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Going Places Using the Sri Lankan Transport Industry

Transportation is an essential aspect of modern life, and in Sri Lanka, it is an adventure in itself. The island nation has a diverse range of vehicles, from bicycles to tuk-tuks, three-wheeled land tractors, buses, private tour operators, trains, and boats. Each mode of transportation has its own unique charm, quirks, and stories to tell. Let’sl take a fun and entertaining journey through Sri Lanka’s transport industry past and present.

Firstly, the ‘foot cycle’ or bicycles that forms the backbone to rural transportation.  Bicycles were once the primary mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. CoVid and severe economic hardship saw bicycles rise in popularity due to increases in petrol prices and severe petrol rationing. Many poorer Sri Lankans learned again how far and fast their foot-cycle could take them. From school children to workmates and elderly villagers, all shared a single bicycle, often protected from the sun and rain by an umbrella held to shield the peddler. They were cheap, reliable, and environmentally friendly. During a 12 month period millions of Sri Lankans shed excess weight, became fitter and healthier.

It is a matter of pride for every young Sri Lankan male to own a motorcycle or a scooter. Monthly scooter payments made to banks and loan sharks form a major industry, where having a new scooter or motorbike is an important status symbol. However, it is not just the two-wheeler culture that is unique in Sri Lanka.

The arrival of the tuk-tuk revolutionized the way people travelled around the island. The humble tuk-tuk, also known as a three-wheeler, is a small motorized vehicle that can carry up to three passengers. Tuk-tuks have become an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka and are a must-try for anyone visiting the island.

Tuk-tuks are not only a means of transportation but also a form of entertainment. Tuk-tuk drivers are known for their banter, stories and excellent negotiation skills. They will take you on a wild ride through the chaotic streets of Sri Lanka, dodging pedestrians, cows, and other vehicles. Tuk-tuk rides can be quite bumpy and uncomfortable, but they are always an adventure.

The three-wheeled land tractor, also known as a “Landy,” is another unique mode of transportation in Sri Lanka. Landys were originally used to transport goods in rural areas. Landys are essentially three-wheeled tractors with a passenger compartment at the back. They can be quite loud and bumpy, but they offer a unique ride through the countryside.

Public and private buses are also an integral part of Sri Lanka’s transport industry. Public buses are cheap and reliable, but they can also be crowded and uncomfortable. Private buses, on the other hand, are more comfortable and luxurious, but they are also more expensive. Private bus operators often compete with each other for passengers, and their buses are adorned with colorful decorations and slogans. Erratic driving is the norm. Loud air-horns are used to warn other vehicles to clear the area and often just as a reminder that the driver has no intention of stopping or giving way to you – regardless of who has the legal right of way.

The Train Wreck Chronicles

The train network in Sri Lanka dates back to 1864 when the first railway line was opened between Colombo and Ambepussa. Today, the railway network spans across the country connecting many cities and towns. However, the train service is not always reliable, and there have been several incidents that have become the basis of legends.

Ranked in the world’s top 10 train journeys, the tea-country slow train from Kandy to Ella is something every Well House guest should plan into their itinerary. Photograps of the Blue Train as it crosses a gorge on an ancient timber are necessary proof of your time in the hill country.

One such incident occurred in 2019 when a train was delayed for over six hours due to a herd of cows that refused to move off the tracks. The train driver honked, and the passengers made loud noises, but the cows were not impressed. It was only after the owner of the cows arrived on the scene that they finally decided to move.

Another time, a train was delayed for over five hours due to a passenger who refused to disembark. The man had missed his stop and decided to sit on the train until it reached his destination. The train authorities had to call the police to remove the stubborn passenger, causing the delay.

The Sinking Ships

Sri Lanka is an island nation, and boat transport plays a significant role in connecting coastal towns and villages. However, not all boat rides are smooth sailing, as several incidents have proven.

