Sigiriya, home to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, is one of Sri Lanka’s top cultural and historical destinations. Located 175 km (109 miles) northeast of Colombo, Sigiriya 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 Sigiriya:
- By Train + Taxi/Bus: A scenic but indirect option.
- By Bus: The cheapest but longest option.
- By Private Car or Taxi: The most comfortable and direct way.
- By Domestic Flight: The fastest but most expensive choice.
Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Colombo to Sigiriya.
Timetable
| Flight Colombo Airport - Sigiriya $ 280.66 45m | |
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| Bus Colombo - Habarana $ 21.45 4h 30m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Habarana $ 68.85–549.46 2h 35m – 4h 19m | |
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| Train Colombo - Habarana $ 5.96–22.27 3h 37m – 5h 52m | |
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| Taxi Colombo - Sigiriya $ 66.63–121.47 2h 30m – 4h 20m | |
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| Train Colombo - Kekirawa $ 5.96–22.27 3h 11m – 4h 56m | |
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| Van Colombo - Kandy $ 96.92 12h | |
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By Train + Taxi/Bus: A Scenic but Indirect Option
There is no direct train to Sigiriya, but you can take a train from Colombo to Habarana or Dambulla and then continue by bus or taxi.
Step 1: Take the Train from Colombo to Habarana or Dambulla
- Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
- Arrival Stations:
- Habarana Railway Station (closest to Sigiriya).
- Dambulla (via Kurunegala, then bus/taxi to Sigiriya).
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours.
- Price: 150–1,500 LKR (~$0.50–$5 USD), depending on class.
- Train Classes:
- First Class (A/C, reclining seats, best comfort).
- Second Class (fan-cooled, more affordable).
- Third Class (cheapest, basic seating).
Step 2: Take a Taxi or Bus to Sigiriya
- From Habarana:
- Taxi: 30 minutes (~3,000–5,000 LKR / $10–$15 USD).
- Bus: 45 minutes (~100–200 LKR / $0.50–$1 USD).
- From Dambulla:
- Taxi: 25 minutes (~2,500–4,000 LKR / $8–$12 USD).
- Bus: 40 minutes (~100–150 LKR / $0.50–$0.75 USD).
Total Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours.
Total Price: 1,000–6,500 LKR (~$3–$20 USD).
Pros:
- Most scenic route through Sri Lanka’s countryside.
- Budget-friendly option.
Cons:
- Requires transfers at Habarana or Dambulla.
- Trains are often delayed.
Booking Tip:
Book a first-class or second-class seat for a more comfortable journey. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.
By Bus: The Cheapest but Longest Option
For budget-conscious travelers, taking a bus from Colombo to Sigiriya is the cheapest way, but it takes the longest time.
Key Details:
- Departure Points:
- Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal (Intercity Buses).
- Private bus companies (various locations in Colombo).
- Arrival Points:
- Dambulla Bus Station (closest major bus stop).
- Duration: 5.5 to 7 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 300–700 LKR (~$1–$2.50 USD).
- Bus Types:
- Air-Conditioned Intercity Buses (CTB & Private) – More comfortable.
- Regular Local Buses – Cheapest but slowest.
Step 2: Take a Taxi or Bus from Dambulla to Sigiriya
- Taxi: 25 minutes (~2,500–4,000 LKR / $8–$12 USD).
- Bus: 40 minutes (~100–150 LKR / $0.50–$0.75 USD).
Pros:
- Cheapest option.
- Frequent departures throughout the day.
Cons:
- Long journey with multiple stops.
- Local buses can be crowded.
Booking Tip:
For the best comfort, take an air-conditioned express bus. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.
By Private Car or Taxi: The Most Comfortable and Direct Way
For travelers who prefer comfort, flexibility, and speed, hiring a private car or taxi is the best option.
Key Details:
- Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Colombo.
- Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel or attraction in Sigiriya.
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic.
- Price: 12,000–20,000 LKR (~$40–$65 USD), depending on vehicle type.
- Taxi & Private Car Services:
- PickMe (Sri Lanka’s Ride-Hailing App).
- Kangaroo Cabs.
- Private car rental companies.
Pros:
- Fastest land option (3.5+ hours).
- Comfortable and convenient.
- Stops at attractions along the way (Dambulla Cave Temple, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, 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 Most Expensive Choice
For travelers who want to skip long road trips, taking a domestic flight from Colombo to Sigiriya is an option, though flights are limited and expensive.
Key Details:
- Departure Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Colombo.
- Arrival Airport: Sigiriya Airport (GIU).
- Duration: 45 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 (45 minutes).
- No road delays or bumpy rides.
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 Sigiriya
- Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~500 LKR, 6+ hours).
- Best Option for Speed: Domestic flight (~45 minutes, $120+ USD).
- Best Option for Comfort: Private Car (~$40+ USD, 3.5+ hours, door-to-door service).
- Best for Scenic Travel: Train (~$5+ USD, scenic countryside views, transfer required).
- Book Early for Holidays: Taxis and trains sell out quickly during peak travel seasons.
