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]]>Nationals from the above-mentioned countries holding Diplomatic, Official, Public Affairs, Service, and Ordinary passports are eligible to enjoy this visa-free regime. However, it’s essential to note that these travellers are required to apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka. This application process will be free of charge under this new scheme, making the travel process smoother and more cost-effective.
Under this visa-free initiative, tourists can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days without any visa fees. Additionally, travellers can enjoy a double-entry facility, allowing them to re-enter Sri Lanka within 30 days of their first arrival. This makes it a convenient option for visitors looking to explore neighboring countries before returning to Sri Lanka.
For tourists visiting Sri Lanka, reliable transportation is a key factor in ensuring a hassle-free journey. Malkey Rent-a-Car, a trusted name in the car rental industry, provides a range of car hire services to help you explore the island at your own pace. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Malkey offers well-maintained vehicles with flexible rental options to suit your needs, making your stay in Sri Lanka even more convenient.
For travelers who wish to extend their stay beyond the initial 30-day period, an extension can be requested by paying the appropriate visa fee. This flexibility caters to tourists and business travelers alike who may need more time to experience the island’s beauty and opportunities.
It is important to remember that this visa-free regime is currently limited to the seven nominated countries: China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan. Nationals from other countries will continue to follow the standard Sri Lanka ETA process, where applicable visa fees and regulations apply.
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]]>The post Sri Lankan Visa : Authorities Reinstate Previous Portal for Tourists appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>To apply for a Sri Lankan visa, tourists must use the official Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) portal. The portal offers a step-by-step process for obtaining the necessary visa, and applicants will be required to provide essential information, including their passport details and travel itinerary.
The Sri Lankan ETA system offers various visa categories, depending on the purpose of the visit. The most common categories include:
Each category has a different fee structure. For detailed information on the current visa fees, you can visit the official Sri Lanka visa fee page.
After securing your visa, the next step is to plan your travels within the island. For tourists who want the freedom to explore Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes at their own pace, renting a car is a convenient option.
One of the most trusted car rental services in Sri Lanka is Malkey Rent a Car. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, Malkey offers a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs, ensuring you find a vehicle that suits your needs. With their excellent customer service and well-maintained fleet, Malkey ensures a comfortable and stress-free travel experience for tourists.
As Sri Lanka continues to position itself as a top tourist destination, these efforts aim to remove barriers to entry and ensure a seamless process for visitors looking to explore the island’s beauty.
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]]>The post Is Renting a Car in Sri Lanka Expensive and Worth It? appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>Historically, Sri Lanka has imposed significant import taxes and duties on vehicles, which makes it expensive for rental companies to acquire and maintain their fleets. As a result, these costs are passed on to the customers renting the vehicles.
Since March 2020, the Sri Lankan Government has imposed a complete ban on importing motor vehicles due to foreign currency outflows. This lack of new vehicles in the market has forced rental operators to acquire them at much higher costs to maintain their fleets.
The import bans and increased duties on vehicle spare parts and other supplies have led to higher service and maintenance costs. Reputed rental companies need to keep their fleets in top condition, which adds to the overall rental expenses.
Running a car rental business in Sri Lanka involves high operational expenses, including maintenance, insurance, and staff salaries. These costs contribute to the overall rental fees, making it challenging for companies to offer more affordable rates.
All rental companies are required to possess additional commercial insurance for each vehicle used as a taxi or rental car. While not all rental companies and ride-sharing services comply with this, the additional commercial insurance obtained by reputable rental companies contributes to the higher costs associated with renting a car.
Renting a car in Sri Lanka may seem expensive, but understanding the underlying factors can help you plan your budget more effectively. If car rental prices in Sri Lanka are beyond your budget, you could consider more budget-friendly options like tuk-tuk rentals.
While the prices may be higher due to import taxes and operational costs, the flexibility and convenience of having your own vehicle to explore the diverse landscapes of Sri Lanka can often outweigh the expenses. By being aware of these factors, you can make informed choices and maximize the value of your travel experience.
