There are 2 way(s) to get from Polonnaruwa to Kandy
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
Many popular spots like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Mirissa don't have train stations. Don't assume; always double-check your route. For these destinations, a bus or a private van will be your go-to transport option, offering door-to-door convenience.
The Kandy–Ella hill-country train is incredibly popular and seats, especially reserved tourist seats, sell out fast. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets online well in advance via platforms like 12go.asia. It's an iconic journey not to be missed!
Scenic train journeys, while beautiful, are often slow. For example, the Kandy–Ella trip can take 6-7 hours. Local buses can also be slower due to frequent stops. Factor in these realistic timings when planning your day.
For routes where trains are non-existent or inconvenient, and buses might be too slow, a private van offers a fantastic balance of speed and comfort. It's pricier but delivers door-to-door service, especially useful for reaching places like the Cultural Triangle.
Intercity buses are a budget-friendly and often efficient way to travel between towns not served by trains. They are generally reliable and frequent. Don't be afraid to ask locals for the best bus connections and departure points.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Sri Lanka's transport can feel like a puzzle, especially for routes like Polonnaruwa to Kandy. You're looking for the smart choice – balancing cost, speed, and comfort. Forget the guesswork; we'll give you the honest door-to-door times and real prices so you can decide instantly whether the train, a comfortable intercity bus, or a private van is best for your journey.
For the Polonnaruwa to Kandy route, you have two main options. The train, operated by Sri Lanka Railways, costs around €3 and typically takes about 2 hours, offering a glimpse of the local landscape. Alternatively, intercity buses are available for approximately €4, with a slightly shorter travel time of about 1 hour. While trains offer a classic Sri Lankan experience, buses are often more direct and efficient for this particular segment.
Unlike the famous Kandy–Ella scenic train, this route isn't about breathtaking views but practical travel. If you're short on time or prefer a more direct connection, the bus is often the more sensible choice for this leg, getting you to Kandy faster to enjoy the city. Save your train dreams for the hill country, where the journey itself is the destination!
Frequently asked questions — Polonnaruwa → Kandy
For this specific route, the bus is often the best choice for its balance of speed and cost. While the train is available and incredibly cheap, the bus offers a slightly shorter travel time and direct connections. A private van would be significantly more expensive and less necessary for this particular leg unless you have specific timing constraints or excess luggage.
By train, the journey typically takes around 2 hours and costs approximately €3. If you opt for an intercity bus, you can expect the trip to be slightly faster, usually about 1 hour, with a ticket price of around €4. These times are for direct travel and don't include waiting or transfer times.
No, for the Polonnaruwa to Kandy train, advance reservations are generally not necessary. This route is not one of Sri Lanka's highly demanded scenic journeys like the Kandy–Ella line. You can typically purchase your ticket at the station on the day of travel without issues, even if it gets a bit crowded during peak hours.
Several popular destinations, crucial for independent travelers, do not have train stations. These include the ancient city of Sigiriya, the Dambulla Cave Temple, and the popular south coast beaches around Mirissa and Tangalle. On the east coast, Arugam Bay is also exclusively reached by bus or private van, making these options essential for your itinerary planning.
✨ 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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