1. Panama City, Panama

2. New York City, USA

3. Danube River Cruise, Europe

4. Tokyo, Japan

5. Paris, France

6. Santorini, Greece

7. Reykjavik, Iceland

8. Lisbon, Portugal

9. Bali, Indonesia

10. Edinburgh, Scotland

11. Cruising the Caribbean

12. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, which makes it ideal for the mother-daughter duo who can never decide between “go, go, go” and “sit by the beach all day.” Explore the tea plantations, visit the ancient city of Sigiriya, and if you’re both feeling brave, head on a safari in one of the country’s lush national parks.

• Stay: Cape Weligama – A luxury resort with infinity pools that scream, “Instagram me.”
• Eat: Ministry of Crab in Colombo for the freshest seafood. Eden might not care, but you will.
• Do: Go on a safari in Yala National Park. Leopards, elephants, and…bonding time, in the wild!

Highlight: Taking a scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella. The views of the rolling hills and tea estates will make both of you forget about Wi-Fi for at least a minute.

13. Ireland

If rolling green hills, castles straight out of a fairytale, and pubs with live music sound like your idea of heaven, then Ireland is the ultimate mother-daughter trip. Plus, the locals are so friendly you’ll leave convinced you have at least three new cousins.

• Do: Cliffs of Moher – Because no trip to Ireland is complete without standing on the edge of a cliff, wind whipping your hair into a bird’s nest, and yelling “I’m the queen of the world!”
• Stay: Castle Leslie – Because nothing says “quality mother-daughter bonding” like pretending you’re royalty while someone else brings you tea in a literal castle.
• Eat: Chapter One in Dublin – Michelin-star dining with modern Irish cuisine. You’ll feel fancy while still pretending you know what half the ingredients are.

No matter where you go, the secret to the perfect mother-daughter trip isn’t in the destination—it’s in those moments when you look at each other, laugh, and say, “Can you believe we actually did this?” And if all else fails, there’s always shopping.

The post 13 Best Mother-Daughter Trips Around the World appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Whether your tween is obsessed with anime or your teen won’t look up from TikTok unless there’s a view worth filming, this guide to the best places in Asia for teens and tweens will make your planning a breeze. We’re talking temples, street food, snorkeling, roller coasters, and a chance to pet elephants without anyone sobbing about missing their cat back home. Let’s dive in.

1. Bangkok, Thailand

Why They’ll Love It: Bangkok is sensory overload in the best way possible. There’s a skytrain, riverboats, and enough neon lights to make them forget they’re not at a music festival.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Chatuchak Weekend Market – A shopper’s paradise and a dream for TikTokers looking for trendy souvenirs.
• Bangkok Bicycle Tour with a Jungle Adventure
• Wat Arun & Wat Pho – Impressively Instagrammable temples that even the most temple-fatigued teen will find cool.
• Thai Cooking Class – Give them the gift of pad thai-making skills. They’ll thank you later in college.
• Asiatique the Riverfront – Ferris wheel, night market, and snacks galore.

Quick Tip: Stay somewhere with a rooftop pool. You’ll need a bribe to get them out of bed before noon.

• Bangkok, Thailand Travel Tips
• Top 2 Rooftop Bars in Bangkok, Thailand 

2. Singapore

Why They’ll Love It: Singapore is the cleanest city they’ll ever see, and it’s packed with futuristic attractions that feel like living in a sci-fi movie.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Gardens by the Bay – Giant glowing trees? Yes, please.
• Universal Studios Singapore – From roller coasters to Minions, it’s pure teen bait.
• Sentosa Island – Zip lining, beach clubs, and indoor skydiving. It’s a teen adventure buffet.
• Hawker Centers – Let them discover the magic of $3 Michelin-starred meals.

Quick Tip: Get an EZ-link card for public transport. Teens love independence, and this way, they can pretend they’re local commuters.

Plan your Singapore trip with our Singapore articles:

• Singapore Travel Guide
• The Arab Quarter in Singapore

3. Sri Lanka

Why They’ll Love It: Think wildlife, waterfalls, and beaches. Sri Lanka is basically National Geographic IRL.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Safari in Yala National Park – Spot elephants, leopards, and crocodiles without needing a zoom filter.
• Surfing in Weligama – Chill beach town vibes and beginner-friendly waves.
• Train Ride to Ella – Possibly the world’s most scenic train ride, perfect for photo-obsessed teens.
• Climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress – An ancient rock palace with views that might just get a gasp.

Pro Tip: Build in downtime. Sri Lanka is hot and full-on. Teens and tweens need their recharge time.

Plan your Sri Lanka Trip with our Sri Lanka articles:

• 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Sri Lanka Bucket List for Families
• 10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
• Things to do in Kandy, Sri Lanka with Kids

4. Tokyo, Japan

Why They’ll Love It: Anime, vending machines, and convenience stores with gourmet food? It’s teen heaven.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Harajuku and Shibuya – Quirky fashion, crepes, and the world’s busiest crosswalk.
• TeamLab Planets – An immersive digital art museum where no filter is needed.
• Odaiba – Giant Gundams, VR arcades, and a mini Statue of Liberty. Why not?
• DisneySea – Unique to Japan and an absolute hit with all ages.

Quick Tip: Japan’s rail system is unmatched. Grab a Japan Rail Pass and explore beyond Tokyo.

5. Bali, Indonesia

Why They’ll Love It: Bali is a mix of beachy relaxation and jungle adventure, with just enough smoothie bowls to keep teens full and happy.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Monkey Forest in Ubud – Because monkeys.
• Surf Lessons in Canggu – Teens + waves = endless entertainment (and wipeout videos).
• Waterbom Bali – One of Asia’s best water parks.
• Nusa Penida Day Trip – Unreal landscapes that make perfect phone backgrounds.

Quick Tip: Book a villa with a pool and breakfast service. It’s Instagram-worthy and makes mornings easier.

Plan your Bali trip with the help of our Bali articles:

• Is Bali Indonesia Safe To Travel To?
• 14 Best Things To Do In Bali With Kids

6. Seoul, South Korea

Why They’ll Love It: K-pop. Enough said. But also, techy experiences, quirky cafes, and beauty shops galore.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Lotte World – Indoor amusement park with ice skating and VR zones.
• K-Star Road – A must for fangirls (and boys).
• Street Food in Myeongdong – Skewered everything and bubble tea on every corner.
• Hanbok Rental and Gyeongbokgung Palace – Dress up like royalty for a day.

Plan your trip to Seoul with our guide:

• Ultimate Travel Guide To Seoul: Best Places To Visit & Things To Do

7. Hoi An, Vietnam

Why They’ll Love It: This historic town is like walking through a movie set, and there are lanterns everywhere.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Lantern-Making Workshop – A crafty keepsake even the grumpiest teen can get into.
• Tailor Shops – Have a custom outfit made for less than their latest sneaker drop.
• Cooking Classes – Vietnamese pancakes > chores back home.
• Bike Rides through Rice Fields – Yes, they still make bikes. No, this isn’t a simulation.

Quick Tip: Visit during the full moon for the monthly lantern festival.

