Sri Lanka 11 Days with Driver and Vehicle (Customizable)

Experience the Best of Sri Lanka in 11 Days with a Private Driver

Travelers looking to get a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s varied landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture will find this 11-day tour an excellent choice. Designed for up to four people, it offers a flexible and personalized approach, paired with the convenience of private transportation and a dedicated driver. While the tour price of $1,320 per group covers transportation, it leaves entrance fees, accommodation, and meals to be added, making it a well-rounded yet customizable adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the depth of sight-seeing—covering everything from ancient ruins to wildlife safaris. Second, the expert guidance of your driver, who not only navigates the roads but also shares insider tips and local stories. Third, the flexibility to tailor your days according to your interests. The only consideration? It’s a fast-paced itinerary, so travelers eager for a slow, relaxing holiday might want to pick their stops carefully. This trip suits those who love history, nature, and culture, and who appreciate the comfort of private, guided travel.

Key Points

• Flexible, customizable itinerary tailored to your interests.
• Private driver and vehicle ensuring comfort and local insights.
• Cultural, historical, and wildlife experiences packed into 11 days.
• Includes scenic train rides and safaris for authentic adventures.
• Excellent for small groups or families wanting a personal touch.
• Not including accommodations and entrance fees allows you to choose options that suit your style and budget.

Exploring Sri Lanka: A Deep Dive into the 11-Day Tour

Starting in Anuradhapura: Ancient Wonders and Sacred Trees

Your journey begins with a drive from Colombo to Anuradhapura, passing through lush landscapes on a roughly four-hour ride. Once there, you’ll visit Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest recorded tree in the world, grown from a cutting of the Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. This site is deeply revered and offers an insight into the spiritual fabric of Sri Lanka.

Next, the tour stops at Ruwanwelisaya, an enormous stupa built by King Dutugemunu that symbolizes the country’s ancient Buddhist heritage. The view of its massive dome offers a sense of how monumental ancient Sri Lankan architecture was. Then, you’ll visit Jethavanarama Viharaya, notable for its towering stupa—an impressive relic of the past—and Dagoba of Thuparama, believed to be the first stupa in Sri Lanka enshrining Buddha’s collarbone relic. The Isurumuniya Temple and Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna) complete the day, showcasing rock carvings and engineering marvels of ancient times.

Traveling here means walking through history—reviewers mention the well-preserved ruins and the peaceful atmosphere, which makes exploring this ancient city feel almost spiritual. Expect to spend around 2-3 hours exploring, with admission fees not included, typically around $30 for the entire complex.

Polonnaruwa: Royal Ruins and Architectural Marvels

On day two, the focus shifts to Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO-listed site. The drive from Anuradhapura takes around 2.5 hours, giving you time to relax and settle in. Here, the highlights include Gal Vihara, a rock temple with four gigantic Buddha statues carved into granite—the craftsmanship is impressive, and many travelers find the serenity of these figures unforgettable.

Next, the Polonnaruwa Vatadage is a stunning circular relic house that features intricate stone carvings, while Rankoth Vehera offers a glimpse into the kingdom’s devotion with its large stupa surrounded by carved stone pillars. The Samudra Parakrama, a vast man-made reservoir, provides scenic views and showcases ancient Sri Lanka’s advanced irrigation techniques. The Lankathilaka Image House adds to the experience with its towering Buddha statue and detailed brickwork.

This day balances history with scenic beauty and provides ample photo opportunities. The entrance fees total around $25, but the sense of stepping back into a glorious past makes it well worth it. Reviewers note the tour’s smooth logistics and the driver’s knowledge, making this a highlight for history buffs.

Sigiriya: Climbing the Iconic Rock Fortress

Day three brings the famous Sigiriya Rock, a must-see UNESCO site, renowned for its ancient frescoes, the Lion’s Paw entrance, and panoramic views from the summit. The climb takes around 3 hours and involves navigating steep staircases, but the payoff is worth every step. The site’s fascinating history as a royal fortress and the artistic frescoes make it a top highlight.

Right nearby is Pidurangala Rock, a less crowded alternative that offers spectacular sunrise or sunset views with Sigiriya visible in the distance. The day continues with a Minneriya safari, where herds of elephants gather near reservoirs—an exhilarating experience many reviewers describe as unforgettable. If the season is right, a hot air balloon ride over Sigiriya is also available, offering a unique perspective, although it’s seasonal.

Entrance to Sigiriya costs about $36, and safari fees are roughly $40. Travelers have raved about the chance to see elephants in their natural habitat and enjoy the scenic drives through the dry zone.

Dambulla Cave Temple and Kandy: Spiritual and Cultural Highlights

Day four takes you from Sigiriya to Kandy, stopping at the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a cave complex filled with ancient Buddhist statues and murals. This site, dating back over 2,000 years, offers a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere, and the intricate artwork provides insight into Sri Lanka’s spiritual life.

Arriving in Kandy, you’ll get a panoramic view from the Kandy View Point, a perfect spot to appreciate the city’s layout and the surrounding mountains. The Royal Botanical Gardens then provide a lush retreat, showcasing over 4,000 plant species, including orchids and palms. You’ll also visit the Matale Herbal and Spice Garden, where guides share the secrets behind Sri Lanka’s famous spices—something many travelers find both educational and aromatic.

