In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 40 kilometre distance from Colombo to Negombo. 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 Negombo. You can choose between the taxi, train, bus. The most affordable option is by taxi, starting from $2. The fastest route is by taxi (1h ).
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1h
$2
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1h 30m
$80
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1h 30m
$120
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The taxi from Colombo to Negombo costs around when you book with Uber, but fares can be slightly cheaper or more expensive depending on availability. It is also possible to find cheaper rates on the taxi apps PickMe and TaxiGo, but their availability is not guaranteed when going out of Colombo.
PRO TIP: Use the code “hpam1ue” or this link to order your first ride with Uber for free!If none of the abovementioned options are working, you can also book a taxi via BookAway for 4,800 LKR.
As far as we know, only 2nd class and 3rd class trains operate from Colombo to Negombo. The good thing is it’s just a short ride for 1.5 hours, so the seats should still be comfortable enough.
Most of the trains operating this route are commuter trains, so reserved seats are not available. A tip, travel on an off-peak hour to ensure a seat. If you take this train at the same time locals get to and from work, it’s going to be really crowded. The first train from Colombo to Negombo departs at 04:00 and the last train leaves at 20:20. You can check out the full schedule here.
Tickets are very affordable at $80 for a 2nd class seat and 45 LKR for a 3rd class seat. You can buy your tickets at the train station on the day of your journey.
If you don’t want to take the risk of missing a seat on the train ride from Colombo to Negombo, the bus is another option. The ride will not be as scenic as the train, but it will get you to your destination with a good level of comfort.
We suggest that you take an airconditioned bus as they are more comfortable and faster than ordinary buses. They depart from Colombo Central Bus Stand every 20 minutes and a ticket costs $120.
Ordinary buses are also available for 56 LKR, but we don’t recommend them as they make a lot of stops and travel time can take more than 2 hours.
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 40 km journey produces approximately 4 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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