6 Days Private Vehicle With Driver Explore Sri Lanka By Your Own Plans

Traveling through Sri Lanka offers an exciting mix of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and ancient wonders. This 6-day private vehicle tour is designed to give you the flexibility to create your ideal itinerary, guided by an experienced chauffeur and comfortable in air-conditioned vehicles. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, this tour promises a tailored experience where you control the pace and destinations.

One of the standout features we appreciate is the personalized approach, allowing travelers to explore at their own speed while knowing a professional driver is on hand to handle logistics. The inclusion of private transportation and pickup from your hotel or airport adds significant convenience. However, it’s worth noting that the tour charges extra for any mileage over the 150 km daily allowance, so planning your route carefully maximizes value.

This tour suits travelers who love flexibility, wish to avoid crowded group tours, and prefer to craft their own Sri Lankan adventure. It’s particularly well-suited for those eager to discover a blend of cultural landmarks, archaeological sites, and scenic vistas without feeling rushed. Let’s take a detailed look at what this experience delivers.

• Flexible itinerary tailored to your interests, with a knowledgeable driver as your guide
• Comfortable private transport, including options for small and large groups
• Visits to iconic sites like Kandy, Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Colombo, with a focus on cultural and historical landmarks
• Additional mileage costs to consider for longer or off-route explorations
• Authentic experiences with expert insights from a professional chauffeur guide
• Cost-effective at $225 per person, offering a full 6-day personalized Sri Lankan adventure

Day 1: Kandy and Its Enchantments

Your journey kicks off in Kandy, a city famed for its beauty and cultural significance. The day begins with a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which cover a vast 147 acres and host nearly 4,000 plant species. While admission is extra, the gardens’ sculptures, orchids, and majestic avenue of royal palms make it a peaceful start. Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the tranquility and lush greenery.

Next, the focus shifts to the heart of Kandy—the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This ancient temple holds Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddha relic, a tooth said to have been brought from India. The ornate gold casket housing the relic, set within a beautifully reconstructed temple, is a must-see for cultural enthusiasts. With no admission fee included, you might find the temple bustling with both pilgrims and travelers, but the intricate architecture and spiritual aura make it worthwhile.

From there, you’ll ascend to the Kandy View Point, perched above the city by Kandy Lake. The panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding hills are spectacular, perfect for capturing memorable photos. Just note that this spot can be crowded and has a reputation for pickpocket activity—so stay vigilant with your belongings.

Finally, a stroll around Kandy Lake offers a chance to unwind. Constructed in 1807, the lake’s legends about its secret tunnels and island huts add a layer of mystique to your walk.

Day 2: Ancient Marvels of Sigiriya and Dambulla

Day 2 takes you into the heart of Sri Lanka’s archaeological treasures. The rock fortress of Sigiriya is a highlight; a 200-meter-high monolithic rock crowned by a ruined fortress and vivid frescoes. While the climb itself takes about an hour, the view from the top is worth every step, offering sweeping vistas of surrounding jungle and ruins.

On the way to Sigiriya, you’ll visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five caves filled with Buddha statues and intricate paintings. The caves reveal the rich spiritual history of Sri Lanka, with images dating back centuries. The well-preserved murals and reclining Buddha statues make this a profound stop, especially for those interested in religious art.

Day 3: Polonnaruwa’s Ancient Glory

The ancient city of Polonnaruwa is a treasure trove for history lovers. The Gal Vihara, an impressive rock temple with giant Buddha statues carved from a single slab, is a highlight. The Lotus Pond adds to the serene atmosphere, with its lotus-shaped design and detailed stonework.

Exploring the Sivan Temple gives insight into Indian influences on Sri Lankan architecture. The carvings and statues here show the blend of local and imported styles, offering a glimpse of the island’s historical diversity.

Day 4: The Sacred and the Historical of Anuradhapura

On day 4, the focus shifts to Anuradhapura, the first major capital and a hub of Buddhist tradition. Highlights include the Mihintale monastic site, where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. The Ruwanwelisaya stupa, a towering brick structure, continues to inspire reverence as one of the oldest and most revered in the country.

The Moonstone carvings at the base of staircases and the Isurumuniya Temple with its beautiful murals and Buddha footprints enrich your understanding of Sri Lanka’s ancient religious landscape.

