How to Plan a Family Trip to Sri Lanka

The Indian Ocean archipelago, Sri Lanka, is one of the most visited family holiday destinations in the world. The country offers a slew of things to do and see. All over the country are ancient sites, national parks, sanctuaries and beaches. The diverse landscape is one of the key highlights and a huge draw for tourists. From tropical beaches to rainforests to mountains, Sri Lanka has a variety of attractions.

1. The best time to visit

You can visit Sri Lanka at any time, but the time of your visit will determine whether or not you can visit certain places. The country has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Visiting during the dry season is best if you want to spot wildlife. The dry season usually runs from November to May, and the rainy season runs from May to October.

2. Accommodation

Sri Lanka gives you a wide range of accommodation options. From budget to mid-range to luxury hotels, you can find every type of accommodation here. Do some online research and read customer reviews to find the best hotels in Sri Lanka. There are numerous accommodation providers, and Araliya Hotels & Resorts is among them. Take a look at your budget before picking a hotel, also keep in mind that choosing the right type of accommodation is important as you are travelling with your family.

3. Visa

You need to get a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Getting a Sri Lankan visa is nothing complicated; you can register online and get the visa once at the airport. This is a straightforward process; all you have to do is fill out the online application and wait for the confirmation; the confirmation usually arrives within a 24-hour window.

4. What to pack

When packing for Sri Lanka, remember that this is a tropical destination – you also need to think about the culture. If you are planning to visit religious sites, pack some modest clothing, this means that you need clothes that cover your arms and legs. You are supposed to remove your hat or cap before entering the temples. Sri Lanka has a very warm climate, and you will need some light clothes. Bring a good sunscreen as the sun rays here are unforgiving. However, if you want to visit a place like Nuwara Eliya, you need winter-appropriate clothing.

5. Experience Colombo

The capital city of Sri Lanka has a lot to offer. Colombo rewards its visitors with a range of attractions, from newer creations like the Lotus Tower to the historically and culturally significant National Museum. Galle Face Green is another place you should consider visiting. Colombo is also renowned for its street food scene.

6. Visit national parks

Sri Lanka has several national parks. Yala National Park, for example, is one of the must-visit places here. The park is known for its leopard population. Minneriya National Park is another national park you can visit with your family – this is where you can sight the largest number of elephants in one place.

7. Experience the cooler climate

Nuwara Eliya is one of the delightful places to be visited in Sri Lanka. It offers a unique set of attractions. The mountainous landscape scattered with tea plantations is a delight, and the tea factories offer educational tours. Pedro Tea Estate, in particular, is a must-visit. This is one of the largest estates found in the country with a colonial touch. Taking a boat ride on Gregory Lake is another exciting things offered by Nuwara Eliya. Among other attractions found here are Victoria Park, Adam Agro Park, Ambewela Farm and St Clair's Falls.