Planning your first trip to Sri Lanka? Find answers to common questions about LankaMe, including payments, drivers, itineraries and the support available with your chosen plan.
The answers below cover what to check before booking and before departure.
Watch the 6-night, 7-day Sri Lanka travel video (Japanese audio).
About LankaMe and planning your trip
What is LankaMe?
LankaMe arranges private cars with drivers for travel across Sri Lanka. We help you build a flexible day-by-day itinerary, provide a written quotation in advance, and arrange a suitable driver and vehicle for your dates.
The transport contract is between you and your driver; LankaMe does not provide the transport itself.
Can I request a specific driver? Is there a selection fee?
Please tell us your preferences, such as language, driving style or a driver you have travelled with before. We prioritise your preferences subject to availability; a request does not guarantee that a particular driver will be assigned.
If a special arrangement involves an additional cost, we will tell you before you confirm.
When is my driver assigned?
Once your payment is confirmed, we begin securing your driver. After the booking is confirmed, the driver is assigned before the charter starts. We share the driver’s name and vehicle details when the assignment is confirmed.
Before departure, we provide contact details for either your driver or the local representative, commonly via WhatsApp.
Which areas of Sri Lanka are good to visit?
The best choices depend on the season and your interests:
- Cultural Triangle and Kandy: places such as Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy for history and temples.
- Hill Country: Nuwara Eliya and Ella for tea plantations, waterfalls and scenic train journeys.
- South and west coast: Galle and the surrounding coast for beaches and the historic fort town.
Share your travel dates and interests, and we can help you plan a route that avoids unnecessary backtracking.
Can you recommend hotels?
You may book and pay for your accommodation yourself. We can discuss suitable areas and properties for your route and budget. If you would like help with a hotel featured in our hotel-booking guide, ask us to confirm availability, any separate charges and the applicable booking conditions.
Local payments
How does payment work with LankaMe?
Your payment has two parts: the Agency Service Fee, paid online to LankaMe for arranging your booking, and the Driver Fare, paid directly to your driver or local transport operator in Sri Lanka. Your quotation sets out both amounts and their payment conditions. An online payment to LankaMe is not necessarily payment of the whole charter price.
How should I pay the driver locally?
The Driver Fare is normally paid directly to the driver in cash in Sri Lankan rupees (LKR). Pay the amount stated in your confirmed quotation and follow the local payment conditions confirmed for your booking.
Can I pay the driver by credit or debit card?
The Driver Fare is normally payable in cash, rather than by credit or debit card. This is separate from the Agency Service Fee paid online to LankaMe by card. Do not assume that your driver has a card terminal.
Can I pay the driver's fare in US dollars, euros or another currency?
USD, EUR, GBP, JPY or another currency may be used only if the driver agrees in advance. Acceptance is not automatic. Agree the currency, exchange rate and amount before paying, and follow the confirmed payment conditions for your booking.
When do I make the local payment?
The Driver Fare is normally split into two payments: one on the first day and one on the final day of the charter. Payment in full on the first day is also possible by agreement with the driver. Your confirmed quotation and payment schedule take priority.
Can I split the payment between different currencies?
Only if the driver agrees in advance. Agree the currencies, exchange rate and exact amount in each currency before payment. Do not assume that a mixed-currency payment will be accepted.
What exchange rate applies to the Driver Fare?
The LKR amount in your confirmed quotation is the reference amount. If you wish to pay in another currency, agree the exchange rate and resulting amount with the driver in advance. LankaMe does not guarantee exchange rates.
Will the driver have change?
Your driver may not have enough change. Please prepare the exact amount wherever possible and discuss any difficulty before the payment is due.
Do I need to pay the driver before arriving in Sri Lanka?
Normally, no. The Driver Fare is paid locally and directly to the driver or local transport operator. This is separate from the Agency Service Fee paid online to LankaMe to arrange your booking. Any different arrangement must be stated in your confirmed quotation.
Prices and inclusions
What is included in the charter price?
