Sri Lanka is infamous for its chaotic traffic. The roads are a mishmash of vehicular, human and animal traffic! In fact it is quite a sight to see the native farmer determinedly jostle his bullock cart alongside a car! It truly is the survival of the fittest on these roads! And if you are coming to Sri Lanka from the United States, give yourself time to get used to people driving on the ‘wrong' side of the street, as cars here drive on the left-hand side of the road. However, the excellent public transport system of this country leaves you with plenty of options to choose from.

Don't go looking for a tuk-tuk in Sri Lanka - the incredibly intuitive driver will always come looking for you!

This Sri Lanka transportation page will tell you all you need to know about travelling in and around Sri Lanka. Use our Sri Lanka Destination Guide or click on our Sri Lanka Country Guide if you want to know more about travelling to Sri Lanka. For more local transport information and transport providers, take a look at our Colombo and Southern Coast transport guides.

Sri Lanka Transportation Guide

By Air

If you are flying into Sri Lanka, then that you will probably land at the Bandaranaike International Airport. Situated 30 km north of the commercial capital Colombo, this airport is the only port of entry for international travellers. Buses and taxis operate between the airport and the various other cities of the country. Sri Lanka has no domestic passenger flights; however, private operators operate chartered flights from the Ratmalana Airport near Colombo.

Air Lanka is Sri Lanka's national carrier while there are several international flights that connect the country to various global destinations. These include Emirates, British Airways, Indian Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Condor Airlines, K.L.M. Royal Dutch Airlines, Gulf Air, Thai Airways, Aeroflot, and Kuwait Airways.

By Road

Roads are the backbone of Sri Lanka. Over 70% of the nation's traffic traverses the country using the good network of metalled roads that exist here. The average speed limit of traffic within city limits is 56 km per hour, while it is 72 km per hour up on the highway. If you are an international traveller and intend to drive on these roads, then you will need an international driving permit. However, if you decide not to do so, there are several options to choose from. The Automobile Association of Ceylon provides general road and driving information on Sri Lanka. They also have a guide on Lankan road rules and road signs called The Highway Code.

Three Wheelers

Popularly known as a tuk tuk, this type of taxi is an accepted mode of daily transportation in this part of the world. But they are quite a unique sight for the Western traveller. Your trip to Sri Lanka is incomplete without a ride on one of these colourful three wheelers. Be sure to negotiate a rate before you step into a tuk tuk as they do not have a meter to calculate your fare. If you are aware of the distance to your destination you can bargain for a rate of 15 to 20 rupees per km.

Taxis

If the tuk tuk is not for you, then you could hire a taxi. These are easily found in the major cities, but the taxis, like the tuk tuks, are not metered. So, it is best to negotiate a rate before you begin your journey. In Colombo and its suburbs you can get radio cabs, which are metered at the rate of Rs. 28 for the first km and Rs. 24 per additional km thereafter. There is no charge for calling these cabs and they can be rented for inter city trips also. You don't have to tip the taxi driver in this part of the world.

Cars

If you are up for a challenge and the chaotic road conditions in Sri Lanka thrill you, then you can always rent a car and drive your way around the country, though this is not a popular option. If you prefer to drive yourself, cars can be hired for Rs. 2400 per day. The minimum running distance you pay for is 80 km per day. Extra mileage is charged at Rs. 8 per km. Renting a car does not require lengthy credit checks.

However, to avoid all the hassle and make the best use of your time, it is advisable to rent a chauffer-driven car or coach. These are easily available and besides helping you manoeuvre in a new country, they also double up as your guide to the land, its culture and people. Most of these taxis or coaches are air conditioned and offer a comfortable ride. Check out the taxi services that also offer itineraries suited to your needs.

Buses

The Ceylon Transport Board (CTB) operates government-owned buses for travelling between the different cities. This network of government-run buses is complemented by a network of privately owned buses. The CTB buses are amongst the cheapest mode of public transportation in the world and tickets can be purchased in advance. However, this is not the case with privately owned buses, which are also a little more expensive than the CTB operated buses. Express bus services offer a more comfortable and faster means of transportation.

By Rail

Enjoy the beautiful countryside while you chug along in a red train and explore Sri Lanka in an economical and enjoyable way. The extensive rail lines that criss-cross this country are a legacy of British rule. Today, this well developed network is under the supervision of the Sri Lankan Government. With three main lines, this network covers all the major towns and important tourist spots across the country. The first line extends from Colombo to Matara along the west coast. The main line runs from Colombo to Badulla. This line also branches out to Kandy and is probably the most picturesque journey that you can take. Enjoy the stunning view of the hills as the train makes its way around gorgeous waterfalls and verdant tea gardens. The third and northern line runs to Anuradhapura.

The trains have three classes, with first class being the best and most expensive. These trains also offer air-conditioned coaches, observation saloons and sleeping berths. These are typically more comfortable than the other coaches. Advance reservations can only be made for first class travel.

Intercity Express Train

Passengers purchasing tickets on cash are entitled to the concession of paying Rs. 108.00 for a return journey, valid for period of 10 days or less. Special Reservations: Reserved compartments are provided to parties whenever possible on prior application to the Commercial Superintendent, Sri Lanka Railways, Colombo 10, on payment of a reservation charge of Rs. 15.00 per seat and Rs. 12.00 per third class seat. Individual seats cannot be reserved.

Break of Journey

Passengers travelling over 80 kilometres are provided with the facility to break journey at anyone intermediate station for 24 hours. However, reservations for the resumed journey will have to be made afresh and paid for.

The Viceroy Special

If you want to experience a luxurious journey, a trip on the 75-year-old passenger steam train, Viceroy Special is a must. This private train is decorated in period style and has two air-conditioned observation saloon carriages. Each saloon comes with its own smoking lounge and a modern toilet. There is a restaurant on board to fulfil your cravings, while you enjoy the scenic view as the train travels through the spectacular countryside.