Dambulla, known for its ancient cave temples, stunning Buddha statues, and rich cultural heritage, is a historical city in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Located 150 km (93 miles) northeast of Colombo, Dambulla is accessible by bus, private car, taxi, or train. 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 Dambulla:
- By Bus: The cheapest and most flexible option.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable choice.
- By Train + Taxi: A scenic journey requiring a transfer.
- By Guided Tour: Ideal for a curated travel experience.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Dambulla.
Timetable
| Train Colombo - Kekirawa $ 6.49 3h 39m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Dambulla $ 61.11–483.38 2h 15m – 3h 49m | |
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| Bus Colombo - Dambulla $ 11.80–22.71 2h 35m – 5h | |
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By Bus: The Cheapest and Most Flexible Option
Taking a direct bus from Colombo to Dambulla is the most affordable and flexible way to travel, with frequent departures throughout the day.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Colombo Central Bus Station (Pettah).
- Arrival Point: Dambulla Main Bus Station.
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 300–600 LKR (~$1–$2 USD), depending on bus type.
- Bus Types:
- Normal Bus (Cheaper, no A/C, basic seating).
- Semi-Luxury Bus (A/C, more comfortable, fewer stops).
- Luxury Bus (Reclining seats, A/C, onboard entertainment).
- Bus Operators:
- CTB (Government-run, budget option).
- Private Bus Operators (More comfortable, slightly higher price).
- Departure Frequency: Every 30 minutes from morning to evening.
- Arrival in Dambulla: Near Dambulla Cave Temple and city center.
Pros:
- Cheapest travel option (~300 LKR for normal buses).
- Direct travel without transfers.
- Multiple departures throughout the day.
- Comfortable seating with A/C on Semi-Luxury and Luxury Buses.
Cons:
- Traffic delays are possible.
- No A/C on normal buses.
- Basic seating on budget buses.
- Limited luggage space on some buses.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, choose a Semi-Luxury or Luxury Bus with A/C and reclining seats. 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 Dambulla is the most convenient choice, especially for families and groups.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel or airport in Colombo.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Dambulla.
- Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
- Price: 15,000–25,000 LKR (~$45–$80 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:
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage – Popular tourist attraction with elephants.
- Kurunegala – Scenic town known for the giant Buddha statue on Elephant Rock.
- Dambulla Cave Temple – Historical cave complex with Buddhist murals and statues.
Pros:
- Fastest travel option (~3.5 hours).
- 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 and trains.
- Traffic delays are possible.
Booking Tip:
For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.
By Train + Taxi: A Scenic Journey Requiring a Transfer
For travelers who prefer scenic views and a relaxed journey, taking a train from Colombo to Habarana or Kurunegala followed by a taxi to Dambulla is an option.
Key Details:
- Route: Colombo → Habarana or Kurunegala (Train) → Dambulla (Taxi).
- Duration:
- Train to Habarana or Kurunegala: 4 to 5 hours.
- Taxi to Dambulla: 30 minutes from Habarana, 1.5 hours from Kurunegala.
- Price:
- Train: 300–1,200 LKR (~$1–$4 USD), depending on class.
- Taxi: 2,000–5,000 LKR (~$7–$15 USD).
- Seating Options:
- 1st Class Observation (A/C, panoramic windows).
- 2nd Class Reserved (A/C or non-A/C, reclining seats).
- 3rd Class (Cheaper, basic seating, no reservations).
- Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures (morning and afternoon).
Pros:
- Scenic views of Sri Lanka’s countryside.
- Comfortable seating with A/C on 1st and 2nd class.
- Affordable prices for a long journey.
Cons:
- Requires a transfer in Habarana or Kurunegala.
- Takes longer than direct buses or private cars (~5+ hours total).
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, book a 1st Class Observation or 2nd Class Reserved seat. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.
Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Dambulla
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~300 LKR, 4+ hours).
- Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~15,000 LKR, 3.5+ hours).
- Best Option for Scenic Views: Train + Taxi (~5+ hours total).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Buses, private cars, and trains sell out quickly during high season (December–March and July–August).
- Luggage Tip: Pack light if taking the bus or train due to limited space.
