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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 145 kilometre distance from Colombo to Galle. 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 Galle. You can choose between the train, bus, taxi. The most affordable option is by train, starting from $4. The fastest route is by train (2h ).
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2h
$4
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2h
$55
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2h 30m
$13
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To make the most of your train journey across Sri Lanka’s west coast, we recommend taking a 2nd class train for this journey of 2h - 2h 25m. This way, you will enjoy the comfort of a cushioned seat while enjoying the refreshing breeze from the open windows. A 2nd class unreserved seat costs 220 LKR.
The first train from Colombo to Galle departs at 06:55 and the last train leaves at 19:30. Their full schedule is available on the Sri Lanka Railways website.
The route from Colombo to Galle is among the busiest in Sri Lanka, especially during rush hours, when people are going to and from work. However, if you travel outside the peak times – 07:00-09:30; 12:30-14:00; 16:30-19:00 – then you should be okay.
If you don’t want to take the risk with a jam-packed train, you can also book a 1st class air-conditioned seat. Note that 1st class seats sell out fast, but you can still try buying them at the train station as soon as you arrive in Sri Lanka.
Another option is to book your 1st class reserved ticket online with rates from $4. Keep in mind that online booking for Sri Lanka train tickets is only allowed at least 30 days before your trip.
Securing good seats on Sri Lankan trains is a bit tricky, but possible if you prepare early. Check out our page on how to book train tickets in Sri Lanka for more info.
Normally, we recommend picking air-conditioned buses when travelling via a local bus in Sri Lanka. They are faster than ordinary buses and are a bit more comfortable. But for this route, we will make an exception.
Local buses #2-1 from Colombo to Galle pass along the west coast, so you will have a clear view of the sea. If you want the salty breeze that comes with it, take an ordinary bus for 170 LKR. Otherwise, you can take an air-conditioned bus for 335 LKR. Buses depart every 20 minutes.
Keep in mind that local buses in Sri Lanka can be a bit crowded and not the best option if you are carrying bulky luggage.
Alternative Bus
There is also an option to skip the seaside route altogether and take the expressway instead. With the expressway, buses can reach Galle in just 1.5 hours.
Take bus #EX001 from Makumbura Bus Stand. These buses depart every 20 minutes starting at 05:00 daily. Tickets cost 420 LKR.
Note that Makumbura is located about 30 minutes south of Colombo city centre. The only way to get there is by taxi or Uber. With Uber, fares start at 900 LKR.
If you add the fares for Uber and the express bus, the total can be more expensive than the tourist bus coming from Colombo city centre. The approximate total travel time is also 1h 30m if you include the transfer time.
If you don’t have an aversion to the sea, we recommend taking the direct tourist bus instead.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
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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The taxi from Colombo to Galle costs around 9,000 LKR if you book with Uber. But fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability.
For the cheapest rates, you can also check the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo. Keep in mind that although these apps are widely available in Colombo, you might have difficulty booking a taxi for longer journeys.
Just in case none of those is available, there is also an option to book via BookAway, with fares starting at .
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Carbon Footprint
This 145 km journey produces approximately 13 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Luggage Safety
Some stops on this route involve luggage storage or transfers. Keep valuables in your carry-on and use a lock on checked bags.
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.
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Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
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800 THB/night ($24)
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