Car Rental in Sri Lanka 2025. Where and how to rent a car? Prices and tourist reviews.

Renting a car in Sri Lanka is an excellent way to explore this picturesque island on your terms, with maximum comfort and freedom of movement. With a wide variety of cars available for rent, every tourist can find the right option, regardless of preferences and budget. Keep in mind that renting a car involves several nuances, from choosing the vehicle to completing all the necessary paperwork.

In this article, you will learn about the documents needed for rental, how to obtain a temporary driver's license in Sri Lanka, the conditions and requirements for renters, and popular car models and their costs. We will explain why tourists choose us for car rental and how hiring a car with a driver can simplify your travel. At the end of the article, you'll find a detailed 10-day travel itinerary for Sri Lanka by car and answers to frequently asked questions.

What Information to Provide the Operator for Car Rental?

To successfully rent a car, it's crucial to provide the operator with all necessary details.

Once you've chosen your car, contact our operator Ekaterina @RentCar_BigTravelChat and provide the following details:

• Ad number from the channel 🚘 Car Rental 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka: Each car on the channel has a unique number to prevent confusion and ensure you get the car you selected.
• ⏰ Rental Period (dates from-to): Knowing the exact rental dates allows the operator to guarantee the availability of your chosen car and calculate the total cost.
• 📍 Car delivery and return location: Specifying the exact delivery point (with geolocation) ensures timely and accurate delivery of the car. If the return location is already known, it helps the operator plan the logistics.
• 📠 WhatsApp and Telegram contact details: These contacts are necessary for efficient and quick communication between you and the operator. If questions or changes arise, the operator can quickly reach you.
• 🪧 Nameplate text for airport pickup + ✈️ flight number: If you're arriving at the airport and need pickup, providing these details helps you recognize your driver upon arrival.
• Driver's license photo for contract preparation: This is important for drafting the rental agreement.

How to Pay for Car Rental?

Payments for car rentals in Sri Lanka can be made through several convenient methods, ensuring flexibility for clients from all over the world:

• Cash payment in USD or LKR: You can pay in cash when picking up the car. Current exchange rates between USD and LKR are used for convenience.
• Advance payment in certain cases: In specific situations, the operator may ask for a prepayment of 10% of the total rental cost. This may be necessary during peak season or for bookings made several weeks in advance.

Additional Requirements for Car Rental in Sri Lanka

• Refundable security deposit: A security deposit of $200 is required when renting a car. This deposit guarantees coverage for potential damages to the vehicle.
• International driving license or temporary Sri Lankan driver's license: Required for driving within the country, ensuring compliance with local laws and legal protection in case of road incidents.

Why Tourists Choose Us for Car Rental in Sri Lanka?

When it comes to renting a car in Sri Lanka, more tourists are choosing us for many good reasons.

First, our reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews. Our company, BigTravelChat, has earned customer trust by consistently delivering high-quality services. In addition to car rentals, we offer a full range of additional services: island-wide transfers, a variety of excursions, visa assistance, currency exchange, and much more.

Additionally, our expertise goes beyond just Sri Lanka. We operate successfully in many countries worldwide, offering services to tourists globally. This enables us to apply advanced service standards and ensure high-quality service.

We value our reputation and strive to maintain high service standards, meeting our clients' trust. By choosing us, you select reliability, comfort, and confidence that your vacation in Sri Lanka will be worry-free.

A Wide Range of Cars for Rent in Sri Lanka

"Our fleet includes" a wide variety of vehicles that cater to different client needs and preferences. Options include sedans, minivans, SUVs, retro cars, and sports convertibles, making it easy and convenient to choose the perfect car for your journey around Sri Lanka.

Popular Models and Affordable Prices

The most in-demand models in our fleet are the Honda Fit and Toyota Prius, with a rental price of approximately 10,000 LKR per day. The Suzuki Wagon is also popular among tourists for its affordable price of 9,000 LKR per day. For those seeking greater comfort, the Honda Vizel is available at a price of about 14,000 LKR per day.

