How to get from Colombo Airport to Dambulla by train or bus
Landed at CMB with two bags. Is there a normal train or bus to Dambulla, or am I stuck paying for a private van?
More
3 Answers from travellers
Ordinary board first. Colombo Fort / Kandy / the coastal line will get you closer to Dambulla than a cousin van. Seated if you have an elder or bags. Last hop is a written tuk fare. Do not buy a private tour because the bus looks full.
We did Dambulla last week without a driver. One hop, one plan B, small cash, and PickMe where it actually pings. The tourist loop cost more and showed us less. If you only have one day, pick the main thing and skip the extra viewpoint.
If you are tired, stay nearer the bus stand or the fort/town centre rather than hunting a perfect Dambulla sunset. Cards fail in smaller places, so pull cash in Colombo, Kandy, or Galle first. Locals will tell you if a ticket is counter-only.
You must be logged in to post an answer.
Log In to AnswerRelated questions
- Wildlife parks in Sri Lanka beyond Yala - Wilpattu, Minneriya, Udawalawe - which is worth visiting?2 answers
- Kandy Esala Perahera - when does it happen, where are the best viewing spots, and how do I get seats?2 answers
- Arugam Bay vs Weligama for intermediate surfing - which should I choose and why?2 answers
- Best local food to eat in Colombo - where do locals actually eat and what should I try?2 answers
- How cheap can you realistically travel Sri Lanka on a shoestring - $25-30 USD per day?2 answers
- Ayurveda retreat in Sri Lanka - what to expect and how to find genuine treatment vs tourist trap?2 answers
Join a Crew
Kandy Perahera Live Tonight
Perahera Seats, Hotels & Roads
Dalada & Perahera Culture