What to expect when visiting 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.
3 ways to get from Negombo to Galle
There are three ways to travel the distance of 160 km (99 miles) from Negombo to Galle: by bus (8 hours), taxi (3 hours) and train (6 hours). The journey takes between 3-8 hours and the quickest way is by taxi. The lowest priced tickets start from 300 Rs ($0.90) for the train.Negombo to Galle by Train
There are no direct trains from Negombo to Galle. You will have to divide your train ride into two: from Negombo to Colombo Fort, and then from Colombo Fort to Galle.
Note that only 2nd and 3rd-class trains are available for both routes.
From your accommodation in Negombo, you can take a short tuk-tuk ride to the train station.
Step 1: Negombo to Colombo by Train
The first train from Negombo to Colombo Fort departs at 06:30 and the journey takes at least an hour. If you’re hoping to transfer to another train bound for Galle within the same day, the last train you can take from Negombo to Colombo departs at 17:09.
You can check out more train schedules here.
Tickets are available at the train station for 80 Rs ($0.20) for an unreserved 2nd class seat. See our guide on how to book train tickets in Sri Lanka for more info.
Step 2: Colombo to Galle by Train
The earliest connecting train you can take from Colombo Fort to Galle departs at 10:30, while the last train leaves at 19:30. Travel time is about 2.5 hours and tickets are available at the train station for 220 Rs ($0.60).
See here for more train schedules. You can also visit our page on Colombo to Galle for more info.
Negombo to Galle by Bus
Like the train, there are no direct buses operating from Negombo to Galle. You will also have to make a bus transfer in Colombo.
Note that apart from being uncomfortable, buses are normally cramped. If you’re carrying bulky luggage, you might have to pay for an additional fare so that your luggage can “sit” beside you.
Step 1: Negombo to Colombo by Bus
From Negombo Bus Terminal, buses bound for Colombo are available every 20 minutes.
You can take an aircon bus for 120 Rs ($0.30) and you can expect to reach Colombo Central Bus Stand in about 1.5 hours. Ordinary buses are also available for 56 Rs ($0.10), but they make more stops and take longer.
Step 2: Colombo to Galle by Bus
From the Central Bus Stand, walk a few minutes to Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal. Here, take bus #2-1 bound for Galle.
You can also choose from ordinary and aircon buses. Fares start at 170 Rs ($0.50) and travel time is about 3 hours. Most buses take the road overlooking the coast should it should be a picturesque journey. For more info, check out our page on Colombo to Galle.
Negombo to Galle by Taxi
The easiest and most comfortable option for this route is to travel by taxi. However, it is also the most expensive.
Prices start at 9,100 Rs ($28.00) when booked with Uber, but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability. If you’re hoping to find cheaper rates, you can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo, but unfortunately, these apps have very limited availability outside the capital city, Colombo.
Frequently Asked Questions about Negombo to Galle
What is the distance from Negombo to Galle?
The distance from Negombo to Galle is 160 km (99 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Negombo to Galle?
The fastest way to get from Negombo to Galle is by taxi and takes 3 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from Negombo to Galle?
The cheapest way to get from Negombo to Galle is by train with ticket costs starting from 300 Rs ($0.90).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Negombo to Galle. 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!
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 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.
