Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is famous for its Temple of the Tooth, scenic landscapes, and rich history. Located 115 km (71 miles) northeast of Colombo, Kandy is accessible by train, bus, taxi, or private car. 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 Kandy:
- By Train: The most scenic and comfortable option.
- By Bus: A budget-friendly but less comfortable alternative.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most convenient way.
- By Domestic Flight: The fastest but least practical choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Kandy.
Timetable
| Flight Colombo Airport - Kandy $ 149.41–172.20 45m | |
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| Bus Colombo - Kandy $ 8.21 2h 30m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Kandy $ 47.30–185.37 1h 47m – 3h 40m | |
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| Train Colombo - Kandy $ 4.83–18.77 2h 26m – 4h 50m | |
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| Van Colombo - Kandy $ 20.28–96 3h 30m – 12h | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Peradeniya $ 101.20 3h 26m | |
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| Train Colombo - Peradeniya $ 5.18–8.68 2h 31m – 4h 40m | |
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By Train: The Most Scenic and Comfortable Option
Taking a train from Colombo to Kandy is one of the most beautiful train journeys in Sri Lanka, passing through lush green hills, tea plantations, and misty mountains.
Key Details:
- Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
- Arrival Station: Kandy Railway Station (centrally located in Kandy).
- Duration: 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on train type.
- Price: 300–2,000 LKR (~$1–$7 USD), depending on class.
- Train Classes:
- First-Class (A/C, reclining seats, best comfort).
- Observation Car (Scenic window views, popular with tourists).
- Second-Class (Non-A/C, good comfort, budget-friendly).
- Third-Class (Basic, cheapest option, can be crowded).
- Train Numbers & Types:
- Intercity Express (fastest, limited stops, comfortable).
- Podi Menike & Udarata Menike (slightly slower but scenic).
- Departure Frequency: Several trains daily from 5:55 AM to 6:00 PM.
Pros:
- Most scenic option with breathtaking views.
- Comfortable seating in first-class and observation cars.
- No traffic delays.
Cons:
- Tickets sell out quickly, especially for first-class and observation seats.
- Trains can be delayed.
Booking Tip:
For the best experience, book first-class or observation seats in advance. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.
By Bus: A Budget-Friendly but Less Comfortable Alternative
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus from Colombo to Kandy is the cheapest option, though less comfortable than the train.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Pettah Central Bus Stand (Colombo’s main bus terminal).
- Private bus terminals (various locations in Colombo).
- Arrival Point: Kandy Bus Stand (near the railway station).
- Duration: 3 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 200–600 LKR (~$0.75–$2 USD).
- Bus Types:
- Luxury A/C Buses (Expressway route, faster and more comfortable).
- Regular Public Buses (Cheapest but slowest and most crowded).
- Bus Operators:
- CTB (Sri Lanka Transport Board, public buses).
- Private Express Buses (faster, more comfortable).
- Departure Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Pros:
- Cheapest option available.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Traffic can cause delays.
- Basic buses can be crowded and uncomfortable.
Booking Tip:
For better comfort, take an A/C express bus via the Expressway. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Convenient Way
For travelers who prefer comfort, flexibility, and speed, hiring a private car or taxi is the quickest and most hassle-free option.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Colombo.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Kandy.
- Duration: 2.5 to 3 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, cheaper than taxis).
- Kangaroo Cabs.
- Private car rental companies.
Pros:
- Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
- More comfortable than buses and trains.
- Stops at attractions along the way (Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, tea plantations, etc.).
Cons:
- More expensive than buses and trains.
- Traffic congestion may increase travel time.
Booking Tip:
For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.
By Domestic Flight: The Fastest but Least Practical Choice
For travelers looking for a luxury experience, taking a domestic flight from Colombo to Kandy is an option, though flights are limited and expensive.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Ratmalana Airport (RML), Colombo.
- Arrival Airport: Polgolla Reservoir Airport (KDW), Kandy.
- Duration: 30 minutes (flight) + airport transfers (~1.5 hours total).
- Price: 35,000–50,000 LKR (~$120–$160 USD).
- Airlines:
- Cinnamon Air (chartered flights).
Pros:
- Fastest travel time (30 minutes).
- Avoids road congestion.
Cons:
- Very expensive compared to other transport options.
- Limited availability (not daily flights).
Booking Tip:
Flights should be booked in advance, as they fill up quickly. Use our online search form to check flight availability and book tickets.
Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Kandy
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~200 LKR, 3+ hours).
- Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Train (~1,000 LKR, 2.5+ hours, scenic views).
- Best Option for Flexibility: Private Car (~12,000 LKR, 2.5+ hours, stops at attractions).
- Book Early for Holidays: Trains and taxis sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.
- Prepare for Motion Sickness: The hill roads to Kandy are winding, so take motion sickness tablets if needed.
