Tuk Tuk Road Trip through Sri Lanka
For our second vacation in Sri Lanka, Naomi’s first, we decided to rent a tuk tuk. Since my childhood, I have been fascinated by tuk tuks, so the decision was quickly made. Our plan: 3.5 weeks in a tuk tuk, followed by one week of beach vacation using public transport.
Preparation:
Before setting off, we had to sort out two things: Where can we find a tuk tuk at a good price, and how can we obtain a Sri Lankan driving license?
We quickly found the answers. We compared prices and asked locals. We decided to go with “Alma Tours” in Negombo. We paid about €10 per day for the tuk tuk and 1,000 LKR (around €4) for the driving license at the Department of Motor Traffic. We also received a free driving lesson to get familiar with the tuk tuk. After loading our luggage, our journey began. Naomi was initially a bit nervous about my inexperience and the chaotic Sri Lankan traffic.
Our Sri Lanka Travel Route
Here’s how we planned our route. We were very satisfied with the route and found 70 – 100 km per day comfortable for experiencing something new each day. At 40 km/h, you don’t get very far quickly. Our journey took us initially along the coast to the south to Yala National Park, then inland to explore cultural highlights, and finally back to Negombo from Sigiriya.
Day 1: Negombo – Kalutara (~90 km)
The first day showed us how slowly one can progress with a tuk tuk. Especially challenging was the rush hour in Colombo. Additionally, our brakes failed, so we had to wait a few hours. But don’t worry, it got better!
Day 2: Kalutara – Hikkaduwa (~70 km)
On the next day, we drove to Hikkaduwa, with several stops at small beaches. We spent two nights in Hikkaduwa.
Day 4: Hikkaduwa – Pitiwella (~10 km)
The short drive to Pitiwella allowed us to relax on the beach. From here, we took a half-day trip to Galle. Learn more about the best beaches in Sri Lanka in our post on the best beaches in Sri Lanka.
Day 5: Pitiwella – Tissamaharama (~150 km)
On day 5, we had a long drive ahead. We started early and made stops in Mirissa and Hiriketiya to relax on the beach. The following day, we enjoyed a half-day safari in Yala National Park and then continued our journey.
Day 7: Tissamaharama – Udawalawe (~70 km)
Since we wanted to enjoy more safaris, we visited Udawalawe National Park for a full-day safari and stayed there for two nights before heading to Ella.
Day 9: Udawalawe – Ella (~100 km)
We reached the highlands of Ella, where we explored Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak. The Nine Arches Bridge and a train ride from Ella to Nanu Oya were also on our itinerary. Tip: Check the accessibility of your accommodations, as some are located via difficult routes.
Day 14: Ella – Nuwara Eliya (~60 km)
From Ella, we traveled to Nuwara Eliya, where we spent one night and indulged in Indian cuisine.
Day 15: Nuwara Eliya – Nallathanniya (~70 km)
The drive from Nuwara Eliya to Nallathanniya was the highlight of our road trip. The landscape, surrounded by tea plantations, lakes, and waterfalls, was breathtaking. In Nallathanniya, we spent two nights and recovered after climbing Adam’s Peak.
Day 17: Nallathanniya – Baranagala Tea Estate (~70 km)
We visited Baranagala Tea Estate, where we spent two nights and learned a lot about tea.
Day 19: Baranagala Tea Estate – Kandy (~40 km)
In Kandy, we explored the Three Temples Loop and left the tuk tuk at our accommodation to explore the city.
Day 21: Kandy – Sigiriya (~90 km)
We traveled to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. We visited the Dambulla Cave Temple, explored Pidurangala and Lion Rock, and took a day trip to the ruins of Polonnaruwa. An invitation to a Sri Lankan wedding extended our stay in Sigiriya. Be cautious of wild elephants in the area.
Day 25: Sigiriya – Negombo (~150 km)
The last day was dedicated to returning to Negombo to return the tuk tuk. The route was uneventful, but necessary to conclude our trip.
Top Tips for Your Tuk Tuk Road Trip in Sri Lanka
- Always carry an extra fuel bottle.
- Be mindful of the 40 km/h speed limit to avoid fines.
- Drive on the left side of the road in Sri Lanka!
- Research how to handle encounters with elephants.
- Consider the location and accessibility of accommodations in your planning.
Conclusion
The tuk tuk road trip through Sri Lanka was an unforgettable experience. Despite the challenges and the initially bumpy ride, we greatly appreciated the flexibility and freedom of the tuk tuk. It was a fantastic way to experience the country in-depth. If you’re looking for adventure and unique travel experiences, I highly recommend this type of trip!
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