Sri Lanka

How to get from Colombo to Negombo

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Colombo to Negombo. Our team of indpendent travel experts researched each route — breaking down each option by travel time, price, and comfort. Plus, we’ll share the best booking options to help you get the best deal.

Written by Maarten - Trip Planning ExpertReviewed by Ela - Senior Travel Writer

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What are the 3 ways to travel from Colombo to Negombo?

There are 3 ways to travel the 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Colombo to Negombo. You can choose between the bus, taxi and train. The journey takes 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes and the quickest way is by taxi. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by train with tickets starting at 80 LKR ($0.30).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Train

1h 30m

From 80 LKR ($0.30)

Bus

1h 30m

From 120 LKR ($0.40)

Taxi

From 2,600 LKR ($8.70)

Colombo to Negombo by Train

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 80 LKR ($0.30)

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 80 LKR ($0.30)

As far as we know, only 2nd class and 3rd class trains operate from Colombo to Negombo. The good thing is it’s just a short ride for 1 hour 30 minutes, so the seats should still be comfortable enough.

Most of the trains operating this route are commuter trains, so reserved seats are not available. A tip, travel on an off-peak hour to ensure a seat. If you take this train at the same time locals get to and from work, it’s going to be really crowded. The first train from Colombo to Negombo departs at 04:00 and the last train leaves at 20:20. You can check out the full schedule here.

Tickets are very affordable at 80 LKR ($0.30) for a 2nd class seat and 45 LKR ($0.20) for a 3rd class seat. You can buy your tickets at the train station on the day of your journey.

Colombo to Negombo by Bus

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 120 LKR ($0.40)

Duration: 1.5 hours

Costs: 120 LKR ($0.40)

If you don’t want to take the risk of missing a seat on the train ride from Colombo to Negombo, the bus is another option. The ride will not be as scenic as the train, but it will get you to your destination with a good level of comfort.

We suggest that you take an airconditioned bus as they are more comfortable and faster than ordinary buses. They depart from Colombo Central Bus Stand every 20 minutes and a ticket costs 120 LKR ($0.40).

Ordinary buses are also available for 56 LKR ($0.20), but we don’t recommend them as they make a lot of stops and travel time can take more than 2 hours.

Colombo to Negombo by Taxi

Duration: 1 hour

Costs: 2,600 LKR ($8.70)

Duration: 1 hour

Costs: 2,600 LKR ($8.70)

The taxi from Colombo to Negombo costs around 2,600 LKR ($8.70) when you book with Uber, but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability. It is also possible to find cheaper rates on the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo, but their availability is not guaranteed when going out of Colombo.

PRO TIP: Use the code “hpam1ue” or this link to order your first ride with Uber for free!

If none of the abovementioned options are working, you can also book a taxi via BookAway for 4,800 LKR ($16).

Frequently Asked Questions about Colombo to Negombo

What is the distance from Colombo to Negombo?

The distance from Colombo to Negombo is 40 kilometers (25 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Colombo to Negombo?

The fastest way to get from Colombo to Negombo is by taxi and takes 1 hour.

What is the cheapest way to get from Colombo to Negombo?

The cheapest way to get from Colombo to Negombo is by train with ticket costs starting from 80 LKR ($0.30).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Colombo to Negombo. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.

PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!

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About the author(s)

Maarten

Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.

Ela

Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.