8. Hong Kong

Why They’ll Love It: This city is a vertical wonderland with theme parks, tech, and a skyline that glows like a giant gaming monitor.

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Victoria Peak Tram – Get those panoramic skyline selfies.
• Hong Kong Disneyland – Smaller than others, but full of charm.
• Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car – See the Big Buddha and feel the breeze.
• Sneaker Street in Mong Kok – A must for hypebeasts.

Quick Tip: Take the Star Ferry at night. It’s cheap, beautiful, and oddly peaceful.

9. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Why They’ll Love It: Multicultural, full of malls, and did we mention the theme parks inside the malls?

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Petronas Towers Skybridge – That view though.
• Batu Caves – Climb the rainbow stairs to see monkeys and Hindu shrines.
• Sunway Lagoon – Water rides, scream-worthy roller coasters, and even a zoo.
• Jalan Alor Night Market – Let them snack their way through satay and ice cream rolls.

Quick Tip: KL is hot. Like, melt-your-mascara hot. Plan indoor activities for the afternoon.

Plan your trip to Kuala Lumpur with our itinerary: 2 Days in Kuala Lumpur.

10. Taipei, Taiwan

Why They’ll Love It: It’s safe, fun, and full of quirky surprises (like toilet-themed restaurants and cat cafes).

Top Teen-Friendly Activities:

• Taipei 101 – That elevator is wild.
• Night Markets – Try stinky tofu if they dare.
• Maokong Gondola – Cable cars with glass floors.
• National Palace Museum – History with a side of air conditioning.

Quick Tip: Download the Uber app – it works great in Taipei and takes the guesswork out of getting around.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Why It’s Mesmerizing for All Ages: With its surreal landscapes, ancient cave dwellings, and sunrise hot air balloons, Cappadocia is straight out of a fantasy novel.

Top Experiences:

• Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise (yes, even your teen will be speechless).
• Explore underground cities like Derinkuyu.
• Hike the otherworldly trails of Love Valley or Pigeon Valley.
• Stay in a cave hotel—cooler than any Hilton.

Quick Tip: Book the balloon ride early—it’s the hottest ticket in town and fills up fast.

Plan your Cappadocia trip with our itinerary:

• 2-Day Cappadocia Itinerary: Best Of Cappadocia

Tips for Traveling Asia with Teens and Tweens

• Always have snacks. Preferably ones that don’t melt in your bag.
• Let them help plan. Teens have opinions, and involving them = less complaining.
• Break up the museums. One museum, then one pool or market. Balance is everything.
• Don’t overschedule. Teens run on vibes, not alarms.
• WiFi is sacred. Choose accommodations with strong internet. Or face the wrath.

Asia is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure for families, and with a little prep (and caffeine), it can be an unforgettable bonding experience. Just remember: the more bubble tea and photo ops you provide, the more likely your teens will talk about it with something other than an eye roll.

So go forth, brave parent! The best places in Asia for teens and tweens are calling—and they’ve got charging stations.

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 10 Best Places in Asia for Teens and Tweens appeared first on Mommy Travels.

In this post, I highlight all the unmissable things to do in Sigiriya and share some practical information to organize your visit.

7 Great Things To Do In Sigiriya, Sri Lanka

Climb Sigiriya Rock 

One of the top things to do in Sigiriya is climbing/hiking the giant Sigiriya Rock. Upon seeing it, you will completely understand why this is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s simply unique! If you decide to see just one of all the ancient cities and holy sites, make it this one.

Why is Sigiriya so special? This is a massive column of rock, around 200 meters tall, where a fortress was built right on top. Frescoes were painted around the fortress, as well as a huge mirror wall – though this actually is “just” a highly polished rock where apparently the kind could see his reflected image any time he walked by.

The Rock is located at the center of a beautiful garden which is very pleasant to visit, and from where you can reach the lion staircase that goes all the way up the fortress.

TIP: I wholeheartedly recommend hiring a guide or joining a guided tour to visit Sigiriya, so that you can make sense of all there is to see and get useful information that will help you put everything in context.

These are some good guided tours:

• • Sigiriya and Pidurangala Rock day trip

• • Sigiriya Rock, Sigiriya village and Dambulla Cave Temple tour from Sigiriya

Practical information for visiting Sigiriya Rock

Opening hours

The site is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Cost

It costs $30 USD to enter. The price includes a ticket to visit Sigiriya Museum.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit is in the early morning, before the heat becomes unbearable and to lower the chances of being caught by the rain which will inevitably start dropping around midday (I only know too well!). Or else, try to go in the late afternoon, around 4:00 PM when it is a bit cooler.

Climbing the rock

It takes around one hour to climb Sigiriya Rock, longer if you stop along the way. Climbing is not hard – it’s just a series of steps. It may take you longer when it is crowded, as a line will inevitably form and this will move much more slowly.

Climb Pidurangala 

Right in front of Sigiriya, Pidurangala is a smaller, less visited. and significantly cheaper site to visit (it costs less than $3 USD to get in). If the views from Sigiriya are beautiful, the ones from Pidurangala are breathtaking to say the least, especially if you can see Sigiriya from up there. Make sure to climb in time for sunset for a fabulous experience.

To be completely honest, much like other off-the-beaten-path sites of Sri Lanka, Pidurangala is actually way more fascinating than its mainstream equivalent. If you have limited time and if you are traveling on a smaller budget, just go straight to Pidurangala.

TIP: While there are stairs leading up to Sigiriya, the path that leads to Pidurangala is much rougher and I recommend wearing a pair of good shoes to walk up there. You may also need a jacket as it gets very windy in the late afternoon.

Go on a day trip to Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla cave complex and the Golden Temple have been declared UNESCO World Heritage sites and are a place of pilgrimage. They are very well preserved – in fact, one of the best-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka. Since they are located at just a 20-minute drive, visiting is one of the things to do in Sigiriya.

In fact, depending on where you are coming from, you can visit en route on your way to Sigiriya Sri Lanka, as I did – I just left my bags in storage in the bookstore by the main gate.

I must admit it that Dambulla was hardly my favorite place of all the ones I visited in Sri Lanka, and found the $10 USD entry fee a bit overpriced, but I guess that if you are in the area, you should visit. I recommend actually hiring a guide to make a bit more sense of what there is to see – I think that’s the mistake I made, actually!

You can book your tour of Dambulla (including a visit to Sigiriya) here.

And on one to Polannaruwa 

Polannaruwa is one of the nicest sites to visit in Sri Lanka. It’s a lovely place to spend a few hours exploring the site – another UNESCO World Heritage Site, in fact! This used to be the royal capital of the Sinhalese and Chola kingdoms, a bustling commercial center, and a religious site around 800 years ago, and nowadays you can see what is left of its splendor in the many ruins of temples and religious buildings.

The site is about one hour drive from Sigiriya, so an easy day trip. The entry fee is $25 USD, but considering that it’s much better to actually have a guide to take you around, I recommend joining a guided tour.

Visit Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is actually a little bit further from Sigiriya compared to Polannaruwa and Dambulla, but it can still be seen on a day trip. It’s an interesting site to visit, with lots of temples and ruins, and locals are often spotted praying.

