Tuk Tuks: Traditional, Aesthetic Global Connectors 

By Theautoorbitteam

August 11, 2025

let us take the rides on different tuk-tuks across the globe through words. While its origin dates back to 1934, it claims to be of Japanese origin.

They are mostly popular in South and south asian parts of the world, particularly in countries like India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.

Rickshaws around the world

Locally known as cyclo/xe - lam, these are 3-wheeled autos decorated with attractive colours with a passenger seat at the rear & open front helping the driver to operate.

Vietnam

Not  just mere vehicles but a representation of Thai culture, these autos are open from sides, back portion covered, and a small driver's cabin in front.

Thailand

Also known as autos, they are compact vehicles often decorated with handmade designs used to travel short distances within cities.

Pakistan

Available in vibrant colours, these are typical 3-wheeler vans with storage for luggage, a passenger seat at the back with small driver’s cabin in front.

Sri Lanka

Locally called ‘bajaj’, these are lightweight vehicles available in attractive colours and often adorned with decorative lights. Rest of the features remain similar.

Indonesia

Popularly known as CNGs, these are vibrant green in colour, often attributed to the use of CNG fuel, contributing to environmental support.

Bangladesh

In the country of its origin, it takes a modern avatar. structure remains similar to modern tuk-tuks, but the fuel of operation becomes electricity.

Japan

Rural India is famous for its old and gold cycle rickshaws & the big giants, which can accommodate larger numbers at once.

Tuk-Tuks of Rural India

Urban India is famous for its iconic kaali-peeli rickshaws prevalent across the country, with the structure unchanged from the traditional one.

Rickshaws of the Urban India

Now the rickshaw ride has become more affordable and environmentally friendly with the introduction of  E-rickshaws, which operate on electricity and deliver comparatively less noisy rides.

The Modern Avatar of Indian Rickshaws