There are 2 way(s) to get from Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Remember that iconic spots like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and most south coast beaches (Mirissa, Tangalle) do not have train stations. For these destinations, you'll need to rely on intercity buses or private vans, which are readily available and often the most efficient way to travel.
If your journey includes the famous Kandy-Ella hill-country train, reserve your seats well in advance, especially for 2nd or 3rd class reserved carriages. This route is incredibly popular and tickets sell out fast. You can book via local agents or platforms like 12go.asia.
For shorter, intercity routes like Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura, local buses are a fantastic and authentic option. They are incredibly cheap, frequent, and offer a glimpse into daily Sri Lankan life. Don't shy away from them!
When time is tight or you're traveling with luggage, a private van or taxi can be a worthwhile splurge, especially for routes where there's no direct train (e.g., to Sigiriya from Kandy). They offer door-to-door comfort and speed, albeit at a higher cost.
Always factor in realistic travel times. Scenic trains are slow; local buses, while efficient, can take longer due to stops. Don't underestimate travel durations, especially if you have connecting plans.
🛣️ The journey experience
Traveling between Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka is straightforward, with reliable train and bus options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Unlike some of the more remote destinations without train access, both of these ancient cities are well-connected, making it easy to plan your next step in the Cultural Triangle. Understanding the real travel times and costs for each mode of transport will help you make the smartest choice for your itinerary.
For this route, you have two excellent choices: the train operated by Sri Lanka Railways or a local intercity bus. The train is a wonderfully scenic and affordable option, typically costing around €2 and taking approximately 2 hours. Buses are often quicker, getting you from Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura in about 1 hour for roughly €4, making them a good choice if time is a critical factor. Both are frequently available throughout the day.
While Sri Lanka's iconic hill-country trains are famous for their stunning, slow journeys, the Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura route is more about practicality and convenience within the Cultural Triangle. Don't worry about missing out on a reserved seat here; both trains and buses are generally easy to board. If you're looking for the quickest door-to-door option, a bus is slightly faster, but the train offers a charming, budget-friendly experience.
Frequently asked questions — Polonnaruwa → Anuradhapura
For the Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura route, both train and intercity bus are excellent and highly recommended options. The train offers a charming, budget-friendly journey of about 2 hours, while the bus is generally quicker at around 1 hour. A private van is an option if you prioritize ultimate convenience or have specific luggage needs, but it's not strictly necessary for this well-connected route.
By train, the journey typically takes around 2 hours, with tickets costing approximately €2. If you opt for an intercity bus, expect a faster journey of about 1 hour, with fares around €4. Both are incredibly affordable, making it easy to fit into any budget-conscious travel plan. Prices are indicative and can vary slightly.
Unlike the popular Kandy-Ella scenic train, reserving seats for the Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura route is generally not necessary. While you can often buy tickets on the day of travel at the station, for peace of mind, especially during peak season, checking for availability or pre-booking a day or two ahead can be a good idea. However, it's a much less crowded route.
Many popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka do not have direct train access. This includes Sigiriya, Dambulla (for the cave temple), and the southern coastal towns like Mirissa, Tangalle, and Arugam Bay on the east coast. For these locations, your best options are always intercity buses or private vans/taxis, offering flexible and efficient travel solutions.
For reaching destinations within the Cultural Triangle like Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, both trains and buses are smart, affordable choices. For places without train access, such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, and most beaches (Mirissa, Tangalle, Arugam Bay), intercity buses are your budget-friendly option, while private vans offer speed and comfort. Mix and match based on your priorities!
✨ Why visit Anuradhapura?
- ✓ Explore the ancient Ruwanwelisaya dagoba, a stunning white stupa housing sacred relics.
- ✓ Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the oldest documented tree in the world.
- ✓ Wander through the impressive Jetavanarama dagoba, once the tallest stupa globally.
- ✓ Discover the intricate stone carvings and monastic ruins of Isurumuniya Vihara.
- ✓ Cycle through the vast archaeological park, immersing yourself in millennia of history.
☀️ When to visit Anuradhapura?
CLIMAT TROPICAL MONSOON
May to September — dry season, offering sunny skies and ideal conditions for sightseeing.
What to do in Anuradhapura?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Anuradhapura?
Pour un voyageur indépendant, 2 jours sont idéaux pour Anuradhapura. Cela permet de visiter le site archéologique sans précipitation et d'apprécier l'atmosphère. Prévoir une journée complète pour les dagobas et les ruines principales, et une demi-journée ou une journée supplémentaire pour explorer les environs ou revisiter un lieu coup de cœur.
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