You can visit independently if you go there by bus and then rent a bike, but I honestly recommend a guided tour or at least hire a guide once there to avoid getting lost (the site is actually very big) and to make a bit more sense of what you are seeing.

Visit Minneriya National Park  

Minneriya National Park is the site of the largest Asian elephant gathering that occurs every year between July and September. You may not visit Sri Lanka at that time of year, but if you want to see elephants in all their glory, one of the things to do in Sigiriya Sri Lanka, is visiting Minneriya. It’s at less than 30 minutes drive, and you’ll be able to see many of them, as well as lots of other wildlife (especially birds).

Once you get to the park, you have to hire a jeep to take you around. I wholeheartedly recommend doing some research beforehand to hire a responsible company, as too many are sadly known for driving recklessly around national parks or getting too close to the elephants causing them discomfort.

Visit Sigiriya Village

Villages in Sri Lanka are usually very rural, but people are so welcoming and the culture so interesting that it’s nice to visit some of them. One of the things to do in Sigiriya is exploring the village. If you manage to arrange a guide you will have higher chances of conversing with the locals, who at times speak little to no English. In some cases, for a small fee, you can even have lunch with a local family.

Practical Information To Organize Your Trip

Where to stay in Sigiriya Sri Lanka 

You won’t really find many good places to stay in Sigiriya village, but the surroundings have some excellent accommodation options with boutique hotels, resorts, and some fantastic eco-lodges where you can completely immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from the rest of the world. Picture places with lush vegetation, no wifi or phone reception, good food, animals roaming about, and just the right amount of pampering.

This is a selection of excellent places to stay in Sigiriya: 

• • Back of Beyond Dehigaha Ela is a fantastic eco-lodge where beautiful, comfortable rooms are built on trees or around boulders. It is completely immersed in nature and runs in a sustainable way.

• • Aliya Resort and Spa is a fabulous hotel at about 5 km from the site, featuring beautiful rooms and a magnificent outdoor pool.

• • Sigiri Rock Side Homestay is an excellent middle-range option, with plain but comfortable and clean rooms.

Since a lot of people visit Sigiriya from Dambulla, I thought I’d also select a few good places to stay in Dambulla:

• • Dambulla Rock Arch is a nice hotel close to the center of Dambulla. All rooms have a balcony.

• • Jetwing Lake is a fantastic luxury resort a bit outside Dambulla, where you’ll be fully pampered.

    

How to get to Sigiriya 

Sigiriya is only a small village so the only buses you’ll find will be those to Dambulla, which is well-connected to Kandy, Jaffna. and Trincomalee.

There are direct buses to Sigiriya from Dambulla that run between 6:30 AM and 6:00 PM. The bus ride is very cheap and should take you around 30 minutes. The bus will drop you off on the main street and from there you’ll have to take a tuk-tuk or walk to your accommodation.

Alternatively, you can take a tuk-tuk directly at Dambulla – the ride should cost you around 1000 rupees, depending on where you asked to be dropped off. Make sure to bargain the prices and triple-check that the driver actually knows where to take you. Oftentimes, tuk-tuk drivers are very keen on offering you a ride but they don’t actually know the address of your hotel and you may be stuck for a while before they find the way there!

How to move around Sigiriya

Chances are you will be staying in one of the many marvelous hotels around Sigiriya rather than in the village itself, which doesn’t have much to offer. If this is the case, you will have to rely on the transportation offered by the hotel in the form of tuk-tuk or private car services to take you around to the best places to visit.

When to visit Sigiriya Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, and you can break your head trying to plan your trip to avoid them but to make a long story short you won’t be able to. December to March are good months to go, with higher chances of dry weather and sun, but the other side of the coin is that places may be more crowded and prices higher than you had hoped for.

Having said that, just go ahead and do your best trying to avoid the rain, but by all means, go. In any case, keep in mind that it usually starts raining in the early afternoon around 12:00 or 1:00 PM, so if you plan to leave early in the morning for your visits, you will be done when it starts raining!

Other useful information 

Please beware that you need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can easily apply for your visa online here.

As for any other trip, I recommend also getting good travel insurance. Get yours here.

Check out my post “Why You Need Good Travel Insurance.”

Further Readings

Make sure to read my other posts about Sri Lanka

• A Complete Guide to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
• A Complete Guide To Kandy, Sri Lanka
  
• A Guide To What To See And Do In Trincomalee Sri Lanka
• A Very Useful Guide To Ella Sri Lanka
• Soak up the Sun at the Best Sri Lanka Beach Resorts
• Sri Lanka Bucket List for Families
• 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• 10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

The post 7 Things To Do In Sigiriya Sri Lanka appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Panama

Sri Lanka

Gatlinburg, Tennesee

Belize

Nevis

Riviera Maya

Western Montana

With almost everyone watching Yellowstone, Western Montana easily makes the list. Montana is just as beautiful as the show depicts it to be. Even more so in person. While here you have to stay at a ranch and get your cowboy on. There are many to choose from and I’ve stayed at two I can recommend: High Tail Ranch and Alpine Falls Ranch. The High Tail Ranch even has a few days a year that you can pay to help herd Bison! Also while here you have to go fly fishing (often included in your ranch stay), go hiking, and visit a hot spring.

La Paz, Mexico

Germany’s Romantic Road

Turkey

The post 2025 Best Family Vacation Destinations appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort

Located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Sheraton Kosgoda is a luxurious beach resort that offers unparalleled views of the Indian Ocean. The beach here is one of the most beautiful in the country, with crystal clear waters and pristine sand. The resort itself is equally stunning, with spacious rooms and suites that are tastefully decorated and equipped with all the modern amenities you could need. The ground floor rooms have their own private plunge pools on the patio. There’s also a large infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, perfect for a relaxing swim in the sun.

One of the highlights of staying at Sheraton Kosgoda is the seafood. There are several seafood restaurants nearby that serve up some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. The resort also has its own restaurant that serves up delicious Sri Lankan and international cuisine. And if you’re looking for some relaxation, there’s a spa on site where you can indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments. My treatment was so relaxing I fell asleep which has only happened one other time. Check current rates. 

Mount Lavinia Hotel

If you’re looking for something a little more historic, then look no further than Mount Lavinia Hotel. This iconic beach resort is located in Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka. The hotel has a rich history, having been converted from a mansion that was once home to British governors and expanded into the hotel it is today.

The hotel itself is equally beautiful, with grand colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and spacious rooms with panoramic ocean views. There is a restaurant on site that serve up delicious local and international cuisine, as well as a rooftop bar where you can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the ocean. Check current rates. 

Shangri-La Hambantota Resort & Spa

Situated on the southeast coast of the island, Shangri-La’s Hambantota is a 5-star resort boasting 145 acres of tropical gardens, stunning sandy beaches, and lush green landscapes. This luxurious resort boasts elegant rooms and suites, breathtaking sea views, and world-class amenities. Guests can enjoy an array of activities from golfing, nature trails, and bird-watching. Relax in the hotel’s CHI Ayurveda Spa and enjoy delicious gastronomy. Check current rates. 

Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort

Escape to a secluded sanctuary set amidst the golden sands of the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Anantara Peace Have Tangalle Resort is a hidden gem that offers pristine beaches, a tranquil lagoon, and unspoiled natural surroundings. The villa-style accommodation is spacious, and each room is equipped with private plunge pools, spacious balconies with sea views, and outdoor soaking tubs. The resort offers tailor-made excursions, excellent dining options, and an award-winning Anantara Spa. Check current rates.

The Fortress Resort & Spa

Located in Galle on the southern coast of the island, The Fortress Resort & Spa is a boutique property that boasts a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Sri Lankan architecture. The resort is surrounded by stunning beaches and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can relax in one of the resort’s luxurious bedrooms, indulge in the resort’s renowned spa, or dine in the gourmet restaurants, all while enjoying the beautiful oceanic views. Check current rates. 

Anantara Kalutara Resort

Designed with tranquility in mind, Anantara Kalutara Resort is a dreamy beachfront retreat located at the estuary where the Kalu Ganga River meets the Indian Ocean. The resort boasts an infinity pool with endless views, a beach club, a kid’s club, and several dining options. Guests can enjoy various activities from yoga, cooking classes, and tennis. The resort’s Spa offers Ayurveda treatments to rejuvenate the body and soul. Check current rates. 

Jetwing Sea in Negombo

Not far from the bustling capital city of Colombo, Jetwing Sea in Negombo awaits beach vacationers seeking luxurious respite. This beachfront property boasts a timeless and elegant design, perfectly matched with unrivaled hospitality, sure to leave you wanting more. 

Wake up to stunning sunrises and enjoy a cup of coffee on the balcony overlooking the Indian Ocean. Unwind with a relaxing massage at the on-site spa after a day of soaking up the sun. And if you’re looking for a unique experience, try their outdoor movie night while lounging on beach chairs with a bucket of popcorn in hand. With its unbeatable location, elegant aesthetic, and five-star amenities, Jetwing Sea is surely a must-visit. Check current rates. 

Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa

Located in the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa offers an experience that’s hard to beat. This waterfront resort offers luxury amenities paired with close proximity to popular attractions, making it an ideal location for a beach vacation.

Take a dip in the pool that overlooks the Indian Ocean or go for a walk on the resort’s private beach. Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment after a day of sightseeing or try your hand at water sports. And if food is your thing, Centara Ceysands offers mouth-watering cuisines of all types. With its unparalleled location and endless activities, Centara Ceysands Resort & Spa is perfect for the adventurer who loves to relax in style. Check current rates. 

Jetwing Saman Villas

Located on the stunning south coast of the island, Jetwing Saman Villas is a little slice of paradise. This cliff-top resort is designed for travelers who seek peaceful breaks away from the loud city. The resort has only twenty-seven rooms, so you know that you’re in serene surroundings.

Each villa boasts private balconies with endless views of the Indian Ocean, perfect for a romantic getaway or a calming escape. Take a stroll around the lush gardens, enjoy a sea-salt scrub during a relaxing spa treatment, or savor fresh seafood cuisine day-in and day-out. With its intimate atmosphere, breathtaking views, and unparalleled service, Jetwing Saman Villas is ideal for couples and travelers who seek solace. Check current rates. 

Cinnamon Wild Yala

For the ultimate wildlife and beach experience, Cinnamon Wild Yala is the perfect escape. The resort is located next door to one of Sri Lanka’s most popular attractions, the Yala National Park. The resort’s architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness, accentuated with rustic features and modern amenities. The resort boasts luxury tents with panoramic views and outdoor showers. The resort’s restaurant offers international cuisine and delectable seafood prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Check current rates. 

Jetwing Surf Arugam Bay

 If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind eco-friendly stay that will make you feel like you’re living within nature, then look no further than the Jetwing Surf Arugam Bay resort in Sri Lanka! With its gorgeous beachfront location, sustainable design, and delicious farm-to-table dining options, Jetwing Arugam Bay offers a unique experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Plus, who doesn’t love a little adventure? With nearby surf spots, wildlife reserves, and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone, even if your idea of an adventure is just lounging on the beach with a good book. Check current rates.

Conclusion:

Sri Lanka is a tropical haven and the perfect destination for beach lovers. Whether you’re looking for luxury or something more laidback, Sri Lanka has something for everyone. And when it comes to finding the best beach resorts in Sri Lanka, the options are endless. Indulge in relaxation and luxury and soak up the sun at some of the best Sri Lanka beach resorts!

Read Next:

8 Things to do in Ella, Sri Lanka with Kids

Epic Things to do in Nuwara Eliya with Kids

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Soak up the Sun at the Best Sri Lanka Beach Resorts appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Location

Mahaweli Reach Hotel is located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, Kandy. It is approximately 115 km from the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, and the drive to the hotel takes about three hours but if you encounter heavy traffic then it could take up to two hours longer. The hotel is situated on the banks of the Mahaweli River, the longest river in Sri Lanka, and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

With it being next to the river it can have mosquitos, so be sure to bring some bug repellant. 

Accommodation

The hotel offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and preferences. There are 112 rooms and suites, all elegantly furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The rooms are spacious and feature large windows that allow plenty of natural light in, as well as offering views of the river or the hotel’s lush gardens. The first time we stayed here our room was a triple, so we each got our own bed. 

Presidential Suite

The Presidential Suite is the epitome of luxury and extravagance, and it is the most luxurious accommodation option at Mahaweli Reach Hotel. The suite is located on the fifth floor of the hotel and offers breathtaking views of the hotel and the surrounding mountains. It is spread over 2,500 square feet and features a large living room, a dining room, a study, a master bedroom, a guest bedroom, and two bathrooms.

The living room is tastefully decorated with plush sofas, armchairs, and coffee tables, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing. The dining room is equipped with a large dining table and chairs, making it the ideal place to enjoy a sumptuous meal with friends or family.

The master bedroom features a king-sized bed, a large dressing area, and an en-suite bathroom with a Jacuzzi. The guest bedroom features twin beds, a dressing area, and an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Both bedrooms are beautifully furnished and equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay.

The study is equipped with a desk, a chair, and a computer, making it the perfect place to catch up on some work or browse the internet. The suite also features three private balconies that offer stunning views of the property with glimpses of the river and the surrounding mountains, making it the ideal place to sit and relax with a cup of tea or coffee.

There’s even a tiny workout area with hand weights and a treadmill. 

Dining

The hotel’s main restaurant, The Elvitigala, serves a wide range of Sri Lankan, Indian, and international cuisine, using only the freshest and finest ingredients. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers both buffet and à la carte options.

For those who want to enjoy a more intimate dining experience, the hotel offers several private dining options, including the Garden Pavilion, which is set amidst the hotel’s beautiful gardens and can accommodate up to 12 guests.

The hotel also has two bars, the Araliya Lounge Bar, and the Terrace Bar, where guests can enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, wines, and spirits. Both bars offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains, making them the perfect place to unwind and relax after a long day of sightseeing.

