Colombo to Kandy Taxi Service Booking- Maps
The journey from Colombo to Kandy represents one of Sri Lanka’s most traveled and iconic routes, connecting the bustling commercial capital with the island’s cultural and spiritual heart. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to experience the sacred Temple of the Tooth, a traveler seeking cooler hill country climates, or a local making the regular commute, understanding your Colombo to Kandy transportation options is essential for a smooth, enjoyable journey.
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Chapter 1: Understanding the Colombo to Kandy Route
Geographical Overview
The Colombo to Kandy distance varies slightly depending on your starting point in Colombo and chosen route, but generally falls within these parameters:
- Colombo to Kandy distance by road: 115-125 kilometers (71-78 miles)
- Colombo to Kandy distance by train track: Approximately 120 kilometers
- Colombo to Kandy travel time: 2.5 to 4.5 hours depending on traffic and transport mode
Route Characteristics
The journey takes you through diverse Sri Lankan landscapes:
- Colombo outskirts: Urban sprawl giving way to suburbs
- Western lowlands: Coconut plantations and small towns
- Kadugannawa climb: The ascent into hill country begins
- Hill country approach: Lush greenery, tea plantations, cooler temperatures
The most common road route follows the A1 highway (Colombo-Kandy Road), passing through key towns including:
- Kadawatha
- Warakapola
- Kegalle
- Mawanella
- Kadugannawa (famous for the Kadugannawa Pass)
Why Kandy?
Kandy isn’t just another destination—it’s the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, offering:
- Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens (one of Asia’s finest)
- Kandy Lake and picturesque city center
- Cultural shows featuring traditional Kandyan dancing
- Gateway to tea country, elephant orphanages, and spice gardens
Chapter 2: Colombo to Kandy by Train – The Scenic Journey
Why Choose the Train?
The Colombo to Kandy train is renowned as one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys, offering breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s hill country. It’s not just transportation—it’s an experience.
Train Classes and Comfort Levels
- 1st Class Observation Car:
- Air-conditioned with large windows
- Reserved seating only
- Limited availability (often sells out weeks in advance)
- Best for photography and comfort
- 1st Class (Regular):
- Air-conditioned compartments
- Reserved seating
- Comfortable but smaller windows
- 2nd Class:
- Reserved and non-reserved options
- Ceiling fans, open windows
- Can be crowded but offers authentic experience
- Best value for money
- 3rd Class:
- Basic seating
- Most economical option
- Often crowded, no reservations
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Colombo to Kandy Train Schedule & Timetable
Key Daily Trains from Colombo Fort to Kandy:
| Train Number | Train Name | Depart Colombo | Arrive Kandy | Duration | Classes Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1005 | Podi Menike | 05:55 AM | 10:15 AM | 4h 20m | 1st, 2nd, 3rd |
| 1015 | Udarata Menike | 09:45 AM | 02:03 PM | 4h 18m | 1st, 2nd, 3rd |
| 1041 | Express Train | 03:00 PM | 07:12 PM | 4h 12m | 1st, 2nd, 3rd |
| 1045 | Night Mail | 08:30 PM | 12:45 AM | 4h 15m | 1st, 2nd, 3rd (Sleepers) |
Additional Important Services:
- Intercity Express: Faster service with limited stops (3.5-4 hours)
- Rajarata Rejini: Modern train with improved comfort
- Special Holiday Trains: Additional services during peak seasons
Colombo to Kandy Train Ticket Prices (2024)
| Class | Reserved Seat Price (LKR) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Class Observation | 1,200 – 1,500 | $4 – $5 |
| 1st Class Regular | 800 – 1,000 | $2.50 – $3.50 |
| 2nd Class Reserved | 400 – 600 | $1.30 – $2 |
| 2nd Class Unreserved | 200 – 300 | $0.65 – $1 |
| 3rd Class | 100 – 200 | $0.30 – $0.65 |
Note: Prices vary slightly between different train services. Foreign tourists sometimes pay slightly higher rates.
How to Book Colombo to Kandy Train Tickets
Option 1: Online Booking (Recommended for Tourists)
- Official Site: railway.gov.lk (often challenging for foreigners)
- Third-Party Services: Several agencies specialize in tourist train bookings
- Booking Window: Opens 30 days in advance for reserved seats
- Popular Services: 1st class observation car often sells out weeks ahead
Option 2: Colombo Fort Railway Station
- Purchase at reservation counter
- Arrive early (queues can be long)
- Bring passport for tourist tickets
- Reservations possible 10 days in advance at station
Option 3: Through Your Hotel/Travel Agent
- Convenience fee applies (usually 10-20%)
- Guaranteed tickets for popular services
- Recommended for peak season travel
Option 4: Sri Lanka Drivers Booking Assistance
While we specialize in private transport, we can advise on train booking strategies and even help arrange combined train/car itineraries.
