You're interested in travelling to Sri Lanka, but you're wondering, "Just how much does it actually cost?"
Travel costs from Japan (Narita Airport) to Sri Lanka vary considerably depending on the season and the length of the trip.
This article presents model itineraries ranging from 3 nights and 4 days to 6 nights and 7 days.Estimated total costI have compiled the following.
We provide detailed explanations comparing peak seasons such as summer holidays with off-peak periods (e.g. June and November), key points for staying at luxury resort hotels and travelling, and even the much-talked-about Ayurveda experience options.
If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, do take this as a reference!
- Key Points and Prerequisites for Sri Lanka Travel Costs
- The difference between peak season and off-season is this significant! Average airfare prices
- Travel in comfort and peace of mind with our dedicated chartered taxi! What about the cost?
- Resort hotel accommodation costs: Market rates for luxury hotels and seasonal variations
- Meal costs: A balance between hotel dining and local eateries
- 【By Number of Days】Sri Lanka Travel Cost Simulation
- Cost of adding an Ayurveda experience option
- Summary: Sri Lanka Travel Costs and Smart Travelling Tips
Key Points and Prerequisites for Sri Lanka Travel Costs
First, the costs estimated in this articlePrerequisitesLet's organise it.
| Point of departure | Assuming a return flight ticket from Narita Airport in Japan to Colombo (Bandaranaike International Airport) |
| Plans by Travel Duration | 3 nights and 4 days, 4 nights and 5 days, 5 nights and 6 days, 6 nights and 7 days: four options |
| Season | Costs are anticipated to fall into the following two patterns: 1. Japan's summer holiday season (late July to August – peak season) 2. Off-season (such as June or November) |
| Accommodation | Primarily utilising beachfront or city-adjacent resort-style hotels (five-star class), with stays at luxury boutique hotels incorporated as required. Assumed to be a luxury line. |
| means of transport | For primary local travel, we prioritise safety and efficiency by utilising chartered taxis. |
| Items to be included in the costs | 1. Return airfare (Narita–Colombo) 2. Taxi hire charges(Daily package rates for exclusive hire) 3. Hotel accommodation charges 4. Meal expenses 5. Optional: Ayurveda experience fee (※Additional charge for those who wish to participate) |
The taxi charter calculations are based on Lanka Me, a service provided by Sri Lanka Taxi Charter Service, which the author also utilised during their trip to Sri Lanka.
The service with the highest number of Japanese users officially recognised by the Sri Lankan government, offering dedicated car hire with Japanese-speaking support.
Without using public transport,Private car with driver hireon the premise of touring the tourist spots.
Rather, I believe that chartering a taxi is the only way to fully enjoy Sri Lanka within a short period.
Taking the above into account, we shall examine each cost element in detail, followed by a total cost simulation broken down by day and season.
The difference between peak season and off-season is this significant! Average airfare prices
Airfare from Japan to Sri LankaThere are significant differences depending on the time of travel.
Generally, airfares tend to soar during Golden Week, the Obon holiday period, and the New Year holidays, whereas they are typically cheaper during the rainy season.
Airfare market rates
Summer holidays (peak season)：
Late July to August is Japan's peak summer holiday season, and return airfares tend to be higher. Depending on whether you take a direct or connecting flight,Approximately ¥90,000 to ¥110,000 returnIt would be wise to anticipate this. Depending on early-bird offers or airline promotions, it may be possible to keep costs slightly lower. If your trip coincides with the Obon holiday period, prices could be even higher.
Off-season (such as the rainy season)：
Periods such as June and November see fewer Japanese travellers, and parts of Sri Lanka itself enter the rainy season.A return flight ticket costs approximately £400 to £560.It is relatively inexpensive. For example, in June, Colombo is in its rainy season, leading to fewer tourists, so airline fares also tend to decrease.
【※】In fact, the average annual cost of a flight to Sri Lanka is approximately ¥90,000, butJune, the cheapest month, is 10–20 per cent cheaper than average.It becomes. Conversely, data shows that during peak months (such as April and August), prices can be around 20% higher.
【Trivia】Direct flights to Sri Lanka are operated by Japan Airlines (JAL) and SriLankan Airlines, while Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, and low-cost carriers such as AirAsia offer connecting flights. The journey time, excluding layovers, is approximately 9 to 10 hours for direct flights. Booking well in advance and opting for weekday departures can significantly reduce airfare costs.
※Reference: According to Skyscanner's market data, June is considered the cheapest month of the year (approximately £131 cheaper than average). June is indeed the ideal time to book.
Travel in comfort and peace of mind with our dedicated chartered taxi! What about the cost?
