How to get from Colombo to Arugam Bay

Arugam Bay, known for its world-class surf breaks, laid-back vibe, and beautiful beaches, is a popular coastal destination on Sri Lanka’s east coast. Located 320 km (199 miles) east of Colombo, Arugam Bay is accessible by bus, private car, taxi, or flight. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Colombo to Arugam Bay:

• By Bus: The cheapest but longest option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable choice.
• By Flight + Taxi: The quickest but most expensive option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Arugam Bay.

Timetable

By Bus: The Cheapest but Longest Option

Taking a direct bus from Colombo to Pottuvil (the closest town to Arugam Bay) is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes the longest.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Colombo Central Bus Station (Pettah).
  • Maharagama Bus Terminal (for night buses).
• Arrival Point: Pottuvil Bus Station (6 km from Arugam Bay).
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 800–1,500 LKR (~$2.50–$5 USD), depending on bus type.
• Bus Types:
  • Normal Bus (Cheaper, no A/C, basic seating).
  • Semi-Luxury Bus (A/C, more comfortable, fewer stops).
  • Night Bus (Sleeper option, arrives early morning).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures (morning and evening).
• Arrival in Arugam Bay: Take a tuk-tuk from Pottuvil to Arugam Bay (~300–500 LKR).

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~800 LKR for normal buses).
• Direct travel without transfers.
• Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.

Cons:

• Takes the longest (~8+ hours).
• No A/C on normal buses (semi-luxury buses have A/C).
• Basic seating, can be crowded.
• Limited luggage space.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a Semi-Luxury or Night Bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Colombo to Arugam Bay is the most convenient choice.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel or airport in Colombo.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Arugam Bay.
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 20,000–30,000 LKR (~$60–$90 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • PickMe (local ride-hailing app).
  • Hotel-arranged private drivers.
  • Local taxi companies.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).

Recommended Stops Along the Way:

• Udawalawe National Park – Famous for elephant safaris.
• Monaragala – Local town with food and rest stops.
• Wellawaya – Scenic viewpoint and waterfalls nearby.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~6 hours via Wellawaya).
• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than buses.
• Traffic delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

By Flight + Taxi: The Quickest but Most Expensive Option

For travelers who prefer speed over cost, taking a domestic flight from Colombo to Batticaloa followed by a taxi from Batticaloa to Arugam Bay is the fastest way to travel.

Key Details:

• Flight Route: Colombo (CMB) → Batticaloa (BTC).
• Taxi Route: Batticaloa → Arugam Bay (2.5 hours).
• Duration: 1 hour flight + 2.5 hours taxi.
• Price:
  • Flight: 15,000–25,000 LKR (~$45–$75 USD), depending on airline.
  • Taxi: 8,000–12,000 LKR (~$25–$40 USD).
• Airlines:
  • Cinnamon Air (Full-service, includes baggage).
• Departure Frequency: 1–2 daily flights (morning and afternoon).

Pros:

• Fastest total travel time (~4 hours).
• Comfortable and convenient.
• Stunning aerial views of Sri Lanka’s east coast.

Cons:

• Most expensive option (~25,000+ LKR total).
• Limited flight availability.
• Requires airport transfers and taxi from Batticaloa.

Booking Tip:

For lower fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Arugam Bay

• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~800 LKR, 8+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~20,000 LKR, 6+ hours).
• Best Option for Fastest Travel: Flight + Taxi (~25,000 LKR, 4+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Buses, private cars, and flights sell out quickly during high season (April–September).
• Motion Sickness Alert: The road to Arugam Bay is winding, so bring motion sickness tablets if necessary.
• Luggage Tip: Pack light if taking the bus due to limited space.
• Arrival Time Tip: Arrive at Arugam Bay by afternoon to catch the beautiful sunset at the beach.