12-Day Budget-Friendly Sri Lanka Tour by SUV, MPV, or Minivan (Seats Up to 9 Guests)
Explore Sri Lanka on a budget without missing the highlights on this 12-day tour. Discover Colombo’s city life, Kandy’s temples and tea estates, and scenic train rides to Ella with visits to Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak. Enjoy coastal escapes at Arugam Bay and Mirissa, with opportunities for surfing, sightseeing, and scooter rides, creating a full and memorable island experience.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
Bandaranaike International Airport Colombo
- We offer pickup from Colombo International Airport on arrival, or from Colombo and nearby areas if you’re already staying there.
Day 1 – Pickup & Colombo City Tour
Pick up from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and explore Colombo by tuk-tuk for a true local experience. Visit sights such as Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, Red Mosque, Pettah Market, Port City, and Lotus Tower. For dining, enjoy Ministry of Crab or Sultan Palace Restaurant. Shop for ayurvedic products or crafts at Spa Ceylon or Laksala. End the day with an overnight stay in Colombo.
Day 2 – Colombo to Kandy
Travel from Colombo to Kandy via shuttle, enjoying scenic views along the way. Stop for sightseeing in Dambulla and a delicious lunch provided en route. End the day with an overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 3 – Kandy City Tour
Explore Kandy by scooter with your chauffeur. Visit Nelligala Temple, Geragama Tea Factory, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Temple, Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the Kandy Viewpoint. End the day with an overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 4 – Nanu Oya to Ella
Travel from Kandy to Nanu Oya, stopping at Ambuluwawa Tower and Gregory Lake. Enjoy a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, with lunch provided on the way. End the day with an overnight stay in Ella.
Day 5 – Ella Tour
Visit the famous Ella Rock, Nine Arches Bridge, and Little Adam’s Peak (shared tour). Lunch is provided. End the day with an overnight stay in Ella.
Day 6 – Ella to Arugam Bay
Travel by shuttle from Ella to Arugam Bay. Stop for a hike at Upper Diyaluma Waterfall and enjoy lunch before reaching Arugam Bay. End the day with an overnight stay in Arugam Bay.
Day 7–8 – Arugam Bay
Spend two days in this surfers’ paradise. Surf world-class waves or explore the area like a local on a rented scooter. End each day with an overnight stay in Arugam Bay.
Day 9 – Arugam Bay to Mirissa
Travel from Arugam Bay to Mirissa via shuttle, with a Yala National Park safari drive en route. Enjoy provided snacks while spotting wildlife. End the day with an overnight stay in Mirissa.
Day 10–11 – Mirissa
Rent a scooter and explore Mirissa’s beaches, restaurants, cafes, and tropical vibes. End each day with an overnight stay in Mirissa.
Day 12 – Return & Wrap Up
Travel from Mirissa back to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) for your departure. Departure to Airport.
Ending Point
Bandaranaike International Airport Colombo
Want to personalize this tour?
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This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Round-trip transfer by Private SUV/MPV/Minivan
- Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
- Service of an experienced chauffeur
- Experienced trekker (Included only at specific points)
- Local guide (Included only at specific points)
- Tuk tuk and Scooter rides
- Sigiriya village visit with lunch and boat ride
- Scenic train ride
- Yala safari drive by 4x4 jeep
- 4 x Lunch (Day 2, 4, 5 & 6)
- 1 x Evening snacks (Day 9)
- Toll fee / Gasoline fee
- Total accommodation fee per person – 2135$ (1 night in Colombo, 3 star; 2 nights in Kandy, 4 star; 2 nights in Ella, 4 star; 3 nights in Arugam Bay, 3 star; 3 nights in Mirissa, 4 star)
- Sightseeing entrance fees
- Scooter rental (available upon request)
- Surfing lessons & equipment rental (available upon request)
- Airfare
Tour Important Information
Larger groups (9+) can be accommodated with a suitable vehicle. Please message us with the total number of guests.
Special preferences can be customized, too. Please message us with your requests.
The tour is stroller accessible.
Infant seats are available upon request.
Important message from the supplier
Book with Confidence!
- All trips come with instant confirmation and are 100% guaranteed.
Group Discounts:
- Traveling with 4 or more people? We offer special discounts!
- Send us a message to receive a personalized quote.
Custom Itineraries:
- Feel free to request any customizations.
- We can modify the itinerary to suit your requirements.
Islandwide Coverage & 365-Day Operation:
- We operate all year round across the island.
Available Car Models:
- Honda Fit Shuttle, Honda Vezel, Suzuki Fronx, or similar (max 3 travelers with luggage)
- Nissan Serena (up to 4 travelers with luggage) or equal in class
- Toyota HiACE & Nissan NV350 (up to 9 travelers with luggage)
- Yutong D7 Mini bus (up to 23 travelers with luggage) or equal in class
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 15 days prior to meeting time
- 80% Refund - 8 to 14 days prior to meeting time
- 70% Refund - 2 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 1 day(s) prior to meeting time
- No Refund - less than - 24 hours before the meeting time
About Transformative Ceylon
We design unforgettable travel experiences across Sri Lanka, from day tours in Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Mirissa, Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Ella, and beyond, to immersive multi-day adventures that showcase the island’s culture, wildlife, history, and natural beauty.
Team & Experience:
- Our tours are led by certified, English-speaking drivers.
- We prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the journey.
- Our team has years of experience exploring Sri Lanka.
- We bring extensive knowledge of local culture, history, and hidden gems.
Our Tours:
- One-way private shuttles with enriching stops.
- Private excursions tailored to your pace.
- Fully customized itineraries created around your interests.
Booking & Benefits:
- Instant confirmation and 100% guaranteed bookings for peace of mind.
- Exclusive discounts for groups of 4 or more.
- We’re happy to personalize your Sri Lanka journey based on your travel ideas.
$3,700/ per group
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