Even if it's your first trip to Sri Lanka, using a dedicated chartered taxi will greatly reduce any travel anxieties.
The one I mentioned earlier, which is hugely popular with Japanese tourists Sri Lanka Taxi Service We will introduce the fees and benefits.
Advantages of Chartered Taxis
Local public transport (buses and trains) is very cheap, but the routes are complex and time-consuming. Even if you were to hail a taxi each time,Language barriers and negotiationswhich can be a source of stress.
In that respect, a pre-bookable chartered vehicleJapanese staff supportAnd it's reassuring to know that from airport pick-up to sightseeing tours, you can entrust everything to the same dedicated vehicle and driver throughout.
This officially registered Sri Lankan government service has been the most popular choice among Japanese travellers for seven consecutive years, making it a reliable means of transport even for first-time visitors.
Moreover, the clear pricing structure is another welcome feature.
Sri Lanka Taxi ServiceFixed-rate package system by number of dayshas adopted,Flat rate regardless of distance travelled or time usedThat is why.
For instance, should you exceed the time due to traffic congestion or travel further than planned, no additional charges will apply whatsoever.
The total cost is initially presented as "○○ yen per vehicle for 〇 days' charter".
The price remains unchanged even if you make detours or alter your plans along the way.It's a great relief that the all-inclusive price means there's no worry about costs ballooning during the trip.
Chartered Taxi Fare Plans
So, what would the specific charter fee be?
In the case of Sri Lanka Taxi Service,Industry-leading low package ratesThey boast a 'lowest price guarantee' ensuring their prices won't be higher than competitors'.
The main pricing plans by number of days are as follows (all prices exclude tax):
| Number of charter days | Per unit charge (excluding tax) | For reference: When shared between two people (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| two days | ¥35,000 | (For two people, ¥17,500 per person) (For three people, ¥11,666 per person) |
| three days | ¥46,000 | (For two people, ¥23,000 per person) (For three people, ¥15,333 per person) |
| four days | ¥54,000 | (For two people, ¥27,000 per person) (For three people, ¥18,000 per person) |
| five days | ¥66,000 | (For two people, ¥33,000 per person) (For three people, ¥22,000 per person) |
| six days | ¥78,000 | (For two people, ¥39,000 per person) (For three people, ¥26,000 per person) |
| 7 days | 90,000 yen | (For two people, ¥45,000 per person) (For three people, ¥30,000 per person) |
※The above prices are exclusive of tax; approximately 101 TP3T tax will be added at the time of payment. For example, a 4-day charter costs approximately ¥59,400 including tax, while a 7-day charter costs approximately ¥99,000 including tax.
Per capita burdenGroup bookings are even more economical.
For example, if three people share the cost of ¥66,000 for five days, it works out to around ¥22,000 per person (roughly ¥4,400 per day!).
By sharing the cost with family and friends, you can enjoy a comfortable private tour at excellent value for money.
【Example of a travel route】
One popular tourist route in Sri Lanka is the circuit: Colombo Airport → Sigiriya (ancient ruins) → Kandy (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) → Colombo city centre. In this case, the total distance travelled is nearly 500km, but with a charter...Direct journey by private vehicle throughout the entire routeIt's incredibly efficient. Leaving mountain roads and long-distance journeys to professional drivers makes it a breeze, and you can flexibly stop at sightseeing spots along the way. Where public transport would require lengthy bus journeys or multiple train changes, a private vehicle allows you to...Door-to-door to your destinationIt also helps make effective use of time and provides a different level of reassurance in terms of safety.
▼Summary of Costs
Chartered taxi fareFlat rate based on the number of daysTherefore, it is easy to plan. Based on the above plan,Approximately ¥13,000 per day (per vehicle) serves as a guideline. Having a dedicated car and driver throughout your trip at this price is certainly appealing. Incidentally, participating in a package tour departing from Japan with a similar itinerary costs around ¥200,000 per person.It is said that this is the case, but with this model plan where you arrange your own flight and hotel and use a charter service,Approximately ¥130,000 to ¥150,000(prices fluctuate depending on high or low season). The benefits of charter travel include greater freedom and cost-effectiveness!
Resort hotel accommodation costs: Market rates for luxury hotels and seasonal variations
Nextaccommodation costsThis time, as we are assuming the use of resort-style hotels and luxury boutique hotels, the accommodation costs will be set at a slightly higher level.
Resort hotel and boutique hotel rates per night
Luxury hotels in Sri Lanka often feel more affordable compared to those in Japan.
If you wish to stay in a decent room,Approximately ¥15,000 to ¥30,000 per nightIt would be worth seeing.
