Driving through Asia in a tuk-tuk seems like the intro to a fantastic adventure. I can guarantee that you wouldn’t trade the freedom, the friendly glances along the way, and passing through the landscape at 40 km/h for a private driver.
We traveled to Sri Lanka in October 2023 with the four of us. On the bucket list: driving around the island in a tuk-tuk. Our honest opinion? Sri Lanka is becoming increasingly popular as a travel destination, and we see more and more families heading to this Asian gem to go on a safari, enjoy the beautiful beaches, or venture into the green valleys.
We receive many questions every week about this fantastic adventure, which is why I’ve decided to collect the main questions in this article.
Where to rent a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka?
The largest player in Sri Lanka is Tuktuk Rental. This organization operates on a social business model, which means that they rent tuk-tuks from local owners, allowing them to earn an extra income. They ensure that owners are paid a fair price, enabling them to generate passive income and focus on other sources of revenue.
In Sri Lanka, the purchase of a tuk-tuk is a significant expense for which many people need to take out a loan. The past few years have been tough for the local economy due to the pandemic and political issues. Fortunately, these are now in the past, and they can once again start building towards the future.
We had the opportunity to speak with a local owner, and the gratitude that these people have towards the organization makes us happy to promote them to families who want to travel to Sri Lanka.
Book with our discount code OURTRAVELSWITHKIDS for a nice discount.
The reasons why you are in the right place at Tuktuk Rental:
- Reliable and well-maintained tuk-tuks
- 24/7 emergency line
- Social impact
- Map with attractions included
- Comprehensive insurance
- Help with driver’s license, driving lessons, and advice
- Wide range of extras
What license do you need for a tuk-tuk?
To drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka, you need a Sri Lankan driver’s license. For this, you must fill out a form from Tuktuk Rental at least seven days prior to departure. Here, you will upload a photo, your passport, and your driver’s license.
You pay $40 for the delivery of your driving license and a driving lesson.
To obtain a Sri Lankan driving license, you need at least a category B (car) driving license.
Your driving license is valid for 12 months if you provide an international driving permit. If you submit your local driving license, it is valid for three months.
Am I getting driving lessons?
Before renting, it’s best to watch this video. It provides you with a lot of information about driving a tuk-tuk.
The first day of your rental agreement begins with a 20-minute briefing where the main do’s and don’ts are explained. Then the driving lesson starts, which can last from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on your prior experience with motor vehicles.
You can now receive your driver’s license and safely hit the road.
What are the traffic rules in Sri Lanka?
Before you can hit the road in a tuk-tuk, you must possess a valid Sri Lankan driver’s license. The tuk-tuk must be insured and equipped with a valid license plate.
In Sri Lanka, driving is on the left side of the road. A tuk-tuk is allowed to go a maximum speed of 40 km per hour. Be sure to adhere to the traffic rules, as there are regular speed checks, and your documents can be requested at any time.
How much luggage can I take in a tuk-tuk?
Aha, the most frequently asked question! How much luggage can fit in such a tricycle?
We created this video to demonstrate which luggage we could take in the tuk-tuk. We traveled with trekking backpacks that are easy to maneuver.
A small carry-on suitcase might also work, but I would still recommend traveling with a backpack.
What route do I take in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons, each targeting a different part of the island. The ideal travel itinerary therefore depends on your travel period, so you can remain largely dry and comfortable.
- From October to January, the south and west are recommended.
- From February to April is the dry season in almost all of Sri Lanka.
- From May to September, it’s best to visit the northeast.
Read our in-depth blog to discover our itinerary, which took us to Negombo, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella, Tissamaharama, Uduwaluwe, Tangalle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, and back to Negombo.
How long does it take to drive from A to B?
Although Sri Lanka is a relatively small island, it often takes a long time to get from A to B. This is partly due to the speed limit of 40 km per hour, but also because of the heavy traffic in cities like Colombo and Kandy, as well as the mountain passes in the middle of the country.
Here is a map where you can find an overview of the most common routes and how long it takes to drive them.
Be aware that driving at night on certain routes is strongly discouraged due to the wild elephants that inhabit them.
Can I still take the train between Kandy and Ella?
The iconic train journey between Kandy and Ella is known as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. So don’t miss this ride. Fortunately, Tuktuk rental offers a transfer between your pickup location and your destination, allowing you to enjoy the train ride without worries. The transfer costs you $49.
We purchased our train tickets well in advance via 12go and had the original tickets sent to our accommodation in Kandy.
How much does it cost to rent a tuk-tuk?
The price of the tuk-tuk depends on the type (convertible, electric tuk-tuk, regular) and the number of days.
Prices per day range from €22 to €28 for a trip of 2 to 13 days, €20 to €26 for a trip of 14 to 22 days, and €18 to €24 for a trip of 23 to 38 days. Longer durations are also possible and result in a lower price.
With our discount code OURTRAVELSWITHKIDS, you’ll also receive a nice discount on the rental of a regular tuktuk.
How many people can fit in the tuk-tuk?
In a tuk-tuk, there is one driver in the front and the passengers sit in the back seat. We fit perfectly here with three (one adult and two children).
Is it safe to drive a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka?
This question is difficult to answer since I can find little scientific data on it. I speak from my own personal experience.
A tuk-tuk can travel up to 40 km per hour. This means that other vehicles such as buses, trucks, or cars will, in principle, be able to overtake. So, make sure to drive neatly to the side of the lane, allowing other vehicles to perform an overtaking maneuver without any issues.
In Sri Lanka, there are still wild animals. Elephants, in particular, can pose a danger to tuk-tuks. Elephants know that there is often food found in tuk-tuks, which can make them aggressive. Therefore, make sure not to leave any food in the tuk-tuk, wait, and follow a large vehicle if an elephant is on the road, and avoid – where possible – routes known for encounters with elephants such as the A12, A11, A26, A2, and B35. Additionally, it is strongly advised not to venture out during dusk and at night.
The roads in Sri Lanka are generally paved, although there are some smaller beach roads and mountain paths that are still unpaved. Adjust your speed and turn back if you feel unsafe.
Are baby seats available?
You can rent a baby seat at Tuktuk rental for $1/day.
So, I hope I have answered the most common questions. Enjoy your driving!
Have you any questions or comments? Feel free to send me a message.
Read more blog posts on travels in Sri Lanka.