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

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Galle, Sri Lanka
to
Colombo, Sri Lanka

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

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$1 by trainBest price
108.7 kmDistance
1h 39m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Galle to Colombo 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  13m
Estimated price
$1-7
Recommended
Company
Sri Lanka Railways
Train
Average Duration
2h  13m
Estimated price
$1-7
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 108.7 km
Duration: 1h 39m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  39m
Estimated price
$17-25
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
1h  39m
Estimated price
$60-80
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Galle to Colombo

This route takes you from Galle's charming coastal atmosphere to Colombo's vibrant urban pulse, showcasing a striking contrast between laid-back beach life and a bustling city scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Colombo

Colombo boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Fort
• Historic buildings blend with modern architecture.
• A hub for business and culture.
Colpetty
• Popular for its eclectic dining options.
• Vibrant nightlife scene attracts locals and travelers.
Bambalapitiya
• Beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation.
• Close to shopping centers and local markets.

Best Times To Visit Colombo's Attractions

Visiting Colombo? Knowing the best times for attractions can enhance your experience.

Gangaramaya Temple
Visit early in the morning to enjoy peaceful exploration and fewer tourists.
Galle Face Green
Evenings offer stunning sunset views and lively ambiance with locals.
Colombo National Museum
Weekdays are ideal for a quieter visit and uninterrupted exploration.

Colombo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Colombo enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, making it a destination that beckons travelers anytime, though the best times to visit are typically from November to March, when rainfall is minimal. Be mindful that weather patterns can influence outdoor activities, so plan your itinerary accordingly for the best experience.

Dining Recommendation in Colombo

For a truly memorable culinary experience, try the crab curry at Ministry of Crab, where the vibrant atmosphere and fresh local seafood showcase Colombo's dynamic flavors, setting it apart from Galle’s more laid-back dining scene. The rich spices and artful presentation highlight the city’s lively food culture, offering a delightful contrast to the simpler coastal fare typically found in Galle.

Galle - Colombo operators

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

Train
Contact phone
94114600111
Website
railway.gov.lk

Train from Galle Station to Fort Station

Average Duration
2h 13m
Estimated price
$1-7
Taxi
Contact phone
+94117433433
Website
pickme.lk

Taxi from Galle to Colombo

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$60-80
Contact phone
+94 917 223 223
Website
lotuscabs.lk

Taxi from Galle to Colombo

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$60-80
Contact phone
+94 912 246 246
Website
galletaxi.com

Taxi from Galle to Colombo

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$60-80
Drive

Drive from Galle to Colombo

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$17-25

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

Traveling between Galle and Colombo 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.

🚗 Journey from Galle to Colombo is a scenic drive spanning 127.1 km, promising picturesque landscapes along the way. 💰 Prices for this road trip can range from $17 to $25, offering travelers flexibility in their budget for a comfortable ride. 🌴 A road trip from Galle to Colombo takes approximately 1 hour and 39 minutes, ensuring a swift and enjoyable travel experience through the charming countryside of Sri Lanka.
Average price
$17 - $25
🚂 Hop on a direct train from Galle Station to Colombo's Fort Station, departing every four hours and taking approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. 🌴 🎟️ Tickets for the Galle to Colombo train range from $1 to $7, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two popular destinations in Sri Lanka. 🚞
Departure Point
Galle Station
Arrival Point
Fort Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the train from Galle to Colombo typically include catering options provided by the train operators, such as light snacks and beverages. The Sri Lanka Railways service offers a popular food cart service that runs through the train, providing items like sandwiches, pastries, and local snacks. Be sure to bring cash as they may not accept cards.
• The train services on this route primarily offer three classes of seating: First Class, Business Class, and Economy Class. First Class provides air-conditioned coaches, spacious seating, and sometimes access to a dining car. Business Class offers comfortable seating, air conditioning, and slightly better amenities than Economy. Economy Class is less expensive but can be crowded, with bench-style seating. Choose your class based on your budget and comfort preference, especially for this scenic ride along the coast.
• For your journey, consider using the train services operated by Sri Lanka Railways, Mihin Lanka, and a few private operators offering tourist trains. You can find their schedules and booking information on their websites: Sri Lanka Railways (srilankrailways.gov.lk) and Mihin Lanka (mihinlanka.com). Ensure you check for any updates or changes to services as you plan your trip.
• Upon arrival at Colombo Fort station, expect a lively atmosphere as it's one of the main transport hubs of the city. You can store luggage at the station's luggage counter for a small fee, allowing you to explore without the burden of your bags. The station also has clean restrooms but does not provide shower facilities.
• To reach the city center from Colombo Fort station, the fastest way is to take the Colombo City Bus 138 or the Kelaniya North route bus. These buses regularly run from the station to various parts of the city, including popular areas like Pettah and Fort. Alternatively, you can opt for a tuk-tuk for a quicker and more direct route, especially during peak hours.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Galle to Colombo.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Galle and Colombo in Sri Lanka is 107.8 km by road. Travel time by train from Galle to Colombo takes approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. If you prefer to travel by car, it takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes to reach Galle from Colombo. Alternatively, traveling by bus from Galle to Colombo takes approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Galle to Colombo is by train, with tickets ranging from $1 to $6. Although this mode of transportation takes 2 hours and 13 minutes, it offers great affordability. Alternatively, the fastest option would be taking a taxi, which takes 1 hour and 39 minutes to reach Colombo from Galle. However, taxis are more expensive, costing between $55 to $70.
The prices for a train ticket between Galle and Colombo vary from $1 to $6, depending on the class and type of train chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket from Colombo to Galle range from $7 to $10, depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided.
To travel from Galle to Colombo without using public transportation, you can opt to take a private car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 127.1 km and it usually takes around 1 hour and 39 minutes to reach Colombo by car. The prices for a car journey vary but typically range from $17 to $25.
If you are looking to travel from Galle to Colombo without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and 47 minutes and tickets cost between $7 and $10.
Yes, there is a direct link between Galle and Colombo in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka Railways operates train services five times a day from Galle Station to Fort Station in Colombo, taking approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Colombo. With over 778 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Colombo start at $40.

Trips from Galle