Rent a TukTuk in Gampola and explore one of Sri Lanka’s most peaceful hill country towns, rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Once the royal capital in the 14th century, Gampola is nestled among misty mountains, tea-covered hillsides, and dense forests. Ancient temples, towering statues, and traditional architecture reflect its regal heritage, making it a perfect getaway for history buffs and nature seekers. With the freedom of your own TukTuk, you can uncover Gampola’s hidden beauty at your own pace and truly connect with its timeless charm.


To legally drive a tuktuk in Sri Lanka, you’ll need a special recognition permit. You can get this with either your “International Driving Permit (IDP)” or your “Regular National Country Licence” with a B/C endorsement (representing car, depending on your country).
tuktukmania.com can help you get your recognition permit from the AAC (Automobile Association of Ceylon) with either of these documents. After booking, you’ll receive an email with a form to upload your licence. We’ll have your permit ready when you pick up your tuktuk in Negombo. Temporary TukTuk permit process explained in 18 different languages.
All our tuktuks come with full insurance that covers damage to your tuktuk, other vehicles, and personal injury for you, your passengers, and third parties. However, our insurance does not fly you back home. Check out more details about travel insurance coverage.
Before hitting the road, we’ll recommend you either watch our introductory video or join a virtual briefing session to go over the final details of your trip and answer any questions you may have. We’ll also assist with planning your itinerary. Once you arrive, you’ll receive personalised driving instruction to ensure you’re confident and ready to explore Sri Lanka from Gampola.
Renting a tuktuk is fun, immersive way to explore Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery and vibrant culture, especially around Negombo. When choosing a rental company, consider important factors like customer reviews, proper business and SLTDA registration, insurance coverage, safety standards, transparent pricing, and customer support. tuktukmania.com ensures all of these are in place. Find out how to select the correct tuktuk rental provider.
We prioritise your safety with reliable insurance, regular vehicle checks, and a team of mechanics. In case of emergencies, roadside assistance is available. With no hidden fees, our pricing is clear and fair. We also strive to provide top-notch customer service, handling any issues quickly. Since 2024, we’ve been committed to sustainable tourism by offsetting all our carbon emissions, making Sri Lanka greener.
Choose tuktukmania.com and experience the thrill of exploring Sri Lanka on your own terms. Let your adventure start in Gampola!

Ambuluwawa Tower and Biodiversity Complex – Climb the iconic spiraling tower for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush forests. The biodiversity complex showcases Sri Lanka’s rich flora and fauna.
Lankathilaka Vihara – A beautiful, ancient temple with intricate architecture, frescoes, and a fascinating blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences.
Embekke Devalaya – Renowned for its impressive wooden carvings, this historic temple is dedicated to the god Kataragama and displays stunning traditional craftsmanship.
Kotmale Reservoir and Dam – A serene location with sweeping views of the reservoir and its surrounding hills, ideal for picnicking and relaxation.
Kothmale Mahaweli Maha Seya – This massive stupa, dedicated to the Mahaweli River, offers spiritual ambiance and views of the valley below.
Gampola Royal Palace Ruins – Discover the remnants of Gampola’s royal past, where ruins of ancient structures reveal the city’s historical significance.
Tea Estates and Plantations – Stroll through the lush, rolling tea estates and learn about Sri Lanka’s tea culture, with opportunities for tea tasting and plantation tours.
Ulapane Railway Bridge – A picturesque colonial-era railway bridge set against scenic landscapes, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Pusulpitiya Rajamaha Vihara – An ancient Buddhist temple with intricate woodwork and stone carvings, tucked away in the Gampola hills.
Gadaladeniya Temple – This historic temple, perched on a hilltop, is known for its ancient stone architecture and stunning views across the countryside.
Silva’s Family Restaurant – A popular spot for Sri Lankan rice and curry, Silva’s serves authentic flavors at affordable prices, attracting locals for its homestyle dishes.
Saradiyel Restaurant – Known for its rustic ambiance and local charm, Saradiyel offers a variety of Sri Lankan dishes, including spicy curries and traditional rotti.
New Pilawoos Gampola – A branch of the well-loved Sri Lankan restaurant chain, Pilawoos serves fast food with a local twist, such as kottu rotti, fried rice, and paratha with spicy sides.
