If you are preparing to visit Sri Lanka and planning to explore the island on your own in an adventurous way, you may already have done some research on local transportation.
Sri Lanka offers a few main ways to get around:
- Trains
- Buses
- Tuk-tuks & Ride-hailing apps (PickMe & Uber)
Each option has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one can make a big difference to your travel experience.
Trains: Scenic but Limited
Trains are a great option for long-distance travel and are famous for their scenic routes—especially through the hill country.
However, at the time of writing, train access to some parts of the island is limited, and certain routes have been affected by landslides following the Diwata cyclone. Delays and cancellations can happen, so always check the latest updates before planning your journey.
Buses: Affordable and Reliable (If You’re Comfortable)
Buses are one of the most affordable and widely available ways to travel in Sri Lanka. They connect almost every town and city.
That said, buses are not everyone’s favorite—especially for travelers unfamiliar with local routes or crowded conditions. Still, if you’re comfortable with public transport, buses are a solid option.
Tuk-Tuks & Ride-Hailing Apps: Convenient for Short Distances
For short trips—just a few kilometers—tuk-tuks and ride-hailing apps are very convenient.
You can get a tuk-tuk in several ways:
- Through PickMe
- Through Uber
- Directly from the road
- From tuk-tuks parked near tourist hotspots and main roads.
This is where you need to be a little careful.
Using PickMe or Uber or Metered Taxis (Recommended)
The safest and easiest option is to use PickMe or Uber.
Prices are transparent, distance-based, and there’s no need to negotiate. This works well for both tourists and locals.
Taking a Tuk-Tuk From the Road: What to Check
If you stop a tuk-tuk from the road, always check whether it is a metered taxi.
A metered tuk-tuk will have a visible digital meter inside. If the meter is used properly, fares are usually reasonable and fair.
Some tuk-tuks you see on the road are not full-time taxi drivers. Many locals use tuk-tuks for personal errands and may agree to give you a ride. These drivers often do not have meters, but most of them are honest people who quote fair prices and genuinely help visitors. These are quality individuals doing their part for the country.
If there is no meter:
- Ask the price before starting
- Decide if you’re comfortable with it
- Politely say no if it feels unreasonable
Be Careful Around Tourist Hotspots
The real problem appears in specific, designated tourist areas.
You can easily recognize these places:
- Multiple tuk-tuks parked in a line
- Located near popular attractions
- Often no meter, or the meter is refused
In these areas, prices are frequently inflated—for both tourists and locals.
This is not only a tourist issue. Locals face the same problem in places like:
- Colombo city
- Ella and other popular tourist towns
For example, a short metered 1 – 1.2km taxi ride in Colombo may cost around LKR 150, but tuk-tuks waiting at tourist hotspots may quote LKR 500 or more for the same distance.
If a driver:
- Refuses to use the meter
- Quotes an unreasonable price
- Makes you uncomfortable
You are completely within your rights to say no, walk away, and choose another option.
Final Advice for Travelers
- Prefer PickMe or Uber whenever possible
- Use metered tuk-tuks only
- Always confirm pricing before starting a ride
- Don’t feel pressured—walk away if needed
- You can always find another taxi a few meters down the road
Being informed helps you avoid unpleasant situations and ensures your Sri Lanka experience remains positive and enjoyable.
