Sri Lanka Tour Package Price

Posted on by Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Table of Contents

Sri Lanka Tour Package Price: A Comprehensive Price Guide

Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, offers a wealth of experiences for travelers – from ancient ruins and lush tea plantations to pristine beaches and wildlife safaris. For many visitors, Sri Lanka Tour Package provide a convenient and cost-effective way to explore this diverse island nation. However, with the variety of options available, understanding tour package pricing can be challenging. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify Sri Lanka tour package prices, helping you make an informed decision for your dream vacation.

Factors Influencing Sri Lanka Tour Package Price

Before delving into specific price ranges, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the cost of Sri Lanka tour packages:

1. Duration of the Tour: Longer tours generally cost more but often offer better value per day.

2. Season: Prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons (December-March, July-August).

3. Accommodation Level: Budget, mid-range, or luxury accommodations significantly affect the overall price.

4. Transportation: The type of transport (public, private car, domestic flights) impacts the cost.

5. Included Activities: More included activities and entrance fees increase the package price.

6. Group Size: Smaller group tours or private tours are typically more expensive than larger group tours.

7. Meal Inclusions: Full board packages cost more than those with only breakfast included.

8. Guide Services: Packages with dedicated guides throughout the trip cost more than those with only driver-guides or local guides at specific sites.

9. Company Reputation: Well-established tour operators often charge more for their services and reliability.

10. Customization: Tailor-made itineraries usually cost more than pre-designed packages.

Travelers from all over the world have been flocking to Sri Lanka for millennia. Sri Lanka is a well-liked vacation spot that draws millions of tourists each year (more than 2 million in 2019). Sri Lanka is a varied vacation spot with a lot to offer, including fascinating wildlife reserves, ancient rain forests, and crumbling historical ruins. Above all, Sri Lanka is a reasonably priced Asian vacation destination.

While exploring this intriguing island, there are plenty of interesting things to do, like visiting historical sites, having fun, going on heart-pounding adventures, and, of course, tanning on white sand beaches and occasionally diving into the Indian Ocean. The dream of the swaying palms and the snow-white beach next to the glistening water? You have to start your Sri Lanka holiday as soon as you discover this ideal location on the island.

What is the cost of the vacation to Sri Lanka?

I get a lot of emails from people asking me about the expense of traveling to Sri Lanka. How much does the trip to Sri Lanka cost is one of the most often asked questions. Other ways to phrase this query include “What is the cost of travel to Sri Lanka?”, “What would be our budget for travel to Sri Lanka?”, and “How much will it cost for a one-week trip to Sri Lanka?”

After doing some research, I discovered that the reason I am asked this question so frequently is that it’s hard to get information about the cost of a holiday to Sri Lanka online. While some resorts list pricing on their websites, it appears that those pages haven’t been updated in a while.

In response to the question, “How much does a trip to Sri Lanka cost?”, I would suggest that it can range from $20 per day to several thousand dollars. And a lot of it depends on how well you arrange your trip to Sri Lanka. So, if money is tight, pick your lodging, activities, mode of transportation, and restaurants carefully.

Make smart travel plans and save money when visiting Sri Lanka.

The cost of your Sri Lanka vacation will largely rely on the type of trip you choose, just like it will for any other vacation spot in the world. You can easily arrange a lavish trip to Sri Lanka that includes lodging in pricey, upscale hotels and resorts, or you can choose to travel on a shoestring budget and take a backpacker-style holiday instead.

That’s not very helpful, though, so this long post will help you understand more clearly how much money you’ll need to plan your trip to Sri Lanka.

Note: Since May 2019 is when this post was created, the prices are current as of May 2019. Currently, the island’s inflation rate is about 4%, but it might reach a record high of 10% to 15%. When compared to hard currencies like the USD, Sri Lanka’s foreign exchange rate is likewise very erratic. For the purpose of making it easier for you to determine the necessary budget for a visit to Sri Lanka, all prices listed here are displayed in USD.

Package tours might help you save money on your trip.