The charter price includes:
- The vehicle
- The driver’s work
- The driver’s regular meals and accommodation
- Vehicle insurance
- Expressway tolls
- Parking fees
What is not included in the charter price?
The following are not included:
- Tips
- Admission fees at attractions
- Activities such as safaris, train journeys and Ayurveda treatments
- Your personal expenses at restaurants, hotels and elsewhere
Is my hotel accommodation included?
No. Please arrange and pay for your own hotel accommodation.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Are restaurant transfers and travel within towns included?
Yes. Travel during the charter period is generally included, including restaurant transfers and journeys between your hotel and sightseeing locations.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Do expressway tolls cost extra?
No. Expressway tolls are included in the charter price.
Do I need to pay extra for the driver's accommodation and meals?
No. The driver’s accommodation and regular meals are included in the charter price. You and the driver normally eat separately. If you invite the driver to join you for a meal, please cover the cost of that invited meal.
Will the price stay the same if I change the route or overnight stops but keep the same number of days?
Often yes, provided the changes do not substantially increase the driving distance. A significant increase, such as adding a distant area, may require a revised price. An additional 50 km is an indicative point at which an adjustment may be needed.
Can you revise the quotation if my dates or route change?
Yes. We can prepare a revised quotation based on the final number of days, areas visited and driving distance.
Does a late-afternoon pickup still count as a full charter day?
Yes. Arranging the vehicle and driver, waiting time and preparations are still required for that day, so the applicable daily charge applies even if pickup is late.
Can you provide a detailed breakdown of every cost?
We can explain the cost categories, but we do not disclose the precise internal allocation of the price among individual items.
Tipping
Are tips compulsory?
No. Tipping is optional and is a gesture of appreciation.
How much should I tip the driver?
As a rough guide, LKR 2,000–4,000 per driver per day is a suggested range, not a fixed rule or compulsory charge. Choose an amount that reflects your satisfaction and circumstances.
Should I tip daily or at the end of the trip?
Either is fine. You may tip each day or give one combined tip on the final day.
Can I tip in a foreign currency?
LKR is the most practical choice. A foreign-currency tip is possible only if the driver is able and willing to accept it. Tipping is always optional.
Should I tip at hotels too?
Typical guidelines are LKR 200–300 per bag for a porter and LKR 200–500 per night for housekeeping. If a restaurant already includes a service charge, an additional tip is often unnecessary.
Cancellations and refunds
When do cancellation charges apply?
The following cancellation conditions apply to the Agency Service Fee paid to LankaMe, measured against the charter start date:
- Up to 7 days before the charter start date (including the seventh day): no cancellation charge; 100% of the Agency Service Fee already paid is refunded.
- 2–6 days before the charter start date: a cancellation charge of 100% of the Agency Service Fee applies; no refund of that fee.
- The day before, on the start date or after the charter has started, including a no-show: a cancellation charge of 100% of the Agency Service Fee applies; no refund of that fee.
For cancellations up to 7 days before the start date, the Agency Service Fee is refunded in full without a deduction for payment-processing fees. The Driver Fare is a separate transaction with the driver or local transport operator, so any local payment or refund arrangements must be discussed with that provider.
These conditions do not limit any refund or other rights you have under applicable law.
Do cancellation charges apply in circumstances beyond my control?
We consider circumstances beyond your control, including force majeure, individually. Such circumstances do not automatically qualify for a refund, and the cancellation conditions apply subject to your rights under applicable law. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers cancellation and disruption.
How are refunds processed?
Refunds are normally returned to the credit card used for the original payment. Depending on the card issuer, a refund may take around 10 days to appear after processing, and it can take longer. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed deadline.
What happens if LankaMe cannot arrange my confirmed booking?
We will try to offer an alternative. If we cannot provide the agreed arrangements and you do not accept the alternative, we will refund the Agency Service Fee for the affected booking. This does not affect any additional rights you have under applicable law. The Driver Fare is a separate transaction with the driver or local transport operator.
