Renting a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka is a fabulous way to explore this beautiful South Asian Island. In this article we cover how to rent a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka, the safety aspects, road conditions to expect, and technical aspects.
We look at the costs involved, how to store your luggage, and what it’s actually like travelling by tuk tuk, so you can really enjoy your epic Sri Lankan adventure to the fullest.
Road trips don’t come much better than driving a tuk tuk past verdant tea plantations, white sand beaches, and ancient world heritage sites. While such trips usually involve a hire car, Sri Lanka calls for a more local mode of transport.
Sri Lanka tuk tuk rental is easy, cheap, fun, and offers maximum flexibility. While trips are usually about the destination, tuk tuk travel is also all about the journey. If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka why not take the path less travelled and drive yourself around. That’s exactly what we did, and this article shows how you can do it too.
We drove 1,500 kilometres around the island in our green tuktuk called Tilly. Yes, you have to name your tuk tuk!
COMPLETE GUIDE TO RENTING A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA
WHAT IS A TUK TUK?
Tuk tuks, (tuktuks) also known as auto-rickshaws, are three-wheeled vehicles with handlebars, and a roof covering. They are a common method of transport in Sri Lanka, and you’ll see numerous ones whizzing alongside the buses and other traffic.
- Manual with four gears, clutch, and a reverse lever.
- Mechanically they are simple and basic.
- A metal key operates the ignition while another locks the engine and petrol compartments.
- With the handbrake off, you can easily push the tuktuk backwards manually which we did a few times before getting used to the levers.
- They are very easy to drive, easy to manoeuvre through narrow streets, and perfect for road trips.
WHY RENT A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA?
ADVANTAGES OF RENTING A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA
1. FREEDOM: Driving a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka offers you freedom to travel independently. You can take your time, explore the back roads, and stop when and where you want. You can get off the beaten track and find amazing places other tourists miss.
2. FUN ADVENTURE: Driving a three wheeler and exploring the island like a local is the best way to experience Sri Lanka. If you’re a first time visitor you will have a memorable adventure trust us!
2. COST EFFECTIVE: Hiring a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka through a reputable Company is cheaper than you might think. Cheap on fuel, they cost significantly less than hiring a car and driver.
3. AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE: As many locals drive a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka, it is one of the most authentic ways to experience the country. Driving alongside the locals, you will be waved at, grinned at, and chatted with. They love that you are travelling in the same way as they are.
In fact, if you book your rental through tuktukrental.com, you will be driving a vehicle that is owned by a local. Plus, you are supporting the local community. How more authentic can it get!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT TUK TUK RENTAL SRI LANKA
If you are considering driving Sri Lanka in a tuktuk it’s important to rent from a reputable rental company.
- The rental company must be officially registered with the Registrar of Companies, and the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.
- The tuk tuk needs to be officially registered with the Department of Motor Traffic.
- The tuk tuk must have rental insurance which includes cover for tourists driving the vehicle.
- The person driving the tuk tuk must have a valid Sri Lankan Recognition Permit.
WHY BOOK WITH TUK TUK RENTAL COMPANY
Apart from ticking all the above boxes, these are the reasons why we chose the company for our own adventure around the island.
- TukTukRental.com is a social business that source all their tuktuks from local tuktuk drivers who have some of the lowest salaries in Asia. The owners are paid up to five times more than their regular rate, helping the local community to thrive.
- Since starting in 2016, TuktukRental have contributed over US$500,000 to more than 300 families in Sri Lanka.
- The whole booking experience is stress-free, as everything from your arrival to departure is sorted out for you.
REQUIREMENTS FOR TUKTUK RENTAL IN SRI LANKA
In Sri Lanka, driving on an International Driving Permit or foreign national license is illegal. You must get your own license “verified” in Sri Lanka before you can drive. The document you receive is called a Sri Lankan Recognition Permit.
You need this local permit to drive legally in Sri Lanka.
