Colombo, Sri Lanka: Sights from a Tuk Tuk

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Tuk Tuk in Colombo

Riding a Tuk Tuk is a must do when in Sri Lanka. Why not ride around a foreign country with your hand gripped to the side of a tiny “car” seeing your life flash before your eyes? It is all part of the experience, whether that be a terrifying or exciting one. Not meant to go long distances, they are perfect for some quick sight seeing around the city. If you are flying into Colombo and quickly heading to your next destination, you may not have a lot of time to explore. We flew in and out and had about a day and a half total. Excited to ride into the country to see the lush forests and world heritage sights, I wrote the city off.

Colombo, I apologize. Your colors, ocean views and buildings are absolutely stunning and I wish I had more time to enjoy all you have! I woke up from my hotel to the most beautiful sunrise (thanks jet lag) which I assume is Colombo saying “don’t underestimate me.”

Our first step outside of our hotel was met with humidity, excitement and flashbacks to my time in India. Being on cloud nine I was eager to see the sights. I had not thought entirely through our time there because I knew it was a short trip. It was only a matter of time until a driver eagerly tried to convince us that we had to see the city with him. Although hesitant, we agreed on a time and price and off we went.

Although we only drove around for an hour and a half (hoping on and off) here is a photo diary from our Tuk Tuk in Colombo to inspire you to throw out the travel plan book and stay flexible. Everywhere I looked deserved a click of my camera, on and off the Tuk Tuk. I hope you feel the same!

sri kailawasanathar swami devasthanam

One of our first stops during our Tuk Tuk in Colombo was the oldest Hindu Temple in the city and known as the most beautiful!

Tip: There may be some men with a snake for pictures, just know you will need to pay them some money if you do so! Also, this wasn’t my first time holding a snake, but reminded me I am terrified of them 🙂

Gangaramaya Temple

One of the oldest Buddhist temples in the city that holds a museum, a Relic Chamber, and the Viharaya (yellow house).

Seema Malaka

Part of Gangaramaya Temple, this was my favorite stop! Used as an assembly for Monks, it Floats beautifully and peacefully on the water.

Old Ceylon Colonial buildings, views of the ocean and the busy streets of the city were seen along the way as I tried to capture it all from a Tuk Tuk in Colombo.

On my list for when I (hopefully) return:

The Jami Ul-Afar Mosque

Eat at the Ministry of Crab (tip: book reservations early)!

Street shopping

Tips for a successful (and less stressful) Tuk Tuk in Colombo ride:

1/ Decide on a price and time before the ride. We agreed on a certain price for an hour, and ended up being a little longer (therefore more expensive). If you are on a tight budget and strict timeline – decide firmly on both items 🙂 If for some reason you don’t feel comfortable, don’t feel pressured!

2/ They may take you to places “not on your list” like a gem store. Make sure to be firm in what you want to see.

3/ Enjoy! At the end of the day you are whizzing around a beautiful country with friendly people eager to show you around. It is a great way to experience the gem of the Indian Ocean!

Heading to Colombo and need some Tuk Tuk inspo? PIN IT below 🙂