In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 32 kilometre distance from Colombo to Colombo. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 3 ways to get from Colombo to Colombo. You can choose between the taxi, shared minivan, bus. The most affordable option is by taxi, starting from $4. The fastest route is by shared minivan (0h 50m).
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50m
$13
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1h
$4
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1h
$290
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A private transfer from Colombo to Colombo is the easiest and most convenient option. The journey takes , and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Taxis are available at the airport, but Uber and Pickme are usually cheaper and more reliable. Uber is the most budget-friendly option for this route, with prices starting at for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 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 20.5 USD.
You can book a 3 to 4-seater taxi for about 1,600 LKR on Uber or Pickme.
A minivan ride from Colombo Airport to the city centre costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic.
Magical Sri Lanka operates two minivans on this route. One drops you near the World Trade Center in Colombo, while the other stops at Colombo Fort Train Station. Both locations sit right in the heart of the city, so it’s easy to continue your journey from there to your accommodation.
That said, you can often find better value by booking a taxi, especially if you’re travelling with others and can split the fare.
The bus is an affordable option for travel from Colombo to Colombo. Bus fares start at $290, and the journey takes around 1h.
You have two main bus options, but we think the airport shuttle offers the best value.
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Koh Tao is a premier diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand, widely known as one of the most affordable places in the world to obtain your PADI certification. Beyond diving, the island offers beautiful bays, pristine beaches, stunning viewpoints, coral gardens, and abundant marine life.
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Carbon Footprint
This 32 km journey produces approximately 3 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Popular budget resort with pool, located on Sairee Beach. Walking distance to dive shops and restaurants.
800 THB/night ($24)
Beachfront bungalows with balconies overlooking Sairee Beach. On-site restaurant and dive center.
2,200 THB/night ($66)
Luxury resort with private beach, infinity pool, and spa. Perfect for couples wanting extra comfort.
6,500 THB/night ($195)
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