Foreign tourists who want to plan a vacation in Sri Lanka most often purchase trip packages through travel agencies, where they may typically get better deals than what is listed on the official hotel websites. It’s also a good idea to get in touch with the resort directly to find out about any current promotions. Because the majority of hotels have exclusive deals and freebies, which are frequently not listed on their websites.

How much would it cost to travel to Sri Lanka between November and April?

There are two monsoons in Sri Lanka: the north-east and south-west monsoons, which run parallel to the northern hemisphere’s summer and winter. November through April is the busiest travel month in Sri Lanka during the northern hemisphere’s winter. This is the time of year when it’s warm and sunny, with the lowest amount of rainfall, particularly along the western and southern coasts. On the island, November through April offers the best weather for outdoor activities. However, because of the great demand, vacations to Sri Lanka are costly during this time because of the skyrocketing cost of lodging.

Which days are the most costly to visit Sri Lanka?

In Sri Lanka, the most expensive days to travel are those beginning on December 20. In every hotel, the cost of a room went up by nearly 100%. There are two additional mandatory supplement fees if you stay in a hotel on December 31st and January 1st. These fees are termed the “Xmas eve” gala dinner and the “new year eve dinner,” and they would cost about $100 per person at a five-star establishment. Nonetheless, the surcharge is smaller in hotels of lower category. Demand is very high as a result of this trend.

The time to ensure you are getting the most out of your travel expenditures

Even if you plan to travel to Sri Lanka during the off-peak months of April through November, choose the east coast as your base will increase the likelihood that you will have a pleasant trip. However, because of the summer monsoon rains, the West Coast does not offer favorable weather for outdoor activities during this time. On the other hand, now is the ideal time to get low cost travel and lodging for your trip to Sri Lanka.

The shoulder season in Sri Lanka provides far more favorable travel conditions. Offers for special discounts are beginning to appear in May and June. The greatest months to discover the finest weather and price combination are often May, June, and October. Please read this article, Sri Lanka Weather Pattern And Holiday In Sri Lanka, to get a much better understanding of how the east and west coasts relate to the country’s weather patterns.

If diving is a part of your vacation itinerary, you should be well-versed in the monsoon pattern and steer clear of areas that are affected by it because visibility is poor and the sea is choppy during rainy season.

Expense of Traveling to Sri Lanka

The cost of traveling to Sri Lanka is mostly determined by your point of departure. The majority of significant cities in Asia, Europe, and Arabia are connected to Sri Lanka. Unfortunately, there aren’t any direct flights available from a number of countries, particularly from South America, so visitors from such nations must take a connecting trip from Dubai or another European nation. Traveling from distant North American, South African, and European countries results in a significant increase in expense and a reduction in available options.

The cost of tickets drops significantly during the off-peak months; a round-trip ticket from Heathrow, for example, was approximately $600. The price of a round-trip ticket is estimated to reach approximately $900+ during the busiest holiday season, which runs from November through April.

A worthwhile option or side trip on the route to India or the Maldives is to visit Sri Lanka during a layover. Many visitors to India and the Maldives reserve their trips to Sri Lanka with us, allowing them to visit Sri Lanka in addition to other tourist spots for a little extra cash.

Travelers to the Maldives, in particular, often take sightseeing tours of Sri Lanka prior to their trip because the country has many attractions not found in the Maldives, like historical sites, wildlife reserves, mountains, rainforests, and adventure sites. There are numerous daily direct flights from Sri Lanka to India and the Maldives, both of which are only a short distance apart.

Mattala International Airport and Katunayake International Airport are the two airports that are located on the island. But only a small number of planes stop at Mattala foreign Airport, which is situated in southern Sri Lanka; all foreign carriers arrive at Katunayake International Airport in Colombo.

Move around

In contrast to past times, Sri Lanka boasts a highly developed transportation network. If you want to travel in luxury and save time, consider taking a domestic flight or seaplane. Public transportation is your best bet if money is scarce. The most obvious benefit of public transportation is its low cost, although it takes longer than other modes of transportation. For those seeking adventure, buses and trains that travel to every area of the island are convenient. It also gives you the chance to socialize and learn about the way of life of regular citizens of the nation.

