Getting around Sri Lanka is mostly through tuk-tuks, trains, and buses. Surprisingly all options are amazing experiences in their own way and most likely adventures you’ll remember forever!
All these ways are key components in getting around throughout the country in addition to a few minivans from time to time.
Getting Around
Tuk-Tuks
Sri Lanka was my first tuk-tuk experience and I loved it! It takes a few rides to get used to the crazy driving, constant honking, and there will definitely be some close calls with other vehicles. If you have never seen a tuk-tuk, like I hadn’t before this trip, picture it as a large motorized, covered, tricycle. Smaller than a car but larger than motorbikes. The minute you land in Sri Lanka, you will find them all over, looking to take someone on a ride.
The drivers can be quite pushy with prices. They may ask about your plans for the day so they can provide more rides for you, so don’t be alarmed if they ask for your number. Being a tourist, you are a good target for influx prices but it is very common to barter. Rides were about 2 USD or 378 rupees for up to 600m – 1000m in most places.
More Travel Posts!
Trains
Wow. Never in a million years would I guess I would enjoy a train ride through the country, but I loved it! It is a must when traveling through this beautiful country and will usually be the cheapest transportation option! Train tickets were usually a few US dollars and the most I paid was about 10 USD.
Depending on your travel style there are multiple classes that you can decide from but I always chose the cheapest. The only big difference between the classes was whether you received individual seats or more bench-style.
It is good to know that even if you go for first class you may still not get a seat. The cars can get packed especially on the routes favorited by tourists.
Trains were very common and you will most likely be able to find a train route throughout most of the country especially along the West side of the island. The most famous train route is from Kandy to Ella! This track is famous for its beautiful landscapes and 9 arch bridge crossing.
Tip: If you stay on the train past the Nurewa Ela station you will be able to cross the bridge on the train and a stop past that you can go through an underground spiral tunnel (if that’s something that excites you).
Buses
Hands down the best bus ride you will ever have! Such an unusual highlight of a trip but what can I say? They were super convenient and always tricked out in decor.
My first time taking the bus was from Negombo to the capital city of Colombo. This was about a 1.5 hr packed ride. The entire time you could barely move and it was rare if you ever got a chance to sit. The entire ride you will feel a million eyes on you as you will most likely be the only foreign person on the bus. At first, it can be intimidating which is how I felt, but completely flipped once you begin to speak with everyone.
Buses are a great way to get from point A-> B when it’s too far for a tuk-tuk and there is no train. They are usually inexpensive as the other options which are always great.
In Conclusion
A strange point but all the transport in Sri Lanka is such an experience and if you ever get a chance you’ll need to check them all out! I found it pretty easy to find transportation routes through my quick Sri Lankan tour.
