Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
To ease your children into Sri Lankan food, try a breakfast of
pittu
. The coconut-rice
combination will be kind to their palates. Also try hoppers (bowl-shaped pancakes), espe-
cially the string variety, or nice and mild
rotti
(flatbreads with filling).
The profusion of fresh and exciting varieties of fruit should mean that everybody will
find something they like.
Children's Highlights
There aren't many attractions dedicated solely to children in Sri Lanka, but there are a lot
of sights they'll love.
Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage
A home for elephants near Kandy, with up to 80 ready to
interact with visitors.
Uda Walawe
One of the best national parks for wildlife-spotting safaris.
Elephant Transit Home
Not far from Uda Walawe, this is a well-regarded halfway house for
injured and orphaned elephants.
Minneriya
(adult/child Rs 1950/1050, service charge Rs 1100, charge per vehicle Rs 250)
A national park
renowned for its herds of elephants.
Turtle hatcheries
On the west coast, these are popular.
Unawatuna
Fringing reefs mean the beach here is safe and shallow for little ones.
Polonnaruwa
Kids can literally run themselves silly at the vast and car-free ancient heritage
sites such as this one, with its very cool ruins.
Three-wheelers
Buzzing, blowing and completely unlike a ride anyplace else, these ubi-
quitous transport options are good for a thrill.
Hill Country Train Rides
Kids will love hanging out the doors of chugging trains (and giv-
ing their parents heart attacks!).