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Colombo, Colombo District to Kandy, Kandy District 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

The journey from Colombo to Kandy offers a striking contrast, where Colombo's bustling urban life transforms into Kandy's serene landscape, rich in culture and history.

Best Neighbourhoods in Kandy

Kandy features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Bogambara
• Home to the scenic Bogambara Lake.
• Vibrant markets and local street food options.
Temple Square
• Hosts the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic.
• Lush gardens with stunning views of the city.
Kandy Lake Area
• Peaceful walking paths around Kandy Lake.
• Great spot for birdwatching and relaxation.

Best Times To Visit Kandy's Attractions

Timing your visit to Kandy's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Temple of the Tooth Relic
Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and witness the rituals.
Kandy Lake
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views without large crowds.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Weekdays, especially early in the morning, provide a peaceful stroll among the blooms.

Kandy Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Kandy experiences a tropical climate with temperatures typically ranging from 68°F to 85°F throughout the year, while the rainy seasons occur from May to July and October to December. Visiting during the dry months from December to April offers ideal conditions for exploring the city's attractions without interruptions from heavy rain.

Dining Recommendation in Kandy

Atamba, a cozy restaurant nestled in Kandy, serves a delightful dish of traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry that showcases local ingredients like jackfruit and an array of spices, offering a stark contrast to the urban flavors of Colombo. The serene ambiance and emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce create a dining experience that feels more connected to the region's rich heritage.

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.

🚗 Experience the scenic journey from Colombo to Kandy covering a distance of 71 miles in just under 2 hours by car. 💸 Enjoy the affordable options available for this trip, with prices ranging between $15 to $23 for the convenience of traveling directly from Colombo to Kandy hassle-free.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚂 The direct train from Colombo's Fort Station to Kandy operates every day, with departures every three hours. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes, covering a distance of 98.6 km. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train journey from Colombo to Kandy range from $1 to $2, making it an affordable and enjoyable mode of transportation. Sit back, relax, and soak in the beautiful landscapes as you make your way to the cultural city of Kandy.
Departure Point
Fort Station
Arrival Point
Kandy station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train route from Colombo to Kandy, you can expect on-board catering services that typically include snacks, beverages, and sometimes local cuisine dishes. While the availability can vary, it’s advisable to check with the specific operator beforehand. For those who prefer, you can bring your own snacks from Colombo as well.
• The primary operators for the Colombo to Kandy route are Sri Lanka Railways and some private operators like Exo Rail. Sri Lanka Railways offers 1st Class, 2nd Class, and 3rd Class seats. 1st Class and 2nd Class usually have air-conditioned coaches with reserved seating. You can view schedules and book tickets on their websites: Sri Lanka Railways and Exo Rail.
• Upon arrival at Kandy station, you can utilize the station's waiting area to relax. The station does not have long-term luggage storage, but there are short-term lockers available for small bags. Restrooms are available, but showers might not be provided. To get to the city center quickly, hop on a local bus 657 or 658, which frequently runs from outside the station to the city center in about 15-20 minutes.
🛫 Experience the convenience and speed of a quick flight from Diyawanna Oya Airport to Hatton Airport in just 30 minutes with Cinnamon Air.
Departure Point
Diyawanna Oya Airport
Arrival Point
Hatton Airport
🚌 The bus journey from Colombo to Kandy takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. The direct bus service operates every day, departing from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal and arriving at Kandy Good Shed Bus Station. 🚍 For travelers looking for alternative routes, there are different options available with varying travel times and distances. Some routes may require transfers at different bus stations along the way. Prices for the bus between Colombo and Kandy are affordable at $1.
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.

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The distance between Colombo and Kandy in Sri Lanka is approximately 59 miles by road. Traveling by train, it takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to reach Kandy from Colombo. Alternatively, if you choose to fly and then take a taxi, the travel time is around 2 hours and 1 minute. By car, it takes approximately 1 hour and 59 minutes to reach Colombo from Kandy, while the bus journey can take around 3 hours and 15 minutes between the two cities.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Colombo to Kandy is by taking the bus, which costs $1 and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is of the essence, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which takes around 1 hour and 59 minutes and costs between $50 and $65. Ultimately, the choice between these two options will depend on your budget and time constraints.
The prices for a train ticket between Colombo and Kandy range from $1 to $2. Alternatively, a bus ticket from Kandy to Colombo costs $1. Travelers have the option to choose whichever mode of transport suits their budget. Both the train and bus offer affordable options for those looking to travel between these two cities in Sri Lanka.
To get from Colombo to Kandy without using public transportation, you can rent a car or hire a private taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is around 71 miles, and it typically takes about 1 hour and 59 minutes to drive from Colombo to Kandy. The prices for a car rental or private taxi vary, ranging from $15 to $23 depending on the type of vehicle and service chosen.
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 costs around $1 to $2. The train route between the two cities is scenic and offers a comfortable and affordable way to travel.
Yes, there is a direct link between Colombo and Kandy. You can take a train from Fort Station in Colombo to Kandy, which usually departs every four hours and takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kandy, which departs every 15 minutes and takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. Both train and bus services operate daily, providing convenient transportation options between the two cities.
The flight between Colombo and Kandy typically takes around 30 minutes on a direct flight from Diyawanna Oya Airport to Hatton Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but it generally ranges from $50 to $100. It's important to note that flying is the fastest option for traveling between Colombo and Kandy, but it may not be the most economical choice.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Kandy. With over 910 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in Kandy start at $25 per night, making it an affordable destination for travelers on different budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly guesthouses, you will be able to find an option that suits your needs and preferences.