Car Hire Sri Lanka

You are allowed to drive a rental car in Sri Lanka as a non-resident, however you are required to obtain a temporary Sri Lankan driving license. An international driving permit is not sufficient. You can obtain the temporary licence from Colombo.

Driving in Sri Lanka can be challenging due to varying road conditions, traffic congestion, and different driving practices. It's advisable to choose a reliable vehicle like a compact car or SUV. Traffic can be busy, especially in urban areas, so driving with caution is essential. 
 

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with many attractions to explore. Here are some popular places to visit and their approximate distances from the main airport and resorts:

1. Colombo (Bandaranaike International Airport to Colombo): Colombo is the capital city and offers a mix of modern and historic attractions. It's about a 30-40 minute drive from the airport.

2. Kandy (Colombo to Kandy): Kandy is known for its cultural heritage, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic. It's approximately a 3-4 hour drive from Colombo.

3. Sigiriya (Kandy to Sigiriya): Sigiriya is famous for its ancient rock fortress. It's about a 2-3 hour drive from Kandy.

4. Galle (Colombo to Galle): Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit. It's around a 2-3 hour drive from Colombo.

5. Nuwara Eliya (Kandy to Nuwara Eliya): Known as "Little England," this town offers beautiful landscapes and is about a 2-3 hour drive from Kandy.

6. Yala National Park (Colombo to Yala): For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala is known for its leopard population. It's approximately a 6-7 hour drive from Colombo.

7. Ella (Nuwara Eliya to Ella): Ella is famous for its stunning views, hiking trails, and tea plantations. It's about a 2-3 hour drive from Nuwara Eliya.

8. Dambulla (Kandy to Dambulla): The Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO site and is around a 2-hour drive from Kandy.

9. Anuradhapura (Colombo to Anuradhapura): This ancient city has historic ruins and is about a 4-5 hour drive from Colombo.

10. Trincomalee (Colombo to Trincomalee): Known for its beaches and natural harbor, Trincomalee is approximately a 5-6 hour drive from Colombo.

Please note that travel times can vary depending on road conditions and traffic. It's advisable to plan your itinerary and accommodations in advance for a smoother trip.