known as one of the amazing places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. It is also a great place to see lotus flowers and turtles. The illuminated view of the lake at night is stunning and makes for a lovely family experience.
Popular Activities:
Take a boat ride around the lake.
Visit the floating Seema Malaka Temple.
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lake.
Highlight: A scenic lake in Colombo with boat rides, wildlife, and a floating temple.
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. It has over 150 Buddha statues and beautiful cave paintings. Families can explore the five caves, each filled with ancient Buddhist artwork. The temple is located on a small hill, and the walk to the entrance offers great views of the surrounding countryside. Kids will enjoy seeing the huge golden Buddha statue at the base of the temple. This is a great place for families to learn about Buddhist history and culture.
Popular Activities:
Explore the ancient caves filled with Buddhist paintings.
See the large Golden Buddha statue.
Enjoy panoramic views from the temple.
Highlight: A historic cave temple with stunning Buddha statues and paintings.
Yala National Park
Yala National Park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for a wildlife safari. It is famous for having the highest density of leopards in the world. Families can take an exciting jeep safari to see leopards, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, and many birds. The park has beautiful landscapes with forests, grasslands, and lakes. Children will love the adventure of spotting wild animals in their natural habitat. Yala is a must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Popular Activities:
Go on a thrilling jeep safari.
Spot leopards, elephants, and exotic birds.
Enjoy the scenic beauty of the park.
Highlight: A top wildlife park where families can see leopards and elephants on a safari.
Peradeniya Gardens
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, located near Kandy, is the largest and most beautiful garden in Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. It has over 4,000 species of plants, including huge palm trees, colorful orchids, and spice gardens. Families can walk along the beautiful paths, have a picnic, and explore the giant Javan fig tree. Kids will love watching the monkeys and butterflies in the garden. It is a peaceful place to relax and enjoy nature.
Popular Activities:
Walk through the stunning gardens.
See rare orchids and giant palm trees.
Watch playful monkeys and birds.
Highlight: A peaceful garden in Kandy with beautiful trees, flowers, and wildlife.
Colombo
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern attractions and cultural sites. Families can visit Galle Face Green for a fun evening, explore Beira Lake, or enjoy shopping at Pettah Market. The city has many temples, museums, and parks for a great family experience. The National Museum is a great place to learn about Sri Lanka’s history. Families can also enjoy a relaxing beachside meal at Mount Lavinia Beach.
Popular Activities:
Visit Galle Face Green and Beira Lake.
Explore the National Museum and local markets.
Enjoy delicious Sri Lankan food in the city.
Highlight: A lively city with parks, temples, shopping, and great food.
Negombo
Negombo is a coastal town near Colombo, famous for its beaches and fishing industry. Families can relax on the sandy beaches, visit the Dutch Canal, and explore Negombo Lagoon. The town has beautiful churches, seafood restaurants, and a lively fish market. Families can enjoy a boat ride in the lagoon and see colorful birds and mangrove forests. It is a great place to unwind before or after a trip.
Popular Activities:
Relax on Negombo Beach.
Take a boat ride in Negombo Lagoon.
Explore the Dutch Canal and local markets.
Highlight: A charming coastal town with beaches, seafood, and boat rides.
Kandy
Kandy is a beautiful city surrounded by hills, known for its rich culture and history. This place is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka with family. The city is home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site. Families can enjoy a boat ride on Kandy Lake, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, and explore the Cultural Dance Show. The Esala Perahera festival, held in July/August, is a great time to visit. Kandy is a great mix of nature, history, and tradition.
Popular Activities:
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Take a boat ride on Kandy Lake.
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Highlight: A historic city with temples, gardens, and cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit Sri Lanka with Family
Sri Lanka is a beautiful country that families can visit any time of the year. However, the best time depends on the weather and festivals. The country has two monsoon seasons, so planning the trip at the right time is important for a fun and comfortable vacation.
The best time to visit the west and south coasts (Colombo, Galle, Bentota, and Mirissa) is from December to April. During these months, the weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor fun.
The best time to visit the east coast (Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, and Batticaloa) is from May to September. The weather is dry and sunny, making it a great time for water sports and family beach trips.
Families who love festivals and cultural experiences can visit during April for the Sinhala and Tamil New Year, which is full of fun traditions. July and August are special months for the Kandy Esala Perahera, a grand festival with elephants, dancers, and colorful parades.
For wildlife lovers, the best time for a safari in Yala National Park is from February to June, when animals are easier to spot.
Planning your trip based on the season will help your family have the best experience in Sri Lanka!
Sri Lanka is a treasure for family vacations, offering beaches, wildlife, history, and culture all in one island. From exploring ancient forts and temples to enjoying safaris and beach fun, every family member will find something to love here. With friendly locals, safe travel, and plenty of family-friendly stays, Sri Lanka makes every trip memorable. To make your journey even smoother, Travelfika offers specially designed Sri Lanka tour packages that cover the best family-friendly destinations. Choose the right package and let Travelfika plan your perfect holiday for unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
IND: +91 9629929970
USA: +1 (415) 718-2654
