Joanna James
An exotic dreamscape of varied terrains, Sri Lanka is best savoured on four wheels with the windows rolled down! Here’s how to navigate the island’s jam-packed roads and unspoken road rules.
Whether you’re enamoured by surf-perfect beaches, culture-rich urban enclaves, exhilarating wildlife escapes, or tea-steeped colonial towns, the emerald tear of the Indian Ocean has something for every adventurer. While public transport in Sri Lanka is cheap and accessible, from express buses with air conditioning to teeth-rattling vintage trains, comfort is not guaranteed, especially in antique red SLTB buses and second or third-class train carriages. If you want to combine convenience, flexibility, and comfort, renting a well-serviced car or van is your best option. However, Sri Lankan drivers will often try unconventional manoeuvres to overtake you on roads that are congested with an eclectic mix of vehicles, you will need all your wits about you along with an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Whether you’re going bird watching amid the scrub jungle and rocky outposts of Yala, veering off the beaten path to hidden gems like Kitulgala and Bundala, or traversing the steep roads to Horton Plains and the Knuckles Mountain Range, pick your car wisely! For instance, a well-maintained, compact SUV is recommended in Sri Lanka as it can seamlessly handle diverse terrains and rougher road conditions. They also boast comfortable seating and ample cargo space, so you won’t be piled in with your luggage! While you can hire a private vehicle with a chauffeur who will help you achieve your travel goals and contribute valuable local insights, many seasoned travellers opt for the freedom and spontaneity of manning the wheel. If you intend to rent a car in Sri Lanka without a driver, you can find the ideal vehicle to suit your tropical island road trip at Malkey Rent A Car.
Sri Lanka is one of the best destinations to explore independently, as the bountiful little island is packed with diverse attractions located conveniently close to each other. One of the chief benefits of renting a car is that you have complete freedom over how you travel, whether you want to stay longer in a delicious destination or make a spur-of-the-moment detour. Map out key aspects of your trip in a detailed itinerary, including the non-negotiable sights you simply can’t miss. This will make sure you’re not in a rush to get to each destination and won’t drive recklessly.
While it may seem that your fellow drivers have little regard for road rules, make sure you are well-versed in what is expected. From obvious precautions like wearing your seat belt and taking calls only via hands-free devices to not stopping abruptly at pedestrian crossings and driving slowly in high-security areas, pay attention to safety at all times. However, also trust your instincts and make quick decisions, as adhering too closely to a rule book when everyone else takes liberties can lead to an unpleasant jolt or more!
Unlike many parts of the world, insistently tooting your horn in Sri Lanka is not synonymous with road rage! There’s a myriad of meanings behind this expressive signal, from indicating that a driver wants to overtake you to alerting you that something is wrong with one of your tires. Remember that Sri Lankans are generally friendly and helpful; you just have to embrace their driving style!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