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]]>The post A Guide to Renting Child Seats in Sri Lanka appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>In Sri Lanka, car seats are not legally required, but it is recommended for children under the age of 6. Additionally, children under 13 are encouraged to travel in the backseat, particularly if you are driving on one of the high-speed expressways.
Regarding other safety regulations, if you are traveling in a vehicle manufactured in 2000 or later, seatbelts are mandatory for those in the front seats, including the driver and passenger. However, it is recommended that all passengers use their seatbelt, if available in your vehicle, especially when traveling on the expressway.
Look for reputable car rental companies in Sri Lanka that offer child seat rentals. Many companies provide this service to cater to the needs of families traveling with young children. Explore online reviews and recommendations to choose a reliable provider.
To ensure the availability of a suitable child seat, consider booking in advance. Reach out to the rental company and inquire about the availability of different types of child seats based on your child’s age and height.
Child seats come in various types, including infant seats, convertible seats, and booster seats. Understand the specific needs of your child based on their age, weight, and height, as well as the compatibility of your vehicle.
Given that child seats may come in different formats, as well as there are vehicles that may or may not come with a 3 point seat belt or ISOFIX points, it is important to keep in mind that every car seat will not fit every car.
A vast majority of child car seats can be fitted with the 3 point adult seat belt.
The ISOFIX system is an internationally standardized method for attaching car seats. This system is known by different names in different regions, such as LATCH (“Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children”) in the United States, and LUAS (“Lower Universal Anchorage System”) or Canfix in Canada. It can also be referred to as the “Universal Child Safety Seat System” or UCSSS.
Isofix establishes a set of standardized attachment points, known as ISOFIX fixing points, that are integrated into cars. This allows child safety seats that comply with the standard to be easily and securely installed. Isofix provides an alternative method to securing the seat using seat belts.
Inquire about the costs associated with renting a child seat. Understand whether the rental fee is charged per day or for the entire duration of your car rental. Factor this into your travel budget to avoid any surprises.
When picking up the rental car, ask the rental company for proper installation instructions for the child seat. Ensure that you know how to secure the seat correctly to guarantee your child’s safety throughout the journey.
Usually to install a child seat via a 3 point seatbelt, you will have to pull out a length of belt, and pass the lap belt through the lap belt guides, then click the belt in. Once you have clicked the belt in, firmly pull the shoulder part of the belt, so that it tightens the lap belt.
The advantage of renting a child seat from the car rental company itself is that not only would they ensure the compatibility between the car seat and vehicle, but they would also install it for you.
Before accepting the child seat, inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. Confirm that all parts, including the harness and buckles, are in good working condition. Notify the rental company of any concerns and request a replacement if needed.
Return the child seat along with the rental car, adhering to the terms and conditions set by the rental company. Ensure that it is in the same condition as when you received it to avoid any additional charges.
If renting a child seat proves challenging, explore alternative options such as bringing your own child seat or purchasing one locally upon arrival.
Renting a child seat in Sri Lanka is a proactive step towards ensuring your family’s safety during your travels. By following these guidelines and choosing a reliable rental company, you can enjoy a worry-free journey, creating lasting memories with your loved ones amidst the stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences that Sri Lanka has to offer. Safe travels!
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]]>The post All You Need to Know About Driving in Sri Lanka appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>Yes, tourists with a valid Driving License (endorsed by the AA or Sri Lanka) or an International Driving Permit / License or a Temporary Driving License issued by the Department of Motor Traffic of Sri Lanka are allowed to drive in Sri Lanka. Find out more on how to obtain a valid driving permit in Sri Lanka for foreigners.
To get a tourist driving license in Sri Lanka you have the following options:
Find out more on how to obtain a valid driving permit in Sri Lanka.
To get a temporary driving license as a foreign national, you will have to visit the Department of Motor Traffic in Sri Lanka with your Foreign Drivers License, Passport & Visa.
Find out more on ohow to obtain a temporary driving license in Sri Lanka for foreigners.