Choosing a plan
What is the difference between Standard, Platinum and Royal?
Standard focuses on transport and transfers. Platinum adds sightseeing guidance and practical assistance, with a dedicated, experienced support contact. Royal provides the higher driver arrangement described in the plan guide; its support desk services are the same as Platinum. The arrangements in your quotation and booking confirmation apply.
Related guide: Compare Standard, Platinum and Royal
Which plan should I choose?
- Standard: for travellers prioritising a lower cost.
- Platinum: for a first trip to Sri Lanka when reassurance and support matter.
- Royal: for priority access to especially good drivers during busy periods.
Does the scope of customer support differ by plan?
For enquiries in English, use our enquiry form, WhatsApp or email and confirm your preferred contact method before travel. Standard focuses on transport, with day-to-day journey arrangements discussed directly with your driver. Platinum and Royal include the dedicated support described in the plan guide for itinerary planning and assistance before and during the trip.
The available language, contact arrangements and scope of assistance depend on your confirmed plan. Do not assume continuous availability or a guaranteed response time; ask us before booking if you need a particular support arrangement.
What assistance does the Platinum plan provide?
Alongside transport, Platinum can include accompanying you to entrances, helping purchase tickets, providing brief explanations, suggesting photo spots, arranging safaris through the driver, and helping read English text or with simple interpretation.
Does Platinum provide the same explanations as a specialist guide?
Platinum focuses on accompaniment, practical assistance and brief explanations. It does not provide continuous scholarly or in-depth commentary of the kind offered by a specialist guide.
Do I have to pay the driver's admission fee if they accompany me inside an attraction?
No. You will not be charged an admission fee for your driver.
What does the Standard plan cover?
Standard mainly provides transport and transfers. Basic suggestions and communication assistance may be possible, while Platinum and above offer more extensive accompaniment at sightseeing locations.
Vehicles and luggage
What is the difference between a Sedan, Van and Big Van?
- Sedan, up to 3 passengers: suitable for a small party.
- Van, 3–6 passengers: more space for luggage and a roomier journey.
- Big Van, 6–9 passengers: suitable for larger groups and more luggage.
Related guide: Read the related guide
What vehicle models are typically used as Vans?
Examples include Toyota Hiace, Nissan Caravan, Toyota Noah, Toyota Voxy, Nissan Serena, or vehicles of a comparable class.
What sort of Van is provided with Platinum?
Platinum is a higher service-quality plan. Within the appropriate vehicle class, we prioritise vehicles with well-kept interiors and good maintenance.
Can I request a particular make or model?
No. We do not accept requests for a specific model. We provide a clean, well-maintained vehicle of the appropriate comparable class.
Will a Van fit five adults and luggage for two nights?
A Van can often accommodate five adults, but a Big Van is more comfortable if you have several large suitcases.
Will a Van fit two adults, two children and a suitcase for each person?
Yes. A Van can accommodate a suitcase for each person in this group.
How much luggage fits in a Sedan?
As a general guide, one large suitcase, one medium suitcase and a small amount of hand luggage will often fit.
We do not want three people squeezed across the back seat. Is a Van better?
Yes. A Van is more comfortable for that situation. A group of three can generally sit with more space without all three sharing one rear row.
Is a Sedan suitable when travelling with an elderly relative?
A Sedan can be used, but a Van is recommended if easier entry and exit and greater freedom to change sitting position are priorities.
Do you provide child seats?
Child seats may be arranged subject to availability and suitability. Please provide each child’s age, height and weight when enquiring so we can check the appropriate seat and confirm the arrangement before travel. Where supplied under our existing free-of-charge arrangement, no child-seat hire fee applies; availability is not guaranteed simply by submitting a request.
Do the seats recline?
The front seats in a Sedan generally recline, and the rear seats often allow a little adjustment. A Van is usually more comfortable if you want to rest properly during the journey.
Is Wi-Fi available in the vehicle?
