How to Get Around in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting travellers from all over the world who come to explore its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and lush tea plantations. One of the most important aspects of planning a trip to Sri Lanka is figuring out how to get around the country.

Train networks

Travelling around Sri Lanka by train is fun, and it’s the best way to take in all the scenery and witness the local scene. Sri Lanka has an extensive railway network that connects most major cities and towns. The train system is relatively inexpensive, safe, and efficient, which makes it an ideal option for tourists looking to travel long distances.

The trains offer different classes of service, including first, second, and third class, with air conditioning available in some compartments. The first-class compartments are spacious and comfortable, while the third-class compartments can be crowded and noisy. For certain train journeys, like the Ella Train Ride, you need to book your tickets, especially during the peak tourist season. 

Bicycles and bikes

Bicycles and bikes are an excellent option for tourists looking to explore Sri Lanka at their own pace. You can rent bicycles and bikes from rental shops in major cities and tourist destinations. Cycling is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside and coastal regions of Sri Lanka – if you’ve booked into one of the hotels in Kandy, Sri Lanka, a place like Cinnamon Citadel Kandy, for example, you would want to explore the beautiful surroundings on a bicycle.

However, there are some safety measures you should take when riding a bike or a bicycle:

Always wear a helmet.

Avoid rush hours.

Don’t ride in major cities; stick to the countryside.

Buses

Buses are the most common mode of transportation. They are inexpensive and frequent, which makes them an excellent option for budget travellers. However, they can be crowded and uncomfortable, especially during peak hours. The buses are classified into three categories: government buses, private buses, and luxury buses. The government buses are the least expensive, while the luxury buses offer air conditioning and more comfortable seating.

Domestic flights

Domestic flights are available in Sri Lanka, and they connect major cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Jaffna, but they are relatively expensive compared to other modes of transportation. However, they are an excellent option if you are short on time and need to cover long distances quickly.

Tuk-tuks

Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transportation, especially in urban areas. They are quite inexpensive, convenient, and can navigate through narrow streets and alleys. Tuk-tuks are best for short trips, but they can also be used for longer journeys.

You should always negotiate a fare amount, as tuk-tuk drivers are notorious for overcharging tourists. The best thing to do is to find a tuk-tuk that has a running meter, but it’s important to make sure that the meter is working, as some drivers cite the excuse that the meter isn’t working.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Sri Lanka, and they offer a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation compared to buses and trains. However, they can be relatively expensive, especially if you are travelling long distances. You should always negotiate the rate as some drivers overcharge unwitting tourists. The best thing to do is to use a rideshare app and find your preferred transport mode. There are two rideshare apps in Sri Lanka: Uber and PickMe.

Car rentals

Renting a car is another option for tourists looking to explore Sri Lanka on their own terms. Many major international car rental companies have offices in Sri Lanka. There are also local car rental companies that offer a range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and minivans.