As a tourist, if you have a valid permit to drive in Sri Lanka you will face no issues. The minimum age limit to acquire a driving license in Sri Lanka for locals is 18 years of age. Currently there is no upper age limit in place for driving in Sri Lanka.
Currently, there is no age limit in place for Tourists. As long as you have a valid permit to drive in Sri Lanka you will face no issues.
If you are a foreign national / tourist hoping to get your foreign drivers license endorsed by the Automobile Association (AA) office in Colombo to drive in Sri Lanka, it may cost you between Rs. 7,000 ~ Rs. 8,000. However, as these fees are subject to change, we advise you to check with the relevant authority or your rental car company, as they could apply on your behalf.
Automobile Association of Ceylon, is the issuer of International Driving Permits as well as endorse existing Foreign Driving Licenses and IDP’s allowing tourists to drive in Sri Lanka. The AA office in Colombo which is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM. More information on the AA Website. You can locate the AA on Google Maps.
Absolutely! Self-driving is a fantastic option when travelling in Sri Lanka. Not only will this give you freedom to explore on your own, it will also be the cheaper option when renting a vehicle. As long as you have necessary driving permits and you choose a reputable car rental company you will be assured of smooth travels.
Yes & No. Whilst the Colombo & certain suburbs may get congested during morning rush hour and school time traffic, it is not as congested as many European and South Asian cities. Driving in Sri Lanka is really not that hard, and driving outside the capital to many tourist destinations can in fact be delightful with open roads, highways and beautiful scenery.
Yes, self-driving in Sri Lanka is easier than you may think. With some research and preparation you are good to go. If you are planning on renting a car (this will be the cheaper option compared to chauffeur drive option) from a reliable Rent-A-Car service you will receive all the assistance you need in this regard.
Yes, it’s as safe as anywhere else to drive at night, especially in urban areas you’ll find well-lit roads and street signs. In some rural areas you may find inadequate lighting but if you plan your travel route factoring this in you will not have any problems. You may find animals like Elephants crossing the road at night if you are close to national parks.
General road rules and regulations apply to driving in Sri Lanka, although you’ll find that some locals choose to ignore these rules. These are some common rules that you will be required to adhere to;
Sri Lankan vehicles are Right-Hand drives (The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle) and you will drive on the Left-Hand side of the road. While the idea of switching sides may seem confusing, plenty of tourists manage this with ease.
Yes, Sri Lankan vehicles are Right-Hand drives (The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle) and you will drive on the Left-Hand side of the road. While the idea of switching sides may seem confusing, plenty of tourists manage this with ease.
Sri Lankan vehicles are Right-Hand drives (The steering wheel is on the right side of the vehicle) and you will drive on the Left-Hand side of the road. While the idea of switching sides may seem confusing, plenty of tourists manage this with ease.
The speed limit in Sri Lanka is 40km/h in the city and urban areas for motorcycles and heavy vehicles and 60km/h for cars and light vehicles. Outside of the city, the limit is 40km/h for motorbikes, 60km/h for motor coaches and heavy vehicles, and 70km/h for cars and light vehicles. On the Expressways, the speed limit is 100km/h. Motorcycles are not allowed on the expressway.
On the Expressways, the speed limit is 100km/h. Motorcycles are not allowed on the expressway. If you are driving in Sri Lanka you’ll find that taking highways are worth the tolls for speed as well as beautiful scenery.
The fine for speeding in Sri Lanka may range between LKR 2,000 to LKR 25,000 depending on the speed.
The fine for driving without a valid license / permit is LKR 25,000.
The fine for riding a motorcycle without a helmet may vary.
Renting a car in Sri Lanka is definitely worth it and a great way to get around. You can rent with or without a driver. If you choose to self-drive just make sure your driving permit is ready to go and that you choose a reliable car rental company who can provide you with assistance in sorting out your permits as well as roadside assistance throughout your journey.
Yes, it’s easy to travel around Sri Lanka with the multitude of travel options available to you. You can rent a vehicle, take tuk tuks or taxis or take public transport. Many tourists find that a combination of these modes of transportation work best. If you rent from a company like Malkey Rent-A-Car, they will also offer a pick-up and drop-off service if you would like to leave your car and hop on a train at any time during your travels.
