How to avoid tuk tuk scams at the Colombo Fort railway station.
Drivers are asking for huge prices as soon as we step off the train. What should we do.
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3 Answers from travellers
The tuk tuk drivers parked directly outside the main exit of Colombo Fort station form a notorious mafia. They relentlessly prey on exhausted tourists and frequently quote prices quadruple the actual local fare.
If you cannot use an app hail a moving tuk tuk on the main street that has a clear Taxi Meter sign on the roof and explicitly ask them to turn the meter on before you put your luggage inside.
You must completely ignore them. Do not engage in negotiation. Simply walk past them exit the immediate station area and walk fifty meters down the main road. Then use the PickMe or Uber app to book a metered ride safely.
Scam Watch: colombo
Driver claims the meter is broken and quotes an inflated flat rate. Common on arrival at airport or railway stations when tourists are tired and disoriented.
Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.
Women with babies approach asking you to buy milk powder at a nearby shop (not cash). The shop is run by accomplices and charges 5-10x normal price.
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