Facilities and Activities

Mahaweli Reach Hotel offers a range of facilities and activities to keep guests entertained and relaxed during their stay.

Swimming Pool

The hotel has a large outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by comfortable sun loungers and parasols, making it the perfect place to soak up the sun and cool off during the day. The water isn’t heated but it’s so hot during the day you will welcome the cool water. Make time for the pool each day. Your children will thank you!

Spa

Eden and I both visited the spa the first time we visited and it was absolutely wonderful. They did switch to USD pricing, so it’s not a great deal. Prices are now only slightly better than what you get in the states. 

Game Area

There is a small area under the lobby with a pool table and a ping pong table. 

Fitness Center

They have a small, yet well-equipped fitness center. My boys love to work out, so this is always nice for us. 

Overall, I highly recommend staying here while you are in Kandy with your family. 

Check current rates!

Read Next:

Sri Lanka Itinerary with Kids

10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for Families

Epic Things to do in Nuwara Eliya with Kids

The post Mahaweli Reach Hotel: Luxury and Relaxation for Families appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Visit a Tea Plantation

Sri Lanka is known for its tea, and Nuwara Eliya has several tea plantations where you can learn about the tea-making process and sample different types of tea. Depending on which factory you visit will determine the depth of the visit. I prefer one that will let you get up close and see everything like Glenloch Tea Factory and Tea Center. Most kids have never thought about where tea comes from and they will be quite intrigued. Book a private tea factory tour. 

Go on a Scenic Train Ride

The train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Kids will love the experience of traveling on a train and seeing the beautiful views of the countryside. If your kids are older aka teens, make sure they dress for the occasion so they can get cool photos for Instagram. You can buy certain types of train tickets online. 

Visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens

The Hakgala Botanical Gardens is a beautiful park with a wide variety of plants and flowers. Kids can explore the gardens, play on the lawns, and enjoy a picnic.

Take a Boat Tour Around the Lake

In Nuwara Eliya, you can take a tour of the stunningly beautiful lake! This tour takes you on a journey through time and history. You will learn about the local flora and fauna that make up the lush scenery of the area while enjoying the water. Nuwara Eliya displays the best of both worlds with its rich history of colonial rule and natural beauty. This tour will delight you with stories of a bygone era and the harmonious co-existence of modernity and history. The lake is the perfect place to relax and take a break, surrounded by the serene and tranquil atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya.

Walk Through the Gardens at the Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya dates back to the colonial era and is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history. However, it’s not just the buildings themselves that have a story to tell – the gardens surrounding the hotel are bursting with interesting flora and fauna that have their own tales to share.

Taking a leisurely stroll around the grounds is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. The happy chirping of birds and the fragrant smells of the botanicals make for a serene atmosphere. You may even learn something from the educational plaques found throughout the gardens, detailing the history of the plants and their uses. It’s a beautiful place to capture photos of the kids or the whole family. 

Walk Around the Town

Nuwara Eliya, the city of tea, is a stunning hill country location warmed by the sun during the day and cooled at night by the gentle mist. Taking your children on a walk around this historic town would be an excellent decision. The town is full of historical landmarks, quaint shops, and stunning botanical gardens. It is a perfect opportunity to teach your children about the history of the city and see an old school post office. Nuwara Eliya offers an extraordinary opportunity for a memorable trip to appreciate the history and culture of Sri Lanka while enjoying quality time with your family.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is a fun activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. There are several horseback riding tours available in Nuwara Eliya that take you through the scenic countryside. Make sure to pick out a horse that is big enough for your kid. 

Visit a Spice Garden

Sri Lanka is known for its spices, and visiting a spice garden is a great way to learn about the different spices and their uses. Kids can see how the spices are grown and learn about their medicinal properties. If you haven’t already visited one in one of the other cities you’ve been too it’s definitely worth adding to your schedule. 

Visit the Victoria Park

Victoria Park is a beautiful park in Nuwara Eliya with a playground, walking trails, and a lake. Kids can enjoy playing on the swings, feeding the ducks, and exploring the park.

St. Claire’s Waterfall

St. Claire’s waterfall is one of the widest waterfalls in Sr Lanka. It is commonly known as “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka”, known for its width and picturesque views. It is one of six waterfalls impacted by the upper Kotmake hydropower project. The fall is nestled just 3 kilometers west of Talawakele, offering both beauty and proximity for those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s natural wonders.

More things to do include:

• Ambewela Farm
• Bomburu Ella nature trail
• Galways Land bird sanctuary
• Horton Plains National Park
• Kirigalpoththa hike
• Lover’s Leap Falls
• New Zealand Farm
• Strawberry Farm
• Vijayabapura nature trail
• Thotupala Kanda hike
• Single Tree hike
• Shanthipura view point
• Sandathenna safari
• Sri Padaya
• Seetha Amman Kovil

Where to Stay in Nuwara Eliya

Nestled in the heart of this beautiful region are a range of unique and charming accommodation options. From cozy cottages to luxurious hotels, you’re sure to find something that makes you feel right at home while you explore all the wonders of Nuwara Eliya.

No matter what your style or budget, every option is steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Take a step back in time by staying in one of the many colonial-style houses that dot the area, or opt for a more modern hotel with all the amenities you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. 

St. Andrews Jetwing

St. Andrews Jetwing is a peaceful retreat that promises to transport you back in time. This old-world colonial-style mansion offers travelers an experience like no other, complete with scenic walks through perfectly manicured gardens, warm and friendly staff, and luxurious accommodations.

It’s almost impossible not to feel the history oozing from every corner of the estate, from the grand rooms with their ornate wooden ceilings to the antique furnishings and the tranquil tea estate views. With so much to offer, the St. Andrews Jetwing is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. Check current rates. 

The Blackpool

Imagine waking up to the serene hills of Nuwara Eliya from a cozy hotel room, surrounded by rich history and sprawling lush green lands. The Blackpool Hotel in Nuwara Eliya offers not only a comfortable stay but also a glimpse into the wonderful past of Sri Lanka. Originally built in the 1800s as a residence for a British Governor, the hotel has retained its colonial charm and elegance over the years.

With breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, a warm cup of Ceylon tea, and a book in hand, a stay at the Blackpool hotel is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Plus, they have a pool so kids can swim.  Check current rates. 

Grand Hotel

Nestled just outside of Nuwara Eliya, lies a true gem of a hotel that will take you back in time. This historical hotel boasts stunning views of the lush tea plantations and the misty mountains that surround it. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a world of grandeur and old-world charm.

The architecture, decor, and furnishings are a testament to its rich colonial past, with every detail carefully preserved to give guests the ultimate experience of a bygone era. The staff is friendly, welcoming, and always on hand to share the fascinating history of this remarkable hotel. Check current rates. 

Overall, there are many fun things to do with kids in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka, from visiting tea plantations to going on scenic train rides to exploring parks and gardens.

Read Next:

10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary for Families

Sri Lanka Bucket List for Families

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Epic Things to do in Nuwara Eliya with Kids appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Experience a group trip to Sri Lanka, where you are always safe, eat the most authentic delicious new-to-you foods, see the most fascinating ancient sites, have exceptional animal encounters, and witness some of the most picturesque scenery in the world.