Colombo to Kandy Train Time Table Today & Tomorrow
For Colombo to Kandy train time table today and Colombo to Kandy train time table tomorrow, always check:
- Sri Lanka Railways website (real-time updates)
- Station departure boards at Colombo Fort
- Local news during monsoon/peak seasons for schedule changes
- Hotel concierge for latest information
*Pro Tip: Train schedules remain fairly consistent, but delays of 30-60 minutes are common, especially during rainy seasons.*
Chapter 3: Colombo to Kandy by Bus – The Economical Choice
Bus Services Overview
The Colombo to Kandy bus network is extensive, frequent, and economical, making it popular with both locals and budget-conscious travelers.
Bus Types and Services
- AC Bus Service (Air-Conditioned):
- Colombo to Kandy AC bus services offer maximum comfort
- Limited stops, faster journey
- Slightly higher price point
- Examples: Lanka Ashok Leyland AC buses
- Intercity Bus Service:
- Colombo to Kandy intercity bus service is semi-luxury
- Comfortable seating, fewer stops than regular buses
- Reasonable prices
- Operated by both private and government companies
- Regular/Express Buses:
- Most economical option
- Frequent stops along the route
- Can be crowded during peak hours
- Operated by Sri Lanka Transport Board (SLTB)
- Night Buses:
- Overnight services available
- Save on accommodation
- Reclining seats on some services
Colombo to Kandy Bus Time Table
Major Bus Services from Colombo to Kandy:
| Departure Point | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Journey Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo Bastian Mawatha | 4:30 AM | 10:00 PM | Every 15-30 min | 3-4.5 hours |
| Colombo Fort Bus Stand | 5:00 AM | 9:30 PM | Every 20-40 min | 3-4.5 hours |
| Pettah Central Bus Stand | 4:45 AM | 10:30 PM | Every 15-20 min | 3-4.5 hours |
Key AC/Intercity Services:
- Departures: Every 30-60 minutes from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- Main Operators: Lanka Ashok, Rajagiriya, private operators
- Terminals: Usually start from Colombo Fort or special intercity terminals
Colombo to Kandy Bus Ticket Price
| Bus Type | Price (LKR) | USD Equivalent | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC Bus | 400 – 600 | $1.30 – $2 | Air-conditioned, comfortable |
| Intercity/Semi-Luxury | 300 – 450 | $1 – $1.50 | Decent comfort, limited stops |
| Regular Express | 200 – 300 | $0.65 – $1 | Frequent, economical |
| Night Bus | 350 – 500 | $1.20 – $1.70 | Overnight, reclining seats |
Colombo to Kandy Bus Booking
How to Book Bus Tickets:
- Direct Purchase at Bus Stations:
- Colombo Bastian Mawatha (Main terminal for Kandy buses)
- Colombo Fort Bus Stand
- Pettah Central Bus Stand
- Purchase just before departure (no advance booking for regular buses)
- Intercity/AC Bus Booking:
- Some private operators accept advance bookings
- Through their offices in Colombo
- Sometimes via phone reservation
- Online Platforms:
- Emerging services offering bus ticket bookings
- More common for luxury/intercity services
- Through Accommodation:
- Some hotels can arrange bus tickets
- May include pickup/dropoff service
Advantages of Bus Travel
- Frequency: Buses depart every 15-30 minutes
- Economical: Cheapest public transport option
- Direct Routes: Many buses go directly to Kandy city center
- Flexibility: No advance booking required for regular buses
Disadvantages of Bus Travel
- Comfort: Can be crowded and less comfortable
- Travel Time: Longer than private car (3.5-4.5 hours)
- Luggage: Limited space for bags
- Traffic Dependent: Subject to Colombo and route traffic
Chapter 4: Colombo to Kandy by Car – The Comfortable Choice
Why Choose Private Car Transfer?
For travelers prioritizing comfort, flexibility, and time efficiency, Colombo to Kandy by car via private transfer is often the best choice, especially for families, groups, or those with considerable luggage.
