Driving Tips
The roads in Colombo are quite decent but there are only a few highways so speeds are usually limited to 50kmph within the city boundaries. Local drivers are known to change lanes abruptly, often without signalling so it is best to stay extra alert at all times. Pedestrians in Colombo are famous for walking on the edge of the road (or in the middle if the road is narrower) and never seem to use the pre-designated pedestrian crossings. Again, best to be alert to avoid knocking down people. You may come across cattle, stray dogs, and even elephants, on the roads. This is where your patience as a driver is sorely tested –i.e. when an elephant crosses a road. Besides that, driving in Colombo should be a manageable affair.
Colombo 1,2,3,4 and 5 have a one way system at most points. Roads are congested often between 8am and 9am and 5pm and 6pm, when people are going to and from work.
Finally make sure you’re in possession of an International Driving Permit.
If you give up driving and resort to using the bus instead, it is expected that you provide or give up the very first passenger seats to members of the clergy/religious leaders.