This trip is the perfect mix of structured sightseeing, adventurous activities, free time, and delicious food.

This once-in-a-lifetime travel experience will provide you the chance to join Meagan, Eden, Noah, and Jonah on an exclusive trip to Sri Lanka, their favorite destination.

Apply here!

Where Will We Go?

• Sigiriya
• Traditional Village
• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Spice Garden
• Elephant Sanctuary
• Rubber Factory
• Temple of the Sacred Tooth
• Waterfalls
• Turtles
• Tea Factory
• Ziplining (optional)
• ATV tour (optional)
• Train ride
• Nine Arch Bridge
• White water rafting (optional)
• Snorkeling

What’s Included?

• Hotels
• Transportation in Sri Lanka
• One bottle of water per day
• Elephant Jeep Safari
• Ramboda waterfall
• Damro tea factory tour
• Udawalwe Elephant Transit Home
• Red Mosque
• Entrances to:

Included Meals:

• 9x Breakfast
• 9x Dinner

Transport:

What’s Not Included:

• International flights (DFW to Colombo one way is 30,000 points)
• Any visas required
• Services not mentioned in the itinerary
• Late check-out at hotels
• Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips for leaders, guides, and driver
• Expenditure of a personal nature
• Personal travel insurance (we recommend Safety Wing)
• Optional activities: Whitewater rafting, ziplining, and ATVs.

Apply here!

Sri Lanka Itinerary

This is not the full itinerary but just an overview to try and give you an idea of some of the incredible things you will see. 

Day 1: Arrival Day

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Today you will arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and head to Negombo for rest and relaxation after a journey to just get here. We will be staying on the beach where you can hang out at the pool or enjoy the spa. Tonight we will have our first group dinner with anyone who has arrived. 

Depending on what time you arrive we may visit the fish market. 

Day 2: Leave Negombo and Head to Dambulla for History & Self Care

Everyone has arrived so now we are off on our adventure. We will say goodbye to Negombo and head to Dambulla. It will take 2 hours and 40 minutes to get here. Once here, we will see a large underground temple, Dambulla Cave, a UNESCO world heritage site.

Day 3: Hiking Sigiriya

Today we are going to hike to a rock fortress in the sky, Sigiriya Rock. No, I am not kidding. It is a hard hike and it is optional. However, there are multiple levels with things to see. You may even want to hike it partially. It is by far the coolest hike we’ve ever done and worth every step it took to get to the top!

Afterward, we will experience a traditional village where we can see how they cooked back in the day and then enjoy lunch together. There will likely be monkeys!

Day 4: Elephants!

Today will be one of the highlights of our trip when we visit Minneriya National Park to see elephants. From the safety of a jeep, we will drive through the park in search of elephants. Don’t worry because you are guaranteed to see some. 

After encountering lots of elephants we are going to drive to our next beach hotel along the east coast in Trincomalee. 

Day 5: Beach Day at Pigeon Island National Park

Enjoy snorkeling at the national park which contains some of the best coral reefs in Sri Lanka

Day 6: Head to Kandy

Today we will visit a spice garden on our way to Kandy. 

Tonight we will stay at my favorite hotel in Kandy, Mahaweli Reach Hotel.

Once in Kandy, we will also see the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and attend a traditional dance show.

Day 7: Tea, Train, Treehouses, and Waterfalls

Today you will be beautiful from start to finish. We will see waterfalls, tour a tea factory near Nuwara Eliya, and then stay the night at 98 acres.

Today we will descend from the mountains on the world-famous tea train. Bring a flowy dress if you like and we will capture some epic photos!

Day 8: Ella, Ziplining & ATVS

Today there will be opportunities to choose your own adventure: hiking, zip lining, atvs, or spa time.

Later in the day, we will go see the famous Nine Arch Bridge

Day 9: Galle

Today we will step into a world where history comes alive. Galle Dutch Fort, nestled on the mesmerizing southwest coast of Sri Lanka, is a treasure trove of tales dating back to 1588. Originally built by the Portuguese, this architectural masterpiece was fortified and expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Even after more than 432 years, this historical gem maintains its polished appearance, thanks to the meticulous reconstruction work carried out by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. This UNESCO World Heritage Site stands tall as a testament to its colorful history and continues to attract a diverse population of people from different ethnicities and religious backgrounds.

Day 10: Colombo

Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka. Today we will visit the Lotus Tower and the Red Mosque.

Is There An Age Limit?

Children 7 and over are welcome if accompanied by a parent/guardian. 

What Should I Pack?

• ID
• Insurance cards
• Medicine
• Travel documents
• Passport
• Cash & Credit Cards
• Travel Insurance
• Bathing suit aka swimsuit
• Cover-up
• SPF shirt
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Sun hats
• Water shoes
• Flip flops
• Beach bag
• Inflatable life jacket (for kids)
• Tennis shoes
• Small backpack
• Insect repellent aka bug spray
• Dry bags
• Camera
• Waterproof Camera
• Charger
• Memory cards
• Waterproof cell phone holder
• Travel adaptor
• Shorts
• T-shirts
• Workout clothes for when we go hiking
• Dresses
• Linen pants (knees must be covered for men and women in the temples)
• Sandals
• Socks
• Underwear
• Lip balm
• Band-aids, maybe even a first aid kit.
• Face wash
• Q-tips
• Fingernail clippers
• Razor
• Toothbrush
• Brush
• Conditioner (all hotels will have shampoo but not conditioner)

What Is The Cancellation Policy?

Cancellation policy:

A USD $500 deposit is required on booking and is non-refundable. Any additional payments made are refundable up until 31st December 2023.

Final Payments:

Final payments are due no later than March 31, 2024. No refunds or cancellations are allowed past March 31, 2024. If the final payment is not paid by March 31, 2023, Mommy Travels retains the right to remove you from the trip. The deposit will not be refundable.

No-shows will be treated as cancellations and will incur a 100% cancellation fee.

We reserve the right to cancel the trip and if done so a full refund will be given.

Why Can’t I Get A Full Refund?

We understand that plans change, but the moment we decide to run a trip, costs are already incurred. Once you hit “book now”, we are paying deposits to hold your spot with our vendors + paying our team to manage bookings and make sure you have an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience.

How Can I Pay?

You can pay by Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or CashApp. 

Do I Need A Visa?

Yes, you will need to get a visa. 

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

Yes, you must have travel insurance to join us on this trip. We use several different travel insurance providers because prices differ alot depending on where you are coming from and where you are going. You can check with the ones we use to find the best price: Safety Wing or Travelex.

The post Sri Lanka Group Trip: 10 Days June 20 – 29, 2024 appeared first on Mommy Travels.

Mount Lavinia Hotel

Our first order of business was to transition over to our official hotel room. We were temporarily stationed in a different room the night we got there, but that morning, our official room was ready. It had a queen bed and a balcony with a wonderful view of the coast. Mount Lavinia hotel is about 215 years old, but it has great views and a beautiful beach.

