5 Child-Friendly Adventures In Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has been listed as one of the safest countries to visit post-covid19, by the World Travel and Tourism Council.
Sri Lanka has countless child-friendly activities on offer from wandering around the ancient Galle Fort to going on an ocean safari in the gorgeous Indian Ocean or exploring the country’s lush green hills, there are a multitude of ways to keep your children entertained on this tropical island. The country is just enough, making it easy to navigate and travel, but large enough that you won’t feel bored!
Here are 5 child-friendly excursions that your kids will enjoy.
1. Visit A Turtle Hatchery
📷 Drew Farwell
The island is bursting at the seams with wildlife. Deep within its jungles dwell creatures large and small, from elephants to endemic frog species, this emerald island is certainly a haven for wildlife. However, its amber coastlines also host some interesting animals including five out of the seven species of sea turtles who frequently visit the island. Kosgoda is a small town that is wedged between Bentota and Hikkaduwa and is a major nesting site for these sea creatures.
Visit a sea turtle hatchery which can be found all along Kosgoda beach, learn about their conservation efforts and release baby sea turtles into the ocean.
2. Wander Through Galle Fort
Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588, the Galle Fort has passed through many hands and weathered many storms but has remained unchanged since. Like most forts in Sri Lanka, although the Portuguese first built them, the Dutch fortified them, which is why most of the buildings within the fort are reminiscent of Dutch architecture.
Walk along the cobbled streets of the fort under the shade of century old trees and enjoy a meal at one of the old Dutch houses which have been converted into restaurants and hotels. Kids will enjoy the different Sri Lankan knick knacks which can be found in the souvenir shops around the fort. Be sure to watch the sunset from the ramparts.
3. Go On An Ocean Safari
An hour’s drive from Galle will take you to the town of Mirissa which is famous for one thing in particular: Whales. Between November and April, the giants of the ocean make their way to the warm waters of Mirissa. During this time you will be able to see different species of whales including blue whales, sperm whales and occasionally killer whales. Also, not only will you be treated by these magnificent creatures, but you will also get to see pods of dolphins swimming alongside you. These playful creatures will certainly entertain you during your boat ride and are sure to be a fan favourite amongst the kids.
4. Kayak On Castlereagh Lake
📷 resplendentceylon.com
Another great family excursion is kayaking along the aquamarine waters of the Castlereagh Lake. Situated in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, the lake is encircled by large tea-covered mountains which loom over the water making you feel rather small. This region is cooler than the rest of the island making it ideal for outdoor activities.
You can kayak along the cool blue waters of Castlereagh Lake between 6 am and 6 pm. To enrich your kayaking experience, be sure to go with a guide who will provide you with all the details regarding the endemic flora and fauna surrounding the lake. While you’re in the region, some other fun family-friendly activities include hiking through Horton Plains National Park and visiting an iconic Ceylon tea factory.
5. See Some Elephants
Your Sri Lankan tour would be incomplete if you don’t see some elephants. The island has 26 national parks and these gentle creatures reside in most of these parks. However, one of the best places to observe elephants in the wild is Udawalawe National Park. The park is located on the south-east region of the island and consists of wide flat grassy plains which are perfect to watch grazing elephants. There are about 250 elephants that reside within the park and so you are almost guaranteed to see these giants.
There are a whole host of child-friendly excursions in Sri Lanka and this list barely scratches the surface. Need help planning your holiday? Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka will curate your own family adventure across the country. Contact us today.
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