Tuktuk meter scams at Colombo Pettah bus station

Asked about 2 months agoSeen by 696 travellers37 found this helpful
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Sophia M.9440 rep2
asked about 2 months ago

We arrived at Pettah bus station and the tuktuks refuse to use meters and try to grab our bags Are all drivers in Colombo like this

37
asked about 2 months ago
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Sophia M.9440 rep2

7 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

No, most drivers in Colombo are honest and use meters. However, the drivers parked directly outside the Pettah terminal (and Fort Railway Station) operate as a rogue mafia. They prey on exhausted tourists. Never negotiate with them. Keep a firm grip on your bags, walk 100 meters away from the terminal, and flag down a moving tuk-tuk with a red "Metered" sign, or use the PickMe app.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Suresh K.8800 rep1

PickMe is a lifesaver in Colombo. It completely eliminates the haggling stress.

37
answered about 2 months ago
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Oliver B.9595 rep2

If they touch your bags, yell "Police" loudly. There is a tourist police post very close to the bus stand.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Amali D.11410 rep1

Sometimes they will try to say the meter is broken. Just get out and find another one.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Oliver B.9595 rep2

Or tell them "No meter, no ride" before you even put your bags inside.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Amali D.11410 rep1

Do the metered tuktuks charge extra for heavy luggage

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answered about 2 months ago
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Sophia M.9440 rep2

No, the meter rate covers the ride regardless of your bags, as long as they fit safely in the back.

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answered about 2 months ago
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Suresh K.8800 rep1

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