How to Get From Colombo to Kandy: Winding through Sri Lanka's Splendor 

Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka is the second largest city and the spiritual epicentre. Serving as the entry point to the lush central highlands, the city is nestled amidst the Sea of Milk, which is the serene Kandy Lake that envelopes the city. Colombo is the commercial hub and the biggest city of Sri Lanka. It is a vibrant city that draws together the cultures and people that make up this nation from all parts of the country. Blending together old colonial architecture, modern high-rise buildings, friendly people, good food and great entertainment, Colombo is truly the best city in the country to live in.

Travelling to Kandy!

Train Travelling to Ella from Kandy | Image via Needpix

There are various ways to go to Kandy; depending on your needs, you can take a private vehicle or use public transportation.

Train: The journey by train from Colombo to Kandy is incredibly picturesque. For a comfortable ride, the intercity express is the best option. If you are travelling over the weekend, you must reserve your intercity train tickets in advance.

Bus - You must go to the Fort bus station in order to take the bus from Colombo to Kandy. To go to your destination, you must take the number 1 bus from there. An air-conditioned intercity bus is a more pleasant option.

Private vehicle: The most comfortable option for your trip is to go in a private vehicle, but it's also the most expensive.
There are several modes of transport to Kandy and you can book your accommodation in the city from Kandy Escapes.
Toot toot! 

Taking the most scenic route to Kandy

If you are passionate about picturesque villages and dense greenery then you are going to love the train ride from Colombo to Kandy. 

There are 7-8 trains that depart from Colombo Fort to Kandy on a daily basis, you can choose the most convenient one. The train ride takes up to 3.5 hours and it is best to book your train ticket in advance. For reserved seating tickets must be booked at least 2-3 weeks ahead. Unreserved tickets can be purchased on the day you're travelling and they are never sold out. The only issue is that unreserved tickets don't assure that you will get a seat.

The not-so-scenic route!

If you are not running on a tight budget and you prefer convenience over everything else then, you can hire a private car.

Travel Tips

Whether you are travelling to Kandy or any other part of Sri Lanka, here are some travel tips that are sure to come in handy.

Getting around

The cheapest way to travel around the country is on public transport, it may not be the comfiest but the experience is welcoming. For short distance travel you can opt for a tuk-tuk.

Savour the food

Sri Lankan cuisine is mouthwatering. Don't shy away from tasting the local rice and curry, kottu, hoppers, string hoppers as well as a range of authentic cuisines you will come across. Relishing a cup of Ceylon tea will complete your meal!

Dress to kill

Make sure to carry light, cotton clothing if you are looking to travel comfortably. Swimwear is a must since the beaches are too hard to resist. Be mindful not to wear revealing clothes when entering Buddhist temples and avoid covering your head by wearing a hat or cap. For ladies, a shawl will be useful to cover up when necessary.

Travelling solo

Sri Lanka is safe for both men and women to travel alone. The locals are a friendly and polite bunch.

Communication

Most locals are able to understand if you communicate in English. They are very helpful and hospitable so communication is not something to worry about.