How to get around in Sri Lanka

In spite of the economic crisis, Sri Lanka is still beautiful and travel-worthy. The little sunny isle packs enchanting beaches, mountains, wildlife parks, culture, history, and adventure. But how do you get around in Sri Lanka? What are the tips and tricks to avoid getting stuck in traffic? How do you avoid any travel mishaps and have a breezy holiday in the sunshine? Let’s find out.

How to travel from the airport in Sri Lanka to your hotel?

A bit of a heads up, be prepared to have a few drivers approach you at the arrival hall. It is better to avoid such hassle and pre-book your driver, who will then wait for you with a board. Alternatively, you can get an airport taxi. There is a taxi counter at the arrival lobby, and you can find taxi rates to your destination on their web page. They will take the Katunayake Expressway to link to the southern coast too if you are planning to look for remote Tangalle hotels. Check with your hotel like the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort to see if they can arrange transport for you. If your first destination is in Colombo, you can even take a public bus. They leave from the airport bus stand every 15 minutes to go to the Fort bus stand.

How to rent a car and hire a driver in Sri Lanka?

Renting your own private car is the most comfortable and convenient option to get around Sri Lanka. You can either book a car and driver for each leg of your journey or hire one for the entire trip. Drivers are just as good as guides as they know all about the best restaurants and things to do. If you decide to rent a car daily, you get to bargain for rates with different drivers and save on the driver’s accommodation fare. You can even split the cost with fellow travellers. This way you can switch between car rides and public transport. You can always get help from your hotel to organize a driver for the day.

If you are travelling with family, it makes more sense to rent a car with a driver for the entire trip. You can negotiate with the driver to work with other customers when you stay in one place for an extended period and then come to pick you up.

How to book trains in Sri Lanka?

Train rides to destinations like Ella, Kandy and Badulla can be comfortable. You can either book the observation car for great views and optimal comfort or go for a second-class car on an intercity train. Both are comfortable options. If you wish to travel in comfort, it is better to avoid daily, normal trains. Book your tickets online in advance and travel in Comfort. If you are going to take normal trains, avoid peak hours and holidays.

How to travel by bus in Sri Lanka?

Bus fare is still rather cheap in Sri Lanka. If you get a seat in an air-conditioned bus, you should be able to travel without much discomfort. But air-conditioned buses are not always available, and some tend to switch off the AC midway. Hence, be careful when you opt to travel by bus and don’t do it if you have a lot of luggage.

How to use Tuk Tuks in Sri Lanka?

Tuk Tuks are ubiquitous in Sri Lanka. Tuk Tuk drivers are always eager for new customers. Most Tuk Tuks have meters, but if you are hiring it for a day tour or half a day tour you would have to bargain for the rate. A Tuk Tuk can cost about 1 USD per hour.