Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura Train Timetable & Tickets 2026 – Times, Prices & Booking Guide
Last updated: 19 May 2026 • All data from Sri Lanka Railways
Sri Lanka has a good rail network, making it very convenient for travelers to travel between Colombo Fort and Anuradhapura by train, as there are currently 58 trains running every week between Colombo Fort and Anuradhapura. Although delays at train signals can sometimes make it longer to reach Anuradhapura, depending on the train departure timing and the train you board, it usually takes you between three and six hours to reach Anuradhapura.
Generally speaking, the Colombo to Anuradhapura train operates according to the timetable scheduled, making sure travelers arrive at their destinations on time and in a safe location (exceptions are made especially during busy periods when many people work). Take a relaxing and scenic trip from Colombo to Anuradhapura by train for a relaxing and scenic experience.
Distance: ~205 km. Approximately 58 weekly trains (10 daily services).
Colombo to Anuradhapura Time Table
Promote your Business Here
To advertise on this spot, contact at Advertisement Page →
💰 Colombo to Anuradhapura Train Fares (2026)
| Class | Approx. Price (LKR) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Class (AC Intercity) | 1600-2500 | $4.90-$7.70 |
| 2nd Class (Reserved recommended) | 800-1200 | $2.50-$3.70 |
| 3rd Class (NOT recommended) | 270-500 | $0.85-$1.55 |
*3rd class is unreserved and very uncomfortable for 4‑5 hours – avoid. AC Intercity trains offer the best comfort.
Promote your Business Here
To advertise on this spot, contact at Advertisement Page →
Choose Your Class: First, Second, and Third Class
1st Class – Air‑conditioned comfort (AC Intercity trains)
First class air‑conditioned compartments are available on 4021, 4017 (Uttara Devi), 4003, and 5067. These offer comfortable reclining seats, large windows, and a quiet atmosphere. The journey takes 3.5‑4 hours. Book at least 2‑3 weeks in advance – these are very popular among tourists and pilgrims.
2nd Class – Best value (Reserved recommended)
Second class is available on all trains. Reserved 2nd class on AC Intercity trains and expresses (Yal Devi, Rajarata Rejini) is comfortable. Unreserved 2nd class can be crowded – we strongly recommend reserving a seat. For daytime travel, Uttara Devi (11:50) and Yal Devi (06:35) are good options.
3rd Class – NOT RECOMMENDED for this long journey
Third class is cheap but unreserved with wooden benches. On a 4‑5 hour journey, it’s extremely uncomfortable, especially in the heat of the dry zone. Avoid 3rd class unless you are an extreme budget traveler and don't mind standing or sitting on a hard bench for hours.
Plan Your Journey Upfront
For the fastest journey, take 4021 (05:45) – only 3h 25m. For a comfortable daytime ride, 4017 Uttara Devi (11:50) is excellent. The best views are on the right side (east) as you head north, where you'll see paddy fields, coconut plantations, and ancient irrigation tanks. Avoid the midday heat by taking a morning or late afternoon train.
Reserved vs Unreserved Ticket
Reserved Tickets – Guaranteed Seating (ESSENTIAL): Reserved tickets provide a guaranteed seat for this long journey. Always choose reserved for 1st or 2nd class – you will regret an unreserved ticket on a 4‑5 hour trip.
Unreserved Tickets – Not recommended: Unreserved tickets (3rd class) mean you may have to stand or sit on a wooden bench. Only suitable for extreme budget travellers who don't mind severe discomfort.
Plan Your Departure from Colombo Fort
Colombo Fort station is your departure point. Arrive at least 45‑60 minutes early for morning trains. Pack snacks, water, and a power bank – the journey is 3‑6 hours. The dry zone can be hot, so bring a hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket for evening trains.
✅ Pre-departure Checklist
- Arrive at Colombo Fort station 1 hour before departure.
- Carry printed or digital ticket (screenshot).
- Pack plenty of water – dry zone is hot and dry.
- Bring snacks – vendors are irregular on this route.
- Power bank, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Light jacket for evening trains (5067, Night Mail).
🏨 Not Been in Colombo Yet? Check Out Following Hotels
- The Kingsbury Colombo – $130 USD
- Cinnamon Grand Colombo – $120 USD
- Hilton Colombo – $115 USD
- C1 Colombo Fort Hostel – $15 USD
Where to Stay in Anuradhapura?
🏨 Hotels in Anuradhapura
- Ulagalla Resort – Premium ($180 USD). Luxury bungalows, pool.
- Miridiya Lake Resort – Mid ($55 USD). Lakeside, restaurant.
- Heritage Hotel – Mid ($45 USD). Near sacred sites.
- Anuradhapura City Hostel – Budget ($12 USD). Dorms, social atmosphere.
🍽️ Restaurants in Anuradhapura
- Mango Mango – International & Sri Lankan ($5-8)
- Seedevi Family Restaurant – Local rice & curry ($4-6)
- Lakeside Café – Fried rice, noodles ($3.50)
- Nuwarawewa Rest House – Buffet ($6)
🏞️ Top Things to Do in Anuradhapura
- Sri Maha Bodhi – Sacred fig tree, 1 hour
- Ruwanwelisaya Stupa – White dome, 1-2 hours
- Jetavanaramaya – Largest brick structure, 1.5 hours
- Mihintale – Birthplace of Buddhism, 3-4 hours (15 min by taxi)
🚍 Bus Station Nearby
Anuradhapura New Bus Stand is about 1.5 km from the railway station – 10‑15 min walk or 5 min tuk‑tuk (150‑200 LKR). Buses run to Colombo, Kandy, Polonnaruwa, Trincomalee.
🚖 Taxi in Anuradhapura
Book a Taxi Now →📅 Best Times to Visit Anuradhapura
| Months | Weather | Activities | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec–Mar | Dry, sunny, 25‑30°C | Sightseeing, stupa visits | Best weather, coolest | Peak season, crowded trains |
| Apr–May | Hot, occasional showers | Sightseeing | Fewer tourists | Afternoon heat (35°C) |
| Jun–Sep | Dry, hot, 28‑35°C | Early morning sightseeing | Low season, cheap hotels | Very hot during day |
| Oct–Nov | Inter‑monsoon, mixed | Sightseeing | Green scenery | Unpredictable rain |
Tip: The best time to visit Anuradhapura is December to March (cooler and dry). Avoid the midday heat (12‑2 PM) and carry plenty of water. Wear light, modest clothing when visiting sacred sites.
Colombo to Anuradhapura Train Stops
Major stops: Colombo Fort → Ragama → Gampaha → Polgahawela → Kurunegala → Maho → Tambuttegama → Anuradhapura.
If you overshoot Anuradhapura, the next station is Anuradhapura New Town (2 km away). From there, take a train back to the main station – trains run every 2‑3 hours.
🚧 Missed your stop? How to return to Colombo
If you miss Anuradhapura, get off at Anuradhapura New Town and take the next train back to the main station. Return to Colombo takes about 4‑5 hours. Alternatively, take a bus from Anuradhapura bus stand to Colombo (4‑5 hours, ~500 LKR).