Looking for train, taxi fare, bus from Colombo to Polonnaruwa? Compare prices from 7 verified operators offering 14 vehicle types. Prices start from $5 (Rs1760) for private door-to-door service with meet & greet.
Average travel time is approximately 170 minutes. (by car)
By Train
Train from Colombo to Polonnaruwa takes approximately 358 minutes. Scenic and budget-friendly option with various class options from basic seats to sleeper cabins.
Vehicle
Price (USD)
Operators
Seats
Third Class Reserved Seats
~358 min
$5
• Sri Lanka Railway
1-4
Second Class Reserved Seats
~390 min
$7
• Sri Lanka Railway
1-4
Private Transfer
Door-to-door private car service from Colombo to Polonnaruwa. Comfortable ride with meet & greet, ideal for families and groups.
Vehicle
Price (USD)
Operators
Seats
Comfort Sedan
Comfort 3pax
~170 min
$73 – $125
• Real Lanka Holidays
• Tours with Stef Lanka
• Tours with Stef Lanka
1-3
Comfort Sedan
Comfort 2pax
~280 min
$111 – $233
• Tours with Stef Lanka
• Ceylon Roots
• Ceylon Roots
1-2
Van / Minibus
Van 8pax
~170 min
$122 – $153
• Real Lanka Holidays
• Tours with Stef Lanka
• Tours with Stef Lanka
1-8
Standard Car
~326 min
$134
• Lakpura
1-4
Van / Minibus
Van 6pax
~280 min
$139
• Tours with Stef Lanka
1-6
Van / Minibus
Van 12pax
~170 min
$146
• Real Lanka Holidays
1-12
Hatchback 4pax
~191 min
$150
• TaxiBazaar
1-4
Sedan
~191 min
$150
• TaxiBazaar
1-4
SUV
SUV 6pax
~191 min
$207
• TaxiBazaar
1-6
SUV
SUV 3pax
~228 min
$674
• Ceylon Roots
1-3
By Bus
Bus service from Colombo to Polonnaruwa. Affordable option with various comfort levels from standard to VIP coaches.
Vehicle
Price (USD)
Operators
Seats
Standard AC
~340 min
$21
• Al Rashith Travels
1-4
Tourist AC
~380 min
$22
• Al Rashith Travels
1-4
Other routes from Colombo
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to travel from Colombo to Polonnaruwa?
Prices start from $5. There are 14 travel options available across 3 transport types.
How long does the train from Colombo to Polonnaruwa take?
The train journey takes approximately 358 minutes. Multiple class options are available from basic seats ($5) to comfortable sleeper cabins.
What private transfer options are available?
Private door-to-door transfers include sedans, SUVs, and vans for groups. All prices include driver, meet & greet, and luggage. Journey takes approximately 170 minutes.
Are there buses from Colombo to Polonnaruwa?
Yes, bus services are available with various comfort levels from standard to VIP coaches. Prices start from $21.
How much is the taxi fare from Colombo to Polonnaruwa?
Taxi fare prices: Sedan (1-3 pax): from $73, Van/Minibus (1-8 pax): from $122, SUV (1-6 pax): from $207. All prices are for private door-to-door transfer with driver and luggage included.
Travel tips
Book in advance
Book at least 24 hours ahead to ensure availability and the best rates.
Payment options
Pay securely online by card. No cash needed on arrival.
Luggage included
Standard luggage is included. Contact operator for extra large items.