Transportation in Sri Lanka : A simple intro
How do I travel to other major cities in Sri Lanka?
The most economical way for travellers to travel between cities in Sri Lanka is to use either the Bus or Train.
Option 1: The Bus
The main hub is at Fort, Colombo. You can find buses to all the main cities at Fort Bus Station. If you are travelling by bus its best to map your route and jot down those bus numbers and names in advance. This will aid you in communication with the locals, if you are equipped to make yourself understood clearly, then you are most likely to get the correct information in return.
Option 2: The Train
The railway system is the other way to get around, but it is limited by time tables. Again Fort Station is the main hub in Colombo. You can reach all the main cities via train, but afterwards, you will have to find other modes of transport.
Option 3: Intercity Taxi
Taxis are the most convenient way to travel in between a destination, that is if you can afford it. Very expensive if you are alone or a couple, groups could always share the cost. Rates are around LKR 70/- per KM for a car and LKR 90/- per KM for a van. Rates are high because one way drop offs are somewhat consider as a round trip, as private operators will factor-in the cost incurred for the driver to get back. Vehicle packages based on per day rental with driver are available too. This is good for groups who want to rush in-between destination without going through a travel company.
Option 4: Drive yourself
Tourists can rent their own car at a daily rental basis. In order to do so they are first required to obtain a driving permit from the Department of Motor Traffic. This could be obtained within a couple of hours at the relevant department. Afterwards they could approach a rental company obtain a vehicle.
Option 5: Rent – a – Tuktuk
Follow the same as you would do when renting a car.
Option 6: Motorcycles and Scooters
Follow the same as you would do when renting a car.
Option 7: Bicycle
For the adventurous only
Option 8: Chartered flight
There are some options of travelling via a private plane.
What are the best ways to travel within cities?
Option 1: Bus
If you know the routes or if it’s not your first time. You can save some money but be prepared delays or uncomfortable rides packed with people
Option 2: Hail Cab via App
You can always depend on your phone and modern tech. As all things techy and viable they are only available within major cities. So you will have to resort to finding a vehicle yourself or ask the hotel manager or friend to help out.
Option 3: Hail a Cab (the old fashioned way)
Tuktuks are the roadside taxis available in sri lanka. Beware of the ones not having a meter. Always ask for a meter taxi or otherwise be prepared to be conned out of your precious money. Check your google maps for distance and calculate a rough estimate of what it should cost (tuktuks run at about LKR40-50/- per KM) before you agree to a non-meter taxi. Getting to difficult-to-get-to-attractions depends on a fair tradeoff for the greater good.:) (I will point out places which have tourist traps based on that story – There are instances where they are honestly telling the truth, atleast, some of the time)
