Sri Lanka, a land of lush landscapes and rich history, had always piqued our family’s interest as a travel destination. So, when the opportunity came to embark on a 6-day custom family trip to this enchanting island, we couldn’t resist. Our custom trip promised a mix of cultural exploration, natural wonders, and unforgettable experiences. Join us as I take you through our incredible journey.
Chapter Trail
Day 1 - Negombo
As we stepped off the plane, the warm Sri Lankan air greeted us, and friendly faces from the travel agency welcomed our family at the airport. A short transfer later, and we found ourselves at the exquisite Jetwing Beach in Negombo, our home for the first night. Negombo, known for its beautiful beach and catamaran trips, provided the perfect backdrop to unwind after a long flight.
Day 2 - Dambulla and Habarana
Our second day began with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before we set off for Habarana. Along the way, we made a stop at the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We were mesmerized by the 157 Buddha statues and the vibrant paintings adorning the temple’s walls and ceilings, telling the story of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
Day 3 - Polonnaruwa and Minneriya
Fuelled by a delicious breakfast, we embarked on a cycling tour of Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka. The well-preserved ruins, including the Royal Palace complex and the Gal Vihare complex, transported us back in time.
In the afternoon, we embarked on a thrilling jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, where we had the chance to witness herds of elephants in their natural habitat—an experience that left us in awe of Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
Day 4 - Hiriwaduna and Sigiriya
Day four promised a unique blend of rural Sri Lankan life and historical wonders. We embarked on a three-hour trek through Hiriwaduna village, experiencing the simplicity of life in this picturesque setting, through the help of our local family travel expert for international travel. A catamaran ride on a serene reservoir, tea in a villager’s home, and a ride back on a traditional bullock cart made for unforgettable memories.
In the afternoon, we visited the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage site. The Water Gardens, ancient Frescoes, Mirror Wall, and the breathtaking summit left us in awe of Sigiriya’s past glory.
Day 5 - Kandy
Our journey continued as we left for Kandy after breakfast. A Tuk Tuk ride around the Peradeniya University area introduced us to the city’s charm. We then visited the renowned Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the only surviving relic of Buddha. The rich history of Kandy, the former capital of the Sinhalese kings, came alive as we explored its surroundings.
Day 6 - Departure
As we savored our final Sri Lankan breakfast, a sense of nostalgia set in. It was time to bid farewell to this enchanting country. Our hearts were filled with cherished memories of a custom family trip that had taken us through culture, adventure, and warm hospitality.
Ready For Your Holiday Family Experience in Sri Lanka?
In conclusion, our 6-day family adventure in Sri Lanka was a journey filled with cultural richness, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences. This island nation had left an indelible mark on our hearts, and as we boarded our flight home, we knew one thing for sure – we’d be back to explore more of this “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.”
Plan your next dream trip with one of our hand-picked, highly experienced, licensed, and insured Local In-destination Experts!
