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18 DAYS / 17 NIGHTS Price per person 33,995.00 SEK

Vacation in Sri Lanka with Children – Culture, Nature & Long Beach Holiday

This long, sunshine filled summer journey is created especially for Swedish families, couples and multi-generation travellers escaping the Nordic summer chills for warm beaches, culture, wildlife and relaxed days by the sea.

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THE TOUR IN SHORT

Embark on an unforgettable 18-day journey through the enchanting island of Sri Lanka, perfectly designed for families seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation. This comprehensive tour takes you from the vibrant capital of Colombo to the pristine beaches of Trincomalee, with countless memorable experiences in between.

Discover ancient kingdoms in Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, marvel at the architectural wonder of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and explore sacred sites like the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Your family will encounter majestic elephants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, embark on thrilling wildlife safaris in national parks, and enjoy the cool climate of Nuwara Eliya's tea country.

The adventure continues with exciting water activities including snorkeling at Pigeon Island, dolphin watching, and relaxing on golden beaches. Experience the colonial charm of Galle Fort, witness traditional stilt fishing, and enjoy a scenic boat safari through Madu River's mangrove forests.

Tour Route Map

Tour includes the following

Included in the price of the trip

  • Accommodation for the full trip
  • Daily meals according to your preference
  • 1 Full Board cultural day including a village experience and traditional lunch
  • Private, air conditioned luxury vehicle with English speaking driver guide
  • All parking, fuel, tolls & road taxes
  • Airport meet & greet + assistance
  • Airport transfers (arrival & departure)
  • Drinking water bottles throughout the trip
  • Free SIM card with 5 GB data
  • Covered by the Travel Guarantee Fund
  • GST / VAT / Service Charges included
  • No hidden fees
  • Flight Include
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO)
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Hikkaduwa beach stay
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
Temple of the Tooth (Kandy)
Kandyan Cultural Dance Show
Tea plantation & factory tour
Scenic train journey to Ella (subject to availability)
Beach stays on the East Coast (Nilaveli & Pasikudah)
Yala National Park morning safari
Galle Fort walking visit
Ella sightseeing including Nine Arch Bridge & waterfalls
Home-cooked Sri Lankan lunch in village experience day (Full board day)

Not included

  • Personal expenses, drinks and tips
  • Any cost for optional activities
  • Meals and drinks in addition to those mentioned in the program
  • Cancellation insurance
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa / ETA
  • Vaccinations

Good to Know

We include optional activities in the day by day plan so you can easily see what is possible to experience in each location. You are completely free to choose what you feel like doing on each day — depending on your energy, interests and the weather..

You always travel with your own private driver guide, who is available throughout the journey to help plan your days, give recommendations and arrange the activities you choose. Most entrance tickets and optional experiences are paid directly at the site, which gives you full flexibility and avoids unnecessary costs.

All main visits and experiences listed in the itinerary are included in your package, while additional activities are optional. There are no hidden fees, and you can decide on the spot what you want to see and do. This makes the holiday easier, more relaxed and tailored to your own wishes.

Full detailed itinerary

DAY 1

Flight from Sweden

Your summer escape to Sri Lanka begins as you depart from Sweden and settle in for your long haul flight across Europe and the Indian Ocean. Use the time on board to relax, enjoy the inflight meals and entertainment, and prepare for the warm tropical days ahead. Whether you prefer reading, resting, or planning your upcoming adventure, this overnight journey gently transitions you from Scandinavian summer into the island rhythms of Sri Lanka, where ancient culture, golden beaches, wildlife, and lush landscapes await.

DAY 2

Arrival → Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where your private driver warmly welcomes you to Sri Lanka. After a comfortable transfer to the seaside town of Negombo, check into your hotel and unwind as you adjust to the tropical climate. Negombo’s coastline offers breezy relaxation, lively fish markets, and colonial charm. Spend the rest of the day resting or exploring the area at your own pace before enjoying your first evening on the island, surrounded by palm fringed beaches and coastal atmosphere.

