1map logoGo to main page

Colombo to Jaffna from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Colombo, Sri Lanka
to
Jaffna, Sri Lanka

How to Get from Colombo to Jaffna: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$1 by trainBest price
190 milesDistance
3h 53m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Colombo to Jaffna with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  15m
Estimated price
$1-10
Recommended
Company
Sri Lanka Railways
Train
Average Duration
8h  20m
Estimated price
$1-6
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 190 miles
Duration: 3h 53m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  47m
Estimated price
$50-80
Company
Various
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  53m
Estimated price
$356-1302
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Colombo to Jaffna

The journey from Colombo to Jaffna presents you with a remarkable transition from the bustling city life to the serene and rich cultural landscape of Northern Sri Lanka.

Best Neighbourhoods in Jaffna

Jaffna's neighborhoods offer a blend of history, culture, and hospitality.

Nallur
• Home to the famous Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.
• A hub of Tamil culture and festivals.
Point Pedro
• Known for its scenic coastal beauty.
• Offers fresh seafood dining experiences.
Chunnakam
• Features local markets brimming with fresh produce.
• A glimpse into traditional Jaffna life.

Best Times To Visit Jaffna's Attractions

Planning your visit to Jaffna's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
Arriving early in the morning allows you to enjoy tranquility and avoid large crowds.
Jaffna Fort
Visiting in the late afternoon offers cooler weather and stunning sunset views.
Point Pedro Lighthouse
Weekdays are ideal for a peaceful exploration without the weekend rush.

Jaffna Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Jaffna experiences a tropical climate with hot, dry conditions most of the year, making the period from December to March the most pleasant for outdoor exploration. Understanding the weather patterns can significantly impact your travel plans, as the monsoon season from May to September brings heavy rains.

Dining in Jaffna: A Taste of the North

A must-try dish is the Jaffna Crab Curry, known for its bold spices and fresh, locally-sourced seafood, offering a striking contrast to the more fusion-oriented cuisine of Colombo. The dining experience here immerses you in a laid-back atmosphere, where the flavors truly reflect the region's rich heritage and traditional cooking methods.

Colombo - Jaffna operators

Explore transport companies operating between Colombo and Jaffna, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+94 76 714 8292
Website
ncg.lk

Bus from Pettah to Jaffna

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
$1-10
Contact phone
+94 011-2587372
Website
ntc.gov.lk

Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Jaffna

Average Duration
10h 15m
Estimated price
$1-6
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
railway.gov.lk

Train from Colombo Fort to Jaffna

Average Duration
8h 20m
Estimated price
$1-6
Plane Show flights
Website
cinnamonair.com

Plane from Sigiriya (GIU) to Jaffna (JAF)

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$270-2200
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from Colombo to Sigiriya

Average Duration
2h 44m
Estimated price
$80-100

Colombo to Jaffna: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Colombo and Jaffna offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience a scenic journey from Colombo to Jaffna, covering a distance of 395.9 km in approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes, perfect for those who enjoy road trips. 💰 The prices for a car trip from Colombo to Jaffna range from $50 to $80, offering a cost-effective and flexible transportation option.
Average price
$50 - $80
🚆 **Traveling by train from Colombo to Jaffna** is a scenic and convenient way to explore Sri Lanka. The direct train service departs from Colombo Fort station and arrives at Jaffna station, with a journey time of approximately 8 hours and 20 minutes. 🎟️ **Tickets for the train** from Colombo to Jaffna are affordable, ranging from $1 to $6.
Departure Point
Colombo Fort station
Arrival Point
Jaffna station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services include catering services that offer a selection of meals and snacks. During your journey, you can expect an array of local Sri Lankan delicacies as well as beverages, which are generally available for purchase. It's advisable to check with the staff for offerings specific to your journey, as these can vary by operator.
• For your trip, the train service from Colombo to Jaffna offers various seating options, including First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class typically provides a more comfortable experience with air conditioning and larger seats. Business Class may offer additional amenities, while Economy is the most affordable option and can be crowded but presents a great opportunity to socialize with locals. Consider booking in advance, especially for First and Business Class to ensure availability.
• The main operators for the Colombo to Jaffna route include Sri Lanka Railways and private operators such as Expo Rail. You can find more information and book tickets via their websites: Sri Lanka Railways - srilankarailways.gov.lk and Expo Rail - exporail.lk Additionally, make sure to check the current train schedules online to plan your departure and arrival times.
🛫 Experience a convenient and quick journey from Colombo to Jaffna by taking a direct flight from Sigiriya Airport. With a flight duration of just 45 minutes, you'll arrive in Jaffna in no time.
Departure Point
Sigiriya Airport
Arrival Point
Jaffna Airport
🚌 Traveling from Colombo to Jaffna by bus is a convenient option, with direct services departing twice daily from Pettah. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes. 🎟️ Prices for the bus trip between Colombo and Jaffna range from $1 to $10, offering an affordable and efficient way to explore the diverse beauty of Sri Lanka's northern region.
Departure Point
Pettah station
Arrival Point
Jaffna station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive early at Pettah bus station, as it can be busy and finding the right bus from NCG Express or any other operators like Lanka Ashok Leyland can be challenging; it's best to be there at least 30 minutes before departure.
• Bring some snacks and water for the 6h 15m journey, as the bus may not stop frequently for food; options like the local Sri Lankan 'string hoppers' or fruits from roadside vendors can enhance your travel experience.
• Upon arrival at Jaffna station, look for the local maps and guidance charts to help you navigate; signing up for a tuk-tuk or hiring a taxi can be easily arranged just outside the station for a comfortable onward journey to your accommodation or attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Colombo to Jaffna.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Colombo and Jaffna is approximately 305.8 km by road. The typical travel time by train is 6 hours and 6 minutes. If one prefers to take a bus and then fly, the travel time is around 6 hours and 27 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 6 hours and 47 minutes to reach Colombo from Jaffna, while the bus journey itself takes around 10 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Colombo to Jaffna is by train. It costs $1-$6 and takes approximately 6 hours and 6 minutes.
The prices for traveling between Colombo and Jaffna by train range from $1 to $6. Similarly, the prices for traveling by bus between Jaffna and Colombo range from $1 to $5.
To travel from Colombo to Jaffna without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or hire a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 395.9 km, and it takes around 6 hours and 47 minutes to reach Jaffna by car. The cost of hiring a taxi or renting a car for this journey ranges from $50 to $80, depending on the provider and vehicle type.
The best way to travel from Colombo to Jaffna without a car is by train, which takes approximately 6 hours and 6 minutes. The train journey offers scenic views and is an affordable option with ticket prices ranging from $1 to $6.
Yes, there is a direct link between Colombo and Jaffna. You can take a train from Colombo Fort station to Jaffna, with services departing twice daily and the journey taking approximately 6h 6m. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Jaffna, with services departing every two hours and the journey taking approximately 10h 15m.
The flight between Colombo and Jaffna typically takes around 45 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but it is generally affordable and prices can be found for as low as $50 USD one way.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Jaffna. With over 100 hotels to choose from, travelers have plenty of choices. Prices with these hotels start at $16 per night, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.