The cheapest way to travel in Sri Lanka would be to take public transport which includes buses and trains mainly. However, since public transportation methods may not take you all the way to your destination, for better accessibility you could combine a bus or train ride with a tuk tuk hire from the point you leave public transport. Depending on your itinerary, you may find that renting a self-drive vehicle via a car rental company offering budget rental options may turn out to be cheaper once all additional costs are considered.
The best way to travel in Sri Lanka is to rent a car. You can choose to self-drive or rent a car with a driver. For an even better experience, customise your journey with a combination of these options and even add in a scenic train ride for maximum freedom and enjoyment.
Yes you can enjoy the freedom of travelling by car and train both if you choose a car rental company that provides a drop-off and pick-up service to and from anywhere. Leave your car and enjoy a train ride with the convenience of being picked up at a location of your choice.
Apart from the above mentioned, read up on our Tips & Tricks for getting around in Sri Lanka.
Vehicles entering the expressway are required to pay a usage fee based on the distance they intend to travel and the type of vehicle. The charges for each category of vehicle on the highway can be calculated using our Expressway Toll Calculator.
Pedestrians, three-wheelers (tuk tuks), motorcycles, tractors, and bicycles are prohibited from entering expressways in Sri Lanka. Other vehicles are allowed to enter the highway, provided they can be driven safely at a speed of 100km/h and adhere to the size and weight restrictions specified in the Motor Traffic Act.
In case of an emergency or breakdown on the expressway
The maximum speed limit is 100 kilometers per hour, unless otherwise displayed. The maximum speed in the entry/exit ramps of the Expressway is 60 kilometers per hour.
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]]>The post Updated Regulations For Traveling to Sri Lanka 2023 appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>Currently the below regulations have been relaxed and it is not compulsory to produce PCR results or spend time in quarantine. However, use of masks in crowded, enclosed spaces is encouraged for your safety.
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Previous Regulations for Traveling to Sri Lanka as at 15th March 2022:
Ensure you are aware of the documents that need to be submitted and carried with you to ensure a hassle free visit.
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This post serves as an update to our previous post in April 2021: Is it Safe to Visit Sri Lanka Under COVID Restrictions?
This new health protocol for arrivals to Sri Lanka applies to international tourists visiting Sri Lanka under a tourist visa and is optional for dual citizens, valid resident visa holders, Sri Lankan citizens who opt to come under the tourism route. There is no prior approval required from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Civil Aviation Authority. There is no minimum duration of stay in Sri Lanka. This protocol is valid for travellers not arriving from or with no travel history (including transit) to any travel restricted country in the past 14 days.
Tourists who arrive from India have a separate health protocol.
Tourists can visit approved tourist sites under the safety of a bio-bubble.
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]]>The post Fuel Availability for Tourists in Sri Lanka appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>Following are a few options that to obtain fuel as a Tourist during your stay in Sri Lanka :
An initiative of the Ministry of Power and Energy, and Dialog Axiata PLC to provide an NFC enabled Touch Fuel card for inbound Tourists.
Applicable for :
Inbound Tourists residing out of Sri Lanka with a valid Foreign Passport
Process :
Pro’s :
Con’s :
More information and FAQ’s can be found at the Tourist Fuel Pass Website.
An official letter issued by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Agency (SLTDA) to Tourists to obtain fuel based on their travel itinerary.
Applicable for :
Inbound Tourists who will be renting a vehicle via a SLTDA registered tour operator / rental company.
Process :
Pro’s :
Con’s :
The national QR code system that is operating in the country which offers a weekly fuel quota for all vehicles in Sri Lanka.
Applicable for :
Locals and Sri Lankan Passport Holders.
Process :
Con’s :
Our recommendation is Option 2 – Tourist Fuel Request Letter, which is also the most convenient one where you receive a supply of fuel to cover your entire itinerary while allowing your car rental company like Malkey Rent-A-Car to handle all the paperwork.