We do not guarantee onboard Wi-Fi. Some drivers may be able to share a mobile hotspot, but we recommend a local SIM or eSIM if reliable access is important to you.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Drivers
Will the same driver stay with us throughout the trip?
Yes. Normally the same driver looks after you for the full charter period.
Could our driver change partway through the trip?
Normally your driver remains the same. If unavoidable circumstances arise, such as an accident or vehicle problem, our local driver representative will arrange a replacement.
Will Ranjana be our driver?
Not normally. Ranjana is the local driver representative, and another assigned driver handles your driving and accompaniment. Ranjana sometimes serves as a driver on the Royal plan.
How well do Japanese-speaking drivers speak Japanese?
Many can converse comfortably in Japanese, although reading and writing may be easier in English. For important information, adding a short English version can help ensure clear communication.
Do Japanese-speaking drivers hold qualifications such as JLPT N2?
A Japanese-Language Proficiency Test qualification is not a prerequisite. We prioritise practical communication and the ability to guide and assist travellers.
How well do English-speaking drivers speak English?
English-speaking drivers generally communicate at a level sufficient for practical travel needs with European visitors.
Do we have to pay for the driver's meals?
No. The driver’s regular meals are included in the charter price. If you invite the driver to eat with you, however, please pay for that invited meal.
Do we have to pay for the driver's accommodation?
No. The driver’s accommodation is included in the charter price.
Where does the driver stay?
We normally arrange accommodation near the area where you are staying, in a location suitable for the next morning’s pickup.
Where does the driver wait while we visit attractions or cafés?
The driver generally waits nearby and stays in touch through WhatsApp or a similar service to arrange meeting you again. They choose a suitable waiting place according to parking conditions.
Will the driver wait if immigration takes a long time at the airport?
Yes. Waiting arrangements take the time needed for immigration and customs into account.
Does the driver have fixed working hours?
Departure and pick-up times can be arranged flexibly, subject to the driver’s availability, safe driving conditions and necessary rest breaks. Agree early starts, late arrivals and the daily schedule in advance. Flexibility does not mean unlimited driving or continuous availability.
Does the driver take breaks on long journeys?
Yes. For safe driving, we normally take a short break roughly every 1.5–2 hours, as well as a lunch break when needed.
Itinerary changes and stops
Can you accommodate itinerary changes?
Yes. Changes can be accommodated flexibly where they do not substantially increase the driving distance; an additional 50 km is an indicative guideline.
Can we make short detours and photo stops?
Yes. Short stops for photographs, cafés, scenic spots, supermarkets or markets can often be arranged on the day.
Must we decide every stop in advance?
No. You do not need to finalise every detail now. It is fine to agree the overall route and make smaller adjustments the day before or on the day.
Can we change the sightseeing order because of the weather?
Yes. Simply changing the order of visits within the same area normally does not incur an additional charge.
Can we add another place to visit on the day?
Yes, where it is practical. Adding a distant destination or substantially increasing the driving distance will need to be discussed separately.
Airport transfers and service coverage
Can we travel to Sigiriya or another distant destination late at night after arrival?
This is often difficult, but may be possible depending on driver availability, safety and road conditions. Please contact us first to check availability.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Is a transfer to the airport included?
Yes. Depending on the agreed itinerary, an airport drop-off can be included.
Can you arrange late-night or early-morning airport transfers?
Yes. Transfers can be arranged flexibly for late-night and early-morning flights.
Can I book only a transfer from the airport to my hotel?
Airport transfers can form part of a charter itinerary, but we generally do not accept standalone airport-transfer bookings.
Are return trips between hotels and attractions included, as well as travel between cities?
Yes. You can use the charter for journeys between your hotel and attractions, restaurants or safari meeting points.
Can we use the driver on the days between major transfers?
Yes. The driver is available throughout the charter period, including full days between major transfers, for restaurants, shopping and sightseeing transfers.
Safaris
Are safari costs included in the charter price?
No. Safari jeep charges, national park admission and related activity costs are not included.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Do safaris have to be booked in advance?