Discounts for Long-Term Rentals

Long-term car rentals come with significant discounts, making extended stays on the island more affordable and convenient in terms of mobility.

Car Delivery Terms

We offer car delivery services to the airport for 5,000 LKR and to the southern parts of the island for 3,000 LKR, ensuring convenience and time savings for our clients.

Mileage Limitation System for Vehicle Preservation

Most vehicles in our fleet come with a daily mileage limit of 100-150 kilometers. This helps control car usage and ensures their preservation.

Driver’s License Requirements in Sri Lanka

To drive a car in Sri Lanka, in accordance with local law, you need one of the following types of driver's licenses. Driving without the proper documentation can result in fines and other legal consequences:

1. Sri Lankan national driver's license with a minimum of 3 years of driving experience (or 5 years for driving SUVs).
2. Temporary Sri Lankan driver's license.
3. International driver's license.

How to Obtain a Temporary Driver’s License in Sri Lanka

To legalize foreign driver’s licenses in Sri Lanka, you need to contact the Department of Motor Traffic to obtain a temporary Sri Lankan driver’s license (Sri Lankan Temporary Driver’s License).

Address: Department of Motor Traffic DMT RMV, located at Department of Motor Traffic Rd, Boralesgamuwa. The legalization office is in Building H. (View location on map)

Contact phone: +94 11 251-89-26.

Hours of operation: Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 16:00.

Website: https://dmt.gov.lk/

Documents to bring with you:

• Passport.
• Copies of the first page of your passport and the page with your visa.
• Your driver's license and its photocopies.

Document copies can be made in the building opposite the department entrance. If you have questions about the procedure, feel free to ask staff for assistance. Help is provided free of charge inside the building.

Temporary license process: You will take a ticket and proceed to the window labeled “Foreign Licenses,” where your documents will be processed, and your photo will be taken. Then, you will be directed to other windows for further processing and payment. At the end of the process, you will receive an A4 document with stamps. Processing time is approximately 1 hour, and the cost is 1,000 LKR.

Temporary license validity: The issued license is valid for the duration of your tourist visa. If you plan to stay in Sri Lanka for more than a month, it is recommended to extend your visa first, then visit the Department of Motor Traffic.

How to Obtain a Temporary Driver’s License in Sri Lanka Remotely?

1. National driver’s license: Take clear photos of your valid national driver’s license from both sides. This is necessary to confirm your ability to drive.
2. Photo of your face on a white background: Provide a clear photo of your face taken against a white background. A phone photo is sufficient and will be used

Day 1-2: Colombo and Negombo

Begin your journey by arriving in the capital city of Colombo. Spend the first day exploring the city, visiting markets, temples, and museums. In the afternoon, head to Negombo to enjoy beach relaxation and try fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Day 3-4: Anuradhapura and Sigiriya

On the third day, travel to the ancient city of Anuradhapura, famous for its Buddhist temples and ruins. On the fourth day, continue to Sigiriya to climb the renowned Lion Rock and enjoy the breathtaking views from the summit.

Day 5-6: Kandy and Nuwara Eliya

Next, head to the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Garden. On the sixth day, proceed to Nuwara Eliya, known for its tea plantations and cool climate. Along the way, stop at tea factories to see the production of the famous Ceylon tea.

Day 7: Ella

Drive to Ella, a small mountain town surrounded by picturesque hills and waterfalls. Don't miss the Nine Arches Bridge and take a hike to Little Adam’s Peak, which offers stunning views of the surroundings.

Day 8: Yala

Dedicate the eighth day to a safari in Yala National Park, where you can spot wild animals including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. It is one of the best places in Sri Lanka for wildlife watching in its pristine natural environment.

Day 9: Mirissa

After a busy day on safari, travel to Mirissa, one of the best beach resorts on the southern coast. Relax on the beach, enjoy cocktails at beach bars, and consider joining a whale-watching tour.

Day 10: Galle and Return to Colombo

Conclude your trip with a visit to the historic town of Galle and its famous fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through narrow streets, explore local shops and cafes, and then head back to Colombo to finish your journey.

