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Tuk tuk drivers overcharging outside Pettah market in Colombo

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E
Ethan J.•7620 rep•2

We tried to get a tuktuk outside Pettah but they all refused to use the meter and demanded 1500 rupees Is this a standard scam in Colombo

34
colombotransportationsafety

7 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted Answer

Yes, the drivers parked directly outside Pettah station and the market exits operate like a mafia. They refuse the meter to extort tourists and locals with heavy bags. Do not argue with them. Simply walk 100 meters down the street away from the crowd and flag a moving tuk-tuk with a "Metered" sign, or use the PickMe app.

2
A
Amali D.•6740 rep•1

Just ensure you get into the correct PickMe. Check the license plate on the app.

46
K
Kamal P.•30870 rep•1

If they physically block you, shout "Police" loudly. They will scatter immediately.

45
A
Amali D.•6740 rep•1

If you threaten to walk over to the nearby police post, they back down fast.

40
K
Kamal P.•30870 rep•1

I just pull out my phone and open Uber. They sometimes magically turn the meter on when they see that.

39
M
Mia S.•8280 rep•2

They physically blocked my path when I tried to walk away to another driver.

33
E
Ethan J.•7620 rep•2

PickMe is the absolute best way to avoid this stress entirely.

26
M
Mia S.•8280 rep•2

Scam Watch: colombo

Broken Meter ScamVerified

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.

👍 67•by virajperera
Government TukTuk ScamVerified

Drivers wearing official-looking uniforms claim to be "government-approved" and charge 3-5x normal rates. They may have fake badges or ID cards.

👍 52•by virajperera
Milk Powder Beggar ScamVerified

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.

👍 25•by virajperera
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