Advance booking is not essential in many cases. Safaris can often be booked shortly before the visit.
Can you arrange a safari for us?
On Platinum and Royal, your assigned driver can arrange a safari. Arrangements generally take account of current crowds, recent animal sightings and park conditions. Indicative prices are provided in the safari guide.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Do I need to book the safari myself?
With Standard, making your own advance booking is the most reliable approach. With Platinum or Royal, local arrangements can be made through your assigned driver.
Can our driver join the safari jeep and explain what we see?
Your driver can join and provide explanations only when the safari was arranged through that driver. Under local driver rules, they cannot accompany a safari booked by another means.
Will you take us to the safari meeting point?
Yes. We can take you from your hotel to the meeting point and collect you after the safari.
Do you recommend Minneriya National Park?
Yes. It is popular for its elephant herds and is close to Sigiriya, making it convenient for many itineraries.
Should we choose Minneriya or Wilpattu?
If minimising travel and keeping the route efficient are your priorities, Minneriya is recommended. Wilpattu involves a wider detour and needs to be considered alongside your other destinations.
Is an early-morning or afternoon safari better?
As a general guide, afternoons are good for seeing elephants, while early mornings suit travellers who prefer cooler conditions or fewer crowds. The best choice also depends on the season and park conditions.
Do safaris run in the rain?
They often run in light rain. Heavy rain or unsafe conditions may cause a delay, a shortened trip or cancellation.
Which safari park should we visit near Sigiriya?
The best option among Minneriya, Kaudulla and Hurulu Eco Park changes with the season and the elephants’ movements. The choice is generally made based on conditions at the time.
Is one safari enough at Yala?
If you are staying for around three nights, two outings—one early morning and one afternoon—give you more opportunities for sightings and different scenery.
Tea train and rail travel
Can LankaMe book our train tickets?
Please normally book your own train tickets. With Platinum or Royal, we may explain how to buy tickets and assist with local arrangements if you cannot book online, subject to availability and the assistance confirmed for your booking. This is purchase support, not a guarantee of a ticket, reserved seat, particular class or departure.
Related guide: Tea train routes and ticket information
Which class should I book on the train?
First-class windows often do not open. We therefore recommend reserved second-class seats first, followed by reserved third-class seats.
What if reserved train tickets are sold out?
Ask your driver about tickets available locally or on the day. Assistance depends on your plan and availability, and a reserved seat cannot be guaranteed. An unreserved journey may involve standing; choose a manageable section and be prepared to continue by car if necessary.
Will the driver take us to the station?
Yes. We can arrange a drop-off timed for departure and a pickup at the station where you finish the train journey.
What happens if the train is cancelled?
We can adapt the itinerary and continue the journey in your charter vehicle.
Is the Nanu Oya–Ella section scenic?
Yes. It is a popular section for tea plantations and mountain scenery. It is especially recommended if you want scenic views while avoiding a very long train journey.
Which train section do you recommend for crossing the Nine Arch Bridge?
The Nine Arch Bridge is between Ella and Demodara stations. LankaMe recommends the roughly one-hour journey from Bandarawela to Demodara. Bandarawela station is approximately 1.5 hours by car from Nuwara Eliya.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Can we enjoy highland scenery on a shorter journey as far as Hatton?
Yes. You can enjoy characteristic highland scenery as far as Hatton. A shorter section can offer a better balance between sightseeing and your energy levels.
Can we enjoy seeing the tea train without riding it?
Yes. If the timing works, you can enjoy watching a train pass near a station or level crossing.
Hotels, meals and Ayurveda
Do we need to book our own hotels?
Yes. Please make your own hotel reservations.
Related guide: Read the related guide
Can you advise whether our hotel location suits the route?
Yes. We can advise on routing, travel time and how well the location fits the following day’s sightseeing.
When should we send our hotel details?
Ideally, share hotel names, addresses and check-in dates about one week before departure. You may also send the information directly to your driver using WhatsApp or LINE.
Can you reserve lunch or dinner for us?
