How To Get From Negombo To Kandy: The Complete Travel Guide
Planning your journey from the coastal town of Negombo to the cultural capital of Kandy? This popular route takes travelers from Sri Lanka’s beach gateway to the sacred hill city, home to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Looking for the fastest, most comfortable way to travel? Book a private taxi with Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka for a hassle-free journey with the freedom to explore fascinating sites along the way!
Distance and Travel Time
- Distance: Approximately 115 kilometers (71 miles)
- Direct Travel Time: 3-4 hours by private taxi
- Travel Time with Stops: 5-7 hours (recommended for the full experience)
- Road Conditions: Generally good with winding mountainous sections as you approach Kandy
How Many Ways to Go From Negombo to Kandy
There are 5 main ways to travel from Negombo to Kandy, each offering different levels of comfort, convenience, and cost. Here’s a List of your transportation options:
- 1. Private Taxi
- 2. Public Bus
- 3. Train
- 4. Shared Minivan
- 5. Tuk-Tuk
Transportation Options: The Complete Comparison
| Feature | 🚕 Private Taxi BOOK NOW |
🚌 Public Bus | 🚂 Train | 🛺 Tuk-Tuk | 🚐 Shared Minivan |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Journey Time | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3-4 hrs |
⭐⭐ 4-6 hrs |
⭐⭐ 4-6 hrs |
⭐ 4+ hrs |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.5-4 hrs |
| Door-to-Door | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| AC Available | ✅ Yes | ✅ Limited | ✅ 1st class only | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Scenic Stops | ✅ Unlimited | ❌ None | ❌ None | ❌ Limited | ❌ None |
| Comfort Level | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Luggage Space | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Booking Ease | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Online |
⭐⭐⭐ In-person |
⭐⭐⭐ Station/Online |
⭐⭐⭐ In-person |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Online |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| BOOK HERE | BOOK NOW | Not available online | Limited advance booking | Not available online | Limited availability |
1. Private Taxi: The Superior Choice
Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka is the leading provider of private taxi services from Negombo to Kandy. Our services include:
✓ Premium Vehicle Fleet
- Late-model sedans, SUVs and vans – all maintained to the highest standards
- Full air conditioning – essential for your comfort in changing climates
- Ample luggage space – no need to travel light or struggle with your bags
- Clean, sanitized interiors – for your health and comfort
- Comfortable seating – perfect for the 3-4 hour journey
✓ Professional Drivers
- English-speaking – clear communication throughout your journey
- Knowledgeable local guides – sharing cultural and historical insights
- Safe, experienced drivers – carefully vetted and trained
- Customer-focused service – attentive to your needs and preferences
- Flexible with your schedule – no rushing to meet rigid timetables
✓ Unmatched Convenience
- Online booking – secure your transportation in minutes
- Door-to-door service – pickup at your Negombo hotel, dropoff at your Kandy accommodation
- 24/7 customer support – assistance whenever you need it
- Flexible payment options – pay securely online or in person
- Clear, transparent pricing – no surprise fees or charges
➤ CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR PRIVATE TAXI NOW
“After our overnight flight, the last thing we wanted was to navigate public transportation. Our driver met us at our Negombo hotel, helped with our luggage, and made the journey to Kandy an actual highlight of our trip. He suggested we stop at the Elephant Orphanage which was magical for our kids.” – Michael F., Australia (January 2023)
Most Scenic Routes from Negombo to Kandy
The journey from Negombo to Kandy offers several route options, each with unique attractions. With a private taxi, you can select the route that best matches your interests.
Main Route: Via Ambepussa and Kegalle (A1 Highway)
The Direct Journey (3-3.5 hours)
- Negombo → Katunayake → Ja-Ela (30 minutes)
- Coastal lowlands and urban areas
- Pass near Bandaranaike International Airport
- Ja-Ela → Ambepussa → Kegalle (1.5 hours)
- Gradually changing landscape from plains to hills
- Roadside fruit stands with seasonal tropical fruits
- Option to stop at roadside restaurants for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine
- Kegalle → Kandy (1-1.5 hours)
- Increasingly mountainous terrain
- Tea plantations begin to appear
- Winding roads with scenic valley views
This direct route offers the fastest journey time but still includes beautiful scenery as you ascend into hill country.
