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Colombo, Colombo District to Yala, Hambantota District from $6: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Colombo, Sri Lanka
to
Yala, Sri Lanka

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

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$6 by busBest price
196 kmDistance
3h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Colombo to Yala 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
Train
Taxi
Average Duration
5h  38m
Estimated price
$56-77
Recommended
Company
National Transport Commission
Bus
Average Duration
6h  43m
Estimated price
$6-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 196 km
Duration: 3h 30m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$140-170
Company
Cinnamon Air
Taxi
Plane
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$354-739
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Traveling From Colombo to Yala

The journey from Colombo to Yala reveals a stunning contrast between the bustling city life and the tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka's national park, where wildlife encounters await.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yala

Yala offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Kinchigune
• Close to Yala National Park entrance.
• Great for wildlife spotting excursions.
Tissamaharama
• Rich in historical temples and sites.
• Access to serene lakes and countryside.
Palatupana
• Beachfront views with cozy accommodations.
• Ideal for relaxation after safari adventures.

Best Times To Visit Yala's Attractions

Timing your visit to Yala's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Yala National Park
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best wildlife sightings with fewer tourists.
Bundala National Park
Visit during migratory seasons from November to April for stunning birdwatching.
Tissamaharama
Exploring in the early morning avoids crowds at historical sites and temples.

Yala Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yala enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures and seasonal monsoons, making it ideal to explore from February to June when rainfall is minimal. Understanding the weather patterns can help you plan wildlife adventures and outdoor activities more effectively.

Dining Recommendation in Yala

Try the traditional Sri Lankan curry and rice at Jak's Restaurant, where the focus is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and flavors that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage. The laid-back atmosphere, surrounded by nature, contrasts beautifully with Colombo’s vibrant city dining, offering a memorable and authentic culinary experience.

Colombo - Yala operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+94 011-2587372
Website
https://www.ntc.gov.lk/

Bus from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Kataragama

Average Duration
5h 43m
Estimated price
560-561
Train
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
https://seatreservation.railway.gov.lk/mtktwebslr/

Train from Fort Station to Beliatta

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
6-8
Plane
Website
cinnamonair.com

Plane from Koggala Airport to Weerawila Airport

Average Duration
30m
Estimated price
56180-650
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Contact phone
+94 77 05 28 583
Website
https://senutaxicabs.com

Other from Colombo to Yala

Average Duration
4h 8m
Estimated price
140-170

Other from Beliatta to Yala

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
55-70

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Colombo to Yala.

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The cheapest way to travel from Colombo to Yala is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $4 and $8.
The fastest way to travel from Colombo to Yala is by taking a taxi. It takes approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes to reach Yala by taxi. However, please note that the cost of a taxi ride from Colombo to Yala can range between $130 to $160.
The distance from Colombo to Yala is approximately 196 km. The road distance is slightly longer, measuring about 286 km. The journey can take around 4-5 hours by car depending on the traffic conditions.
The journey from Colombo to Yala takes approximately 5 hours and 32 minutes, including transfers.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Yala. With over 115 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Yala start at around $26 per night.
Yes, you can drive from Colombo to Yala. The distance between the two places is approximately 285 km, and it usually takes around 4 hours and 8 minutes to complete the journey.
Cinnamon Air is the only airline that offers flights between Colombo and Yala. They operate flights from Koggala Airport to Weerawila Airport. The flight duration is approximately 30 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Colombo to Yala is by taking a flight. Cinnamon Air offers direct flights from Koggala Airport to Weerawila Airport, with a travel time of just 30 minutes.
The quickest flight from Koggala Airport to Weerawila Airport, which is the nearest airport to Yala, takes approximately 30 minutes. There are no direct flights from Colombo to Yala, as there is no airport in Yala itself. However, Koggala Airport is the closest airport to Yala and is served by domestic flights. From there, you can take ground transportation to reach Yala, which is about 56 kilometers away.
The cost of a bus ticket from Colombo to Yala typically ranges between $5 to $7.
Driving from Colombo to Yala in Sri Lanka can cost between $35 to $60, depending on factors such as fuel prices and the type of vehicle you choose. The distance between the two destinations is approximately 300 kilometers, and the drive can take around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Trips to Yala