In the evening, the Kandy Lake Club hosts a lively cultural dance show, featuring traditional drumming, fire-walking, and Kandyan dance. It’s an energetic display of local artistry that many reviews praise as a fitting cultural finale.

Tea Country: Nuwara Eliya and Scenic Train Rides

Day five and six are dedicated to the hill country. You’ll visit a Tea Factory and Garden in Nuwara Eliya, where guided tours reveal the tea-making process. The experience is both educational and delicious—especially if you enjoy a good cup of Ceylon tea. The drive through scenic highlands, passing waterfalls like Ramboda Falls, adds to the visual feast.

Gregory Lake offers opportunities for boating or simply relaxing by the water, while Victoria Park provides a tranquil setting amid colorful blooms. A highlight of this region is Horton Plains National Park, home to Worlds’ End, where the dramatic cliff offers sweeping views and a sense of adventure for keen hikers.

Ella: Iconic Bridges and Mountain Trails

Moving further south, the journey to Ella involves a train ride on the famous Nine Arches Bridge, a spectacular engineering feat surrounded by lush greenery. The train ride itself is highly praised—reviewers love the scenic views and the chance to experience local life on the rails.

In Ella, you can hike Little Adam’s Peak for stunning vistas or explore Ravana’s Cave, linked to the Ramayana legend. For the more adventurous, Ella Rock offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of the valleys below. Visitors consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the laid-back atmosphere of Ella as a relaxing contrast to the more historic sites.

Yala Safari and South Coast Beaches

Day eight includes a morning visit to Buduruwagala Temple, with its massive Buddha statues carved into the cliffside. Later, the day is spent on a Yala National Park safari, one of Sri Lanka’s top wildlife experiences. Many reviewers mention the incredible chance to spot leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, often in a single safari.

The tour then shifts to the beaches, with Weligama offering stilt fishermen and beginner surf spots, followed by Mirissa, famous for its golden sands and whale-watching tours (seasonal but highly recommended by travelers). The vibrant coastal scenes and the possibility of seeing whales make this part of the trip especially memorable.

Galle and the Final Coastal Days

Day ten is dedicated to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking around the cobbled streets, you’ll see colonial architecture, boutique shops, and cafes—all with a view of the sea. It’s a charming, relaxed way to soak in Sri Lanka’s colonial past.

On your last day, a short drive to Galle Beach allows for some final relaxation before heading to the airport. The drive from Galle to Negombo or Colombo takes about two hours, giving you time to reflect on this whirlwind adventure.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Reviewers often praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides—especially Dallas, who is frequently mentioned for his professionalism and kindness. One reviewer noted that Dallas not only drove safely and efficiently but also went above and beyond, including helping when their child was injured.

Many travelers value the balance of structured sightseeing and personal freedom. The tour’s customizable nature means you can prioritize certain sites or skip others, tailoring the experience to your pace. The inclusion of scenic train rides, safaris, and cultural shows ensures a well-rounded trip filled with unforgettable moments.

What You Should Know

• The tour costs $1,320 for up to four people, covering private transport, WiFi, parking, and driver accommodation.
• Entrance fees are paid separately, with prices like Sigiriya ($36) and Yala Safari ($40).
• The tour is fully private and customizable, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups.
• Most travelers find the driver’s knowledge and friendliness to be a major plus, often mentioning Dallas by name.
• The itinerary is ambitious—expect a busy schedule, but with plenty of highlights.

The Sum Up

This 11-day Sri Lanka tour offers a wonderful combination of history, nature, and culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a personalized experience without sacrificing depth. The private driver ensures comfort and local insights, turning what could be a complex trip into a smooth, guided adventure.

While entrance fees and accommodations are extra, the value lies in the flexibility and expert guidance. If you’re after an immersive, authentic look at Sri Lanka’s treasures, this tour delivers a fantastic mix of iconic sights and off-the-beaten-path surprises.

This trip is best for those who thrive on a full itinerary, enjoy learning about history and nature, and appreciate the comfort of private, guided travel. It’s perfect for small groups and families eager to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQ

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, the tour is fully customizable, allowing you to prioritize certain sites or add personal interests within the total mileage of 1300 km.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, WiFi on board, parking, fuel, highway tickets, and the driver (including driver’s accommodation). Entrance fees and accommodation are not included.

How skilled is the driver?
Reviewers consistently praise the driver, often mentioning their knowledge, friendliness, and safety. Dallas, for example, is noted for his professionalism and kindness.

Are entrance fees paid separately?
Yes, entrance fees such as Sigiriya ($36), Dambulla Cave Temple ($5), and safari fees ($40) are paid on-site, as they vary by site.

Can I change the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be flexible, so you can customize the stops according to your interests and pace.

Are the activities suitable for children?
Most activities, including the train ride, safari, and cultural shows, are family-friendly, but some hikes like Ella Rock require a moderate level of fitness.

Is WiFi available?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the private vehicle, making it easy to stay connected or share your adventures in real time.

What’s the best season to book this tour?
While not explicitly stated, activities like ballooning and whale watching are seasonal, typically from November to April. Always check weather conditions for outdoor excursions.

This 11-day adventure through Sri Lanka combines culture, wildlife, and scenic beauty in a way that’s tailored, comfortable, and genuinely memorable. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, this tour offers a flexible, well-organized way to see the best of the island.