There are 2 way(s) to get from Anuradhapura to Kandy
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Remember that popular destinations like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Mirissa are not served by train. You'll need to plan for a bus or private van to reach these spots, so don't assume a train connection exists.
The Kandy–Ella scenic train is extremely popular and seats, especially reserved ones, sell out fast. Book your tickets several weeks in advance, particularly if traveling during peak season, to avoid disappointment.
Hill-country trains, while scenic, are slow. The Kandy–Ella journey can take 6-7 hours. Local buses are also subject to traffic. Factor in realistic travel times to avoid rushed schedules.
For places like Sigiriya and Dambulla, which lack train stations, a private van or a direct bus can be the most efficient way to travel from major hubs like Kandy or Dambulla town.
Platforms like 12go.asia are excellent for comparing train, bus, and van options, seeing honest door-to-door times, and booking tickets for popular routes, ensuring instant confirmation.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling from Anuradhapura to Kandy offers you two main choices: the train or the bus. It's crucial to understand the real times and costs involved, especially since Sri Lanka's trains, while iconic, aren't always the fastest option for every route. This journey is a great example of needing to weigh up scenic charm against efficiency, helping you decide if you want a quicker bus ride or a more traditional train experience to the heart of the Cultural Triangle.
For this specific route, the train typically takes about 3 hours and costs around €3, operated by Sri Lanka Railways. It offers a chance to see the landscape at a leisurely pace. Alternatively, intercity buses are a faster option, completing the journey in approximately 2 hours for about €8. These buses are usually comfortable enough for the relatively short duration and provide a direct link between the two cities.
When planning your trip from Anuradhapura to Kandy, don't assume the train is always the best or only choice. While trains are perfect for the famous Kandy-Ella hill journey, for this particular leg, a bus might be a more sensible and efficient option, especially if you're keen to maximize your sightseeing time in Kandy. Always check real-time schedules and consider your priorities: a slightly longer, scenic train ride or a quicker bus to get you there sooner.
Frequently asked questions — Anuradhapura → Kandy
For Anuradhapura to Kandy, both train and intercity bus are excellent options. The train offers a scenic, traditional experience, while the bus is generally quicker. A private van would be significantly more expensive and less common for this specific route unless you prioritize door-to-door convenience and speed above all else.
By train, the journey typically takes around 3 hours and costs about €3 for a standard ticket. If you opt for an intercity bus, expect a quicker ride of approximately 2 hours, with tickets costing around €8. These are direct, honest timings and prices, allowing you to plan your budget and schedule effectively.
Absolutely, yes! The Kandy–Ella scenic train is incredibly popular and seats, especially the coveted reserved observation or first-class seats, sell out weeks in advance. If this is a bucket-list ride for you, booking well ahead through platforms like 12go.asia is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment on the day.
Several key tourist destinations, including Sigiriya, Dambulla, and most of the south coast beaches like Mirissa and Tangalle, do not have direct train stations. Similarly, Arugam Bay on the east coast is also bus or private van only. For these spots, you'll need to plan your transport accordingly, often relying on intercity buses or private transfers for door-to-door convenience.
For destinations like Sigiriya and Dambulla within the Cultural Triangle, a private van or a local bus from a nearby hub (like Dambulla town or Kandy) is the smart choice. For the beaches, intercity buses are widely available and very affordable. If you're traveling with luggage or want to save time, a private taxi or van for direct routes to the beaches is often worth the extra cost.
✨ Why visit Kandy?
- ✓ Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- ✓ Stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, famous for its orchids
- ✓ Explore the Ceylon Tea Museum and learn about Sri Lanka's tea production
- ✓ Enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dance and drumming
- ✓ Discover the panoramic views from Arthur's Seat viewpoint overlooking Kandy Lake
☀️ When to visit Kandy?
TROPICAL MOUSSONNELLE HUMIDE
December to April — dry season with pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
What to do in Kandy?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Kandy?
For an independent traveler, 2 to 3 days are ideal to explore Kandy's main attractions without rushing. One day allows you to see the Temple of the Tooth and the lake, but you'll miss the botanical gardens and cultural shows. Allocate at least two full days to fully appreciate the city and its surroundings.
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