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]]>The post TukTuk Rental, Budget-Friendly Travel in Sri Lanka appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>If you’ve been in TukTuks before, you already know that feeling of flying through the roads with the wind in your hair, but with the added comfort of shelter and space. Now imagine being able to rent a TukTuk in Sri Lanka and getting behind the wheel to travel to any location your heart desires.
The true advantage of TukTuks for tourists and locals alike is the freedom it provides to travel anywhere beyond the main roads where public transport is restricted. So instead of being limited by the routes taken by buses and trains, renting a self-drive TukTuk could take you directly to your destination with any number of stops that you would like to make.
You can rent a TukTuk at a cost only marginally over what you would spend on modes of public transportation. Another reason why TukTuks are easy on your wallet is because they are extremely fuel efficient and will reduce your spending on fuel as opposed to most other vehicles. However, if low cost rental is your motivation for renting a TukTuk in Sri Lanka, you will find budget-friendly economical cars which are equally cheap as TukTuks available at Malkey Rent A Car.
The compact size of TukTuks makes it possible for them to weave and wind their way through most Sri Lankan roads with ease and will reduce your travel time drastically, especially in urban environments.
Learning to drive a TukTuk is uncomplicated and intuitive and your rental company will provide you with a crash course if you haven’t driven one before. You can also do online research for tips on driving TukTuks to obtain a better understanding of the driving style and safety aspects.
You need to obtain a special temporary TukTuk licence to be able to drive one in Sri Lanka and you will need to submit a valid driving licence from your own country for this purpose. You could visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if you wish, or your TukTuk rental company can sort this out for you even before you arrive.
Find out more about getting a valid permit for driving in Sri Lanka.
There are many companies and individuals offering TukTuks for rent but we recommend choosing a reputed rental company like Malkey Rent A Car that can also provide additional assistance with things like obtaining a driving permit, support with learning as well as a wide network of roadside assistance around the country.
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]]>The post How Can You Get a Valid Permit to Drive in Sri Lanka as a Tourist? appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>According to the State Minister of Transport, there is a plan to allow foreigners to apply for their driving license directly at the Sri Lankan Airport upon arrival. This initiative aims to streamline and simplify the process for foreign applicants. However, we have not received any further updates since the initial announcement, so it is unclear when this program will be implemented.
In the meantime, there are currently only two options available for foreigners to obtain a valid driving permit in Sri Lanka:
Foreign Driving License holders must obtain a temporary Sri Lankan Driving Permit from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to be able to drive legally in Sri Lanka. The DMV is located in Werahera, about 30 mins away from central Colombo, depending on traffic. The process to obtain this permit may take anything from 30 minutes to a few hours. The DMV is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 3 PM. But please do check the Sri Lankan holiday calendar to ensure the DMV is open. If your license is not in English, a translation by the respective Embassy or any authority in each country is required. The following documents are required
More information on the DMV Website.
You can locate the DMV on Google Maps.
You will need to have obtained an International Drivers License or International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country and with this IDP you could go to the Automobile Association of Ceylon, to get your driving permit endorsed. The endorsement is given over the counter at the AA office in Colombo which is open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM.
More information on the AA Website.
You can locate the AA on Google Maps.
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]]>The post What You Need to Know About Insurance Before Taking a Cab appeared first on Driving in Sri Lanka.
]]>Commercial vehicles are required to have at minimum a
Whenever possible, it is recommended that you carefully assess the insurance cover provided to passengers/ renters to determine how well you are protected. It is also imperative to ascertain if your own insurance policy could be invalidated by travelling in an uninsured vehicle.
If you happen to be in a car accident while travelling in a taxi or Rideshare vehicle, it is important to establish if the vehicle & it’s passengers are covered by a valid insurance policy and to what degree you will be compensated. While nobody anticipates being in accidents and however minor your injury may be, it is an enormous inconvenience to worry about paying for hospitals in the absence of insurance.
Nobody really needs the hassle of worrying about medical bills while they are on holiday. Doing your research to know more about insurance before taking a cab or renting a car can truly help. So check before you rent and enjoy your peace of mind!
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