Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
It's dangerously acceptable for a bus, car or truck to overtake in the face of oncoming
smaller road users. Three-wheelers, cyclists, or smaller cars and vans simply have to move
over or risk getting hit. To announce they are overtaking, or want to overtake, drivers sound
a shrill melody on their horns. If you're walking or cycling along any kind of main road, be
very alert.
Road Rules
Speed limit 56km/h in towns, 72km/h in rural areas and 100km on the new expressways.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, as in the UK and Australia.
Hitching
Hitching is never entirely safe in any country in the world, and we don't recommend it. In
any case, Sri Lanka's cheap fares make it an unnecessary option.
Local Transport
Many Sri Lankan towns are small enough to walk around. In larger towns you can get
around by bus, taxi or three-wheeler.
Bus
Local buses go to most places, including villages outside main towns, for fares from Rs 10
to 50.
