Rent a TukTuk in Matale and uncover the natural beauty and cultural depth of Sri Lanka’s Central Province. This peaceful region is known for its spice gardens, ancient temples, and lush landscapes. Just a scenic drive away lies Riverstone, a hidden highland gem with misty mountains, cool breezes, and dramatic views that make it ideal for hiking and nature escapes. Whether you’re booking cozy Matale hotels, relaxing in a tranquil Riverston bungalow, or exploring scenic trails near Riverston hotels, a tuk tuk lets you take in the area’s charm at your own pace. Matale and Riverstone together offer a refreshing retreat where culture, nature, and adventure beautifully collide.


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 Matale/Riverstone.
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 Matale/Riverstone!

Matale
Aluvihare Rock Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple, nestled amidst the mountains, is famous for its historical significance and stunning rock formations. It’s also known for being one of the places where the Buddhist scriptures were first written down.
Matale Spice Gardens: A visit to one of the many spice gardens in Matale offers a sensory journey through Sri Lanka’s spice-growing region. Learn about the cultivation of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper, and enjoy a guided tour showcasing the spices’ medicinal and culinary uses.
Sembuwatta Lake: Set amidst dense forests, this serene lake offers a calm environment for picnics, boat rides, and peaceful walks. The surrounding area is ideal for nature walks and enjoying panoramic views.
Riverstone
Riverstone Peak: A must-see for adventure enthusiasts, this peak offers a challenging yet rewarding hike with incredible views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The misty atmosphere adds to the charm and beauty of this location.
Knuckles Mountain Range: Riverstone is the gateway to the Knuckles Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse flora and fauna. The trekking paths here are scenic and provide a perfect escape for nature lovers.
Riverstone Viewpoint: For breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and the Knuckles Mountain Range, head to the Riverstone viewpoint. It’s a fantastic spot for photography and witnessing the region’s natural beauty.
Matale
The Greenhouse Restaurant: Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this cozy eatery serves traditional Sri Lankan dishes. It’s a great spot for a casual meal, offering everything from rice and curry to fresh seafood.
Matale Sri Ganeshan Hotel: A favorite among locals, this restaurant is famous for its authentic Sri Lankan rice and curry. You can enjoy a hearty meal of local flavors in a relaxed, no-frills setting.
Kandyan Spices: Located in the heart of Matale, Kandyan Spices offers a simple menu with traditional Sri Lankan dishes. It’s especially well-known for its variety of curries and vegetarian options.
Riverstone
Riverstone Resthouse: A charming little place to enjoy local food while soaking in the view. The restaurant serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, including flavorful rice and curries, fresh vegetable dishes, and Sri Lankan snacks.
The Knuckles Range Café: Located near the entrance to the Knuckles Mountain Range, this café is perfect for a casual meal after a day of trekking. The menu features local specialties such as hoppers, string hoppers, and sambols, all served in a laid-back atmosphere.
Matale
The Green View Resort: A budget-friendly guesthouse offering clean, simple rooms with great views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. It’s a peaceful place to relax after exploring Matale’s attractions, with warm hospitality and home-style meals.
Matale Hostel: Ideal for budget travelers, this friendly hostel provides affordable rooms and a chance to meet other travelers. The laid-back atmosphere and helpful staff make it a great base for exploring Matale and the nearby areas.
The Kandy View Hotel: Located just outside Matale, this guesthouse offers affordable accommodation with scenic views of the surrounding hills. It’s a peaceful retreat, perfect for those wanting a quiet stay near the town.
Riverstone
Riverstone Bungalow: Nestled in the hills near the Knuckles Mountain Range, this bungalow offers a simple, nature-filled stay. It’s a great choice for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Riverstone and the surrounding areas.
Knuckles Mountain Lodge: A serene and affordable lodge located in the Riverstone area, offering basic rooms and a cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect for those looking to explore the nearby hiking trails and enjoy the cool, refreshing mountain air.
Horton Plains Guesthouse: Located not too far from Riverstone, this guesthouse offers simple, clean rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. The guesthouse is a great option for those wanting to explore both the Riverstone area and the famous Horton Plains National Park.
A Train Ride to Matale/Riverstone.
To reach Matale/Riverstone from Colombo, take a train from Colombo Fort Railway Station heading to Matale. The journey offers scenic views of the countryside and takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the train schedule. Upon arrival at Matale Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or catch a bus to the Riverstone area. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and natural beauty along the way as you travel by train to your destination. For train schedules, visit the government’s official railway website.
A Bus Ride to Matale
To travel by bus from Colombo to Matale/Riverstone, take a direct bus from the Colombo Central Bus Stand. The journey offers a chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and local culture along the way. Depending on traffic, the trip usually takes around 4-5 hours. Relax and take in the stunning views as you make your way to the charming Matale/Riverstone area.
For route planning and to check bus schedules, visit the official website of Sri Lanka’s National Transport Commission (NTC).
By Taxi to Matale/Riverstone
You can also opt for a private vehicle with a driver, either by renting a car or using apps like Uber or PickMe (Local Uber). This is the quickest option, though it tends to be more expensive. The journey from Colombo to Matale/Riverstone typically takes about 3 hours.
Rent a Tuktuk and Drive to Matale/Riverstone!
Experience the thrill of driving your own tuktuk from Colombo to Matale/Riverstone! 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 Ahangama 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 Matale/Riverstone 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 Matale/Riverstone. After a comprehensive driving lesson, you’ll be ready to explore paradise!
Yes, you can conveniently drop off the tuktuk in Matale. Check out price for Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations all around the Island.