How to get a Sri Lankan Recognition Permit.
There are two options for getting a driving permit (or Recognition Permit) in Sri Lanka, namely:
- With your home-country driving license
- With an international driving license/permit (referred to as IDP)
If you rent a tuktuk with TukTuk Rental, they will arrange everything and have it ready before you arrive. This is what we did, and it was very smooth and easy to do. We paid $40 USD for one license to be processed, which was ready when we picked up the tuktuk.
If you have multiple drivers, you need to select the number of licences you need from the extras section.
The second option is to go in person to the Automobile Association of Ceylon in Colombo, located near Galle Face Green (see Google Maps). Cost is currently $25 USD. As many visitors head straight for Negombo on arrival, this isn’t practical.
However, if you do choose this option, you should allow half a day to get this done (depending on queues, business day opening hours and traffic in Colombo).
COST OF SRI LANKA TUKTUK RENTAL
The rates for tuktuk rentals are very affordable. At Tuktuk Rental, prices depend on the rental duration; the longer you book, the cheaper the cost. Short-term rentals incur a higher charge as they are not as valuable a proposition for the tuktuk owners.
There are optional extras like Bluetooth speakers, a baby seat, coolers, or train transfers on top of the below prices.
| Rental Period | Regular TukTuk | Cabrio/Convertible |
|---|---|---|
| <5 days | $30 per day | $50 per day |
| 5-15 days | $22 per day | $24 per day |
| 16-22 days | $20 per day | $22 per day |
| 23-38 days | $18 per day | $20 per day |
| 39-55 days | $16 per day | $18 per day |
| 56+ days | $14 per day | $16 per day |
WHAT DOES YOUR BOOKING WITH TUKTUKRENTAL INCLUDE?
Every rental includes the following:
- A safe and reliable fully serviced tuktuk supplied by a local.
- Repair costs while you’re on the road.
- Unlimited kilometers (100% carbon neutral).
- Comprehensive vehicle insurance.
- Valid Sri Lankan driving permit.
- Easy online payment options and digital deposit refund (credit card or bank transfer).
- Access to 24/7 on-the-road support and assistance, so you never feel alone.
- A comprehensive and personal driving lesson on pickup.
- Comprehensive on-the-road manual covering driving tips, basic tuktuk maintenance, traveller information and island-wide accommodation discounts.
- An exclusive GoogleMyMaps for your phone with hundreds of sights, and things to do all over the island. Sourced from thousands of prior tuktuk travellers, this map is fantastic.
- On board travel and repair kit.
- Numerous pickup and drop-off locations all across the island.
- Pre-trip planning, and advice.
We also recommend having a good travel insurance policy, covering personal accident as standard fare when travelling.
HOW ROOMY IS THE TUK TUK?
The seating behind the driver will comfortably fit two passengers, and three people if you don’t mind no personal space. Having no doors, the space is open with side rain flaps that can be unfolded and dropped.
At the back of the tuktuk, one side is secured by bars, while the other side is open. The main issue for travellers is the limited luggage space. So how do you maximise luggage space?
- Use luggage that fits the trunk size. The base size is 110cm (L), 30cm (W), 60cm (H).
- Bring soft luggage that can be packed easily, such as a small case, and backpacks.
- Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and keep your clothes organized.
- Bring essential items only, and pack clothes that are versatile.
Take all your valuables with you, including passport, wallet, phones, cameras, and laptops. Lower the rain curtains to make accessibility difficult, especially for the cheeky monkeys.
We packed a small backpack which we used as a day bag to take all these items with us, when travelling between accommodations.
If you are unsure about leaving luggage in the trunk, you can buy a small lock and chain. We didn’t find this necessary. When you stop at a tourist site, simply buy a drink from a local stall, and ask them to keep an eye on the tuk tuk for you.
The country relies on tourism, and we found locals to be very helpful, and friendly.
IS RENTING A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA SAFE?
