Shake rattle and roll
My heart belongs to daddy
Seen on a three-wheeler in the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi car park in Anuradhapura
These simple, practical vehicles are ubiquitous in Sri Lanka, as they are in many other countries in the world. While tourists tend to refer to them as tuk-tuks, to the locals they are usually known as three-wheelers or simply three-wheels.
The basic design is the same wherever you go. Most commonly painted red, but sometimes green, blue or black, they all have a black awning to protect both driver and passengers. But there the similarities end. Every three-wheeler is unique, customised by its owner to reflect beliefs, opinions and enthusiasms. The quotes range from the philosophical (‘Think a little less, give a little more’) to the affectionate (‘My heart belongs to daddy’) to the downright odd (‘No girls only fun boys’) and mysterious (‘Sorry John’ – who was/is John?) Some made us smile (‘Lambogini (sic) Super Speed), while others were modest in their claims (‘I am not cute and I know it’).
Others have decorations reflecting the driver’s passions: Bob Marley and Che Guevera are popular heroes, as they are worldwide. And in Galle we spotted one belonging to a rather confused football fan. While the exterior proclaimed his love of Real Madrid, the seat inside featured photos of Juventus players.
We even saw one (featured above) adapted to serve as a bread delivery vehicle, playing a cheerful tune as it was driven around the streets of Galle by its enterprising owner.
I had great fun as we travelled around the country picking out some of the most amusing slogans and interesting decorations. I hope you enjoy them too!
If viewing on a computer you can click on the images to see them larger and find out where they were taken
I visited Sri Lanka in February 2026
8 Comments
Anne Sandler
What a fun post, Sarah!
restlessjo
Definitely a motley collection, Sarah, but I love the bakery xx
Sue
Well, I must say they are the most diverse and bonkers Tuk Tuks I have seen!
Sarah Wilkie
Haha yes, diverse and bonkers does pretty much describe them I guess!
margaret21
These are great! What fun. Some enterprising garage doubtless gets a lot of signwriting to do.
Sarah Wilkie
Yes, I think it’s good business for some! Thanks Margaret 🙂
Monkey's Tale
They really do have fun with them. We met a couple who rented one for a month and travelled around most of Sri Lanka’s south! We thought of doing it for a week, but realized we’re too old for that. 😃 🛺
Sarah Wilkie
Ooh yes, I can’t imagine doing that – even a short ride is pretty uncomfortable!