Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SRI LANKA'S NEW HIGHWAYS
Various new expressways are opening over the next few years. Most will be toll roads, with
relatively cheap tolls. Besides new expressways in and around Colombo (
Click here
)
, oth-
er new routes include:
Colombo-Kandy Expressway
Approved in 2012, this road is expected to reduce travel
time to close to an hour. There is no set opening date.
Southern Expressway
The first new expressway completed. It is 161km long and runs
from Colombo's southern suburb of Kottawa, near Maharagama, to Matara via an exit
near Galle. Until linking roads are complete, it can take as long to get from Fort to the ex-
pressway entrance as it does from there to Galle - or even longer. Plans call for the road
to eventually reach Hambantota.
Driving Licence
An International Driving Permit (IDP) can be used for driving in Sri Lanka; it's pricey, valid
for three months to one year and is sold by auto clubs in your home country. Note that
many travellers never purchase an IDP and have no problems.
Hiring a Car & Driver
A car and a driver guarantee maximum flexibility in your travels and while the driver deals
with the chaotic roads, you can look out the window and - try to - relax.
You can find taxi drivers who will happily become your chauffeur for a day or more in all
the main tourist centres. Guesthouses and hotels can connect you with a driver, which may
be the best method. Travel agencies also offer various car and driver schemes, although
these can cost considerably more.
COSTS
Various formulas exist for setting costs, such as rates per kilometre plus a lunch and dinner
allowance and separate fuel payments. The simplest way is to agree on a flat fee with no
extras. Expect to pay Rs 7000 to 9000 per day (US$60 is a good average), excluding fuel,
or more for a newer air-con vehicle. Other considerations:
Most drivers will expect a tip of about 10%.
Meet the driver first as you may sense bad chemistry.
Consider hiring a driver for only two or three days at first to see if you fit.