Yes, if you drive sensibly, and don’t exceed the maximum speed of 40 kilometres an hour. Main roads are busy, but Sri Lankan drivers simply weave around each other, and the traffic just seems to “flow”. Be careful driving in the rain, and don’t drive at night.
IS IT HARD TO DRIVE A TUKTUK?
No, once you get used to how your tuktuk operates.
When you book your rental, you have access to a video to watch which goes into detail about how the tuktuk runs, and general maintenance requirements.
On picking up your tuktuk, a member of staff provides a complete driving lesson to ensure you feel confident before setting off. This includes changing gears, reversing, completing a U-turn, and how to fill up with fuel, together with completing general maintenance checks.
When you start off, you may stall a few times but just pull over to the side of the road, and the traffic will flow past you like a river.
Driving in Sri Lanka is on the left hand side, which was very handy for us!
WHAT TO EXPECT DRIVING ON SRI LANKAN ROADS
VEHICLES AND PEDESTRIANS
With few pavements, pedestrians walk on the side of the road, and seem to be unaware or concerned about traffic. Buses seem to be top dog on the roads, and will beep their horn to let you know they are coming, and you should move aside.
Motorbikes weave in and out of the traffic, and other tuktuk drivers will wave, and stop to talk to you at traffic lights. They are very accommodating of tourists, and love the fact you are “having a go” at driving with the locals.
WILDLIFE
As you traverse the island you will be sharing the roads will several types of animals, from lizards, cows, monkeys, and street dogs. Sri Lanka has a history of street dogs, and now has an estimated 3 million dogs roaming the island. They can sleep in the middle of the road, or dart out in front of your vehicle.
Be careful if you come across a wild elephant, as they can be aggressive, and you should give them plenty of space.
While the monkeys can look sweet, they are little tinkers who will steal food, and anything else they fancy, even unzipping the flaps to do so.
THE HILL COUNTRY
We think this is the most scenic part of the island, with tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic vistas. However, it is also hilly, so your tuktuk will struggle in anything higher than second gear, or first gear at times.
This is road tripping at its best, and not difficult, just a slower journey, meaning you get more time to enjoy the views. While you may have been happy in a strappy top, here you will want some layers, as the temperatures are noticeably cooler.
POLICE CHECKS
The main reasons to be pulled over by the police are:
- If you are speeding. You are issued with a fine which you have to take and pay at the nearest post office. The officer keeps your documents until you return.
- A dishonest officer looking for a bribe. Simply call tuktuk rental, and they will speak to the officer on your behalk.
- The officer is being friendly, and want to have a chat.
We were stopped once during our trip, but as soon as they realised we were tourists, we were waved on.
PARKING
You will find it very easy to park your tuktuk. Most tourist attractions have designated parking areas, and you can also park on the side of the road with the locals. Obviously, don’t park where there are restrictions, or “no parking” signs.
When we were choosing accommodation, we made sure the premises had parking included, so we didn’t have to leave the tuktuk in the street overnight.
BUYING FUEL FOR YOUR TRIP
The fuel shortages of 2022 are now resolved, and you will find plenty of gas stations throughout the island. You will have access to a “fuel map” which shows the locations of gas stations.
- Fuel tank capacity is normally 7.5L, with a 1.5L reserve. While a full tank gives 120kms, work on 100kms per tank for journeys.
- 95 Octane petrol has the highest fuel efficiency, and is better for the environment, but you can also use 92 Octane petrol.
- A faulty fuel gauge is a common defect with tuktuks, so watch your consumption.
- During our stay in Feb/March 2024, 92 Octane was 368 LKR per litre (£0.95), and 95 Octane was 456 LKR per litre (£1.18).
- Attendants fill your tank for you, and is payable by cash or card.
- A possible scam is an attendant not resetting the pump to zero before filling your tank. We had no issues whatsoever with the petrol stations we used.
