How to Get From Negombo to Galle
Train · Taxi · Bus
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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 160 kilometre (99 miles) distance from Negombo to Galle. By the end of this guide, you'll know exactly how to get there — whether you want to travel on a budget, reach Galle as fast as possible, or enjoy the ride in comfort. We base our information on verified schedules, ticket prices, and on-the-ground insights from recent travellers.
What are the 3 ways to travel from Negombo to Galle?
There are three ways to travel the 160 km distance from Negombo to Galle. You can choose between the train, taxi, and bus.
The journey takes between 3h–4h 30m and the quickest way is by taxi (3h). If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 740 LKR ($2.20).
3h 20m - 3h 25m
1,600 LKR ($4.90)
3 hours
1,720 LKR ($5.20)
4h 30m
740 LKR ($2.20)
Or, before you go
More routes from Negombo
Still planning your way to Galle? Explore other routes from Negombo — 3 researched options.
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.
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 leaves at 06:30, and the journey takes at least 1h. If you’re planning to continue to Galle on the same day, make sure you leave Negombo by 17:09 at the latest to still make the final connection.
You can check more train schedules here.
If you weren't able to secure tickets online, you can still buy them at the station for 200 LKR ($0.60) for an unreserved second-class seat.
Ready to book your step?
Step 2: Colombo to Galle by Train
The earliest train from Colombo Fort to Galle leaves at 06:17, while the last one departs at 18:50. The journey takes about 2h 20m - 2h 25m, and you can book tickets online for 1,430 LKR ($4.40).
Ready to book your step?
Negombo to Galle by Taxi
A private transfer from Negombo to Galle 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.
However, it is also the most expensive. Prices start at 1,720 LKR ($5.20) when booked with Uber. If you’re hoping to find cheaper rates, you can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo.
Negombo to Galle by Bus
There are no direct buses operating from Negombo to Galle. You will 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 to Colombo run every 20 minutes.
Ordinary buses are the cheapest option, with fares from 300 LKR ($0.90). They make a lot of stops along the way, so the journey takes around 1.5 hours to reach Colombo Central Bus Stand.
Air-conditioned buses are faster and more comfortable than ordinary buses. But with ticket prices starting from 5,600 LKR ($17), you might find better value in booking a taxi instead.
Ready to book your step?
Step 2: Colombo to Galle by Bus
From the Central Bus Stand, walk a few minutes to Bastian Mawatha Bus Station. From here, take bus #2-1 bound for Galle.
You can choose between ordinary and air-conditioned buses. Ordinary fares start from 440 LKR ($1.30), while air-conditioned bus tickets cost 800 LKR ($2.40).
The journey takes about 3 hours.
Most buses follow the coastal road, so you can expect some nice sea views along the way. For more details, check out our page on Colombo to Galle.
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!
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance from Negombo to Galle is 160 km.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
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.
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About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
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.
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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.
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