When we hurried off to lunch by the hotel pool, we were able to see a train running along the oceanside. The outdoor seating gave us an incredible view off the cliffside to the beach and the buildings of Colombo.

Buffet & Menu Options

At lunch, we ate from the buffet that mainly consisted of curry and rice, which are staple foods in Sri Lanka. This was only our first day in Sri Lanka, but we quickly learned that buffet-style restaurants are quite popular throughout the country. Fortunately, there was also a menu with more traditional Western foods. As we grew more comfortable and informed about the food throughout the trip, I ate a lot more from the buffet. I found some foods that I really enjoyed, although I couldn’t necessarily name them.

I also noticed early on that there’s a good amount of vegetarian and vegan options available at most buffets and hotels in Sri Lanka.

My main concern with food was my peanut allergy. With such an unclear idea of what was in the food, and a hard time communicating with some of the locals, I was a bit worried that I’d end up eating peanuts. The language spoken in Sri Lanka is Sinhala or Sinhalese, not Hindu as in India. Although not far from India, their customs and language are different or adapted in different ways. I had expected my allergy to be a problem on occasion, but it honestly wasn’t a problem at all in Sri Lanka. Rather than peanuts, cashews are much more commonly used in Sri Lanka, and they have a preference for canola oil.

Colombo Bus Tour

After a quick lunch, it was time to head out on a bus tour of Sri Lanka’s capital city, Colombo.  The streets were very busy and crowded in the city. I don’t think you could go more than a few moments without hearing a car horn or whistle. Like some other parts of Asia, there are lots of tuk-tuks to taxi people around.

In Sri Lanka, they drive on the left side of the road, but when it comes down to it, most drivers don’t seem to care too much for space between vehicles or driving into opposing traffic lanes.  I would definitely not recommend renting a car and driving around the country by yourself. The roads can get pretty chaotic, but the local drivers know what they’re doing.

On the tour bus, my family and I sat on the top deck. The sun was bright, and the temperature was nearly 90 degrees. It was definitely some of the most humidity I’ve ever experienced, but my hair still survived. On the top deck of the bus, the wind kept us from totally overheating, and we had a great overhead view of the active streets.

We saw more and more people as we approached some of the key buildings within the city, the old Parliament building, the foreign affairs facility, and many others. Eventually, my family and I couldn’t take the heat anymore and moved to the lower deck of the bus. Luckily, they provided water, juice, and a snack. On Main Street, there were more people than ever, and we got to drive past the Red Mosque. As we continued our tour around the city, the sun began to set. The sun turned a vibrant shade of red and sunk beneath the ocean on the horizon.

Dinner at Mount Lavinia Hotel

When we arrived back at the Mount Lavinia Hotel, we made use of the remaining rays of sunlight and went down to the gorgeous beach. The beach at Mount Lavinia Hotel is large and spacious. We walked across the sands, and I dipped my feet in the Indian Ocean for the first time in my life.

That night, we ate dinner by the pool. A wonderful little cover band was performing at the poolside, and we enjoyed dinner and desserts, mainly off the menu. At this point in the trip we honestly still didn’t know what we were doing in terms of local food. After getting a plateful of sweets from the buffet, we tiredly returned to our hotel room. The time change was still killing us, so it wasn’t hard for us to fall dead asleep once we got in bed.

Of course, we couldn’t get in bed just yet, well, not all of us. As aforementioned, our hotel room had a lovely queen size bed. That was nice for my mother and me. Unfortunately for my brother, we had to wait for the hotel staff to deliver a rollaway bed. For whatever reason, it took an incredible amount of time to be delivered. It was quite painful to keep ourselves awake at that point, so next time I’d call for a rollaway sooner. Much sooner.

Other than a few hiccups, general tiredness, and confusion, our first day in Sri Lanka went fantastically. I really enjoyed the warm weather and getting to tour Colombo. That night I went to bed with lots of excitement for the upcoming week in Sri Lanka. In the following days, we had incredible experiences and learned a lot, all of which will be detailed on my blog soon!

If you’re interested in other fun things to do in Sri Lanka, you can check out this bucket list.

Read Next:

10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

7 Things To Do In Sigiriya Sri Lanka

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! Another option for finding deals is FlightHub.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO. If you are looking for a hostel, I use HostelWorld.

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass, PogoPass, and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available. Groupon also tends to have a lot of local travel deals.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean, I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Get a Lyft

More often than not, Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Hertz or Discover Cars.

Save Money on Gas

Upside a free app gets you cash back on gas! Use promo code RV2Q2 to get an extra 15¢/gal bonus on your first purchase.

Get a Visa

I use iVisa to get all of my Visas.

Travel Printables

If you found this information helpful consider buying me a cup of coffee aka helping me pay to put kids through college! Just scan the QR code or click the link. As always, thank you for your support!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post City Bus Tour of Colombo, Sri Lanka appeared first on Mommy Travels.

But there’s more! Though the modern Anuradhapura is truly nothing special and not worthy of a tourist’s attention, the area is thought to be one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, and an important center for Buddhism – something which is still visible today on the sacred site. That’s why you really need to go.

In this post, I highlight the things to do and places to visit in Anuradhapura and share some tips for your visit and practical information to organize your trip there.

5 Things To Know Before Visiting The Sacred City Of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

The cost of visiting Anuradhapura

Just like all other sites of historical, cultural, and religious significance, Anuradhapura is actually quite expensive to visit. Access to the whole site costs $30 USD for a day. To that, you’ll have to add the cost of a tuk-tuk or a bike to go around, so your overall cost for a day will be no less than $40 USD.

TIP: Make sure to keep your ticket with you and handy at all times, as police officers patrol the area and they often stop visitors to make random checks and ensure they have tickets.

How to visit Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is a huge site and there is no way you can just walk around. You need some sort of transportation to take you to the various places to visit on the site. Whether you decide to go around by bike or by tuk-tuk, you will spend an average of six hours exploring the site.

By bike

Most visitors opt to explore Anuradhapura by bike. Rentals are available close to the entrance of the site, and cost between $7 and $10 USD for a day. Make sure to double-check that your bike actually works – breaks and all – because bikes are often in dire conditions.

By tuk tuk

If you don’t like the idea of biking in the heat, then hiring a tuk-tuk for the day is a good idea. This should cost you around $10 USD – remember to always bargain the prices. You will have to book it in advance and pay for your entrance fee separately.

Best guided tours of Anuradhapura

When I visited Anuradhapura I opted to go around on my own, by bike, and though I enjoyed my time there, I regret not having a guide that would help me put what I was seeing in context. Indeed, Anuradhapura is a very vast site, and unless you are an expert in Sinhalese culture or history, making sense of what you will be seeing will be impossible. I wholeheartedly recommend hiring a guide to take you around (it should cost you between 800 and 1000 Rupees for the day) or joining a guided tour for your visit.

What to wear and bring when visiting Anuradhapura

Make sure to dress modestly for your day in Anuradhapura. Remember that most of it is a holy site, with people praying. Wear a pair of pants or a long skirt, and sandals (though not flip flops in case you are going to bike), and bring along something to cover your shoulders when you enter holy sites.

