Pawan Perera

You know I love a good story but I live for the ones that come with a little chaos, a lot of freedom, and zero fixed plans. This week on Buzz with Danu, I caught up with Pawan Perera, the brain behind Go Odyssey a man who basically said, “why follow a tour bus when you can drive your own adventure?”

From tuk-tuks taking over the South Coast to tourists finding themselves at random village weddings (yes, that actually happened), Pawan is rewriting how people experience Sri Lanka one ride at a time.

So of course, I had to ask him everything…

You’re basically handing people the keys to Sri Lanka scooters, tuk-tuks, the whole vibe. How did this madness start?

Honestly, it started with seeing how badly travelers wanted freedom. Everyone was stuck in rigid tours, and I thought… why not let them explore Sri Lanka their way? That’s how Go Odyssey came to life.

Be honest who’s crazier behind the wheel… tourists or locals?

Tourists, 100%. But in the best way. They’re curious, fearless, and sometimes slightly confused which makes it fun.

Tuk-tuk life is a whole personality. What’s the most random story you’ve heard from someone renting one?

One couple drove across the island and ended up getting invited to a random village wedding. That’s the kind of magic you don’t plan.

You’re not just renting vehicles you’re selling freedom. Was that always the idea?

Exactly that. We didn’t want to be just another rental company. We wanted people to feel like they’re part of Sri Lanka, not just visiting it.

The whole “drive like a local” thing, is that exciting or slightly terrifying?

A bit of both! But that’s where the fun is. Once you get the hang of it, it’s actually one of the best ways to experience the country.

Helping foreigners get driving permits lifesaver or headache?

A bit of paperwork, but totally worth it. Seeing someone go from “Can I even drive here?” to “Let’s go to Ella!” is priceless.

What’s the one place in Sri Lanka you secretly hope every renter discovers?

Some quiet beach down south or a hidden village up in the hills. The real Sri Lanka is always off the main road.

What kind of traveler is Go Odyssey made for?

The curious one. The one who doesn’t want a schedule, doesn’t mind getting a little lost, and wants stories instead of selfies.

Have you ever had a “this could go very wrong” moment?

Of course. But most of those turn into the best stories later. That’s travel, right?

If I took one of your tuk-tuks tomorrow, what’s your one rule for me?

No overthinking. Just drive, explore, get lost a little… and enjoy every second.

And finally what’s next for Go Odyssey?

Bigger experiences, more routes, maybe even expanding beyond Sri Lanka. But always keeping that same spirit of freedom first.