In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 210 kilometre distance from Colombo to Dickwella. 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 Dickwella. You can choose between the train, taxi, bus. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $4. The fastest route is by taxi (3h ).
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3h
$9
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3h
$420
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3h 5m
$4
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Dickwella doesn’t have its own railway station, so your best option is to take a direct train to Matara. Another station that is closer to Dickwella is Wewurukannala. This station is only 10min drive from Dickwella and part of the railway between Matara to Beliatta, but unfortunately, the schedule runs very irregularly.
Somehow, I ended up taking this train from Colombo as my original train was canceled. This journey isn’t recommended, though. The trip took me almost double the amount of time, excluding the waiting time at Colombo railways station!
For this reason, we recommend taking a direct train to Matara and continue by taxi or bus to Dickwella. Or if you want to try your luck, ask for the train to Wewurukannala (good luck with pronouncing that) and who knows it might be leaving soon after you arrived.
From Colombo to Dickwella, you can book a taxi via Uber for around , but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability. Hoping for cheaper rates? You can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo. But note that although these are widely available in Colombo, they are not easy to book for longer journeys.
PRO TIP: Use the code “hpam1ue” or this link to order your first ride with Uber for free!
The only direct buses available from Colombo to Dickwella are non-airconditioned buses. Normally, these would be very uncomfortable in Sri Lanka. But the buses will be passing along the west coast, so you might enjoy the sea breeze from the open window.
From Bastian Mawatha Bus Stand, take a bus bound for Kataragama (#3) or Tangalle (#32-4). Make sure to pick the semi-luxury bus as they make fewer stops compared to the normal bus. Fares start at $420. Ask your driver to drop you off at Dickwella.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
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 210 km journey produces approximately 19 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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