How to get from Colombo to Galle

Why visit Galle?

Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. The walled city is a great mix of archaeology and architecture. And a visit here will take you back to the 17th century.

Even after over 400 years, Portuguese and Dutch influences are widely seen on its old fort, colonial buildings, imposing mansions, churches and mosques. Some of the best things to do in Galle include wandering around the Dutch Fort, taking a dip at Unawatuna, and (window) shopping for unique boutique finds.

There are 4 ways to travel the 145 kilometre (90 miles) distance from Colombo to Galle. You can choose between the bus, shared minivan, taxi and train. The journey takes 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes and the quickest way is by shared minivan. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 440 LKR ($1.40)..

The bus is an affordable way to get from Colombo to Galle.

Local buses #2-1 from Colombo to Galle pass along the west coast, so you will have a clear view of the sea. If you want the salty breeze that comes with it, take an ordinary bus for 440 LKR ($1.40).. Otherwise, you can take an air-conditioned bus for 800 LKR ($2.50). Buses depart every 20 minutes.

Just keep in mind that local buses in Sri Lanka can get crowded. If you’re travelling with bulky luggage, it might not be the easiest option.

Alternative Bus

There is also an option to skip the seaside route altogether and take the expressway instead. With the expressway, buses can reach Galle in just 1.5 hours.

Take bus #EX01 from Makumbura Bus Station. These buses depart every 30 minutes starting at 05:30 daily. Tickets cost 870 LKR ($2.70).

Note that Makumbura is located about 30 minutes south of Colombo city centre. The only practical way to get there is by taxi or Uber. With Uber, fares start at 2,050 LKR ($6.40).

Once you add up the taxi and bus fares, the total cost is much higher, and you only save around 30 minutes. Unless you’re short on time, the coastal route is the better option, especially if you want those sea views along the way.

To make the most of your train journey across Sri Lanka’s west coast, we recommend taking a 2nd-class train for this journey of 2 hours to 2 hours 25 minutes. This way, you will enjoy the comfort of a cushioned seat while enjoying the refreshing breeze from the open windows. A 2nd class unreserved seat costs 500 LKR ($1.60).

The first train from Colombo to Galle departs at 06:30 and the last train leaves at 18:50. Their full schedule is available on the Sri Lanka Railways website.

The route from Colombo to Galle is among the busiest in Sri Lanka, especially during rush hours, when people are going to and from work. However, if you travel outside the peak times – 07:00-09:30; 12:30-14:00; 16:30-19:00 – then you should be okay.

If you don’t want to take the risk with a jam-packed train, you can also book a 1st class air-conditioned seat. Note that 1st class seats sell out fast, but you can still try buying them at the train station as soon as you arrive in Sri Lanka.

Another option is to book your 1st class reserved ticket online with rates from 1,400 LKR ($4.40). Keep in mind that online booking for Sri Lanka train tickets is only allowed at least 30 days before your trip.

Securing good seats on Sri Lankan trains is a bit tricky, but possible if you prepare early. Check out our page on how to book train tickets in Sri Lanka for more info.

Train options from Colombo to Galle

A private transfer from Colombo to Galle is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.

Uber is usually the most budget-friendly option for this route, with prices starting at 13,000 LKR ($41) for a 4-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 3,300 LKR ($10.30) each.

You can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo to compare rates.

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 17,000 LKR ($53).

Taxi options from Colombo to Galle

If you’re coming from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, you can head straight to Galle with a shared minivan transfer. The journey takes about 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Real Lanka Holidays is operating on this route. A ticket costs around 32,000 LKR ($99), but at this price point, you will find it cheaper to book a taxi instead.

Shared Minivan options from Colombo to Galle