We generally do not make restaurant reservations. However, we can discuss travel time and whether a restaurant stop fits your itinerary.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Should we book every meal in advance?
Many guests decide where to have lunch and dinner on the day. Advance booking is recommended when there is a popular restaurant you definitely want to visit.
Is it usual to eat with the driver?
You and your driver normally eat separately and settle your own meals. You may invite the driver to join you; if you do, please cover the cost of that meal.
Can LankaMe book Ayurveda treatments?
No. We do not make Ayurveda-centre reservations. We can help you decide which town or day would fit best with your route.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Can we experience Ayurveda near Sigiriya?
Yes. There are facilities in and around Sigiriya. We can suggest options that fit your itinerary.
Does a hotel offering a spa or wellness service necessarily offer Ayurveda?
No. Many offer mainly Western-style massage. Check that the facility explicitly mentions Ayurveda or the specific treatments you want.
Currency exchange, cash and cards
Where can we exchange money locally?
Convenient places include the airport and towns or tourist areas such as Colombo, Negombo, Kandy and Galle.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Can I exchange banknotes at an ATM?
No. An ATM normally dispenses LKR against a supported debit or credit card; it does not exchange foreign banknotes. Use an authorised bank or exchange counter for cash exchange. Check your card issuer’s international withdrawal fees, limits and any local ATM charge.
How much cash should I bring?
Prepare LKR cash for the Driver Fare shown in your quotation, plus meals, admission fees, smaller purchases and optional tips. Keep the Driver Fare separate from your daily spending budget. The amount depends on your itinerary and what you have already paid; there is no fixed daily budget that suits everyone.
How much cash should I prepare for five days?
Use your five-day itinerary to add up the confirmed Driver Fare and likely cash expenses. Hotels and some larger businesses may accept cards, while smaller businesses may require LKR cash. Allow a sensible contingency and check withdrawal limits; you do not need to carry all your travel funds in cash at once.
Can I pay attraction admission fees by card?
More major attractions accept cards, but terminals can fail and smaller sites may accept only cash. Please carry some LKR as well.
Can I pay for meals by card?
Hotels and mid-range or higher-end restaurants often accept cards. Local eateries and smaller shops may require cash.
Can I tip my driver in US dollars?
Only if your driver is able and willing to accept a USD tip. LKR is the most practical option, and a tip is voluntary.
SIM cards and staying in touch
How do I contact my driver during the trip?
WhatsApp is the most common method locally. It is useful for sharing your location and arranging changes to meeting times.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Should I install WhatsApp before travelling?
Yes. We recommend downloading it before your trip.
When will I receive my driver's contact details?
After your reservation is confirmed, we will provide contact details for the driver or local representative before departure.
Can we communicate by email instead?
Yes. Email is fine, although WhatsApp is more convenient for immediate communication on the day.
Can I buy a SIM locally?
Yes. Both physical SIMs and eSIMs are commonly available in the airport arrivals hall.
Can I buy a SIM if I arrive late at night or early in the morning?
The main airport SIM counters commonly operate 24 hours a day, so purchases are often possible for early-morning or late-night arrivals.
Should I choose a physical SIM or an eSIM?
Either can be used. An eSIM is convenient if you want connectivity immediately after arrival, but use whichever option you are comfortable with.
What if WhatsApp is not available in the country I am travelling from?
We can check an alternative contact method, such as LINE, according to your circumstances.
Safety, insurance and practical travel information
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance, including medical and personal accident coverage. Vehicle insurance and compensation arrangements in Sri Lanka may differ from those in your home country. Actual coverage depends on the insurance policy, circumstances and applicable law.
Check cover for cancellation, disruption, medical treatment and your planned activities. If you rely on insurance included with a payment card, check its eligibility conditions, limits and exclusions before travelling.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
Is it safe for women to walk out at night?
Earlier in the evening, busy, well-lit main roads are often less problematic. Avoid dark roads and back streets at night and choose routes with other people around. Using a car service is a safer option late at night.