The price of food and drink in Sri Lanka

Finding affordable dining options is not difficult when it comes to the culinary landscape. Travelers can find eateries, pubs, and bars outside of hotels in all major resorts, where the cost of food and beverages is far lower than within the hotel. Most hotels offer breakfast as part of the price of their accommodation.

Although booking a room for lunch or supper is not required, most guests choose to just stay for breakfast because there are plenty of outside restaurants in the resort regions. In order to serve meals to its patrons, almost all hotels have one or more restaurants. If you’re not in the mood to eat out, you may always use the hotel meal plan, which is typically less expensive than ordering ala carte.

There are a plethora of options for dining outside when you are in well-known resorts like Bentota, Hikkaduwa, and Negombo. For example, Hikkaduwa Beach Resort has about 100 beach restaurants. Sri Lankan local restaurants are reasonably priced, particularly if you go for roadside boutique establishments.

Eating at neighborhood eateries helps reduce the cost of your trip to Sri Lanka

Still, most native foods are served in the local restaurant, but they may be too spicy for a European palate. A restaurant buffet is a great way to eat a wide range of foods at a set price. But these neighborhood eateries also provide a good deal of other things that are helpful to visitors, like fast meals, fruits, and sweets. Cities are also home to numerous well-known international fast-food franchises, like Pizza Hut, Burger King, McDonald’s, KFC, and many more.

Local eateries serve delectable meals that are uniquely made for the local population. Local eateries are available in both urban and rural areas. There are specialty restaurants in big cities like Galle, Kandy, and Colombo, among others. The locals enjoy spicy food; otherwise, it is not to their taste. Usually, they consume extremely sweet or spicy food. Compared to Thai or Indian cuisine, Sri Lankan cuisine is spicy. Local eateries that serve mainly locals typically have relatively low prices, but their menus are typically limited to rice and curries.

Alcohol is a big budget buster for trips to Sri Lanka.

As usual, alcohol is a big budget buster due to its high cost in Sri Lanka. If you choose an all-inclusive plan, a limitless variety of foods and drinks are available around the clock. Nevertheless, all-inclusive packages are scarce in Sri Lankan hotels and resorts. If you drink a lot, one of the greatest methods to cut back on your alcohol spending is to purchase hard liquor at duty-free stores as soon as you arrive. This will cut your overall alcohol spending by about 50%.

What are the travel expenses and activities for Sri Lanka?

I assume that this is the most enjoyable portion of your trip! similar to numerous other travelers. While lounging in the sun and on the beach is wonderful, you also can’t overlook the exciting things Sri Lanka has to offer visitors. There are countless things to do, such as whale watching, surfing, diving, safaris, riding elephants, whitewater rafting, seeing cultural sites, galleries, and museums, shopping, exploring rain forests, and more.

Recreational activities involving water

Since Sri Lanka is an island, there are a ton of exciting water-based activities to enjoy there. One of the most well-liked activities on the island is snorkeling and diving, which is available in numerous locations along the east, south, and west coasts with pristine water and the most exquisite marine life on the planet.

Diving: The cost of a single dive will range from $75 to $150, depending on the location you select. If you sign up for a package that includes many drives, the cost will be significantly less. Some of the greatest locations to view Sri Lanka’s amazing underwater life are the marine sanctuaries of Hikkaduwa on the west coast and Pigeon Island on the east.
Snorkeling: The cost of a boat tour including snorkeling, including all equipment, is about $30 per person.
Safari: Discovering a foreign nation’s flora and wildlife is unquestionably an exciting experience and a well-liked pastime. Elephants, leopards, bears, monkeys, buffaloes, crocodiles, and numerous more mammals, reptiles, and bird species are among the abundant and diverse wildlife found in Sri Lanka. Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park, and Minneriya National Park are a some of the top safari destinations. Based on two people, a safari would cost about $50 per person, which would cover all taxes, tracker fees, entrance fees, and jeep rentals.
Boat tour: Sri Lanka has some incredible river rapids; this is another well-known and well-liked family activity. You can go boating in the Bentota River or the Madhu River Estuary if you’re on Sri Lanka’s west coast.
Visiting historical sites: Sri Lanka is home to many cultural and historical sites, and its cultures date back to the second century BC, making it one of the world’s oldest. Several of these historical and cultural locations are UNESCO World Heritage Sites; among the most well-known are Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla Cave Temple, Kandy, and Galle.