Tea Kade at Ambuluwawa – This quaint tea shop near the base of Ambuluwawa Tower is perfect for enjoying a cup of Ceylon tea and a quick snack before or after your hike.
Green View Café – Located near lush tea estates, Green View Café offers both local and international dishes, with beautiful views that make it an ideal stop for a relaxed meal.
River Edge Restaurant – Nestled along the Mahaweli River, this restaurant provides a scenic backdrop to traditional Sri Lankan meals, with fresh ingredients and a cozy vibe.
Praneeth Bake House – A well-loved bakery offering a mix of freshly baked goods and Sri Lankan snacks like patties, pastries, and samosas, ideal for a quick bite.
Vishvi Rasa Gedara – A hidden gem that specializes in Sri Lankan vegetarian cuisine, featuring local vegetables and homemade flavors that locals love.
Aluwihare Family Restaurant – Known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, Aluwihare serves a range of local curries and seafood dishes that are a hit among Gampola locals.
Gampola Rest House – A historic eatery offering classic Sri Lankan dishes with a touch of old-world charm, ideal for travelers looking to dine like a local.
Green Mount Lodge – A cozy guesthouse nestled in nature, offering simple yet comfortable rooms with beautiful mountain views and easy access to hiking spots.
Ambuluwawa Eco Lodge – Situated close to the famous Ambuluwawa Tower, this eco-friendly lodge offers basic accommodations with a serene natural setting.
Gampola Rest House – A historic stay option with a charming ambiance and convenient location near the main town, ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
White Villa Gampola – Known for its homely feel and friendly hosts, White Villa offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates, perfect for travelers looking for a quiet retreat.
Lovers Leap Villa – A quaint guesthouse with a hillside location, providing scenic views of the valley, simple amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Siyambala Cottage – A charming guesthouse surrounded by lush greenery, offering a unique experience with traditional decor and rustic settings.
Riverdale Eco Resort – Located near the Mahaweli River, this eco-resort offers modest rooms, a relaxed vibe, and plenty of opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks.
Blue Haven Guest House – A budget-friendly option with clean, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for solo travelers and backpackers.
Kandy Eco Retreat – Though technically closer to the outskirts of Gampola, this retreat offers a rustic stay with simple rooms, garden views, and easy access to nearby attractions.
The Leaf Gampola – A quiet, affordable guesthouse with a garden setting, friendly hosts, and a family-friendly ambiance for a peaceful stay.
A Train Ride to Gampola.
Catch a daily train from Colombo Fort to Gampola, a scenic journey that takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes. For train schedules, visit the government’s official railway website.
A Bus Ride to Gampola
Head to the Pettah Central Bus Stand in Colombo to catch a direct bus to Gampola. Several buses run this route, offering a convenient and budget-friendly travel option. The journey typically takes between 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. Be sure to check the bus schedule in advance for smooth planning.
For route planning and to check bus schedules, visit the official website of Sri Lanka’s National Transport Commission (NTC).
By Taxi to Gampola
For the fastest route to Gampola, you can book a private vehicle with a driver or use a ride-hailing app like Uber or PickMe (Local Uber). This option, though pricier, offers convenience and a direct journey, taking about 2 hours and 10 minutes from Colombo.
Rent a Tuktuk and Drive to Gampola!
Experience the thrill of driving your own tuktuk from Colombo to Gampola! This exciting option allows you to explore at your own pace, uncovering hidden gems and stopping wherever you like along the way.
Ready to begin your adventure? Head over to our online reservation system.
Choose your booking dates, select any extras, and enter your details. Complete your payment and get ready for an unforgettable ride through Sri Lanka!
Renting a tuktuk in Gampola offers you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. To drive, you’ll need a local temporary driving license, and we’re here to help you obtain one!
Absolutely! Driving a tuktuk in Gampola is safe, and we provide a driving lesson to ensure you feel comfortable handling the vehicle.
Don’t worry! We offer dedicated customer support throughout your rental period to assist you with any issues that may arise.
On your pickup day, one of our experienced driving instructors will bring the tuktuk along with your locally approved permit and necessary documentation to your hotel in Gampola. After a comprehensive driving lesson, you’ll be ready to explore paradise!
Yes, you can conveniently drop off the tuktuk in Gampola. Check out price for Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations all around the Island.