If we arrive late at night, is a hotel better than waiting at the airport until morning?
If you are travelling as a women-only group or feel uneasy, a hotel near the airport is the more reassuring option. Late-night transfers can be arranged.
Are there other visitors at Sigiriya Rock early in the morning?
Yes. Sunrise is a popular time, so there are generally other tourists around.
Are there other people at Pidurangala for sunrise?
Yes. Sunrise is a popular time to visit, and it is uncommon for the area to be completely deserted in the dark.
Can we still travel by car during a cyclone or heavy rain?
It depends on conditions. We prioritise road safety and may suggest a passable alternative route or changes to the itinerary. We will not continue an unsafe journey.
How do you approach safety on long drives?
We prioritise safety through early departures where appropriate, breaks along the way and realistic journey times.
What clothing should I bring for Sri Lanka?
Coastal areas are hot, while the hills can be cool in the mornings and evenings. Bring breathable clothing, a light extra layer, rain protection, shoes with good grip, a hat and sunscreen.
Related guide: Read the related guide (Japanese)
What time of year is convenient for travelling around Sri Lanka?
For the classic route including Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Ella, late December to March is generally a convenient period.
What personal-safety precautions should I take?
Follow the usual precautions for overseas travel: do not leave valuables in the vehicle, avoid walking alone late at night, keep a polite distance from persistent touts, and do not continue with a situation that makes you uncomfortable.
What happens if there is an accident or another unexpected problem?
Contact your driver and LankaMe using the contact details provided for your booking so that we can help coordinate with local contacts. If urgent medical or emergency assistance is needed, seek it without waiting for a reply from us. Transport is provided by the driver or local transport operator; insurance and compensation depend on the circumstances, policy and applicable law. This does not exclude LankaMe’s responsibility for its own arrangements or any liability that cannot lawfully be excluded.
Booking and other questions
What happens after I book?
Once your payment is confirmed, we formally proceed with securing the driver. You then provide your hotel and flight details. We confirm the overall route, adjust timings where necessary, and provide contact details for the driver or local representative before departure.
Can I still ask for travel advice after booking?
Yes. You can continue to discuss the route, timing, possible stops and how to organise individual travel days.
Can you issue a receipt?
Yes. Please let us know if you need a receipt.
Can you issue one receipt covering the whole amount?
The Agency Service Fee paid to LankaMe and the Driver Fare paid locally are separate transactions. LankaMe can issue a receipt for its own fee; request a separate receipt for the local payment from the driver or local transport operator.
Can you make bookings other than the car charter?
Standard focuses on transport. Platinum and Royal may include assistance with activities and train-ticket purchases as described in the plan guide, subject to availability and the arrangements confirmed for your booking. Other services, tickets and accommodation are not automatically included in the charter price. Ask us about a specific request before relying on it.
Can I secure the booking first and decide the details later?
Yes. Especially during busy periods, we recommend securing the driver and vehicle first and adjusting the details afterwards.
Can we use the driver only on selected, non-consecutive days, such as days 2 and 5–6?
Bookings are generally for consecutive days. We do not accept an intermittent charter with gaps, such as only day 2 and days 5–6. Drivers are normally based in Colombo or Negombo. When they travel farther afield, they cannot be assigned to other work during the gaps, and waiting costs arise. Returning to Colombo and coming back to collect you would also increase the overall cost.
For a nine-day trip, for example, you may discuss two separate three-day segments covering the first three days and the last three days. Longer continuous charters offer a better daily rate, so we recommend a single continuous booking where possible.
Will it be hot inside the vehicle?
All our private vehicles are air-conditioned for comfortable travel. Buses and trains may lack air conditioning, can be crowded without available seats, and carry a higher risk of pickpocketing.
Do you accept corporate and business bookings?
Yes. Corporate and business bookings are welcome, and our services have been well received by major companies. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
Planning your trip
If you have questions about your route or which service suits you, please contact LankaMe. We will help you plan practical travel around Sri Lanka.
