Car Rental in Puttalam

Where to drive

• Explore the Puttalam Lagoon and Kalpitiya Peninsula: Drive approximately 1.5 hours (60 km) west to Kalpitiya for dolphin watching, kite surfing, and pristine beaches. The roads are generally well-maintained.
• Visit Wilpattu National Park: Head north approximately 1 hour (45 km) to one of Sri Lanka's largest national parks, renowned for its leopards and diverse wildlife. A 4x4 or SUV is recommended for safaris within the park.
• Journey to Anuradhapura's ancient city: Drive approximately 2 hours (80 km) northeast to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura, with its magnificent stupas and ancient ruins.
• Discover Negombo's fishing village and beaches: Travel south approximately 1.5 hours (70 km) to Negombo, a bustling coastal town known for its fish market, Dutch-era canals, and sandy shores.
• Experience the cultural triangle via Dambulla: Take a scenic drive of approximately 3 hours (130 km) east to Dambulla to see the Golden Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress, offering a deeper dive into Sri Lanka's history.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Sri Lanka, you will generally need a valid national driving license, an International Driving Permit (IDP), and your passport. Some rental agencies may also accept a foreign license endorsed by the Automobile Association of Ceylon. The minimum driving age is typically 21 years, with some companies requiring drivers to be 23 or older and to have held their license for at least two years.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Puttalam vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars typically start from around 30-40 USD per day. Mid-range sedans are often in the 45-60 USD range, while SUVs and premium vehicles can cost 70-100 USD or more daily. Prices tend to be higher during the peak tourist season from December to March.

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 blood alcohol limit for drivers is very strict, close to zero. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under a certain age or height must use appropriate child seats. Headlights should be used during adverse weather conditions and at night.

Parking

In Puttalam town, parking is generally available on designated street parking areas and sometimes in private lots. Many hotels and guesthouses offer free parking for guests. For popular attractions, there may be small fees for parking attendants. Outside the main town, parking is often informal and free, but always ensure your vehicle is not obstructing traffic.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available in and around Puttalam, as well as on major routes to other cities. Petrol (gasoline) and diesel are the most common types. Fuel prices are regulated by the government and are generally consistent across the island, though they can fluctuate. Payment is typically made in Sri Lankan Rupees (LKR) cash, though some larger stations may accept credit cards.

Which car to choose

For general travel around Puttalam and to nearby coastal areas, a compact economy car or a small sedan is usually sufficient and economical. If you plan to venture into national parks like Wilpattu or navigate more challenging rural roads, an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatic options are available, often at a slightly higher price.

Frequently asked questions