Budget-conscious travel advice for Sri Lanka

While Sri Lanka is not as inexpensive as Thailand for vacations, it can be made more affordable with good planning. Maybe you could even make it less expensive than Thailand—of course, if you plan well. Here are some things to think about to reduce your costs if you are a frugal traveler or want to get the best value for your money:

Reduce the cost of your trip to Sri Lanka by booking a package tour.
While this may not always be the first choice of independent travelers, it is one of the best methods to save costs on your trip to Sri Lanka. Look for packages that include lodging, transportation, food, and entertainment. In this manner, you may enjoy the tour and save money at the same time by giving the organizing of the holiday to a local tour operator like Seerendipity Tours.

Make a stopover in Sri Lanka

Traveling to Sri Lanka during a lengthy stopover when traveling across the globe or traveling between India and other south Asian nations. If you’re planning a big trip, consider including Sri Lanka in your schedule.

Reduce the cost of a room by remaining longer at your resort.
Longer stays at hotels and resorts are rewarded with better rates; the longer the stay, the better the deal.

Using a cab or other convenient mode of transportation can result in a high payment for transportation. That is, nevertheless, the most efficient method of transportation in Sri Lanka. By saving time, you can do the tour at your own pace and see more locations.

Your Sri Lanka trip budget will increase if you visit distant locations because of the cost of transportation.
Rather than staying at a resort or hotel, take a round-trip tour of the island, stopping at many significant locations each day in different parts, and alternate where you spend the night in between the visits. Traveling to far attractions from your beach resort will cost you a lot of money and take away from your time to see the sights.

Safety

There are a few sporadic instances where thugs beat, hurt, and steal from tourists. That does, however, happen to natives as well as to visitors. These are uncommon occurrences that can be prevented with caution. To improve security for visitors to the nation, the Sri Lankan police have recently expanded the number of officers working in the tourism industry. The majority of the nation is home to tourist police stations, which offer good security for visitors to the island.

Types of Tour Packages and Price Ranges

Sri Lanka tour packages can be broadly categorized into three tiers: Budget, Mid-range, and Luxury. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each category:

Budget Tour Packages

Price Range: $50 – $100 per person per day

What to Expect:

– Basic accommodation (2-3 star hotels or guesthouses)

– Public transportation or basic private vehicle

– Limited included activities

– Some meals (usually breakfast)

– Shared guided tours

Sample 7-Day Budget Package: $750 per person

This type of package might include:

– Colombo city tour

– Cultural Triangle highlights (Sigiriya, Dambulla)

– Kandy and Tea Country

– A beach stay in the south

Mid-range Tour Packages

Price Range: $100 – $200 per person per day

What to Expect:

– 3-4 star hotels

– Private air-conditioned vehicle

– More included activities and entrance fees

– Most meals

– Mix of private and shared guided tours

Sample Sri Lanka 10-Day Mid-range Package: $1000 – $2000 per person

This package might include:

– Comprehensive Cultural Triangle tour

– Kandy and Tea Country with train ride

– Wildlife safari in Yala National Park

– Beach stay with water activities

Guided city tours in Colombo and Galle

Luxury Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Price Range: $500 – $1500+ per person per day

What to Expect:

– 4-5 star hotels and resorts

– Luxury private transportation (possibly including domestic flights)

– All activities and entrance fees included

– All meals, often at high-end restaurants

– Private guides throughout

– Exclusive experiences (e.g., private cultural performances, cooking classes)

