How to get from Colombo to Trincomalee

Trincomalee, known for its beautiful beaches, historical temples, and vibrant marine life, is a scenic coastal city on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast. Located 260 km (162 miles) northeast of Colombo, Trincomalee is accessible by train, bus, private car, 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 Trincomalee:

• By Train: The most scenic and comfortable option.
• By Bus: The cheapest but longer alternative.
• 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 Trincomalee.

Timetable

By Train: The Most Scenic and Comfortable Option

Taking a direct train from Colombo to Trincomalee is one of the most scenic journeys in Sri Lanka, passing through lush countryside, local villages, and paddy fields.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Colombo Fort Railway Station.
• Arrival Station: Trincomalee Railway Station.
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 600–2,000 LKR (~$2–$6 USD), depending on class.
• Train Types:
  • Night Mail Train (Overnight journey, budget-friendly).
  • Intercity Express (Daytime journey, more comfortable).
• Seating Options:
  • 1st Class Sleeper (A/C, reclining beds, most comfortable).
  • 2nd Class Reserved (A/C or non-A/C, reclining seats).
  • 3rd Class (Cheapest, no reservations, basic seating).
• Departure Frequency: 2 daily departures (morning and night).
• Popular Trains:
  • Trincomalee Night Mail (Overnight, budget option).
  • Intercity Express (Daytime, scenic views).

Pros:

• Most scenic travel option (~7 hours of countryside views).
• No traffic delays.
• Comfortable seating in 1st and 2nd class.
• Affordable prices for a long journey.

Cons:

• Tickets sell out quickly, especially 1st Class Sleeper.
• 3rd Class can be crowded and less comfortable.
• Limited departure times (morning and night only).

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, book a 1st Class Sleeper for overnight travel or 2nd Class Reserved for daytime. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Longer Alternative

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a direct bus from Colombo to Trincomalee is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes longer than the train or private car.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • Colombo Central Bus Station (Pettah).
  • Maharagama Bus Terminal (for night buses).
• Arrival Point: Trincomalee Central Bus Station.
• Duration: 7 to 9 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 700–1,500 LKR (~$2–$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).
  • VIP Bus (Reclining seats, A/C, blankets).
• Departure Frequency: Every 1–2 hours from morning to evening.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~700 LKR for normal buses).
• Direct travel without transfers.
• Multiple departures throughout the day.

Cons:

• Takes longer than trains or private cars (~7+ hours).
• No A/C on normal buses (Semi-Luxury and VIP buses have A/C).
• Limited luggage space.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a Semi-Luxury or VIP 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 Trincomalee 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 Trincomalee.
• Duration: 5 to 6 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:

• Dambulla Cave Temple – Historical Buddhist cave temple complex.
• Habarana – Scenic town known for elephant safaris.
• Kantale Lake – Beautiful lake with picnic spots.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~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 trains and buses.
• Traffic delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

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

Final Tips for Traveling from Colombo to Trincomalee

• Best Option for Scenic Views & Comfort: Train (~7 hours, from 600 LKR).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~700 LKR, 7+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Flexibility: Private Car (~20,000 LKR, 5+ hours).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Trains, buses, and private cars sell out quickly during high season (May–September).
• Luggage Tip: Pack light if taking the bus or train due to limited space.
• Arrival Time Tip: Arrive at Trincomalee by afternoon to explore the beaches and temples.