Ella to Arugam Bay: shared van or private taxi?
From the tea hills of Ella to the surf of Arugam Bay on the east coast, you have two ways to go with us: a seat in our shared van, or a private vehicle for your group. Here's how they compare.
The two options
- Shared van: LKR 6,500 per seat in a 7-seat van, one bag per seat. Leaves EzTaxi (Office) at 10:00 or 14:00 and drops you at your hotel in Arugam Bay.
- Private transfer: the whole vehicle for your group, from where you stay in Ella to your hotel door, at the time you choose. From LKR 25,000 per car (up to 3), LKR 33,000 per van (up to 7), LKR 39,000 per mini bus (up to 12).
What it costs for your group
Shared seats against the cheapest private vehicle that fits, at today's lowest prices:
| Travellers | Shared van | Private |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | LKR 6,500 | LKR 25,000 (car) |
| 2 | LKR 13,000 | LKR 25,000 (car) |
| 3 | LKR 19,500 | LKR 25,000 (car) |
| 4 | LKR 26,000 | LKR 33,000 (van) |
| 5 | LKR 32,500 | LKR 33,000 (van) |
| 6 | LKR 39,000 | LKR 33,000 (van) |
| 7 | LKR 45,500 | LKR 33,000 (van) |
So for up to 5 travellers the shared van costs less. From 6, a private vehicle is cheaper, and it's all yours. A private transfer is also the choice if you want to leave at another time, be picked up where you stay in Ella, or carry more luggage.
How the shared van works
- Pick a date in the season (1 July 2027 to 31 October 2027). Booking closes 12 hours before departure.
- Choose your seats on the seat map. Taken seats are marked female or male, so you can see who you'll sit with.
- Choose your preferred time, 10:00 or 14:00. Our office confirms the exact time by email and SMS.
On the day, come to EzTaxi (Office), No. 03, Wellawaya Road, Ella 90090, at the confirmed time. We drop you at your hotel in Arugam Bay.
Coming back from Arugam Bay
The shared van runs from Ella to Arugam Bay. For the way back, private transfers to Ella start at LKR 25,000 per car.