There is a wide choice of accommodation, including five-star hotels in Colombo city centre, beach resorts along the coast, and design hotels created by renowned architects.
For exampleSouth-West Coast Beach ResortWell, luxury hotels in the 'Heritance' and 'Jetwing' chains typically cost between ¥20,000 and ¥30,000 per night.
On the other hand,Natural resorts in the Cultural Triangle (around Sigiriya) and boutique hotels in KandySome establishments offer excellent service for around ¥15,000 per night. Naturally, prices vary depending on room category and meal plan (breakfast included or all-inclusive).
High Season vs Off-Season Accommodation Costs
Hotel rates, like airfares, fluctuate depending on the season.
High season (August etc.)As global travel demand increases, popular hotels tend to fill up quickly or see their rates rise.
On the contraryDuring the off-season (such as June or November), promotional rates may be offered, and higher-class rooms may be available at reduced prices.
As a general tendency,During the rainy season, hotel rates are reduced by several tens of percent.There may be cases.
For instance, in the south-west such as Colombo to Galle, the rainy season runs from May to July, so coastal resorts offer off-season rates during this period.
On the other hand, the east coast (such as Argan Bay) has its best season from May to July, so it varies depending on the region...
OverallDuring the off-season, accommodation costs approximately 2,000 to 5,000 yen less per night than during the summer high season.It would be wise to anticipate this.
▼Summary of Costs
This article's model plan calculates an average of approximately ¥20,000 per night (high season) or ¥15,000 per night (low season). While the actual cost can be lower or higher depending on your choice of hotel, this budget range is realistic for a trip centred around resort hotels.
Meal costs: A balance between hotel dining and local eateries
One of the pleasures of travelling is the food you encounter along the way,meal expensesWhen they pile up, they cannot be ignored.
Sri Lanka has relatively low prices, so food costs are easy to keep down, but if you dine at high-end restaurants throughout your stay, it will add up to a considerable sum.
Here we consider a mix of hotels and local establishments.
Average meal prices in Sri Lanka
Average meal prices in Sri Lanka
Local eateries and cafés：
When eating a curry set meal (rice and curry) at a local eatery in Sri Lanka, it costs roughly¥200–¥500It's reasonably priced and dirt cheap. Street stall snacks or a cup of tea can even cost less than 100 yen. You'll want to make the most of these affordable and delicious local foods.
Mid-range restaurant：
In smart restaurants and cafés catering to tourists, the cost per person is¥1,000–¥2,000This is the standard price range. Restaurants serving Western dishes like pizza and pasta, or eateries within shopping malls, fall into this bracket. While considerably cheaper by Japanese standards, they are more expensive than local cafeterias.
High-end restaurants (including those within hotels)：
When dining at a hotel dinner buffet or high-end restaurant, per person¥2,500 or moreBe prepared to pay. Resort hotel dinners can cost between ¥3,000 and ¥5,000. However, the quality of the food and service is high, and the hotel breakfast buffet may be included in the room rate, so make good use of that.
Calculation of meal costs in the model plan
This model plan envisages a pattern where "during the day, guests dine at local eateries or casual restaurants at their tourist destinations, while in the evening, they enjoy a leisurely dinner at the hotel restaurant."
This results in the following daily food cost estimate:
| Breakfast | As breakfast buffets are often included with hotel stays, we'll assume no additional cost (¥0). Even if not included, eating at a local café will only cost a few hundred yen. |
| Lunch | Curry lunch plus a drink at a local eatery for around500 to 800 yenEstimated. Occasionally, days spent sightseeing with a café stop might cost around ¥1,000, but on average it should be about this much. |
| Dinner | Approximately £100 for dinner at the hotel restaurant¥2,500–¥3,500Estimated. While set menus or buffets at resort hotels may be slightly more expensive, the figure here represents an average price. |
| Other | Water, snacks, alcoholic beverages, etc. per day500 yenTo a certain extent. |
Adding up the above,Approximately ¥3,500 to ¥5,000 per dayThe amount serves as a guideline for meal expenses.
Even during the off-season, meal costs remain largely unchanged, so the model plan is a flat rate.Approximately ¥4,000 per daywill be recorded.
▼Summary of Costs
The cost of meals is approximately ¥4,000 per day.Plan your budget around three meals a day plus incidental expenses. If you avoid excessive splurging locally and enjoy the local fare, this amount should see you well fed. Conversely, dining at hotels or tourist-oriented restaurants for every meal could easily cost over ¥6,000 per day, so it's wise to strike a good balance.
