How to Get From Colombo to Dickwella

The only direct buses available from Colombo to Dickwella are non-airconditioned buses. Normally, these would be very uncomfortable in Sri Lanka. But the buses will be passing along the west coast, so you might enjoy the sea breeze from the open window.

From Bastian Mawatha Bus Station, take a bus bound for Kataragama (#3) or Tangalle (#32-4). Make sure to pick the semi-luxury bus as they make fewer stops compared to the normal bus. Fares start at $3 (990 LKR). Ask your driver to drop you off at Dickwella.

Dickwella doesn’t have its own railway station, so your best option is to take a direct train to Matara. Another station that is closer to Dickwella is Wewurukannala. This station is only 10min drive from Dickwella and part of the railway between Matara and Beliatta, but unfortunately, the schedule runs very irregularly.

Somehow, I ended up taking this train from Colombo as my original train was cancelled. This journey isn’t recommended, though. The trip took me almost twice as long, excluding the wait at Colombo Fort Railway Station!

For this reason, we recommend taking a direct train to Matara and continuing by taxi or bus to Dickwella. Or if you want to try your luck, ask for the train to Wewurukannala (good luck with pronouncing that) and who knows, it might be leaving soon after you arrive.

A private transfer from Colombo to Dickwella is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 3 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Uber is the most budget-friendly option for this route, with prices starting at $81 (27,000 LKR) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about $24 (8,000 LKR) each.

If you prefer booking in advance, platforms like BookAway or 12GoAsia are great choices. They’re very reliable but come with a higher price tag, starting at $95 (32,000 LKR).