Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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?

We do not sell hotel rooms or make hotel reservations. You book and pay for your own accommodation.

We can suggest areas and properties that fit your route and budget. Tell us your preferences, such as family rooms, a pool or particular views, and we can discuss suitable options.

Local payments

How should I pay the driver locally?

Please pay your driver in cash, in Japanese yen (JPY) or Sri Lankan rupees (LKR).

Can I pay the driver by credit or debit card?

No. Local payments to the driver are cash only. Credit and debit cards are not accepted for this payment.

Can I pay the driver's fare in US dollars?

No. The driver’s fare must be paid in JPY or LKR, not USD. However, tips may be paid in USD.

When do I make the local payment?

Payment is normally split into two instalments: when you meet your driver at the start of the charter, and when the charter ends. You may also pay the full amount on the first day if you prefer. Please tell your driver which arrangement you would like.

Can I pay partly in Japanese yen and partly in rupees?

Yes. You may pay part in JPY and the remainder in LKR.

How is a yen-denominated amount calculated in LKR?

For a price quoted in Japanese yen, our indicative LKR amount is approximately twice the numerical JPY amount. For example, JPY 48,000 corresponds to approximately LKR 96,000. This is a guide for a yen-denominated quotation.

Will the driver have change?

Change may not be available. Please prepare the exact amount wherever possible.

Can I split the payment between meeting the driver and saying goodbye?

Yes. For example, you may pay JPY 30,000 when you meet and JPY 23,000 when the charter ends.

Can I pay the driver in Thai baht (THB)?

No. The driver’s fare is payable only in JPY or LKR. Thai baht are not accepted. THB can be exchanged for LKR at the airport; this information was current as of February 2026.

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?

A general guide is JPY 1,000–2,000 per driver per day, or approximately LKR 2,000–4,000.

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 Japanese yen?

Yes. Tips may be paid in JPY, LKR or USD.

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?

Our basic cancellation policy is:

• Up to 7 days before your departure date: no cancellation charge (JPY 0).
• From 6 days before departure through the departure date: a cancellation charge generally applies.

Do cancellation charges apply in circumstances beyond my control?

We assess circumstances considered force majeure individually, such as an airport closure caused by war.

How are refunds processed?

After we process a refund, it is credited to the credit card used for payment. Depending on the card issuer’s processing, it may take around 10 days to appear.

Choosing a plan

What is the difference between Standard, Platinum and Royal?

The main differences are the quality and certainty of the driver arrangement and the level of support available during your trip.

Related guide: Read the related guide

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 Japanese-language customer support, the plans differ as follows:

• Platinum / Royal: Japanese-language assistance continues during the trip, including consultations, changes and reporting problems.
• Standard: Japanese-language assistance is available until 5 days before departure. After that, please contact your driver directly.

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?

Yes. Child seats are available free of charge. Please tell us your child’s age and approximate height and weight when requesting one.

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?

Hours are not fixed. Early departures and late-night arrivals can be accommodated flexibly.

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?

No. We do not provide a train-ticket booking service. Please book your own tickets.

Related guide: Read the related guide

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?

You can still try to buy a ticket on the day with your driver’s assistance, but it may involve standing. We therefore recommend a section that suits your itinerary and is short enough for you to enjoy even if no seat is available.

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 put Japanese yen into an ATM and receive rupees?

No. ATMs are used to withdraw LKR with a payment card. They do not exchange Japanese yen banknotes.

How much cash should I bring?

The amount depends on your plans, but some LKR cash is essential even if you mainly use cards. Allow for sightseeing, meals, small purchases and tips, with a little extra. Around JPY 5,000 per person per day is an indicative amount to budget for these expenses.

How much cash should I prepare for five days?

If you are paying for hotels by card, it is useful to exchange enough LKR at the airport for meals, admission fees and tips. The amount varies with your sightseeing, so allow a little extra. Around JPY 5,000 per person per day is an indicative guide.

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?

Yes. Tips may be paid in USD.

Can Thai baht be exchanged for Sri Lankan rupees?

Major banks often offer this exchange, but availability and procedures vary by counter. Check first with a bank counter at the airport after arrival.

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?

Yes. We strongly recommend arranging your own overseas travel insurance. Sri Lankan law requires vehicles, including commercial vehicles such as taxis, to be insured. However, compensation levels are low; for example, compensation in a fatal accident may be limited to approximately JPY 300,000.

To prepare for medical expenses, damage to property and liability during your trip, your own travel insurance is generally the practical way to obtain meaningful cover. It is understandable to wonder why you need insurance if an incident is not your fault, but insurance systems and compensation levels differ considerably between countries. In Sri Lanka and many other countries, including the United States, travellers are expected to arrange the cover they need.

We therefore strongly recommend travel insurance, including suitable insurance provided by a credit card. If your card includes cover, check the card issuer’s terms and conditions carefully.

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?

We focus on safety and support and can help with communication in coordination with local contacts if an incident occurs. However, the transport contract is between you and the driver. LankaMe does not provide the transport itself and is not the party responsible for compensation. We strongly recommend your own travel insurance.

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 advance payment and the local payment are receipted separately. Please make the local payment directly to the driver.

Can you make bookings other than the car charter?

We generally do not make reservations for hotels, trains, admission tickets or other services outside the taxi charter. We can, however, advise on planning your itinerary and the practical route.

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.