Optional Activities
Sunset beach walk
Light Sri Lankan dinner
Tuk tuk ride around Negombo
DAY 3

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage → Sigiriya

Begin your cultural journey with a visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can watch rescued elephants being fed and bathing in the river, a memorable wildlife experience. Afterwards, continue through scenic countryside to the historic town of Sigiriya, your base for exploring Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by forests and rural charm, preparing for the ancient wonders that await the next day.

Optional Activities
Short village walk
Evening Ayurveda head massage
DAY 4

Sigiriya Rock → Village Cooking (FB Day)

Start your day with a climb of the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and breathtaking summit views. Later, immerse yourself in local village life with an authentic cultural experience that includes a traditional home cooked Sri Lankan lunch. Enjoy your Full Board meals today as you connect with rural communities, taste fresh organic ingredients, and witness traditional cooking techniques passed down through generations.

Optional Activities
Pidurangala sunset hike
wood carving/batik craft shop
Lake boat ride
Bullock cart or tractor ride
cooking class
DAY 5

Ancient Polonnaruwa → Dambulla Cave Temple

Explore two of Sri Lanka’s greatest ancient marvels in one day. Wander through the ruins of Polonnaruwa, once a thriving medieval capital filled with royal palaces, towering stupas, and impressive Buddha statues. Afterwards, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a spectacular UNESCO site featuring centuries old murals and golden statues inside beautifully preserved natural caves. Return to Sigiriya in the evening for a peaceful rest surrounded by nature and cultural history.

Optional Activities
Explore Polonnaruwa by bicycle or tuk tuk
Local lake sunset stop
Village spice shop visit
DAY 6

Sigiriya → Nilaveli (Trincomalee East Coast)

Leave the Cultural Triangle behind and journey toward Sri Lanka’s stunning East Coast. Arrive at Nilaveli, a quiet tropical paradise known for its wide beaches, warm waters, and calm ambiance. Check into your beachside hotel and enjoy the slow pace of coastal life. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the sea or exploring the serene shoreline as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean — your perfect introduction to Sri Lanka’s east coast charm.

Optional Activities
Evening beach walk
Ayurveda foot massage
DAY 7

Nilaveli Beach Day

Spend the day soaking up the sun on Nilaveli’s broad, golden beach. The calm, shallow sea is ideal for swimming, relaxing, or simply enjoying the peaceful coastal environment. If you wish to explore more, the nearby Pigeon Island National Park offers excellent snorkeling opportunities, while Trincomalee provides cultural sights and colourful local markets. Enjoy the laid back rhythm of the East Coast, where warm weather and gentle ocean waves create the perfect beach day.

Optional Activities
Snorkelling at Pigeon Island (seasonal)
Trincomalee Fish Market (morning)
Koneswaram Temple viewpoint
DAY 8

Nilaveli Snorkelling & Fishing Beach Scenes

Enjoy another slow-paced day in Nilaveli with optional adventures that bring you closer to local culture and nature. Start your morning by watching fishermen return with their catch, or join a seasonal dolphin or whale watching excursion. Spend the rest of the day swimming, relaxing on the beach, or choosing a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. This day offers a beautiful mix of coastal scenery, marine life, and authentic Sri Lankan traditions.

Optional Activities
Local fishermen's morning beach landing
Dolphin/whale watching (seasonal)
Ayurvedic relaxation massage
DAY 9

Nilaveli → Pasikudah

Travel along Sri Lanka’s scenic eastern coastline toward Pasikudah, a bay famous for having some of the island’s warmest and shallowest waters. Upon arrival, check into your beach hotel and enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the lagoon-like sea. Pasikudah is perfect for swimming, relaxing, and reconnecting with nature. End your day with a calm seaside atmosphere, making it an ideal location for rest and rejuvenation.

Optional Activities
Sunset swim in the lagoon
Beach walk
DAY 10

Pasikudah – Ayurveda & Beach Relaxation

Ease into a slower rhythm as you enjoy a full day of rest in Pasikudah. This quiet coastal haven is ideal for wellness, offering soothing Ayurvedic treatments such as full body massages, herbal therapies, or Shirodhara. For those who enjoy gentle adventure, kayaking and paddleboarding provide a fun way to explore the bay’s clear waters. Whether you choose wellness or relaxation, Pasikudah promises tranquillity from sunrise to sunset.