Sample 14-Day Luxury Package: $2800 – $7000+ per person

This package might include:

– VIP airport services

– Helicopter tours

– Exclusive cultural experiences

– Luxury wildlife safaris

– High-end Ayurvedic spa treatments

– Gourmet dining experiences

Breakdown of Costs Within Tour Packages

To better understand tour package pricing, let’s break down the typical costs included:

1. Accommodation: 30-40% of package price

   – Budget: $20-$50 per night

   – Mid-range: $50-$150 per night

   – Luxury: $150-$500+ per night

2. Transportation: 20-30% of package price

   – Budget: $20-$40 per day (public transport/basic car)

   – Mid-range: $40-$80 per day (private car/van)

   – Luxury: $80-$200+ per day (luxury vehicle/domestic flights)

3. Meals: 15-20% of package price

   – Budget: $10-$20 per day

   – Mid-range: $20-$40 per day

   – Luxury: $40-$100+ per day

4. Activities and Entrance Fees: 10-15% of package price

   – Cultural site entrance fees: $10-$30 per site

   – Wildlife safari: $30-$100 per trip

   – Water sports activities: $20-$100 per activity

5. Guide Services: 10-15% of package price

   – Local guides: $20-$50 per day

   – Full-time tour guides: $50-$150 per day

6. Company Overhead and Profit: 10-20% of package price

Let’s look at some popular Sri Lanka tour itineraries and their approximate prices across different budget categories:

1. Classic Sri Lanka (7 Days)

Covering: Colombo, Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, South Coast

– Budget: $400 – $700

– Mid-range: $700 – $1400

– Luxury: $1400 – $3500+

2. Wildlife and Beach (10 Days)

Covering: Colombo, Wilpattu, Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Yala, South Coast

– Budget: $600 – $1000

– Mid-range: $1000 – $2000

– Luxury: $2000 – $5000+

3. Complete Sri Lanka (14 Days)

Covering: Colombo, Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Tea Country, Yala, Hill Country, South Coast

– Budget: $800 – $1400

– Mid-range: $1400 – $2800

– Luxury: $2800 – $7000+

4. Honeymoon Special (10 Days)

Covering: Colombo, Cultural Triangle, Kandy, Tea Country, Beach Stay

– Mid-range: $1500 – $2500

– Luxury: $2500 – $6000+

5. Adventure Sri Lanka (12 Days)

Covering: Colombo, White Water Rafting, Adam’s Peak, Ella, Arugam Bay (Surfing), Yala

– Budget: $700 – $1200

– Mid-range: $1200 – $2400

– Luxury: $2400 – $6000+

Seasonal Price Variations

Sri Lanka experiences significant seasonal price fluctuations:

1. Peak Season (December – March, July – August)

   – Prices can be 20-30% higher than average

   – Example: A $1000 mid-range package might cost $1200-$1300

2. Shoulder Season (April – June, September – November)

   – Prices are usually average or slightly discounted

   – Example: A $1000 mid-range package might cost $900-$1000

3. Off-Season (May, October – November)

   – Prices can be 10-20% lower than average

   – Example: A $1000 mid-range package might cost $800-$900

Remember that while off-season travel can offer significant savings, it may come with more rain and potential limitations on activities.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for a Sri Lanka tour package, keep in mind these additional costs:

1. Visa Fees: $35 for a 30-day tourist visa (as of 2023)

2. International Flights: Not typically included in tour packages

3. Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, costs vary

4. Vaccinations: Consult your doctor for recommendations

5. Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, additional meals, drinks

6. Tips: For guides, drivers, and hotel staff

7. Optional Activities: Not included in the base package

Ways to Save on Tour Packages

If you’re looking to reduce costs on Sri Lanka tour packages:

