Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its Dutch colonial architecture, historic fort, and scenic coastal views. Located 130 km (81 miles) south of Colombo, Galle is accessible by train, bus, car, or guided tour. 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 Galle:
- By Train: The most scenic and relaxing option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but less comfortable alternative.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most convenient choice.
- By Guided Tour: A stress-free way to explore Galle.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Galle.
Timetable
| Train Colombo - Galle $ 6.13–15.81 1h 50m – 2h 25m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Galle $ 55.60–408.22 1h 45m – 2h 57m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Unawatuna $ 54.50–96.30 2h – 2h 56m | |
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By Train: The Most Scenic and Relaxing Option
Taking a train from Colombo to Galle is one of the most beautiful coastal train rides in Sri Lanka, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
- Arrival Station: Galle Railway Station.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 100–1,200 LKR (~$0.30–$4 USD), depending on class.
- Train Classes:
- 1st Class A/C (Comfortable, limited availability).
- 2nd Class Reserved (Good comfort, open windows, scenic views).
- 2nd Class Unreserved (Budget option, can be crowded).
- 3rd Class (Cheapest, least comfortable, crowded during peak hours).
- Train Types:
- Express Trains (Best for tourists, fewer stops, comfortable seating).
- Slow Trains (Cheaper but take longer with multiple stops).
- Departure Frequency: Several daily departures from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pros:
- Most scenic route with ocean views.
- Budget-friendly and comfortable.
- No traffic delays.
Cons:
- Can be crowded, especially in 2nd and 3rd class.
- Delays are possible.
Booking Tip:
For the best experience, book 1st or 2nd class reserved seats in advance. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Less Comfortable Alternative
For budget travelers, taking a bus from Colombo to Galle is the cheapest way to travel, though it can be less comfortable than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Colombo Central Bus Stand (Pettah Bus Station).
- Maharagama Bus Terminal (for expressway buses).
- Arrival Point: Galle Bus Stand.
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on bus type and traffic.
- Price: 200–600 LKR (~$0.75–$2 USD).
- Bus Types:
- Expressway Air-Conditioned Buses (Fastest and most comfortable, ~1.5 hours).
- Normal Route Buses (Cheaper, more stops, ~3 hours).
- Departure Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Pros:
- Cheapest travel option.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Traffic congestion can cause delays.
- Basic buses can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Booking Tip:
For faster and more comfortable travel, take an expressway bus from Maharagama. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Convenient Choice
For travelers who prefer comfort, flexibility, and speed, hiring a private car or taxi from Colombo to Galle is the quickest and most hassle-free option.
Key Details:
- Route: Colombo → Galle via the Southern Expressway (E01).
- Distance: 130 km (81 miles).
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 12,000–20,000 LKR (~$40–$65 USD), depending on car type.
- Taxi & Private Car Services:
- PickMe (Sri Lanka’s ride-hailing app, slightly cheaper than taxis).
- Kangaroo Cabs.
- Private car rental companies.
Pros:
- Fastest travel option (via expressway).
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- More comfortable than buses and trains.
Cons:
- More expensive than buses and trains.
Booking Tip:
For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.
By Guided Tour: A Stress-Free Way to Explore Galle
For those who want a hassle-free visit with expert insights, joining a guided tour from Colombo to Galle is a great option.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Pickup from designated hotels in Colombo.
- Duration: Full-day tour (8–10 hours).
- Price: 10,000–18,000 LKR (~$70–$125 USD).
- Includes:
- Round-trip transportation.
- Visits to Galle Fort, Unawatuna Beach, Japanese Peace Pagoda, and Turtle Hatchery.
- English-speaking guide.
Pros:
- Convenient, no need to plan transport.
- Includes admission to key attractions.
Cons:
- Less flexibility compared to solo travel.
Booking Tip:
Book at least a day in advance to secure a spot. Use our online search form to find available tours.
Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Galle
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~200 LKR, 1.5+ hours).
- Best Option for Comfort: Train (~1,200 LKR, 2+ hours, scenic views).
- Best Option for Speed & Flexibility: Private Car (~12,000 LKR, 1.5+ hours, door-to-door service).
- Book Early for Peak Season: Trains and taxis sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.
- Prepare for Motion Sickness: The expressway route is smooth, but coastal train rides can be bumpy.
