Scams by tuktuk drivers and bus conductors in Pettah
5 Answers from travellers
Massive scam! The Pettah bus terminal and the Colombo Fort Railway Station are literally a 10-minute walk apart. They are on the same main road (Olcott Mawatha). Unless you have incredibly heavy luggage that physically prevents you from walking, do not take a tuk-tuk at all. Just walk out of the train station, turn left, and walk straight down the sidewalk.
If you absolutely must take a tuktuk for your bags, use PickMe. It will cost less than 200 rupees.
Never negotiate with the guys parked right outside the station exits. They are a mafia.
The walk is crowded but very safe. Just keep an eye on your pockets in the market crowds.
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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