1. Travel in the Off-Season: Significant discounts available

2. Book in Advance: Early bird discounts can save 10-15%

3. Group Discounts: Traveling with a larger group can reduce per-person costs

4. Mix and Match: Combine budget accommodations with mid-range activities

5. Limit Included Meals: Opt for breakfast-only packages and explore local eateries

6. Choose Packages with Public Transport: Especially for budget travelers

7. Look for Special Offers: Many operators have seasonal promotions

8. Negotiate: Especially for custom packages, there may be room for negotiation

Understanding What’s Included (and What’s Not)

When comparing tour package prices, pay close attention to what’s included:

Typically Included:

– Accommodation

– Some or all meals

– Transportation within Sri Lanka

– Entrance fees to main attractions

– Guide services (extent varies by package)

Often Not Included:

– International flights

– Visa fees

– Travel insurance

– Personal expenses

– Optional activities

– Alcoholic beverages

– Camera fees at some sites

Always read the “Inclusions” and “Exclusions” sections of tour packages carefully to avoid surprises.

Customization and Its Impact on Price

Many travelers opt for customized tour packages. Here’s how customization can affect pricing:

1. Adding Destinations: Can increase the price by $50-$150 per day

2. Upgrading Accommodation: Moving from 3-star to 4-star can add $30-$100 per night

3. Private Guides: Adding a private guide can cost an extra $50-$150 per day

4. Special Activities: Unique experiences (e.g., hot air ballooning) can add $100-$300 per activity

5. Dietary Requirements: Special meal arrangements might incur additional costs

When requesting customizations, always ask for a detailed breakdown of the additional costs.

Comparing Tour Operator Prices

When researching Sri Lanka tour packages, you’ll likely find price variations among operators. Here’s why:

1. Company overhead: Larger companies may have higher operating costs

2. Quality of Services: Higher prices often reflect better quality guides, vehicles, etc.

3. Unique Selling Points: Some operators charge more for unique experiences or expertise

4. Target Market: Operators focusing on luxury travel will have higher overall prices

5. Booking Channels: Prices may vary depending on whether you book directly or through an agent

To make a fair comparison:

– Ensure you’re comparing like-for-like itineraries

– Check the specifics of what’s included

– Read reviews to gauge value for money

– Consider the operator’s reputation and experience

Price vs. Value: Making the Right Choice

When selecting a Sri Lanka tour package, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Consider:

1. Time Saved: More expensive packages often offer better logistics and time management

2. Stress Reduction: Higher-end packages typically provide smoother experiences

3. Unique Experiences: Pricier tours might offer exclusive activities not available in budget options

4. Quality of Information: More expensive tours often have better-trained, more knowledgeable guides

5. Comfort Level: Higher prices usually mean better accommodations and transportation

6. Group Size: Paying more for a smaller group tour can lead to a more personalized experience

Ultimately, choose a package that balances your budget with the experience you desire.

Booking and Payment Considerations

When booking a Sri Lanka tour package:

1. Deposits: Many operators require a 20-30% deposit to secure the booking

2. Payment Methods: Check what options are available (credit card, bank transfer, etc.)

3. Cancellation Policies: Understand the terms for refunds or date changes

4. Price Guarantees: Some operators offer to match or beat competitor prices

5. Currency: Clarify which currency the price is quoted in and consider exchange rate fluctuations

6. Installment Options: Some operators offer payment plans for more expensive packages

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Package for Your Budget

Selecting the right Sri Lanka tour package involves balancing your desired experiences with your budget. Here are some final tips:

1. Prioritize Your Interests: Allocate more of your budget to aspects of the trip that matter most to you

2. Consider Trip Length: Longer trips often offer better value per day

3. Be Flexible: Adjusting your travel dates or itinerary can lead to significant savings

4. Read the Fine Print: Understand exactly what you’re paying for

5. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarification from tour operators

6. Trust Your Instincts: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is

Remember, the goal is to find a package that offers the best value for your personal preferences and budget, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in beautiful Sri Lanka.

Whether you opt for a budget adventure, a mid-range exploration, or a luxury getaway, Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings ensure a memorable trip. By understanding the factors that influence tour package prices and what to expect at different price points, you can make an informed decision that aligns with both your dreams and your wallet.

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