【By Number of Days】Sri Lanka Travel Cost Simulation
Now, taking into account the elements discussed thus far,Total cost by number of travel daysLet us make a trial calculation.
eachFlights to and from Narita Airport + Chartered taxi fare + Hotel accommodation + Meal expensesThe total amount.
We will display them separately for the summer high season and off-season.The amount is an approximate figure per person.）。
| Travel Plan | Total cost: Off-season (e.g. June) | Total cost: High season (e.g. August) |
|---|---|---|
| 3 nights and 4 days | Approximately ¥185,000 | Approximately ¥230,000 |
| 4 nights and 5 days | Approximately ¥210,000 | Approximately ¥265,000 |
| 5 nights and 6 days | Approximately ¥250,000 | Approximately ¥310,000 |
| 6 nights and 7 days | Approximately ¥285,000 | Approximately ¥350,000 |
The above represents the approximate total amount. We shall provide further details regarding the breakdown and conditions for each item.
Cost breakdown for the 3-night, 4-day package (Narita departure/arrival)
Off-season: approximately ¥185,000 High season: approximately ¥230,000
<内訳>
| airfare | Off-season: approx. ¥70,000 / High season: approx. ¥100,000 |
| Taxi hire charge | 4-day charter fee: Approximately ¥59,000 (excluding tax; ¥54,000 plan) Given the limited duration, the plan is to focus solely on airport transfers and visits to major tourist attractions. |
| Hotel accommodation charges | 3 nights' stay Off-season: approx. ¥45,000 (based on ¥15,000 per night) High season: approx. ¥60,000 (based on ¥20,000 per night) |
| meal expenses | ¥16,000 (4 days × ¥4,000 per day) |
Points
A three-night, four-day itinerary, for example,Colombo 1 night + Sigiriya area 1 night + Kandy 1 nightA whirlwind itinerary like this is conceivable. During peak season, airfare and hotels become somewhat pricier, bringing the total cost to around ¥230,000, but in the off-season, it can be managed for under ¥200,000. Even for a short trip, having a chartered car allows for efficient sightseeing.
Cost breakdown for the 4-night, 5-day package
Off-season: approx. ¥210,000 High season: approx. ¥265,000
<内訳>
| airfare | Off-season: approx. ¥70,000 / High season: approx. ¥100,000 |
| Taxi hire charge | 5-day charter fee: Approximately ¥73,000 (tax-inclusive price for the ¥66,000 plan excluding tax) |
| Hotel accommodation charges | Four nights' stay: Off-season approx. ¥60,000 (¥15,000 per night) / High season approx. ¥80,000 (¥20,000 per night) |
| meal expenses | Approximately ¥20,000 (5 days × ¥4,000 per day) |
Points
With four nights and five days,Cultural Triangle Zone and South-Western BeachesCombining these destinations allows for a relatively comprehensive itinerary. For example, a circuit such as Colombo → Sigiriya → Kandy → Galle → Colombo can be comfortably covered in five days with a private vehicle. Costs run to around ¥250,000 in high season, but can be significantly reduced to approximately ¥200,000 during the off-season.
Cost breakdown for the 5-night, 6-day plan
Off-season: approximately ¥250,000 High season: approximately ¥310,000
<内訳>
| airfare | Off-season: approximately ¥80,000 / High season: approximately ¥110,000 |
| Taxi hire charge | 6-day charter fee: Approximately ¥86,000 (tax-inclusive price for the ¥78,000 plan excluding tax) |
| Hotel accommodation charges | 5 nights Off-season: approx. ¥75,000 (¥15,000 per night) High season: approx. ¥100,000 (¥20,000 per night) |
| meal expenses | Approximately ¥24,000 (6 days × ¥4,000 per day) |
Points
When it comes to a five-night, six-day trip,A journey almost around the entire island of Sri LankaThis also comes into consideration. For instance, a packed itinerary such as Colombo → Sigiriya → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya (highland retreat) → Southern Yala National Park (safari) → Galle → Colombo is feasible within six days. The strength of a chartered vehicle lies in...Comfort during long-distance travelThis is particularly the case for the number of days. The cost is around ¥250,000 in the off-season and just over ¥300,000 in the high season.