Day 5: The Highland Escape to Nuwara Eliya

Day 5 transports you to Nuwara Eliya, the hill station known as the “Garden City of Asia.” Here, the cooler climate and lush tea plantations make for a refreshing change. The Horton Plains National Park offers a brief but scenic walk across a misty plateau, with views that will leave you dreaming of endless green.

You might also visit the Sita Temple, believed to be where Ravana held Sita captive, or the Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple, a spiritual spot dedicated to the monkey god. The day culminates with a visit to Devon Falls, a stunning cascade ideal for nature lovers.

Day 6: Colombo’s Cultural Blend

Your final day explores Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital. The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple showcases an eclectic mix of architectural styles and Buddha statues from various countries, making it a vibrant cultural site. Nearby, the Old Colombo Dutch Hospital offers a relaxed spot for a coffee or meal, blending colonial charm with modern eateries.

A walk through Independence Square and the surrounding Cinnamon Gardens introduces you to Sri Lanka’s colonial past and modern city life. The Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil offers a glimpse into the country’s Hindu traditions, with colorful carvings and vibrant art.

The tour provides private, air-conditioned vehicles suitable for different group sizes, from couples to larger groups. The daily mileage is capped at 150 km, offering enough flexibility to cover major attractions comfortably. For travelers planning longer routes or off-route explorations, be aware of extra charges—USD 0.25 per km for smaller cars, slightly higher for vans.

Having a professional driver means you avoid the stress of navigating Sri Lanka’s often busy roads, especially in cities like Colombo and Kandy. The driver is fluent in English and offers limited assistance with history and stories—if you want detailed insights, you may need to hire a guide additionally.

Cost and Value

At $225 per person, this tour offers a pretty good value considering the flexibility, private transport, and access to numerous iconic sites. The flexibility to plan your own route means you can focus more on what interests you most, whether it’s temples, ancient ruins, or scenic viewpoints. Keep in mind that entrance fees to sites are not included, so budget accordingly for these.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One thing we love is the emphasis on authenticity—you’re not just ticking off tourist spots, but spending quality time at sites like Polonnaruwa and Dambulla, with the chance to absorb their spiritual and historical significance. The reviews point out that the guides are knowledgeable, lending helpful context to the sights, which truly enriches the experience.

A reviewer even mentioned that the trip was “flawlessly arranged,” highlighting the smooth coordination and the driver’s professionalism. This kind of care makes a significant difference, especially when navigating a diverse itinerary like this.

This 6-day private Sri Lanka tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking ultimate flexibility and personalized experiences. It’s perfect for those who want to see major sights at their own pace without the constraints of a scheduled group tour. The private vehicle and driver ensure comfort and convenience, especially if you’re tired of public transport or crowded buses.

It suits curious visitors eager to explore iconic landmarks like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa, but also enjoy cultural and scenic stops along the way. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences, meaningful sightseeing, and the freedom to customize, this tour will fit you well.

However, be prepared for additional costs if you want to visit extra sites or go off the beaten path, and remember that the driver offers limited commentary—so if you crave in-depth historical storytelling, consider hiring a guide for specific days.

This tour strikes a good balance between structure and freedom, making it ideal for independent-minded travelers who want a reliable yet flexible way to explore Sri Lanka’s treasures.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s flexibility makes it a good option for family trips, especially if you prefer personalized pacing.

Does the price include entrance fees to sites?
No, entrance tickets are not included. You should budget extra for entry to places like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and the temples.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. Since this is a “by your own plans” tour, you can choose the sites you want to focus on, with your driver helping facilitate your schedule.

What vehicle types are available?
The tour offers a standard air-conditioned car for 2 people, a small van for 5-6 people, or a larger van for up to 12, depending on your group size.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included in the tour price. However, your driver can recommend local restaurants or eateries along the route.

What should I be aware of regarding mileage costs?
You get 150 km per day included; beyond that, extra charges apply—USD 0.25 per km for small cars and slightly more for larger vans.

This flexible, private Sri Lanka trip delivers a practical yet authentic way to explore the island’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for independent travelers eager to craft their own adventure with expert support along the way.