DAILY CHECKS TO BE PERFORMED
To ensure the smooth running of your tuk tuk, you must carry out these easy checks each morning, namely:
- Check the tyres are all still in-situ, as sometimes people can swap your tyres at night. Also check tyre pressures.
- Check the oil. Make sure you are on a flat surface, and the engine is cooled before filling to the high line if required.
- Check any accessories you have are still in the tuktuk, such as the phone charger, and phone holder.
In addition, you are required to have your tuktuk greased every 1,000kms to prevent dirt causing internal damage. This was really simple to do, as we simply turned up at the nearest garage to our accommodation. It took around 15 minutes, and cost about 768 LKR (£2.00).
GENERAL TIPS FOR RENTING A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA
Below we have listed the general maintenance required for your tuktuk, and tips to help your trip go smoothly.
- Purchase a sim card on arrival from the airport. We used Dialog, which cost 7 USD, and we didn’t have to top up the whole trip. You can then access Google Maps for navigation.
- Turn off toll roads on your navigation app, as you are not allowed to travel on an Expressway (marked blue). The sign indicates the entrance to an expressway, so you really can’t get it wrong.
- The maximum speed limit for tuktuks is 40 kms/hour. Don’t speed. Enjoy the journey.
- You will take longer to get from A to B, so don’t follow the travel time for a car. Take a copy of the map provided when you pick up your tuktuk. This shows the distances, and times for numerous journeys across the island.
- Keep all documents with you at all times, including your Sri Lankan driving permit.
- Abide by road signs. Don’t park where it is forbidden, or do a U-turn when you’re not allowed.
- Longitudinal double white lines prohibits overtaking, and don’t overtake at pedestrian crossings.
- Complete your daily checks regarding brake fluid, checking tyres, and engine oil.
TAKING THE TRAIN DURING YOUR TRIP
One of the popular things to do in Sri Lanka, is to take a train ride, especially the train from Kandy to Ella. Tuktuk Rental offer a service whereby a driver picks up your tuktuk, and drives it to your destination while you take the train.
We had bought tickets, and planned to take the train. However, we both came down with sickness the evening before, so decided that 6 hours on a train was not the best idea.
We had already driven from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and back again, and it is a really pretty, scenic drive. We couldn’t imagine a more scenic way to travel than along the roads, weaving past endless tea plantations, and enjoying mountain views.
Several people we talked to admitted that the train journey was long, and arduous. This drive was one of our favourite things during our trip, so fate worked in our favour. We could stop whenever we wanted, and enjoy tea and cake at one of the tea plantations.
OUR EXPERIENCE RENTING A TUK TUK IN SRI LANKA
We had a great time road tripping the island in our tuk tuk, and felt sad to drop her back off at the rental office. The whole experience was truly fun, memorable, and authentic. We would thoroughly recommend this mode of transport if you want to immerse yourself in local life.
Are there any downsides? None that would stop us doing it again! Here are a few things to bear in mind before you make up your own mind.
- If you want to travel around quickly, this is not the way to do it. Driving is slow, but you have the chance to really enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
- Tuktuks are quite noisy, and rattily, but this is part of their charm.
- In heavy traffic the vehicle fumes are quite bad, especially from the buses. I wrapped my scarf around my nose at times, and it was fine.
- We saw several other rental vehicles exceeding the speed limit, which is stupid. Firstly, it’s against the law, and you can get stopped by the police. Secondly, the whole point of a tuktuk is to enjoy the ride, the scenery, and the experience.
- Some of the main roads through towns are quite busy, but we felt perfectly safe, even around the capital Colombo.
- The A-Roads are well maintained, with easy to read signage. Back roads can be bumpy and uneven, and rice growers can have tarpaulin on the side of the road, drying the rice.
- Buses and trains would be cheaper, but less practical, and not nearly as much fun.
We hope this article has shown you how renting a tuk tuk in Sri Lanka is both easy, and a great way to traverse this friendly, and remarkable country. If you have any questions, please let us know in the comments below.
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