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Kandy to Colombo

from $1: ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Kandy 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.

Train
3h 14m
Cheapest
$1-2
Bus
3h 15m
$1
Taxi
1h 58m
Fastest
$55-70
Drive
1h 58m
$15-23

How to Get from Kandy to Colombo: 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.

by busBest price
95.5 kmDistance
1h 58mFastest

Kandy - Colombo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Kandy and Colombo, with prices starting at $1. These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train

Contact phone

94114600111

Website

https://railway.gov.lk

Train from Kandy to Fort Station

Average Duration

3h 14m

Estimated price

$1-2

Bus

Contact phone

+94 011-2587372

Website

https://www.ntc.gov.lk/

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

Average Duration

3h 15m

Estimated price

$1-1

Taxi

Contact phone

+94117433433

Website

https://pickme.lk

Taxi from Kandy to Colombo

Average Duration

1h 58m

Estimated price

$55-70

Other

Contact phone

+94 81 49 55 655

Website

facebook.com

Other from Kandy to Colombo

Average Duration

1h 58m

Estimated price

0-0

Contact phone

+94 71 21 08 210

Website

http://kandybudgettaxi.com

Other from Kandy to Colombo

Average Duration

1h 58m

Estimated price

0-0

Website

Other from Kandy to Colombo

Average Duration

1h 58m

Estimated price

$15-23

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

Traveling between Kandy 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.

🚗 Experience a scenic journey as you travel 71 miles from Kandy to Colombo by car in just under 2 hours. 💰 Prices for this convenient mode of transportation range from $15 to $23, offering budget-friendly options for travelers.
Average price
$15 - $23
🚆 Experience the scenic train journey from Kandy to Colombo! The direct train departs from Kandy station every three hours, taking approximately 3 hours and 14 minutes to reach Fort Station in Colombo. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel with ticket prices ranging from $1 to $2 for the Kandy to Colombo train ride. Immerse yourself in the local culture and soak in the charming sights during this memorable journey across Sri Lanka.
Departure Point
Kandy station
Arrival Point
Fort Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• The trains from Kandy to Colombo generally offer a catering service that includes a selection of light snacks, drinks, and sometimes full meals, depending on the time of day. It's advisable to bring some cash in small denominations to purchase these items, as cards may not always be accepted onboard.
• On this route, you can opt for several seating classes: First Class, Second Class, and Third Class. First Class offers air-conditioned coaches with more legroom and comfortable seating, while Second Class is a bit more crowded but still offers decent comfort. Third Class is the most economical option and is generally more crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more comfortable ride, book First Class in advance through the Sri Lanka Railways website.
• The primary train operators on this route are Sri Lanka Railways (srilankatrain.com) and private operators like Expo Rail (exporail.com) and Rajadhani Express (rajadhaniexpress.com). Make sure to check their websites for schedules and book your tickets in advance for the best experience.
• Upon arriving at Colombo Fort Station, be prepared for a bustling atmosphere. It's recommended to navigate the station using the signage available. Although there are no luggage storage facilities at the station, restrooms are available. Look for the restroom signs close to the waiting area.
• The fastest way to reach the city center from Colombo Fort Station is to take a private taxi or three-wheeler (tuk-tuk). Alternatively, you can catch Bus No. 100 from the bus stand outside the station, which will take you to the Colombo city center in approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
🚌 Depart from Kandy Good Shed Bus Station, a direct bus to Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal runs every 20 minutes, taking approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to complete the journey. 💰 With affordable fares starting at $1, taking the bus from Kandy to Colombo is a budget-friendly and convenient option for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Sri Lanka's countryside.
Departure Point
Kandy Good Shed Bus Station
Arrival Point
Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Kandy to Colombo.

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The distance between Kandy and Colombo is 59 miles or 70.8 miles by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes to reach Colombo from Kandy by train, 1 hour and 58 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 15 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Kandy to Colombo is by bus, which costs $1 and takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which costs between $50-$65 and takes 1 hour and 58 minutes. Both options provide reliable transportation and allow travelers to reach their destination conveniently. It is advisable to choose the mode of transportation based on personal preferences and budget.
The price of a train ticket from Kandy to Colombo can range from $1 to $2. On the other hand, the price of a bus ticket from Colombo to Kandy is $1. Both options offer affordable transportation between the two cities in Sri Lanka. Travelers can choose the mode of transportation that best fits their budget and preferences.
To get from Kandy to Colombo without using public transportation, you can consider hiring a private car or taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is 71 miles, and it typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to drive from Kandy to Colombo. The prices for hiring a car or taxi range from $15 to $23, depending on the provider and type of vehicle. This option offers flexibility and convenience in terms of travel time and route.
The best way to travel from Kandy to Colombo without a car is by train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. It is a convenient and cost-effective option, with fares ranging from $1 to $2. The train journey offers scenic views of the Sri Lankan countryside and is a popular choice among tourists.
Yes, there is a direct link between Kandy and Colombo by both train and bus. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes, with departures every four hours from Kandy station to Fort Station in Colombo. The bus journey between Kandy Good Shed Bus Station and Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes, with departures every 20 minutes. Both modes of transportation operate daily, providing convenient options for traveling between Kandy and Colombo.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Colombo. With over 778 hotels to choose from, there is something to fit every budget and preference. Prices start at $40 per night, ensuring there are options available for those looking for affordable stays as well as luxury accommodations. Whether you prefer a hotel in the city center or in a more relaxed coastal area, there are plenty of choices available in and around Colombo.