Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Always drink bottled or filtered water.

Should I tip my driver?

Yes, a tip of $5-10 per day is customary if they provide good service.

What is the best way to travel between cities?

Hiring a private driver is the most efficient, while the train is the most scenic and budget-friendly.

How to plan a 14-day Sri Lanka road trip

To see the best of Sri Lanka in two weeks, hire a private driver or use the rail network to loop from Colombo through the Cultural Triangle, the tea country, and the southern coast. Focus your energy on the central highlands for hiking and the southern coast for beaches to minimize travel fatigue.

Secure your transport method. Decide between hiring a private driver for the full 14 days (approx. $60-80/day) or utilizing the public train system. Trains are beautiful but require booking 30 days in advance via official government portals.
Obtain your ETA. Apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online at least 1 week before departure. It is mandatory for most nationalities.
Map your route clockwise. Start in Colombo, head north to the Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya/Dambulla), move south into the Hill Country (Kandy/Ella), and finish on the southern coast (Mirissa/Galle) before heading back to the airport.
Manage your cash flow. Carry enough USD to exchange for Sri Lankan Rupees upon arrival, as many guesthouses and rural shops are cash-only. Use ATMs in major cities, but always have a backup card.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Always drink bottled or filtered water.
Should I tip my driver?: Yes, a tip of $5-10 per day is customary if they provide good service.
What is the best way to travel between cities?: Hiring a private driver is the most efficient, while the train is the most scenic and budget-friendly.