In 2014, a boat carrying 11 passengers capsized due to overloading. The passengers, who were on their way to a religious festival, had brought along several large speakers and a drum set. The weight of the equipment caused the boat to tip over, and the passengers had to be rescued by a passing fishing boat.

Another time, a boat carrying a wedding procession sank near the shore. The bride, groom, and their guests were all dressed in their finest attire and had brought along several heavy gifts. The weight of the passengers and the gifts caused the boat to sink, and the wedding party had to be rescued by the coastguard.

Scooters and Motorcycles – The Need for Speed

Scooters and motorcycles are the preferred mode of transportation for young Sri Lankan males. It is not uncommon to see them zipping through the streets, weaving in and out of traffic. However, this need for speed can sometimes lead to hilarious consequences.

One such incident occurred when a group of young men decided to race their motorcycles on a busy street. The race ended in disaster when one of the riders lost control of his bike and crashed into a parked car. The rider was not hurt, but his ego was bruised when the onlookers burst into laughter.

In another situation, a young man was trying to impress his girlfriend by performing stunts on his scooter. He attempted a wheelie but ended up crashing into a parked bicycle. The girlfriend was not impressed, and the young man had to walk home, pushing his damaged scooter.

Finally, transportation in Sri Lanka may have its fair share of quirks, but it is also an essential part of daily life. The train and boat services may not always run on time, and the need for speed may lead to some embarrassing moments, but it is all part of the charm of Sri Lanka. So, the next time you visit Sri Lanka, be sure to take a train ride, a boat trip, and rent a scooter or motorcycle. Who knows, you may end up with a hilarious story to tell.

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The importance of this piece of history may be seen in the Galle Maritime Museum and in the tri lingual plaque erected by Zheng He. A Muslim eunic of the Ming Emperor’s court, his presence in Sri Lanka on the Ming treasure voyages saw him install a puppet king in the southern Kotte Kingdom.

Was bedroom 2 ever known as a “Ghurfat Nawm, it’s Arabic name? Was the influence of Moorish traders brought home after work with the merchant who became very wealthy from his factories produce being exported from the port? We can never know, but we can take time out to consider the impact of sleeping quarters and living quarters over 140 years. As we relax into the space, history’s voice is ever there, but never disturbing our relaxation, rest or quiet enjoyment of Sri Lanka.

The first bedroom may well have been known as a “Woshi”, under the influence of the great Chinese Admiral who ensured the trading port grew in importance. His

esablishment of the ancient White Tea Agreement one of the world’s oldest commercial arrangements, established between Sri Lanka and the Ming Dynasty still holds validity today.

The importance of this piece of history may be seen in the Galle Maritime Museum and in the tri lingual plaque erected by Zheng He. A Muslim eunic of the Ming Emperor’s court, his presence in Sri Lanka on the Ming treasure voyages saw him install a puppet king in the southern Kotte Kingdom.

Guests will have a special experience as this double room provides a pool with a view. The roomy double comes with a private entrance, air conditioning, a terrace with views of the garden, and a 2 private bathroom with a shower. The unit has 2 bedrooms

Boasting a private beach area and views of pool, The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka is a recently renovated villa situated in Unawatuna, 700 m from Bonavista Beach. This beachfront property offers access to a terrace, free private parking and free WiFi. The property has a garden, as well as a family-friendly restaurant that serves Chinese and Indian cuisine.

All units in the villa complex are fitted with a kettle. Some of the units have a satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, and a private bathroom with a shower and bathrobes. At the villa complex, units have bed linen and towels.

Guests at the villa can enjoy a continental breakfast.

Guests at The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka can make the most of yoga classes offered in-house. A bicycle rental service is available at the accommodation.

Popular points of interest near The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka include Jungle Beach, Japanese Peace Pagoda and Unawatuna Railway Station. The nearest airport is Koggala, 10 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

The Well House by Colonial Villas in Sri Lanka has been welcoming Booking.com guests since 12 Dec 2022.