Distance 108 km (67.5 miles) | |
Price range US$5-US$141 | |
Ride Duration Range 1h 30m-2h 40m | |
Earliest Departure 20:30 | |
Latest Departure 23:30 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.
Fastest bus: 1h 30m
Cheapest bus: US$7
Swapping one Sri Lankan city for another? While only 130 km (80 miles) from Colombo, Galle feels a world away from the capital city.
This once prominent trading port feels like it's been frozen in time. Echoes of its colonial history reverberate through its cobblestone streets and ancient fortifications.
Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, is the beating heart of the city. So much so that UNESCO declared Galle Fort a World Heritage Site in 1988.
The city is a brilliant mix of Sinhalese, Moor, Dutch, Burgher and other ethnic communities, contributing to its vibrant culinary scene, religious festivals, and arts.
Bet you can't wait to get there now!
There are four ways to get from Colombo to Galle in Sri Lanka: by train, bus, minivan, and car.
The journey takes 2-3 hours, depending on the transport option you go with. Taking the train is the cheapest way to get from Colombo to Galle. But a bus won't break the bank either.
While more expensive, the minivan and car are private and offer the ultimate convenience and comfort.
Whichever transportation option you choose, the time is likely to fly by. Whether you spend it reading a book, listening to music, or simply watching the picturesque landscapes flash by.
Galle is alive with history and culture.
It's a fascinating mix of numerous influences that have resulted in a concoction that's unique and charming. This isn't a city with an endless list of things to do, but the experiences on offer are some that you won't forget quickly.
Check out our favorite things to do in Galle:
Get lost in Galle Fort. It's undoubtedly the city's highlight. Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring its well-preserved colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don't miss the chance to walk along the ramparts for panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
Pro tip: Watching the sunset from the fort walls is a goose-bump-inducing experience.
Snap pics of the Galle Fort Lighthouse. It's one of the most iconic and recognizable sites in the city. Framed by palm trees, it's no wonder that this spot has become a popular photo opportunity.
Chill at Unawatuna Beach. When you're tired of walking around, escape to the beach for a day of soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Unawatuna Beach. This picturesque crescent-shaped beach is famous for its golden sands, calm waves, and vibrant beachside cafes.
Snorkel at Jungle Beach. Looking for a more secluded beach? Jungle Beach is only a short distance from Galle and feels like an isolated jungle paradise. Stroll along the pristine shoreline or go snorkeling to explore the colorful marine life.
Go whale watching. Between November and April, Sri Lanka's waters are frequented by Blue Whales and dolphins. If you're there during this time, hop on a boat and cross your fingers that you'll get lucky.
There are four ways to cover the 130 km (80 miles) between Galle and Colombo: by train, bus, minivan, and car.
Taking the train in Sri Lanka is an experience. While the Colombo to Galle route may not be as famous as the Kandy to Ella route, it's still an adventure with picturesque views.
The train is the cheapest way to get to Galle from Colombo, even if you're traveling first class. Tickets start from $4.
First-class trains are often recommended because:
The seats are more comfortable
There's air conditioning
You're guaranteed a seat
More space for your luggage
Toilets onboard
It’s a more chilled travel experience
Trains leave from Colombo Fort Station and arrive at Galle Railway Station in about 2-2.5 hours.
If you're bringing luggage onboard, it can be stored in the luggage racks at the end of each car or on the luggage racks above the seats.
The bus, more like a big minivan, is another cheap way to get from Colombo to Galle. Tickets start from $13 per person.
The journey takes around 2.5 hours, and with the relatively spacious minivan, it's a pretty comfortable trip.
There are three daily departures, leaving in the morning and early afternoon. Buses depart from Bastian Mawatha Bus Station and arrive at Galle Central Bus Station.
A private minivan can be a great option if you're traveling in a group. Prices start from $57 for the entire vehicle, and some vans fit up to eight people.
The minivans pick you up from Colombo Bandaranaike Airport and take you directly to your accommodation in Galle. When you land, your driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, with a name sign in hand, ready to take you to your first stop in Sri Lanka.
It's a comfortable and convenient way to travel from Colombo to Galle, taking 2-2.5 hours.
A private car is an alternative to a minivan if there aren't as many of you. Cars fit 2-3 passengers and can start from $52 for the whole vehicle, making it an affordable way to get from Colombo to Galle.
Your car can pick you up from the airport or your hotel in Colombo. After the 2-2.5 hour journey, you'll be dropped off right in front of your accommodation in Galle. It couldn't be easier!
Taking the train is the most scenic way to get from Colombo to Galle. The tracks run alongside the coast, boasting an engrossing two hours of palm trees and glistening turquoise water.
If you opt for a bus, minivan or car, it's likely your driver will take the motorway as it's the fastest route. Unsurprisingly, these views don't match those from the train.
The journey is one of the shorter trips in Sri Lanka. In no time, you'll have left the busy city of Colombo and arrived in the more laid-back city of Galle.
The best time to visit Galle is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to March.
During this time, you can expect sunny weather and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring Galle's historical sites, beaches, and nearby attractions.
Thankfully, temperatures are more moderate during the dry season — 25-30°C (77-86°F) — so you won't be dripping with sweat the entire time.
Like with all popular destinations, you won't be the only person chasing the good weather, so be prepared for more tourists during peak season.
Not a fan of crowds? Consider visiting during the shoulder months of April and May or September to November when the weather is still relatively dry, just with fewer tourists.
Galle may be a stunning place, but exploring it doesn't take too long. Many visit just to discover the magnificent fort, which only takes a few hours to cover.
If you want to soak up a bit more of the city's charm, 2-3 days will give you a better idea of what Galle is all about.
After soaking up some culture in Galle, most people continue along Sri Lanka's south coast to the beach towns of Weligama or Mirissa.
Here, you can learn to surf, explore magnificent underwater worlds or simply spend your days relaxing on the beach.
If you head to Mirissa, don't miss your chance to snap an iconic shot at Coconut Tree Hill.
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