Best apps or ways to navigate public transport in Sri Lanka in 2026?
2 Answers from travellers
Google Maps works reasonably well for major routes and estimated times, though real-time accuracy varies. The official railway website or app can help with train schedules and bookings. For buses, local knowledge is often best — ask at your hotel or guesthouse for the right bus number and where to catch it. Some areas have ride-hailing apps that can supplement public transport. Printed timetables at stations and asking locals remain reliable methods. Navigation apps are improving but aren't perfect for smaller roads or less common routes. Many travelers combine apps with local advice for the smoothest experience. For complex journeys, asking your accommodation to write down bus numbers or directions in Sinhala/Tamil can help.
Google Maps helps for major routes. Ask locally for bus details. Apps are improving but local knowledge is still very useful.
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