15. November 2023
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Are you ready to go on an unforgettable adventure to the teardrop-shaped paradise known as Sri Lanka? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on
Tuktuk Rental in Sri Lanka: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Island Paradise
Welcome to the mesmerizing island of Sri Lanka, where lush landscapes, pristine beaches, and ancient temples await your wanderlust. If you’re looking for an authentic and adventurous way to explore this tropical paradise, look no further than renting a tuktuk. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the ins and outs of tuktuk rental in Sri Lanka, ensuring you have all the information you need for an unforgettable adventure.
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1. What You Need to Know about a Tuktuk Rental in Sri Lanka
A tuktuk, also known as a three-wheeler, is a common mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. It’s a compact, motorized vehicle with seating for two passengers in the back (plus driver) and is a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Anyway, we recommend renting one tuktuk for 2 people as there won’t be much more space when adding luggage for 2.
It definitely is not the most convenient way to travel through Sri Lanka. Cars have an AC, tuktuks haven’t. It will be hot, sometimes dusty, sometimes rainy. But it offers a unique way to explore Sri Lanka. They are nimble, allowing you to navigate through narrow streets and bustling markets with ease. Plus, they provide an open-air experience that allows you to truly immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the island.
Tuktuks are available for rent in major tourist hubs. You can find rental agencies in all of the major cities. But the only real legal operator is Tuktuk Rental as they will get you a local driver’s license. It’s mandatory to have a special Tuktuk driving license from the Department of Motor Traffic in Colombo. But don’t worry, it’s more complicated as it might sound.
Be sure to deliver all of the necessary information for your local driver’s license to the rental company before your departure to Sri Lanka. It will cost you 40$ instead of 25$ when you go there by yourself. But you’ll save at least 3 hours of time.
2. Driving Lesson and First Steps
We recommend picking up your tuktuk at the main office of Tuktuk Rental in Negombo. They will give you an explanation of all the important parts of the tuktuk itself but also about what to do in case you’ll have an accident. After, you’ll get a personal driving lesson with one of the instructors. Once you feel comfortable, you’ll make your way back to the office, get your luggage, and hit the road!
In the beginning, the shifting of the gears with the clutch on your left hand will be unusual and it won’t be perfect for the first couple of days. But never mind, you’ll get used to it! Also, the traffic is pretty chaotic. It is generally safe to drive a tuktuk in Sri Lanka. However, it’s essential to drive cautiously and follow traffic rules. Bigger cars always have the right of way although they might not be right. Anyway, please let buses and trucks go first.
Two more rules for driving your tuktuk safely through Sri Lanka: don’t go faster than 40km/h (or you will be caught speeding) and don’t drive at night. As the sunset is around 6pm it might not be easy to hold on to the second rule, but at least try to avoid long drives at night and keep that in mind when planning your route.
3. Why Tuktukrental.com?
Tuktuk rental prices vary depending on the duration of your rental and the type of tuktuk you choose. On average, you can expect to pay around 2,500 to 3,500 Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) per day. Tuktukrental is on the higher end of this price range as they will charge you 20$ (long-term is a bit cheaper). So why choose this company?
They are supporting the local community by helping local tuktuk owners earn extra income by matching them with avid travelers (like you) who want a self-driving adventure through Sri Lanka. As a social business, they pay people above the regular rate to ensure they are giving back to the community. They have a fair contract with the local tuktuk owners so they can help them put food on the table for their families and they pay them up to 5 times what they would otherwise get for their vehicle.
Also, there are unlimited miles/kilometers included as well as all kinds of insurance. They have 24/7 road support and their tuktuks are maintained regularly. And you will get access to their WhatsApp group connecting you to all the other travellers on the road as well as their google maps pins with all their special recommendations.
4. Best Routes
1. The Coastal Route: Colombo to Mirissa
Starting in the bustling capital of Colombo, this route takes you along the stunning southern coast to the tranquil beaches of Mirissa. Along the way, stop at historic Galle Fort and enjoy fresh seafood in Weligama. We drove all the way from Ahangama to Negombo on one day. But it’s definitely worth to plan more time as there are some nice beaches on the way.
2. The Cultural Triangle: Kandy to Sigiriya
Experience the cultural heart of Sri Lanka by driving from Kandy to Sigiriya. Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and marvel at the Lions Rock Fortress. We didn’t drive from Sigiriya to Kandy but it is supposed to be a nice track, so you should check this out if you plan to go this way!
3. The Hill Country Adventure: Ella Loop
Begin in the picturesque town of Ella and embark on a loop that takes you through lush tea plantations, past waterfalls, and offers breathtaking views from Ella Gap. It may be a bit more challenging as you’ll have to climb some mountains but it’s definitely fun and you’ll be rewarded with stunning scenery.
4. The Eastern Exploration: Trincomalee to Arugam Bay
Discover the unspoiled beauty of Sri Lanka’s east coast. Snorkel in Pigeon Island National Park, relax on the beaches of Trincomalee, and surf the waves in Arugam Bay. The road itself isn’t that nice but it’s a quite road with a lot of nature around.
5. The Wildlife Experience: Ella to Yala National Park
Did you ever want to see wild elephants while driving? You’ll probably meet some of these gentle giants when making your way from Ella to Yala National Park on the B35 road. Be sure to keep distance and if possible, use bigger vehicles as a protecting shield and pass the elephants right behind them. Plus please never feed or try to touch them!
5. Conclusion
Renting a tuktuk in Sri Lanka opens up a world of adventure and allows you to explore this beautiful island at your own pace. From pristine beaches to ancient temples, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences awaiting you. With the right license, a sense of adventure, and the open road ahead, your tuktuk journey in Sri Lanka promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to hit the road and discover the magic of Sri Lanka from the driver’s seat of your very own tuktuk! Get a 5% discount with our promo code „KKONTOUR“. If you need more inspiration, check out our perfect 3-week itinerary for Sri Lanka!
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Hello! I’m trying to use your code as well. It works on the website, but only gives 5% and not 10 🙁
Hi Rikke,
Tuktuk Rental mentioned that it will change back to 5% after a period of time but they said to us that it’s still 10% on the 15th of December. We think it would be the best to message Raveen directly. Here’s the mail: raveen@tuktukrental.com
Thank you and have fun in Sri Lanka!
Hey, thanks for posting this.. very helpful information. I have tried to book the tuk tuk with your discount code, however it doesnt work? Thanks!! 🙂
Thank you for the information! We just informed Tuktukrental and hope we get a quick answer. We’ll let you know asap!
It seems that they have a technical issue. You can directly mail Raveen and mention our promo code KKONTOUR to get a 10% discount.
Please mail to the following email address: raveen@tuktukrental.com
Thank you and have fun in Sri Lanka!