Optional Activities
Ayurvedic full-body massage, herbal steam or Shirodhara
Kayaking or stand-up paddling
Fishing beach visit (early morning)
DAY 11

Pasikudah Beach Day

Spend another relaxing day by Pasikudah’s turquoise shoreline. Enjoy warm waters, soft sands, and a quiet beach atmosphere perfect for reading, swimming, or sunbathing. Optional experiences include a scenic boat ride, a visit to the nearby village to experience local culture, or an extra spa session for complete relaxation. This calm coastal setting provides the ideal break before heading back inland to Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Optional Activities
Boat ride along the bay
Village visit
Extra spa treatment
DAY 12

Pasikudah → Kandy

Travel inland from the coast to the cultural capital of Kandy, nestled among misty hills. Once you arrive, settle into your hotel and enjoy the cooler climate and lush surroundings. Spend your afternoon unwinding with a gentle walk around the famous Kandy Lake or simply relaxing at a local café. This historic city, home to the Temple of the Tooth, offers a beautiful blend of tradition, scenery, and laid back charm.

Optional Activities
Kandy Lake walk
Tea/coffee at a local café
DAY 13

Kandy City & Temple of the Tooth

Begin your day by visiting the sacred Temple of the Tooth, one of the most important religious sites for Buddhists around the world. Afterwards, explore Kandy’s vibrant streets, markets, and lakeside paths. In the evening, watch a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show featuring graceful movements, rhythmic drums, and colorful costumes. Optional visits to the Botanical Gardens or gem workshops offer even more insight into Kandy’s rich heritage.

Optional Activities
Botanical Gardens (very beautiful & peaceful)
Gem/art workshops
DAY 14

Kandy → Tea Country → Scenic Train → Ella

Travel through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands toward its world famous tea country. Visit a working tea factory to learn how Ceylon tea is produced, from leaf to cup. Then board the scenic train to Ella, widely considered one of the most beautiful train journeys on earth, passing waterfalls, valleys, and emerald green slopes. Arrive in the charming hill town of Ella and enjoy its cool climate and relaxed vibe.

Optional Activities
Tea tasting
Evening walk in Ella
DAY 15

Ella – Views, Waterfalls & Nature

Discover the natural beauty of Ella, starting with the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and its surrounding viewpoints. Visit waterfalls, enjoy scenic walks, or simply take in the fresh mountain air. For extra adventure, an easy hike to Little Adam’s Peak offers spectacular panoramas. You can also join a cooking class or book a spa treatment to unwind in the peaceful highlands. Ella combines adventure, scenery, and relaxation perfectly.

Optional Activities
Easy walk up Little Adam's Peak
Cooking class in Ella
Spa or massage
DAY 16

Ella → Yala

Journey from the mountains down to Sri Lanka’s wild southeast as you head toward Yala National Park. Check into your lodge and spend the afternoon relaxing in nature. The area surrounding Yala is rich in wildlife, and some lodges offer evening presentations or guided nature walks. Prepare for your upcoming safari experience while enjoying the quiet wilderness atmosphere and the sounds of the surrounding forest.

Optional Activities
Nature walk (if available)
Wildlife presentation
DAY 17

Yala Safari → Hikkaduwa

Begin your day with an early morning jeep safari through Yala National Park, home to elephants, crocodiles, vibrant birdlife, and one of the world’s highest densities of leopards. After this thrilling wildlife experience, continue your journey to the lively coastal town of Hikkaduwa. Upon arrival, unwind on the beach, explore local seafood restaurants, or enjoy a relaxing massage by the sea as the sun sets.

Optional Activities
Sunset beach walk
Seafood dinner
Ayurvedic sunset massage
DAY 18

Hikkaduwa Beach Day → Airport

Enjoy your final day in Sri Lanka with a relaxed morning by the beach in Hikkaduwa. Depending on your flight schedule, you may visit the fish market, snorkel near the coral sanctuary, or explore Colombo for a quick street food experience. Later, your driver will transfer you to the airport, bringing your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s beaches, mountains, wildlife, and culture to a comfortable close.

Optional Activities
Fish market visit
Snorkeling near coral sanctuary
Quick street food experience in Colombo
Colombo city drive & street food stop (if time allows)