It’s important that you create memories as a family, and a big part of your family is your little ones. Although, you might think that travelling with children could be stressful and worrisome, it all depends on what the destination is and how well you plan the trip. Sri Lanka is a popular tourist destination for people of all ages, because the little paradise island has a lot to offer for all groups. Children in particular would enjoy their stay in the country, because it is bound to be a new experience that they will treasure for the rest of their lives.
Step out of the habit of visiting Disneyland every year, and take your children to Sri Lanka, to help them grow into well-balanced adults who appreciate culture, history, nature and adventure.
What to Pack:
If you are hoping to visit Sri Lanka, plan ahead since children require separate visas and it could take some time to complete the procedure. Once you get that settled, make a list of other essentials your kids are bound to need during your stay in Sri Lanka. Mosquito repellents are a must, since the children could carry the risk of being exposed to dengue. You should also pack sunscreen, medicine, and their favorite snacks. It’s always best to opt for cotton clothing, since Sri Lanka could get hot and humid, but make sure to throw in a jacket, scarf, raincoat, boots and caps if you’re planning on covering the hillside and the wilderness of the country as well. Most of the essentials you might need are available in supermarkets in Sri Lanka, so don’t stress too much about it.
Accommodation:
The degree to which your children will enjoy their vacation in Sri Lanka, depends a great deal on where you decide to stay. If you are here for a short stay and plan to mainly stick to the urban areas, we suggest you book a place that is close to the airport, since the travel fatigue on your little ones would be considerably low. If you intend to visit the more rustic, rural, adventurous, and unique places, it is always best to book an AirBnb to get that homely feel that the children will crave, or stay at a locally owned resort. That way, the children would get to experience the local lifestyle of Sri Lanka at its finest, and it would be a more immersive experience. It would also be much easier your wallet.
Food:
Ceylonese gastronomy is a culinary experience that no one should miss out on. While the food can be a little on the spicy side for your kids, don’t worry. Sri Lankans are a friendly and hospitable bunch who would love nothing more than to make others happy. Chances are, they will recommend food that would be easy on your children’s palate or even personalize it for them. Some of the traditional Sri Lankan dishes that you can enjoy as a family are hoppers, pittu, milk rice, and rotti. Introduce your kids to the wonderful world that is Sri Lankan sweets, and they will munch on goodies like milk toffees, pani walalu, dodol, and pancakes all day long. This is also the perfect opportunity to get them to taste tropical fruits like a variety of mangos, papaya, pineapple and guava. Their eyes would be open to experimenting and appreciating new cultures.
Where to Visit:
Sri Lanka is a small island, but it contains many attractions that would be interesting to children and adults alike. Pinnawala Elephant Orphange where you could feed elephants and watch them frolic during bath time is considered to be a favorite among everyone. Some of the other places that your children in particular would enjoy are turtle hatcheries, historical sites including Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Kandy, and hot water wells. We highly recommend that you book a family safari ride at a national park such as Yala, Wilpattu or Minneriya since the wildlife in Sri Lanka is truly like no other. You should also not miss out on the chance to enjoy time on the beach, since Sri Lanka is primarily known for the golden sand the clear waters. Kids love the beach, so this could even be the highlight of their vacation!
Photos sourced from Patty Ho, Amila Tennakoon, and Michael Shehan Obeysekara