Cost breakdown for the 6-night, 7-day plan
Off-season: approx. ¥285,000 High season: approx. ¥350,000
<内訳>
| airfare | Off-season: approx. ¥80,000 / High season: approx. ¥120,000 |
| Taxi hire charge | 7-day charter fee: Approximately ¥99,000 (including tax for the ¥90,000 plan) |
| Hotel accommodation charges | 6 nights Off-season: approx. ¥90,000 (¥15,000 per night) High season: approx. ¥120,000 (¥20,000 per night) |
| meal expenses | Approximately ¥28,000 (7 days × ¥4,000 per day) |
Points
With seven nights' stay, you can make full use of the entire week,Major tourist destinations + resort stays + Ayurveda experiencesA packed itinerary is also possible. With the extra time, you could spend the final day relaxing at a beach resort or pop into a spa along the way.Luxurious allocation of timeIt is also possible. The total cost during peak season can approach ¥350,000, though this is an estimate for a rather lavish itinerary. During the off-season, it should be possible to keep costs below ¥300,000.
Cost of adding an Ayurveda experience option
When it comes to Sri Lanka, one must not forgetAyurveda(Traditional healing medicine)
If your itinerary allows, this is definitely somewhere you'll want to experience. Here, as an optional extra,Cost implications when incorporating an Ayurvedic experienceI would like to introduce.
Spa massage experience
Many hotels and city spas offer convenient Ayurvedic massage treatments.
For example, a set comprising a full-body massage using herbal oils plus Shirodhara (a treatment involving the dripping of oil onto the forehead)Approximately ¥5,000 to ¥8,000 per sessionis the going rate.
The session lasts approximately 90 to 120 minutes, making it ideal for refreshing yourself during your travels.
At local specialist spas, some offer treatments at surprisingly low prices,There are even examples of full-fledged courses lasting three hours costing 10,000 Sri Lankan rupees (approximately ¥3,500 to ¥4,000).
The optional cost for a half-day spa experience is around 5,000 yen.It would be advisable to take a look.
Ayurvedic Retreat
For those wishing to fully experience authentic Ayurveda,Ayurvedic retreatThere is also the option of staying overnight.
Specialist resorts with resident doctors are dotted throughout Sri Lanka, offering wellness experiences that include everything from meals to treatment.
The cost varies depending on the facility,Approximately ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 per night(For one person, including three meals and treatments) is the standard rate.
For example, at the renowned "Barberyn Ayurveda Resort" and "Siddhareya Health Resort",Approximately ¥200,000 for a 5-night, 7-day stayPackages of varying degrees may be available. The longer the stay, the lower the rate per night tends to be.
If incorporating it into the model plan schedule,A 6-night, 7-day plan with the final two nights spent at an Ayurvedic resortSuch an arrangement is rather lovely, isn't it?
In this case, the usual hotel charges plus meal costs are waived, but resort fees are added instead. Generally speaking,£500–£600 for two nightsIt is best to consider it as an addition.
▼Summary of Costs (Optional)
When including an Ayurvedic experience,A simple massage costs around £30.、For a proper stay, expect to pay ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 per night.Additional budget is required. As this is optional this time, it has not been included in the total cost. However, many people opt for it thinking, "Since we've come all the way to the real thing!", so if you're interested, do consider including it in your plans.
Summary: Sri Lanka Travel Costs and Smart Travelling Tips
The above details the costs of travelling to Sri Lanka.By number of days / By seasonWe have examined this in detail. Finally, let us summarise the key points.
Summary
High Season vs Low Season
During peak seasons such as summer holidays, airfares and hotel rates tend to rise, but during the rainy season off-peak period (particularly around June), these become more affordable. If you can shift your travel dates, you can achieve significant cost savings.
Utilising Chartered Taxis
Even on your first trip to Sri Lanka, chartering a private vehicle ensures peace of mind and comfort. Its efficient mobility allows for a fulfilling itinerary even in a short timeframe, ultimatelyGreat value for money sightseeingThis is key. As it is a flat-rate fee, costing is straightforward.
Choosing a hotel
For resort hotels, you can enjoy a luxurious stay at around ¥20,000 per night. If you wish to economise further, consider staying at mid-range hotels or reducing the number of nights (minimising travel).
Meals should be well-balanced
Eating at the hotel every meal would make the food costs mount up, soBy day, eat cheaply at local eateries; by night, dine elegantly at the hotel.The contrast is spot on. Sri Lankan cuisine offers many affordable and delicious options, so it's well worth actively trying the local fare.
Don't forget other expenses
Visa fees (ETA electronic travel authorisation fee) of approximately ¥4,500, overseas travel insurance, domestic transport between the airport and home, and souvenir expenses will also be incurred. When setting your overall budget,plus several tens of thousands of yenIt is reassuring to allow for a margin of flexibility.
Once your financial concerns are resolved, all that remains is to enjoy your travels to the fullest! Sri Lanka isWorld Heritage sites and abundant natural beauty, tea and spices, delicious cuisineThere's plenty to see and do. Plan your budget carefully to ensure a comfortable and memorable trip. 🚕🌴✈️
