What is the best way to get around Sri Lanka: rental car, taxi, train or bus?

For the lowest-cost independent itinerary, combine local buses with trains. This is cheaper than private transport, but it requires more time and flexibility.

If comfort is the priority, book private transfers between stops. Renting a car is presented as a middle option between public transport and transfers for cost and convenience.

A scooter is not ideal for every long independent route: central Sri Lanka can be cool, wet and foggy in the evenings, with winding mountain roads. A Category A motorcycle licence is also needed.

For travel between individual stops, use the PickMe app for taxis, pre-book a transfer or rent a car. One reported two-hour taxi ride cost about RUB 3,000 (roughly US$40), so short private trips may not be cheap.