Colombo to Kandy Distance by Car
- Shortest route: 115 km via A1 highway
- Typical journey time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
- Scenic alternative routes: Available via backroads (adds 30-60 minutes)
- Best departure times: Early morning (6-7 AM) avoids Colombo traffic
Private Car Services with Sri Lanka Drivers Booking
We offer comprehensive Colombo to Kandy private transfer services:
Vehicle Options:
- Standard Sedan (1-3 passengers): Toyota Axio, Honda Civic
- Comfort SUV (1-4 passengers): Toyota Prius, Nissan X-Trail
- Van/Minivan (4-8 passengers): Toyota Hiace, Nissan Caravan
- Luxury Vehicles: Mercedes Benz, BMW (on request)
Service Inclusions:
- Professional, English-speaking driver
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- All fuel and toll charges
- Parking fees
- Bottled water
- Flexibility to stop en route
Colombo to Kandy Travel Time by Car
| Departure Time | Estimated Travel Time | Traffic Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Early Morning (5-7 AM) | 2.5-3 hours | Minimal traffic |
| Morning (8-10 AM) | 3-4 hours | Moderate traffic exiting Colombo |
| Afternoon (12-4 PM) | 3.5-4.5 hours | Variable, depending on day |
| Evening (5-7 PM) | 4-5 hours | Heavy rush hour traffic |
| Night (8 PM onwards) | 2.5-3.5 hours | Less traffic but road safety concerns |
Cost of Private Car Transfer( 2026 Rates)
| Vehicle Type | Price Range (LKR) | USD Equivalent | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Mini Car | 13430 .00 | $44 | Couples, solo travelers |
| Comfort Sedan | 16900.00 | $55 | Small families, comfort seekers |
| Van/Minivan | 17990.00 | $58 | Families, groups of 4-6 |
| van/Large van | 23490.00 | $76 | Business, special occasions |
Note: Prices are for one-way transfer. Round-trip and multi-day packages available at discounted rates.
Advantages of Private Car Transfer
- Door-to-door service: Pickup from your Colombo location, drop at Kandy destination
- Flexibility: Stop for photos, meals, or sightseeing along the way
- Comfort: Air-conditioned, spacious vehicles
- Time-efficient: Typically fastest option (except during extreme traffic)
- Luggage space: Ample room for bags and purchases
- Safety: Professional drivers familiar with Sri Lankan roads
Popular En-Route Stops
When traveling Colombo to Kandy by car, consider these stops:
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (slight detour)
- Peradeniya Botanical Gardens (just before Kandy)
- Local spice gardens in Mawanella area
- Traditional lunch stops in Kegalle or Kadugannawa
- Viewpoints along Kadugannawa Pass
Chapter 5: Comparative Analysis – Train vs. Bus vs. Car
Quick Comparison Table
| Factor | Train | Bus | Private Car |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $1 – $5 | $0.65 – $2 | $25 – $60 |
| Travel Time | 3.5 – 4.5 hours | 3 – 4.5 hours | 2.5 – 3.5 hours |
| Comfort | Good (1st class) to Basic | Basic to Moderate (AC bus) | Excellent |
| Scenic Value | Excellent | Good | Very Good (with stops) |
| Luggage Space | Limited | Limited | Ample |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedule | Fixed route | Complete flexibility |
| Booking Required | Essential (reserved seats) | Not for regular buses | Essential |
| Best For | Scenic experience, solo travelers | Budget travelers, short notice | Families, comfort seekers, groups |
Recommended Choices Based on Traveler Profile
- Solo Travelers/Budget Backpackers: Bus or 2nd/3rd class train
- Couples/Romantic Getaway: 1st class observation train or private car
- Families with Children: Private car (for space and flexibility)
- Photography Enthusiasts: Train (observation car if possible)
- Time-Sensitive Travelers: Private car (early morning departure)
- Elderly/Reduced Mobility: Private car or AC bus
- First-Time Sri Lanka Visitors: Train for experience, then private car for other legs
Chapter 6: Booking Strategies and Tips
Advance Booking Recommendations
Train (Reserved Classes):
- 1st Class Observation: Book 2-4 weeks in advance (peak season)
- 2nd Class Reserved: Book 1-2 weeks in advance
- Regular seats: Can often be purchased day before or same day
Bus:
- Regular buses: No advance booking needed
- AC/Intercity buses: Book 1-3 days ahead during peak season
Private Car:
- Book 24-48 hours in advance (minimum)
- 3-7 days ahead during peak season (December-April)
- Last-minute bookings sometimes available but vehicle choice limited
Peak Season Considerations (Dec-Apr, Jul-Aug)
- Train tickets sell out quickly—book as early as possible
- Bus services are more frequent but also more crowded
- Private car rates may be 10-20% higher
- Travel time increases due to heavier traffic
Off-Peak Advantages (May-Jun, Sep-Nov)
- Easier to get train reservations
- Less crowded buses
- Better rates for private cars
- More flexible scheduling
Essential Documents
- Passport (for foreign tourists)
- Booking confirmation (printed or digital)
- Local currency (LKR) for incidental purchases
- Contact information for your accommodation in Kandy
Chapter 7: Colombo to Kandy Maps and Navigation
Key Route Landmarks
When traveling Colombo to Kandy Sri Lanka, these landmarks help track your progress:
- Colombo Fort (Starting point)
- Kadawatha (20km from Colombo)
- Warakapola (60km from Colombo)
- Kegalle (80km from Colombo, elephant orphanage turnoff)
- Mawanella (95km from Colombo, spice gardens)
- Kadugannawa Pass (105km from Colombo, scenic viewpoint)
- Peradeniya (115km from Colombo, botanical gardens)
- Kandy City (120km from Colombo, final destination)
Digital Navigation Tools
- Google Maps: Reliable for road routes, traffic updates
- Maps.me: Offline functionality useful in rural areas
- Sri Lanka Railways App: For train schedules and updates
- PickMe/Uber: For local transport at either end of journey
Physical Maps
While digital navigation dominates, having a physical map as backup is wise, especially when venturing off main highways or during connectivity issues.
