Car Rental in Kegalle, Sri Lanka

Where to drive

• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Just a short drive of approximately 15 km (30 minutes) from Kegalle, this orphanage is a world-renowned conservation project where you can observe rescued elephants.
• Kandy City Tour: Drive to the historic city of Kandy, about 40 km (1 hour) away, to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, and enjoy the Kandy Lake.
• Tea Plantations and Ramboda Falls: Head towards Nuwara Eliya, passing through stunning tea estates and stopping at Ramboda Falls, approximately 80 km (2 hours) from Kegalle.
• Kitulgala White Water Rafting: For adventure seekers, Kitulgala is roughly 40 km (1 hour) drive, famous for its white-water rafting and lush rainforests.
• Sigiriya and Dambulla Caves: Embark on a day trip to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple, approximately 120 km (2.5-3 hours) drive each way, offering a rich cultural experience.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Sri Lanka, you typically need a valid national driving license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your passport. Drivers must generally be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of two years. Some rental agencies might require a local temporary driving permit, which can be obtained upon arrival.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Kegalle vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from approximately 30-40 USD per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from 70-120 USD or more. Prices tend to increase by 20-40% during peak tourist months like December to March and July to August.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Sri Lanka, driving is on the left side of the road. Speed limits are approximately 50 km/h in urban areas, 70 km/h on rural roads, and 100 km/h on expressways. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, practically zero tolerance. Headlights should be used in low visibility conditions. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are recommended for young children, though availability might vary with rental companies.

Parking

In Kegalle, parking is generally available on designated street areas and in some private lots. Street parking in the town center may require a small fee or be limited in duration during business hours. Outside the main town, parking is often free, especially near attractions, though secure parking at hotels is always advisable.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in Kegalle and along major routes throughout Sri Lanka. Both petrol and diesel are common. Prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the country, typically paid in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) with cash being preferred, though some larger stations accept cards. It's wise to refuel before long journeys, especially when heading into more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For driving in and around Kegalle, a compact economy car or a small sedan is suitable for town driving and well-maintained main roads. However, if you plan to explore the hill country, visit remote villages, or navigate unpaved roads, a higher-clearance vehicle like a compact SUV or 4x4 with automatic transmission would be more comfortable and practical due to varying road conditions.

Frequently asked questions