6 Fantastic Activities for a Sri Lanka Family Vacation

The South Asian island of Sri Lanka is brimming with diverse culture, rich history, and spectacular wildlife. This off-the-beaten-path location also features unparalleled experiences and stunning landscapes, making it the ideal spot for an adventurous family getaway. If you’re looking for an exceptional experience, this location is a must-visit spot. 

What might a Sri Lanka family vacation look like? Keep reading as we explore some of our top activities for families on the go. 

1. Kanneliya Rainforest Hike Experience

Imagine exploring the verdant Kanneliya Rainforest during a hiking experience. Besides scoping out animals and getting a feel for this paradisiacal location, your family will also enjoy the chance to discover an ancient temple, tour a tea estate, and explore a forest monastery. When not hiking, a vintage car will take you from location to location.

Next up on your family trip to Sri Lanka itinerary? Head to a local home for a delectable taste of Sri Lankan cuisine. Your family will experience Sri Lankan hospitality firsthand while exploring new flavors and dishes. You’ll also have the chance to try your hands at crafting some of the nation’s tastiest and most iconic dishes. 

2. Mask Carving and Painting Workshop

Meaningful family trips include experiencing culture through the eyes of local artisans. When it comes to a Sri Lanka tour, one of the best ways to do this is by learning how to carve a traditional mask with the help of a celebrated mask-carving artist from Ambalangoda. 

Why Ambalangoda? This destination is situated on the southern part of the island and is known for its intricate and traditional mask-making techniques. The workshop takes place at the Sri Sudharmalaya Buddhist Temple (The Galle Fort Temple), which comes with its unique and tranquil ambiance. 

During the workshop, you and your kids will gain insight into traditional methods of mask carving, which have been practiced and perfected through generations. And you’ll enjoy opportunities to purchase and ship a mask stateside, a truly special souvenir. 

3. Mountain and Waterfall Hike With a Naturalist

Experience the wild side of Sri Lanka and savor views and experiences that few tourists get to explore on a mountain and waterfall hike with a naturalist. This expedition will take you to the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for some of the most adventurous trekking paths on the island.

Bring a change of clothes because plenty of natural waterfalls will call your name. Your guide and naturalist will bring this incredible destination to life through their educated insights. Moreover, they’ll provide a packed lunch, leech socks, and everything else you need for an educational, hands-on, family-friendly journey. 

4. A Day in the Life of a Monk

One of the best parts about exploring a new country is delving into its culture and spirituality. In Sri Lanka, this involves serving lunch to Buddhist monks. By law, monks must cook their own meals. As a result, providing food to these spiritual leaders is seen as a great blessing and honor. 

After the meal, your family will listen to monks talk about their way of life, providing you with the inside scoop on Sri Lankan beliefs and practices. Next, head to a local ancient temple to check out age-old murals. A local from Kandy will be your host for the day, fielding your questions and providing your family with a wealth of information about the nation’s spiritual life and traditions.

5. Food Tour in Colombo

No trip to Sri Lanka would be complete without delving into the flavors of the nation. You’ll soon find that food culture in this part of the world is very diverse. It requires an adventurous palate and a willingness to explore new flavors and ways of eating. 

The pickiest eaters might feel a bit challenged by this experience. But we don’t know many kids that won’t get behind the chance to eat the way locals do — using their hands. Your family will enjoy the opportunity to try a selection of local delicacies, only found in this part of the world. 

These are seasonal foods, so they change throughout the year. The selection of eats and treats is also based on providing your family with the most comprehensive selection of food options. So, your meal will be based on what you have yet to try. Get ready for a culinary adventure like none other! 

6. Spice Things Up With a Cinnamon Experience

Did you know Sri Lanka once exported 95% of the world’s cinnamon supply? Ceylon cinnamon is native to the island and used to be an incredibly expensive export. Although the spice is far more common (and less pricey today), learning about its cultivation is an excellent way to spice up a family vacation. 

Today, cinnamon harvesting takes place from June to December, and a visit to a plantation offers a rich look into this agricultural tradition. During a tour, you’ll see how the cinnamon trees are harvested by peeling the bark of the tree. And you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of what constitutes high-quality cinnamon. 

After your tour, savor a meal with the plantation owner, replete with regional flavors and specialties. As you can see, there will be plenty of yummy things to sink your teeth into during Sri Lanka travel!

Sri Lanka Family Vacation

Endless adventure awaits you and your kids on a Sri Lanka family vacation. This incredible island is incredibly biodiverse and boasts a rich history and culture. Your family will fall in love with the exotic flavors of Sri Lanka as you explore stunning landscapes and get a feel for this fantastic location. 

Let us help you make your next family vacation truly unforgettable! We can design the perfect itinerary based on your family members’ ages and interests. From our local connections to travel know-how, we’ll ensure you enjoy the best accommodations and an itinerary filled with independent exploration, hands-on experiences, and unique tours.

Let’s chat!