Avoiding tuktuk scams at Pettah market in Colombo

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 2,140 travellers13 found this helpful
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Ethan J.8780 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

We just arrived in Colombo. Are the tuktuks waiting outside Pettah market going to use their meters or do we have to negotiate heavily to avoid scams.

13
asked about 2 months ago
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Ethan J.8780 rep2

4 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

Never take the tuk-tuks parked directly outside the Pettah market exits. They operate as a local mafia and will refuse to use the meter, quoting triple the normal price. Walk 100 meters away from the chaos and flag down a moving tuk-tuk with a red "Metered" sign, or use the PickMe app to ensure fair pricing.

13
answered about 2 months ago
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Kamal P.6680 rep1

Great advice. PickMe sounds like the way to go.

47
answered about 2 months ago
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Ethan J.8780 rep2

If they physically block your path when you try to walk away, loudly say "Police". They will back off instantly.

46
answered about 2 months ago
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Amali D.9200 rep1

I used Uber and it was so much easier. The driver just met me at a designated spot away from the crowd.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Mia S.7255 rep2

Fair TukTuk Prices

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