Cultural Route: Via Pinnawala (adds 1-2 hours)
This popular route includes the famous elephant orphanage:
- Negombo → Kegalle (2 hours)
- Follow the main route through Ja-Ela and Ambepussa
- Kegalle → Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (20 minutes + 2 hours visit)
- One of Sri Lanka’s most popular attractions
- See elephants bathing in the river (scheduled times)
- Learn about elephant conservation efforts
- Various dining options overlooking the elephant bathing area
- Pinnawala → Kandy (1 hour)
- Continue through scenic highland roads
- Arrive in Kandy from the western approach
Family Traveler Feedback: “The stop at Pinnawala was magical for our children. Seeing the baby elephants and watching the herd bathe in the river was unforgettable. Our driver knew exactly when to arrive to see the elephants during bathing time, which we would have missed on our own.” – Family of Four, UK
Heritage and Nature Route (adds 2-3 hours)
For travelers interested in Sri Lanka’s history and natural beauty:
- Negombo → Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya (3 hours + 1.5 hours visit)
- Travel via the main route to near Kandy
- Explore magnificent gardens with giant bamboo, orchid house, and palm collections
- 60+ hectares of beautifully maintained botanical specimens
- Botanical Gardens → Gadaladeniya Temple (30 minutes + 45 minutes visit)
- Ancient Buddhist temple dating from 1344
- South Indian architectural influence
- Off the typical tourist path
- Gadaladeniya → Embekka Devalaya (15 minutes + 45 minutes visit)
- Famous for its extraordinary wood carvings
- Intricately carved wooden pillars
- Cultural insights into Sri Lankan craftsmanship
- Embekka → Kandy (30 minutes)
- Approach Kandy from the southwest
- Views of Kandy Lake as you enter the city
History Enthusiast Note: “Our driver suggested this cultural route when he learned about our interest in history. These less-visited temples provided a more authentic experience away from the tourist crowds, with exquisite craftsmanship that rivals anything we saw in the more famous sites.” – Cultural Tourist
Public Bus: The Budget Option
Public buses provide the most economical way to travel from Negombo to Kandy, but require more time and offer less comfort. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the bus journey:
Option 1: Direct Bus from Negombo to Kandy
- Bus type: Semi-luxury/AC or Regular (non-AC)
- Journey time: 4-5 hours
- Cost:
- AC/Semi-luxury: LKR 400-500 ($1.30-1.70)
- Regular: LKR 250-300 ($0.85-1.00)
- Frequency: Limited – typically 2-3 departures daily
- Departure point: Negombo main bus stand
- Bus condition:
- AC buses: Assigned seating, reasonable comfort
- Regular buses: Basic seating, open windows, often crowded
Option 2: Via Colombo
If you miss the direct bus, you’ll need to travel via Colombo:
Step 1: Negombo to Colombo
- Bus type: Regular or AC
- Journey time: 1.5-2 hours (depending on traffic)
- Cost: LKR 100-200 ($0.30-0.70)
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Departure point: Negombo bus stand
- Bus condition: Can be crowded, especially during rush hours
Step 2: Colombo to Kandy
- Bus type: Regular or AC/Semi-luxury
- Journey time: 3-4 hours
- Cost:
- AC/Semi-luxury: LKR 350-400 ($1.15-1.35)
- Regular: LKR 200-250 ($0.65-0.85)
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes from Colombo central bus stand
- Bus number: Typically #1 (various operators)
Bus Travel Tips:
- For direct buses from Negombo to Kandy, arrive early (before 8:00 AM) to secure a seat
- Keep smaller denominations of cash ready for tickets
- Bus conductors will come to collect fares after departure
- For AC buses, look for the “A/C” or “Semi-Luxury” sign on the bus windshield
- If traveling with large luggage, consider private transportation instead
Traveler Experience: "We took the public bus to save money. It was an adventure for sure, but it took nearly 6 hours with all the stops and the transfer in Colombo. Next time, I'd definitely pay extra for a taxi to save time and hassle." - Budget Traveler Review
Train: The Scenic Option
The train journey from Negombo to Kandy offers beautiful scenery but requires some planning. Since there’s no train station in Negombo itself, you’ll need to:
Step 1: Negombo to Colombo Fort Station
- Options:
- Taxi/Uber: 1 hour, LKR 2,500-3,000 ($8-10)
- Bus: 1.5-2 hours, LKR 100-150 ($0.30-0.50)
- Departure point: Your Negombo hotel
Step 2: Colombo to Kandy by Train
- Journey time: 2.5-3.5 hours (depending on train type)
- Cost:
- 1st class: LKR 1,500 ($5) with AC and reserved seating
- 2nd class: LKR 600 ($2) with reserved seating, no AC
- 3rd class: LKR 300 ($1) with unreserved seating
- Frequency: 4-5 departures daily (morning, midday, afternoon)
- Train types: Express, Intercity, and Regular services
- Scenery: Mountain views, tea plantations, and local villages
Popular Train Services:
- Intercity Express (fastest option): Departs Colombo 7:00 AM, arrives Kandy 9:30 AM
- Observation Car Train: Departs Colombo 7:30 AM, arrives Kandy 10:30 AM (scenic views)
- Afternoon Express: Departs Colombo 3:35 PM, arrives Kandy 6:15 PM
Train Travel Tips:
- Book 1st and 2nd class tickets in advance (30+ days recommended in peak season)
- 3rd class tickets can be purchased on the day but expect standing-room only
- The right side of the train offers better views on the Colombo-Kandy route
- Arrive at Colombo Fort station 45 minutes before departure
Important Note: While the train journey itself is scenic, the overall journey from Negombo requires multiple transfers and can be challenging with luggage.
FAQs About Traveling from Negombo to Kandy
What’s the best way to travel directly from Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy?
A private taxi is by far the most convenient option after a long flight. We can meet you right at the airport arrivals area, help with your luggage, and take you directly to your accommodation in Kandy without any transfers.
Is there a direct train from Negombo to Kandy?
No, there’s no direct train. You would need to first travel to Colombo Fort Station (by taxi or bus), then take a train from there to Kandy. This makes the total journey longer and more complicated than going by road.
Can I hire a driver for just one way from Negombo to Kandy?
Yes, Vehicle Hire Sri Lanka offers one-way taxi services without requiring a round-trip booking. Many travelers choose to continue their journey from Kandy to other destinations like Ella, Nuwara Eliya, or Dambulla.
Conclusion: Transform Your Negombo to Kandy Journey into an Unforgettable Experience
Your choice of how to travel this 115km route will significantly impact your Sri Lankan experience. While buses and trains have their place, a private taxi offers unparalleled advantages:
- Freedom to explore hidden gems and major attractions along the way
- Personalized comfort that public transportation simply cannot match
- Door-to-door convenience from your Negombo hotel directly to your Kandy accommodation
- Local knowledge from experienced drivers who know the perfect stops and viewpoints
- Time efficiency that gives you more hours to actually enjoy your vacation
Don’t leave your Negombo to Kandy experience to chance. Book your private taxi today and turn your journey into one of your trip’s highlights rather than just a transfer.
