Bus from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to Kandy – Timetable & Fares

Recommended option: take a direct, non-stop bus from CMB to Kandy and depart around 06:00 to reach by mid-morning. The distance is about 114 km and the winding road through lanka offers picturesque views. For visiting places along the route, this is ideal, letting you stay on one transport from kolombo to Kandy without extra changes. The airport’s direct line to Kandy is a favorite with travelers who want smooth bookings and a predictable schedule.

Timetable overview: Direct CMB–Kandy services run daily, with most operators offering 6–8 departures from early morning to late evening. Typical travel times are 2.5–3.5 hours depending on traffic. Morning departures commonly occur around 05:15–06:00; night services can run until about 22:30–23:00. Always verify the exact times with your chosen company before you travel.

Fares and bookings: Non-AC buses cost roughly Rs 400–600; AC coaches range from Rs 800–1200. Some operators add small luggage fees or a charge for reserved seats. For bookings, use the operator’s official site or the airport information desk to confirm availability. Your bookings reference and the times should be ready when you arrive at the platform.

Where to catch the bus: From the Arrival Hall, follow clear signs to the airport-to-city stop or to the main Colombo transport terminal. Look for the CMB–Kandy line and an on-site staff member will guide you to the correct platform. If you need extra comfort, request a bus with enhanced equipment such as charging points or more legroom; always mention the компания name when you book, and keep the contact details handy for bookings updates.

Other options include private transfers or taxis for late-night arrivals or families with more luggage. A popular choice for many visitors is a direct, air-conditioned coach with reliable times and a comfortable equipment setup. If your plan includes several stops, compare a couple of operators for more other day trips, and consider a single bookings package to simplify the process.

What you gain: the route along hills offers serene views of tea estates and towns as you approach Kandy. The show of Sri Lanka hospitality starts at the stop and continues in the city. If you are visiting more places, coordinate with your driver or bus operator; have a backup plan for night arrivals, and keep cash on hand for on-board payments. For any contact questions, reach out to the airport information desk or the компания you chose to ensure your bookings remain up to date.

Daily timetable: departures, frequency and peak hours from CMB to Kandy

Plan ahead: for a smooth journey, use a reputable airport transfer from Bandaranaike to the Colombo area and catch a regular bus to Kandy, or choose a direct airport-to-Kandy option if available. The station near Bandaranaike is located close to the airport perimeter and offers several daily services, but direct runs are limited. Check airporttransfercom as a trusted option and use the источник to verify schedules and ahead booking. This approach truly save time, especially for groups arriving with luggage or unfamiliar with roads.

Timetable snapshot: daily departures from Bandaranaike to Kandy typically run from about 05:30 to 21:30. Peak hours cluster in the morning and late afternoon, roughly 07:00–09:00 and 15:00–18:00, when several services operate within 30–45 minutes of each other. Off-peak gaps widen to 60–90 minutes between departures. Night services exist but are less frequent, and conditions on the roads can affect timing. Most long-distance options offer conditioning (air conditioning) and a range of seating choices to suit different travellers.

Peak hours and frequency

During peak periods, you can often catch a bus every 30–45 minutes, making your arrival ahead of schedule more predictable. In off-peak times, expect 60–90 minute gaps. If you plan to arrive at night, verify the last direct service and consider a backup option via Colombo Fort or Katunayake, then continue by a reliable connection to Kandy. Whether you travel solo or in groups, prioritise a direct or faster-through route to minimize stopovers and avoid unfamiliar detours on the roads.

Booking and travel options

Options include direct airport buses, a pre-arranged car from bandaranaike, or a transfer to a main terminal to catch a frequent Kandy bus. For groups or families, a car transfer can be worth the extra cost to save time and simplify arrival logistics. Always plan ahead and confirm booking details with reputable operators. If direct services are unavailable, head to the station ahead of time to choose a dependable through-service with fewer stops, ensuring a smoother trip to Kandy.

Direct vs. connecting services: options on the CMB–Kandy route

Direct services are the best choice for earliest arrival and the smoothest trip; if you need to save, a single well-planned transfer can still work well, especially when you book in advance and compare fares.

Direct services

• What it is: a non-stop ride between Colombo’s main intercity terminals and Kandy, with no transfers on the way to the destination.
• Depart and duration: typical depart windows in the early morning hours; expect about 2.5–3.0 hours of travel in good traffic, longer on winding sections or peak times.
• Fare ranges: second-class non-air-con around 450–650 LKR; air-conditioned options around 700–1,200 LKR; prices vary by operator and seating class.
• Booking tips: reserve seats in advance if possible, especially during holidays; look for “best” seats in the front or near the driver for a steadier ride.
• Additional perks: fewer chances of delays caused by transfers; drivers usually communicate timing and stops clearly, aiding overall planning.
• When to choose: if you want the earliest arrival in Kandy and simplified logistics, this is the strongest option; such routes minimize total hassle and waiting time.

