Arriving at Castlereigh Reservoir Waterdrome and planning to explore Hatton and the surrounding tea country? Renting a car offers fantastic freedom. This guide covers everything from collecting your vehicle and understanding the costs, to a few things to keep in mind while driving in Sri Lanka.
Rental car desks at Castlereigh Reservoir Waterdrome are generally located within the main terminal building, close to the arrivals area. You’ll likely find representatives from several international companies offering services here. Expect a short walk, potentially with outdoor exposure, depending on the specific desk location. It’s a relatively small waterdrome, so navigation shouldn’t be overly complicated.
A good range of vehicles are usually available, catering to different needs and budgets. Here are some of the most commonly rented car types at Castlereigh Reservoir Waterdrome:
| Economy | $20 - $30 / day |
| Compact | $25 - $35 / day |
| Intermediate | $30 - $45 / day |
| SUV (Small) | $40 - $60 / day |
| SUV (Standard) | $60 - $80 / day |
| Luxury | $80+ / day |
Prices change by season and availability.
For exploring the hill country, a slightly higher clearance vehicle like a small SUV can be beneficial, though a standard car is perfectly adequate for most roads. If you plan on venturing onto very rough terrain, consider a 4x4.
To rent a car in Sri Lanka, you’ll typically need a valid driver’s license (often an international driving permit is required alongside your home license), a passport, and a credit card in the main renter’s name. The minimum age is usually 21, but some companies may have higher age restrictions, particularly for certain vehicle categories. Expect a security deposit to be held on your credit card; the amount varies depending on the car type and insurance chosen. Payment is almost always by credit card.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental vehicle itself. Theft Protection covers loss or damage due to theft. Pay attention to the ‘excess’ – this is the amount you’re still liable for in the event of damage or theft. You can often reduce the excess by paying an additional daily fee. Carefully consider whether you need these extras, or if your existing travel insurance or credit card benefits provide sufficient coverage. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the terms of each insurance option.
Driving in Sri Lanka can be an adventure! Roads vary in condition, and traffic can be busy, especially in urban areas. Speed limits are generally 50-70 km/h on main roads, and lower in towns. Be prepared for frequent intersections and roundabouts. Toll roads are common, and you’ll pay at designated booths. Parking can be challenging in cities; look for designated parking areas or ask your hotel for advice. Be aware of pedestrians, cyclists, and animals on the road, and drive defensively.
It’s generally recommended to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your valid home driver’s license.
Rental companies almost always require a major credit card for the deposit and rental fee.
The excess is the amount you’re responsible for paying if the car is damaged or stolen, even with insurance.
Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay an extra daily fee and the additional driver must meet the rental requirements.
Many rental companies offer GPS navigation systems for rent, or you can use a smartphone app.
In Sri Lanka, they drive on the left side of the road.
Driving at night is possible, but roads may be poorly lit and traffic can be unpredictable. Exercise extra caution.
Report the accident to the police and your rental company immediately. Get a police report for insurance purposes.
Automatic cars are available, but they are less common and may be more expensive to rent than manual transmission vehicles.
Toll roads are common. Have some small bills or a method of electronic payment ready at the toll booths.
Parking can be challenging in cities. Look for designated parking areas or ask for advice from your hotel.
Generally, taking a rental car across international borders is not permitted without prior authorization from the rental company.