You will have to remove your shoes any time you visit a temple.

Make sure to also bring along a hat and sunglasses, and to wear a lot of sunblock. Finally, carry enough cold water for the day. There are a few vendors in the biggest sites, but at times it may be a while until you find one!

Continue reading to discover all the must-sees in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

Check out my post “A Guide To The Most Unique Buddhist Temples In Sri Lanka”.

10 Places To Visit In Anuradhapura

Sacred Bodhi Tree

Sri Maha Bodhiya, or the Sacred Bodhi Tree, is a sacred fig tree thought to have been propagated from the original Bodhi Tree where Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism and often referred to as Gautama Buddha or just Buddha, achieved enlightenment.

The tree was planted in 288 BC, and is the oldest living tree in the world. It is a place of pilgrimage, an important Buddhist relic and you will see pilgrims praying around it.

Ratna Prasada Guard Stone

Ratna Prasada is a monastery that was built in the 1st century. It used to be a very grand building, which was however demolished when the area was invaded in the 8th century and then rebuilt during the reigns of King Mihindu II and Mihindu IV. Inside the Ratna Prasada, you will find an 8th-century guard stone that features a cobra king and which is very well kept. This is one of two stones that guarded the entrance to the monastery.

Abhayagiri Vihara Monastery

Abhayagiri Vihara monastic complex can be found in the northern side of Anuradhapura. It was built under the orders of King Vattagamini in 88 BC and it is said that up to 5000 monks could live there at once, making it the largest in Sri Lanka. It is a beautiful monastery with statues, a stupa, a moonstone, and bathing pools.

Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

Kuttam Pokuna are the twin ponds located inside the Abhayagiri Vihara monastery. They were built between the 8th and the 10th century and monks could access them to cleanse themselves using the granite stairs. Despite their names, the twin ponds aren’t actually identical – in fact, one is larger than the other.

The ponds are surrounded by a beautiful forest and attract lots of visitors. It is not uncommon to see street entertainers there, some of them with dancing monkeys. Please do not tip these people, do not encourage them to continue exploiting animals!

Moonstone of Abhayagiri Vihara

The moonstone at Abhayagiri Vihara Monastery was crafted in the 1st century BC. It’s a beautiful piece of artwork with intricate ornaments and carvings of various animals, including elephants, bulls, lions, and horses, as well as the lotus flower. It is thought that the moonstone represents the temptations humans face in this world and the lotus flower inside if the ultimate achievement – the Nirvana.

Isurumuniya Vihara  

Access to the Isurumuniya Vihara is an extra 200 Rupees. This monastery is carved in the rock, and it used to house around 500 issira. These were children coming from wealthy families that showed an interest in the teaching of Buddha. Once they’d become proper monks, they would continue living separated from the rest of the society of Anuradhapura.

Inside the monastery, you’ll find a colorful statue of a reclining Buddha, surrounded by paintings that depict the various phases of his life. There is also a museum and some bathing ponds.

Jetavanaramaya Stupa

The massive Jetavanaramaya stupa reaches 122 meters and was built using bricks made of sand and clay. Next to the stupa, a museum has nice small exhibits showing the various finds of the excavation and reconstruction.

Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

With its 290 meters circumference, this is the second largest stupa in Anuradhapura. It was built on orders of King Dutugemunu in 161 BC and was completed around 140 BC. It is thought to be one of the most sacred places for the Buddhist faith.

Thuparama Dagoba  

Thuparamaya Dagoba is the oldest stupa in Sri Lanka, built in the 4th century, and thought to be the place that holds a collarbone relic of the Buddha. Only the pillars are original, whereas the rest of the building you will see is a reconstruction dating back to 1862 after it had been destroyed and rebuilt several times.

Mihintale

At around 11 km from Anuradhapura, you’ll find Mihintale, a Buddhist pilgrimage site that is a great place for a day trip. Thought to be the cradle of Buddhism, it’s here that King Devanampiyatissa converted to Buddhism thanks to the convincing work of Mahinda, the son of an Indian emperor.

In Mihintale you will find plenty of monasteries, stupas, and cave temples. The most notable thing to see is an impressive staircase around the side of the mountain, that brings visitors to the first level of the complex of Mihintale and from where you’ll gain a 360 degrees view of the surroundings.

You can get to Mihintale from Anuradhapura by tuk tuk. It costs 500 Rupees to get it. Make sure to go quite early in the morning to avoid the terrible heat of midday and early afternoon, and to hire a local guide to take you around once there. You will find English-speaking guides at the entrance.

Practical Information To Organize Your Trip

Where to stay in Anuradhapura Sri Lanka 

There are some good accommodation options in Anuradhapura. I recommend staying a bit outside the center to avoid the noise and dust. The best choice will be staying in a local guesthouse or homestay. These are usually very budget friendly; you can get your home-cooked meals there and the owners often have a tuk-tuk that you can hire to go around.

This is a selection of excellent places to stay in Anuradhapura: 

• • Heaven Upon Rice Fields is a bit outside the city but in an idyllic setting. All rooms have views of the rice fields. 

• • Willwin Park is a fantastic homestay, with small but comfortable, clean rooms. You can get your home-cooked meals there. It’s a great budget-friendly option. 

• • Hotel Heladiv has modern, spotless rooms. It’s outside the city but close to the sites. 

How to get to Anuradhapura 

Anuradhapura is a small town and it takes a bit of effort to get there, but it is worth it. There are no direct buses from Negombo (you’ll have to change somewhere halfway). It takes about 4 hours by bus to get there from Kandy, and the bus stops in Dambulla. In fact, there are direct buses from Dambulla to Anuradhapura.

How to move around Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura is fairly small and you won’t need to worry about moving around there – you can really walk everywhere. For longer distances, you may want to hire a tuk-tuk. I recommend either renting a bike or hiring a tuk-tuk to take you around the huge site – in both cases, make sure to bargain the price, and in the case of bikes, do check that the brakes and tires are ok before setting off for the day.

When to visit Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

There are two monsoon seasons in Sri Lanka. December to March are good months to travel, with less chances of rain and nice sunny days, but the country will be more crowded and the prices a bit higher than usual. If you aren’t too bothered by rain, just visit at any time. I went between August and September and found it mostly rained in the afternoon and at night, so I wasn’t too disturbed by rain during the day as I was out exploring.

Other useful information 

Remember that you need a visa to enter Sri Lanka. You can easily apply for your visa online here.

As for all trips, I recommend also getting good travel insurance prior to your trip to Sri Lanka. Get yours here.

Check out my post “Why You Need A Good Travel Insurance.”

Further Readings

Make sure to check out my other posts about Sri Lanka

• A Complete Guide to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
• A Guide To The Things To Do In Sigiriya Sri Lanka
• A Complete Guide To Kandy, Sri Lanka
• A Guide To What To See And Do In Trincomalee Sri Lanka

• A Very Useful Guide To Ella Sri Lanka
• Soak up the Sun at the Best Sri Lanka Beach Resorts
• 10 Day Sri Lanka Itinerary
• Sri Lanka Bucket List for Families

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