Distances in Sri Lanka are short, but journeys are slow. Roads are narrow and winding in the hills, towns are busy, and an average of 40 km an hour is normal away from the expressways. Plan for that and you will enjoy the journeys.
Typical journey times by road
These are planning times for a private car, including a short stop. The higher figure allows for traffic and slow stretches.
| Journey | Usually | Allow |
|---|---|---|
| Airport to Negombo | 15 to 20 min | 30 min |
| Airport to Colombo | 1 hr | 1 hr 15 |
| Airport to Sigiriya | 4 hr | 4 hr 45 |
| Sigiriya to Kandy | 2 hr 30 | 3 hr |
| Kandy to Nuwara Eliya | 2 hr 30 | 3 hr 15 |
| Nuwara Eliya to Ella | 2 hr | 2 hr 30 |
| Ella to Tissamaharama | 2 hr 30 | 3 hr |
| Mirissa to Galle | 1 hr | 1 hr 15 |
| Galle to the airport | 2 hr 45 | 3 hr 15 |
Times are based on OpenStreetMap routing, adjusted for road conditions, and are being checked by drivers on each route.
Car and driver
Most visitors hire a car with a driver for some or all of the trip. It is the most flexible way to travel and not expensive when shared. Drivers usually arrange their own food and lodging. Agree the route, the daily rate and what it includes in writing before you start.
Trains
The train between Kandy and Ella through the tea country is one of the great rail journeys. It is slow, about six to seven hours, so many people ride one section, such as Nanu Oya to Ella.
- Reserved seats in first, second and observation classes can be booked on the official seat reservation site, up to 30 days ahead and at least two hours before departure, with up to five seats per booking. They sell out fast in season.
- Unreserved second and third-class tickets are sold at the station on the day.
- Check times on the official timetable. On 17 October 2026, train 1027 left Kandy at 09:45 and reached Ella at 16:06.
Buses
Buses go almost everywhere and cost very little. They are crowded and fast, and luggage space is limited. Air-conditioned intercity buses run on the expressways between Colombo, Kandy, Galle and Matara.
Tuk-tuks and ride-hailing
Three-wheelers are the easiest way to get around towns. In Colombo and other cities, the PickMe and Uber apps show the fare upfront. Elsewhere, agree the price before you get in.
Driving yourself
You need an International Driving Permit endorsed locally, or a temporary Sri Lankan licence. Traffic is unpredictable, so most visitors prefer a driver.