Ceylon’s Hidden Gems

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your Lush Country Expeditions representative. Transfer to a comfortable, family-friendly hotel in Negombo. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or beach, recovering from your journey. Optional evening activities include a gentle stroll along Negombo Lagoon, visiting local markets, or enjoying a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Start the day exploring Negombo’s colonial-era canals, colorful fish markets, and bustling streets. Then, embark on a scenic drive to Sigiriya, passing verdant rice paddies and traditional villages. In the evening, participate in an interactive village experience with bullock cart rides and hands-on traditional cooking demonstrations, giving children and adults alike a taste of rural life.

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, marveling at the 5th-century frescoes, Mirror Wall inscriptions, and the ruins of the royal palace. After lunch, continue to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, exploring ancient temples, monumental statues, and serene gardens. Expect playful encounters with monkeys and informative storytelling about the kingdom’s rich history.

Drive to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, home to towering stupas, Bodhi trees, and centuries-old monasteries. Later, venture into Minneriya National Park for an exciting jeep safari, keeping an eye out for elephants, water buffalo, and native bird species. Guides provide interactive commentary, perfect for curious young minds.

On the way to Kandy, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, with its intricate Buddha statues and murals. Stop at a spice garden where children can touch, smell, and learn about exotic plants, spices, and herbs. Arrive in Kandy and check into a comfortable boutique hotel. Evening at leisure.

Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites. Stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, exploring exotic flora and giant trees. Browse local markets for gems, woodcraft, and souvenirs. End the day with a vibrant cultural dance performance showcasing traditional Kandyan drumming and costumes.

Journey to the scenic highlands and tour a working tea plantation and factory. Children and adults alike can learn about tea processing and sample fresh Ceylon tea. Explore Nuwara Eliya’s colonial-era town and picturesque Gregory Lake, enjoying a leisurely afternoon in cool mountain air.

Take a morning hike to World’s End, spotting sambar deer, exotic birds, and unique flora along the trail. Enjoy sweeping vistas of misty valleys below. Afternoon at leisure to relax in the cool highland climate or explore nearby waterfalls and nature trails.

Board the iconic hill country train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, passing rolling tea estates, misty hills, and cascading waterfalls. Upon arrival, settle into a boutique guesthouse and explore the charming town, with options for gentle hikes or a leisurely evening enjoying local cafés.

Drive south to Yala National Park, home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and myriad bird species. Participate in an afternoon jeep safari led by experienced guides, offering a mix of adventure and wildlife education suitable for the whole family. Overnight at a comfortable eco-lodge near the park.

Transfer to the southern coast for a three-day beach stay in Galle. Enjoy a combination of relaxation and family activities:

• Excursion 01: Boat ride along the Madu River, exploring mangroves and enjoying fish therapy.
• Excursion 02: Visit a turtle hatchery and learn about marine conservation efforts.
• Excursion 03: Participate in family-friendly water sports on the Bentota River, including kayaking and paddleboarding. Afternoons can be spent lounging on golden beaches, swimming, or exploring coastal villages.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a brief city tour of Colombo, visiting key landmarks, local markets, or shopping for souvenirs. Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure, concluding a rich, educational, and fun-filled family journey through Sri Lanka.