Domestic Travel Info
Even though the distances are listed in kilometers, it’s best to add in time when making travel plans. Although roads are being improved quickly, congestion on some major routes and in some cities might result in delays. After a leisurely breakfast or after lunch is the ideal time for travel. Buses and trains are essential to the public transportation system. Typically, on long distance routes, these are crowded before and after weekends and during peak hours.
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Buses:
A reasonably cheap means of transportation. Both government and private companies run bus services. You may get pleasant air-conditioned buses on major routes connecting places like Galle, Kandy, Kurunegala, and Colombo, often at a premium cost. It’s definitely worth the extra cost to have comfort on long trips.
Trains:
A bit more inexpensive than taking the bus. Long-distance trains have a high likelihood of having a seat available. It is unquestionably the most intriguing method to take in the natural beauty of the island, as the railway lines were built to connect cities so that product could be delivered to Colombo as quickly as possible in an era when refrigeration was difficult and packing crates and jute bags were the norm. The railroad tracks cross calm lagoons and meandering rivers on bridges as well as through vast tunnels and picturesque mountain ranges.
Taxis (radio cabs):
If you need a taxi, please ask at the front desk or reception of your hotel. Many would be pleased to help. At an agreed-upon price, you can rent a car for your trips to popular destinations along a predetermined itinerary. Information is easily accessible through maps and guidebooks.
Three-wheelers:
Many travelers feel at ease using this option. No matter what language you speak, the drivers of these “TUK TUKs” are able to communicate. Their inventive gestures and expressions that they use to make a point are entertaining in and of themselves. The majority of these TUK TUKs now have fare meters, which saves you the trouble of haggling and is pretty reasonable.
Domestic passenger flights:
Using chartered flights out of the Ratmalana Airport near Colombo allows travelers to get where they’re going more quickly and take in the scenery of the island. For transfers or day trips, one can also reserve a private helicopter or charter a small plane.
Information Service:
The Tourist Information Center (TIC) run in Colombo by the Ceylon Tourist Board is located at 78, Steuart Place, Galle Road, Colombo 3. Tel: (+94) 112 437059, (+94) 112 437060 , (+94) 112 437055
Kandy TIC – Headman’s Lodge, 3, Deva Veediya, Kandy, 0812 222661. Open 9:00 hrs. to 16:45 hrs. on weekdays.
Negombo TIC – 12/6, Lewis Place, Negombo. Open 09:00 – 17:15 hrs.
Hikkaduwa TIC – Commercial Bank Bldg., Galle Road, Hikkaduwa. Tel : 09122-223397
Airport TIC – Located in the arrivals lounge of the International Airport, Katunayake and open day and night. Tel: (+94) 11 2 452411
Tourist Police Units:
Special Tourist Police Units are available to assist our visitors – Hotline (+94) 112421451
Regional tourist units can be found – http://www.police.lk/index.php/tourist-police/235
