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Colombo to Kandy from $1: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Colombo, Sri Lanka
to
Kandy, Sri Lanka

How to Get from Colombo to Kandy: 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 busBest price
95.4 kmDistance
1h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Colombo to Kandy 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
Sri Lanka Railways
Train
Average Duration
2h  33m
Estimated price
$1-2
Recommended
Company
National Transport Commission
Bus
Average Duration
3h  15m
Estimated price
$1-1
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 95.4 km
Duration: 1h 59m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  59m
Estimated price
$15-23
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h  59m
Estimated price
$55-70
Company
Cinnamon Air
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  1m
Estimated price
$517-1621
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Colombo to Kandy

Embarking on your journey from Colombo to Kandy reveals a striking contrast between the bustling urban atmosphere of Sri Lanka's capital and the serene, cultural backdrop of the hill capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kandy

Kandy offers diverse neighborhoods that cater to travelers' varying interests.

City Center
• Vibrant shops and restaurants abound.
• Easy access to major attractions.
Cental Hill
• Scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
• Peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle.
Kandy Lake Area
• Serene lake with walking paths.
• Proximity to historic sites and gardens.

Best Times To Visit Kandy's Attractions

Timing your visits can enrich your experience at Kandy's top sites.

Temple of the Tooth
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy quieter moments.
Kandy Lake
Late afternoon is ideal for a peaceful stroll, avoiding midday heat.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Explore during weekdays for less traffic and more serene surroundings.

Kandy Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kandy enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making the period from December to April the best time to visit for pleasant weather. However, be prepared for afternoon rain during the monsoon months, which can create a lush atmosphere yet may impact outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Kandy

While in Kandy, savor the flavors of a traditional ‘Kandyan rice and curry’ at The Empire Cafe, where the rich spices and fresh local ingredients showcase a distinctive culinary style. The restaurant's charming ambiance, with views of the nearby lake, offers a tranquil dining experience that contrasts with the vibrant energy of Colombo's dining scene.

Colombo - Kandy operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
railway.gov.lk

Train from Fort Station to Kandy

Average Duration
2h 33m
Estimated price
$1-2
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+94 011-2587372
Website
ntc.gov.lk

Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kandy Good Shed Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$1-1
Taxi
Contact phone
+94 763222239
Website
visitlankataxi.com

Taxi from Colombo to Kandy

Average Duration
1h 59m
Estimated price
$55-70
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
cinnamonair.com

Other from Diyawanna Oya (DWO) to Hatton (NUF)

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$500-1600

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

Traveling between Colombo and Kandy 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Colombo to Kandy, covering a distance of 114.3 km that can be completed in just under 2 hours by car. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from a range of prices, with car hire costs ranging between $15 to $23 for a comfortable ride to the cultural heart of Kandy.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚂 Take a direct train departing from Fort Station in Colombo and arrive in scenic Kandy in approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes. 🏞️ Enjoy the picturesque journey covering a distance of 98.6 km from Colombo to Kandy by train operated by Sri Lanka Railways. 💰 Prices for the train ride from Colombo to Kandy range from $1 to $2, making it an affordable and convenient travel option for exploring the beauty of Sri Lanka.
Departure Point
Fort Station
Arrival Point
Kandy station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Colombo to Kandy train primarily include catering options like light snacks and beverages, provided by the catering service on the train. Be sure to bring cash as payment is usually in cash. You can also pack some local delicacies to enjoy while taking in the beautiful scenery.
• This route typically offers three types of seating: First Class, which provides more spacious seating and air-conditioned compartments; Second Class, which is less expensive but can get crowded; and Observation Class, which features open windows for scenic views. For a comfortable experience with fewer passengers, consider booking First Class tickets.
• Operators for the Colombo to Kandy route include Sri Lanka Railways. You can visit their official website at srlanka.com for schedules and bookings. Additionally, another popular option is the private train service, 'Viceroy Special', which offers a luxury experience. More information can be found on their website at viceroysrilanka.com
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Colombo to Kandy by catching a direct flight from Diyawanna Oya Airport to Hatton Airport. ✈️ Enjoy seamless travel with Cinnamon Air, providing flights from Diyawanna Oya Airport to Hatton Airport.
Departure Point
Diyawanna Oya Airport
Arrival Point
Hatton Airport
🚌 Traveling from Colombo to Kandy by bus is a convenient and affordable option. The direct bus service operated by National Transport Commission takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach Kandy, departing every 15 minutes. 🛣️ The bus journey covers a distance of 103 kilometers from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kandy Good Shed Bus Station. 💰 At a cost of $1 for the bus ticket, passengers can enjoy a scenic ride through the lush landscapes and charming villages between Colombo and Kandy.
Departure Point
Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Kandy Good Shed Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Colombo to Kandy.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Colombo and Kandy is approximately 95.0 km by road. By train, it takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Kandy from Colombo. If you choose to take a combination of flying and taxi, the travel time is about 2 hours and 1 minute. By car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes to reach Colombo from Kandy, while the bus journey takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes from Colombo to Kandy.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Colombo to Kandy is by bus, which takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. It is also the cheapest option, with tickets costing around $1. However, if time is a priority, taking a taxi is the quickest option, taking about 1 hour and 59 minutes. Although more expensive, taxi fares range from $50 to $65.
The prices for traveling from Colombo to Kandy by train range from $1 to $2. However, taking a bus from Kandy to Colombo costs around $1.
To get from Colombo to Kandy without using public transportation, you can consider renting a car or hiring a taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 114.3 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 59 minutes to drive from Colombo to Kandy. The prices for a car or taxi may vary, ranging from $15 to $23.
The best way to travel from Colombo to Kandy without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and offers scenic views of the countryside. The train tickets cost between $1 to $2, making it an affordable option for transportation.
Yes, there is a direct link between Colombo and Kandy. You can take a train from Fort Station in Colombo to Kandy, which takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. The train service operates every day, with departures every four hours. Alternatively, you can also take a direct bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kandy Good Shed Bus Station. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes and operates every day, with departures every 15 minutes.
The flight between Colombo and Kandy typically takes around 30 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Kandy. With over 910 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start as low as $25 per night, making it affordable for travelers with different budgets.