This itinerary allows you to see the best of Sri Lanka, enjoy its natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and beach relaxation. Traveling by car provides freedom of movement and the flexibility to stop at the most interesting spots along the way.

Renting a Car with a Driver in Sri Lanka

Traveling by car with a driver in Sri Lanka offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque island comfortably and safely. This option is especially suitable for those who prefer not to drive in a foreign country and want to maximize their itinerary without the limitations of public transport or standard tours.

Benefits of Renting a Car with a Driver:

1. Local Knowledge: Drivers are well-versed with the area, know the quickest routes to your destinations, and can help avoid traffic jams.
2. Safety: Professional drivers ensure safe driving, especially on unfamiliar or challenging roads.
3. Flexible Itineraries: Your personal driver adjusts the route to your wishes and interests, allowing visits to places that might be inaccessible via standard tours.
4. Time-Saving: No waiting for transport or studying maps, which is especially valuable on shorter trips.
5. Comfort: Enjoy trips in comfortable conditions without worrying about navigation or parking.

Costs and Options:

• Sedan (up to 4 people): 24,500 LKR/day
  • Includes: car rental, driver services and accommodation, 150 km/day mileage.
  • Additional costs: toll roads, excess mileage fees.
• Minivan (up to 6 people): 30,000 LKR/day
  • Includes: car rental, driver services and accommodation, 150 km/day mileage.
• Minibus (up to 10 people): 42,500 LKR/day
  • Includes: car rental, driver services and accommodation, 150 km/day mileage.

Renting a car with a driver in Sri Lanka is an ideal choice for those who value maximum comfort and want to delve deeper into the island's culture and nature, managing their time and route at their discretion.

Taxis and Transfers in Sri Lanka

You can order a taxi at the airport, but expect higher rates. Alternatively, write in the Telegram group Taxi and Transfer 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka and inform them about your upcoming trip. You'll find various transfer options at different prices and vehicles. You can also arrange shared rides with other tourists, which will significantly reduce costs.

Through the operator of Taxi and Transfer 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka, you can pre-book a taxi for your preferred time, especially upon arrival at the airport. This helps avoid unnecessary hassle and expenses at the start of your journey.

Once Again About Reviews: Why They Matter

If you still have doubts, we highly recommend reading reviews from our clients. Reviews are the best way to confirm the quality of our services and the trust we have earned.

Your trust and confidence in choosing us is our priority. We strive to provide a high level of service and always appreciate feedback to improve our offerings. By reading reviews, you can see that we meet our clients' expectations and deliver what we promise.

On Telegram: @thanksfeedback On Yandex: https://yandex.ru/profile/80157660404?intent=reviews

Reviews are your window into the real experience of those who have already used our services. We value every review and use them to grow. Your opinion matters to us, and we are always open to hearing your suggestions and wishes!

Conclusion

Renting a car in Sri Lanka opens doors for travelers to enjoy independence and convenience, exploring the island on their terms. With a variety of available cars, everyone can choose the optimal option for their needs and budget. Car rental offers a unique opportunity to enjoy scenic routes and the unparalleled beauty of Sri Lanka.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Rental in Sri Lanka

1. What documents are required to rent a car in Sri Lanka?
   • To rent a car, you need valid national driver’s licenses, international driver’s licenses, and a passport. Some companies may also require a credit card for a security deposit.
2. Can I rent a car in Sri Lanka without international driving permits?
   • No, driving in Sri Lanka requires international driving permits alongside national ones. Alternatively, you can obtain a temporary Sri Lankan driver’s license.
3. What insurance options are available for car rentals?
   • Cars usually come with basic insurance covering third-party and vehicle damage. You can opt for full coverage to minimize financial risks in case of accidents.
4. Can I pick up a car in one location and return it to another?
   • Yes, many rental companies offer one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up a car in one location and return it elsewhere. Additional fees may apply.
5. What driving conditions should I consider in Sri Lanka?
   • Driving in Sri Lanka can be challenging due to heavy traffic, especially in cities and tourist areas. Be cautious of local traffic rules, tuk-tuks, and animals on the roads.