Chapter 8: Special Services and Custom Options
Sri Lanka Drivers Booking Exclusive Services
Beyond standard transfers, we offer:
- Multi-Language Drivers: English, Chinese, Russian, French, German
- Guided Transfers: Driver acts as basic guide, pointing out landmarks
- Custom Itineraries: Combine Colombo-Kandy with stops at attractions
- Meet-and-Greet: Airport arrivals with name signs
- WiFi-Enabled Vehicles: Stay connected during your journey
- Child Seats: Available on request (advance notice required)
Combined Packages
Popular Colombo to Kandy Sri Lanka packages include:
- Train + Car Combination:
- Train to Kandy for scenic experience
- Private car for return or onward journey
- Sightseeing Transfer:
- Colombo to Kandy with stops at:
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (2-3 hour stop)
- Local lunch at traditional restaurant
- Spice garden visit
- Peradeniya Gardens (before hotel dropoff)
- Colombo to Kandy with stops at:
- Multi-City Tours:
- Colombo → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella
- Colombo → Kandy → Sigiriya → Colombo
- Customizable circuits based on your interests
Chapter 9: Practical Travel Tips
Best Time to Travel
- Weekdays vs Weekends: Weekdays generally have less traffic
- Time of Day: Early morning (6-7 AM start) is optimal
- Seasonal Considerations: April (New Year) and December are busiest
What to Pack for the Journey
For all transport modes:
- Water bottle
- Snacks (especially for train/bus)
- Light jacket (Kandy is cooler than Colombo)
- Entertainment (book, downloaded music/podcasts)
- Power bank for devices
Additional for train:
- Camera/phone for photos
- Cash for onboard food vendors
- Tissues/wet wipes
Additional for bus:
- Exact change for ticket purchase
- Small bag that fits on lap or under seat
Additional for car:
- Motion sickness medication if needed
- Downloaded offline maps/music
Safety Considerations
- Train: Hold children’s hands on platforms, watch step between carriages
- Bus: Keep valuables secure, be cautious with open windows
- Car: Wear seatbelts, choose reputable providers like Sri Lanka Drivers Booking
- General: Keep copies of important documents separate from originals
Money-Saving Strategies
- Group Travel: Split private car costs with other travelers
- Round-Trip Booking: Often discounted compared to two one-ways
- Off-Peak Travel: Lower rates and less crowded
- Combined Services: Use train one way, bus the other
- Local Advice: Ask your accommodation about current best-value options
Chapter 10: Beyond Kandy – Continuing Your Journey
From Kandy to Other Destinations
Once in Kandy, popular next destinations include:
- Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: 2.5-3.5 hours (scenic train available)
- Kandy to Ella: 4-6 hours (famous train journey)
- Kandy to Sigiriya: 2.5-3.5 hours
- Kandy to Colombo Return: Similar options as above
Booking Continuing Journeys
Sri Lanka Drivers Booking offers:
- Multi-day packages with driver and vehicle
- Flexible itineraries that can be adjusted en route
- One-way transfers to any Sri Lankan destination
- Driver-guide services for comprehensive tours
Conclusion: Your Perfect Colombo to Kandy Journey
The Colombo to Kandy route offers more than just transportation—it’s an introduction to Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, from urban capital to cultural hill capital. Whether you choose the iconic train journey through tea plantations, the economical bus ride alongside local commuters, or the comfortable private car transfer with door-to-door convenience, each option offers its own unique experience.
Key Takeaways:
- For experience: Take the train (book observation car early)
- For budget: Choose the bus (AC buses offer good value)
- For comfort and flexibility: Private car is unbeatable
- Plan ahead especially during peak seasons
- Consider combining transport modes for different legs of your Sri Lanka tour
At Sri Lanka Drivers Booking, we’re here to ensure your journey from Colombo to Kandy—and throughout Sri Lanka—is comfortable, reliable, and memorable. With professional drivers, well-maintained vehicles, and transparent pricing, we take the stress out of Sri Lankan travel.
Ready to Book Your Colombo to Kandy Transfer?
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Safe travels and enjoy your journey to the beautiful hill capital of Kandy!
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