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

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from
Colombo, Sri Lanka
to
Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka

How to Get from Colombo to Anuradhapura: 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
166 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Colombo to Anuradhapura 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
4h  59m
Estimated price
$1-2
Recommended
Company
National Transport Commission
Bus
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$1-1
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 166 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$28-45
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
3h  34m
Estimated price
$100-130
Company
Cinnamon Air
Plane
Taxi
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$249-527
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Traveling From Colombo to Anuradhapura

The journey from Colombo, a bustling urban hub, to Anuradhapura, a serene historical city, offers travelers a delightful contrast between modern city life and rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Anuradhapura

Anuradhapura features neighborhoods rich in culture and history that appeal to visitors.

Buddhist Ruins
• Home to ancient stupas and temples.
• Offers a peaceful, spiritual atmosphere.
Town Center
• Variety of dining and shopping options.
• Connects easily to public transport.
Nuwara Wewa
• Stunning lake views and tranquil surroundings.
• Ideal for sunset walks and picnics.

Best Times To Visit Anuradhapura's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Anuradhapura by visiting at the right times.

Sri Maha Bodhi
Early morning offers cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Late afternoon is ideal for stunning sunset views over the stupa.
Isurumuniya Temple
Visit on weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more reflective atmosphere.

Anuradhapura Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Anuradhapura experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, making it warm throughout the year. The best times to visit are during the cooler months from November to March, as pleasant weather enhances your sightseeing adventures.

Dining Recommendation in Anuradhapura

Try the traditional rice and curry at the Tamarind Tree Hotel, where local ingredients and age-old recipes combine to create robust flavors not found in Colombo's urban eateries. The tranquil garden setting enhances the dining experience, allowing you to savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine amidst the peaceful backdrop of Anuradhapura.

Colombo - Anuradhapura operators

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

Train
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
https://railway.gov.lk

Train from Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
4h 59m
Estimated price
$1-2
Bus
Contact phone
+94 011-2587372
Website
https://www.ntc.gov.lk/

Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
$1-1
Contact phone
+94 76 714 8292
Website
https://ncg.lk

Bus from Pettah to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
5h 15m
Estimated price
0-0
Taxi
Contact phone
+94 763222239
Website
https://visitlankataxi.com

Taxi from Colombo to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
$100-130
Contact phone
+94117433433
Website
https://pickme.lk

Taxi from Colombo to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+94 11 25 88 588
Website
http://2588588.com

Taxi from Colombo to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+94 11 43 43 475
Website
http://colombotaxicabs.com

Taxi from Colombo to Anuradhapura

Average Duration
3h 34m
Estimated price
0-0
Plane
Website
https://cinnamonair.com

Plane from Colombo Airport to Sigiriya Airport

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
$210-490

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Colombo to Anuradhapura.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Colombo and Anuradhapura is 166 km, with a road distance of 212 km. If traveling by train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes to reach Anuradhapura from Colombo. If taking a combination of flight and taxi, the travel time is around 2 hours and 16 minutes. By car, it takes approximately 3 hours and 34 minutes to go from Colombo to Anuradhapura, while the bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Colombo to Anuradhapura is by taking a bus. This option costs $1 and takes approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly from Colombo to Anuradhapura and then take a taxi. This option takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes, but the cost can range from $240 to $550.
When traveling from Colombo to Anuradhapura by train, the ticket prices range from $1 to $5 depending on the class of the seat. Taking a bus from Anuradhapura to Colombo has a fixed price of $1.
To travel from Colombo to Anuradhapura without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or taxi. The driving distance between both cities is approximately 212 km, which takes around 3 hours and 34 minutes. The prices for a car or taxi ride can range from $28 to $45, depending on the service provider.
The best way to travel from Colombo to Anuradhapura without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes and the ticket prices range from $1 to $5.
Yes, there is a direct link between Colombo and Anuradhapura. You can take a train from Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura, which operates three times a day and takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Anuradhapura, with services running every 15 minutes and the journey taking around 5 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight duration from Colombo Airport to Sigiriya Airport, which is the closest airport to Anuradhapura, is approximately 30 minutes. However, please note that there may be additional travel time required to reach Anuradhapura from Sigiriya Airport by ground transportation.
There are a variety of options for accommodation near Anuradhapura. With over 337 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in the area start at $21 per night, offering affordable options for travelers.