Wild elephants on the road to Arugam Bay at night

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Emma L.7625 rep2

We are driving a rental car from Ella to Arugam Bay. Google Maps says we will arrive around 8 PM. Is it safe to drive the final stretch near Lahugala in the dark.

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8 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

It is highly unadvisable to drive that stretch at night if you are unfamiliar with the area. The road from Monaragala to Pottuvil/Arugam Bay cuts directly through dense jungle and national park buffer zones. Wild elephants frequently sleep on the warm asphalt at night. They are very dark and almost invisible until you are right on top of them. Time your drive to arrive before 6 PM.

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Dr. Nimal.9710 rep1

Panama to Okanda is even worse for elephants. Daytime driving only!

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Dr. Nimal.24730 rep1

Okay, we will change our itinerary to drive during the morning. Thanks.

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Emma L.7625 rep2

We hit a massive pothole in the dark there and popped a tire. No cell service to call for help.

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Noah D.8540 rep2

Tailgating a heavy vehicle is safer, but they drive very fast. Better to just stay a night in Ella and leave early.

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Dr. Nimal.9710 rep1

If you encounter one, turn off your lights and engine and do NOT honk.

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Noah D.8540 rep2

Also, the buses drive like absolute maniacs on that dark road. It is terrifying.

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Dr. Nimal.24730 rep1

What if we just drive behind a local bus or truck.

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Emma L.7625 rep2

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People outside stations offer to "help" buy tickets but charge large markups. They may buy cheap third-class tickets and sell as more expensive classes.

👍 15by virajperera
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