Sri Lanka Car Hire

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Sri Lanka is known for its diverse biodiversity, substantial exports of cinnamon and tea, and breathtaking natural wonders! It's also known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean and features a rich cultural and religious landscape.

For a memorable trip, pre-book your Sri Lanka car hire with Enjoy Travel for the best travel deals! Prices for Sri Lanka car hire start from just $26 per day for an economy car like a Kia Rio or similar.

Guide to Sri Lanka


Buddha in Meditation
Jungle River of Sri Lanka

Geography

Sri Lanka is a South Asian island country found in the Indian Ocean, southwest of the Bay of Bengal and southeast of the Arabian Sea. It is separated from the Indian subcontinent through the Gulf of Mannar and the Palk Strait. Colombo is the capital city and financial centre.

Climate in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid weather all year round, moderated by oceanic winds. Temperatures are fairly consistent with coastal regions having average temperatures of 25-30°C and the highlands enjoying temperatures between 15-18°C on average.

Culture

Sri Lanka’s documented history can be traced back to 3000 years. Its strategic location made it a major trading hub right from the days of the ancient Silk Road. After 148 years of British rule, in 1948, it finally became an independent country.


Nine Arches Bridge
Seema Malaka Temple

Things To Do in Sri Lanka

Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dating back to the 5th century AD, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress was built by King Kasyapa and is one of Sri Lanka’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The magnificent complex is protected by two moats and three ramparts. It used to be the royal residence and also a Buddhist monastery. Once you climb the rocky steps and the narrow metal staircases to reach the top, you will be greeted by spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding hills, forests and lakes. Here you can also find some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. Do make sure to check out the mirror wall, which is actually a masonry wall that was so well polished that the king could see his reflection on it.

Get close to wildlife at a national park

Going on a wildlife safari is one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. It has some of the world’s most striking biodiversity hotspots. Wildlife photographers and adventure enthusiasts will love the Yala National Park which is home to the famous Sri Lankan leopards. It is the only place in the country where these majestic creatures roam freely in their natural habitat so it is almost certain that you will be able to spot one casually sauntering along or perched on the branches of a tree. You can also find many other animals like elephants, sloth bears, turtles, macaques, flying cats, and different types of crocodiles.

Relax at a beach

The beach at Sri Lanka’s famous Arugam Bay is another top tourist destination. Stroll along the soft white sands while marvelling at the waves crashing at the shoreline, as you enjoy divine solitude broken only by the cool breeze rustling through the leaves of the coconut palms. Later savour the seafood delicacies served by the local beachside restaurants.


Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress
The Golden Temple

Eating Out in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is touted to be the original spice land and, as such, has a fascinating culinary heritage. The staple dishes are rice and curry made with coconut, green chillies, curry leaves, cinnamon, garlic, and richly flavoured sun-dried tuna.

Colombo and other tourist destinations also have some noteworthy restaurants. The Sea Spray Restaurant in Colombo is a rooftop restaurant offering alfresco dining options. Must-try dishes here include garlic prawns, barramundi, and tiger prawns. Nihonbashi offers authentic Japanese cuisine. You will relish the prawn tempura, crab fried rice, and sushi. The Gallery Café has extensive Italian, Indian and Sri Lankan cuisines. The pork schnitzel, jaggery cream, and coq au vin should not be missed.

Sri Lanka Transport

Airport

Sri Lanka has 6 international airports, of which Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is the busiest.

Getting Around Sri Lanka

The public transportation system in Sri Lanka mainly consists of buses and trains. Sri Lanka Railway operates the train services, while passenger bus services are provided by Sri Lanka Transport Board. There are many private bus operators as well.

If you’re looking for more comfort and the flexibility to go off the beaten track to explore untouched parts of sublime rural Sri Lanka, opt to hire a car instead.

Top Tips when hiring a car in Sri Lanka

• Explore various car hire companies to find the best car hire deal available in Sri Lanka. Research online or through local agencies to compare prices and offerings from different car rental companies.

• Look for cheap car hire options by booking in advance or searching for promotions and discounts offered by car hire companies in Sri Lanka. Booking early often helps secure more affordable rates.

• Ensure that the car hire company you choose is reputable and reliable. Read reviews and check the terms and conditions to understand the specifics of the car hire deal, including insurance coverage and any additional fees.

• Car rental companies have multiple locations in Sri Lanka. Consider the convenience of pick-up and drop-off car hire locations when selecting a car hire company. Airport locations are common and provide easy access upon arrival.

• Verify the car category that suits your needs best, whether it's a compact car for city travel or a larger vehicle for exploring more rugged terrains in Sri Lanka.

• Ensure that you have a valid driving license accepted in Sri Lanka. International visitors may need an international driving permit in addition to their valid driver's license to hire a car in Sri Lanka.

• Before driving off, thoroughly inspect the rental car for any damages and ensure they are documented in the rental agreement. This prevents potential disputes over pre-existing issues when returning the car.

• By researching car hire companies, booking in advance for the best car hire deals, and ensuring you have the necessary documentation, you can enjoy the convenience of SR rent for your travel needs.


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FAQs about car hire in Sri Lanka

Most frequently asked questions about hiring a car in Sri Lanka

Booking your Sri Lanka car hire in advance with Enjoy Travel will cost you on average $38 per day.
Sri Lanka car hire prices start at just $26 with Enjoy Travel.
To hire a car in Sri Lanka, you need to be at least aged 21.
It is generally okay to add additional drivers to your car hire agreement in Sri Lanka but check in advance with your hire provider.
The most popular car for getting around Sri Lanka is the Mitsubishi Outlander. This vehicle covers all sorts of terrain, so you can be assured of a safe and comfortable ride no matter where you are.
The capital of Sri Lanka is Colombo.
Just 17 minutes and 5 miles
360 KM / 223 miles, and a good 7 to 8 hours drive.

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