Connecting services

• What it is: a service with one transfer, typically in Colombo Fort or another major hub, before continuing to Kandy.
• Depart and duration: you depart from a Colombo terminal and then continue on a second bus; total time often 3.5–5.0 hours depending on waits and traffic.
• Fare ranges: often cheaper than direct air-con services, roughly 550–1,100 LKR in total, with additional transfer costs depending on the leg you choose.
• Booking tips: compare options across operators, and consider a morning departure to maximize available connections; always confirm transfer points before departure.
• Possible drawbacks: waiting times between legs can add to total travel time; missed transfers incur extra costs and longer delays.
• Best use cases: if you aim to save money or want flexibility to explore a little en route, single-transfers offer meaningful value among options.

In both cases, the main factor is reliability of the transfers and the driver’s schedule. For many travelers, the earliest direct option provides the most predictable timing, while a переводы approach can unlock lower fares and additional просмотров along the route. Always check the source (источник) of timetables, compare varyingly priced offers, and consider your booking timing to avoid missing the earliest departures. If you plan to изучить beyond the main path, factor in extra miles and potential detours, and weigh the added travel time against savings. In summary: for speed and simplicity, choose direct; for further savings and flexibility, go with a well-planned transfer.

Fare details: ticket types, price ranges, and where to purchase

Book in advance to secure the best fare and a convenient seat. Whether you travel for business or leisure, these routes from kolombo airport to Kandy offer a variety of ticket types: one-way, return, and special rates for groups or students available at dedicated bookings counters. For these journeys, domestic buses provide affordable options, while premium services deliver extra comfort on arrival.

Price ranges depend on service level and seating. A standard non-air-conditioned bus from kolombo to Kandy typically costs about 350–550 LKR per passenger; air-conditioned services run roughly 600–900 LKR; VIP or premium buses sit around 900–1,200 LKR one-way. If you book a return, some operators offer a small discount. Check the schedule and point of departure, because these figures might vary by operator and time of day; for those chasing the best deal, the lowest price often comes with a longer travel time rather than an express service.

Where to purchase: at the arrivals terminal you’ll find official ticket desks near the bus bay, and you can check the schedule boards to know the next departures. If you plan ahead, use bookings on operator sites or travel apps and collect the ticket at a counter with your reference number. Those who arrive late can still purchase at central Colombo locations, but the location of desks and peak times might change. A taxi from the arrival area is convenient for door-to-door service, yet it remains more expensive than the bus. For those with bags, most operators allow two bags per passenger; keep these limits in mind when planning переводы or a potential поезд connection later in the day.

Multi-segment itineraries exist for travelers who want to combine road with rail. If you depart via a direct bus, you might avoid extra stops; if you choose a route via ella, accept additional переводы and a longer schedule. Always check your depart time and arrive at the designated boarding point a few minutes before departure to prevent delays. These options give you a flexible, truly straightforward way to reach the center of Sri Lanka’s travel network, with locations that are convenient for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

Travel time: typical journey duration and factors affecting it

Take the direct SLTB bus from CMB to kandy; it’s the simplest and most economical option. This choice keeps transport costs down and avoids expensive taxi rides. At Bandaranaike, you’ll find the routes listed at the airport platforms, and the official website is helpful to know which service is offered and where to board. If youre unfamiliar with Sri Lankan buses, this option is comfortable in itself and perfect for a straightforward ride outside the terminals.

Typical travel time is about 3.5-4.5 hours for a direct airport-to-kandy service, with occasional delays adding another 30-60 minutes during peak hours. The distance is roughly 115-125 km, and the route offers picturesque landscapes as you climb into the hill country. If you know the departure time, you can plan a better arrival into destination and feel more comfortable.

Time factors: traffic around Colombo and the airport area, road works on the A1 corridor, and the number of stops along the route. Some buses go directly to kandy; others pause in major towns, which can extend hours. Weather and holiday traffic can slow movement, and if you take a detour toward ella, you’ll add time and plan accordingly. Sometimes the direct bus is offered by a reputable company, but if the schedule changes, you may need to adjust. If youre outside peak hours, you can avoid the worst delays and have a more predictable ride; however, standby options exist if you want flexibility.

Practical tips: check the website for the latest timetable and platform details; buy tickets in advance when possible; bring water and a light snack; sit by the window for the views (picturesque). If youre traveling with family or luggage, request a comfortable seat or a better option with space, if offered by the company. On arrival in kandy, you can continue by bus to a nearby destination or explore the town center; departure times can be updated, so know your options and be ready to adjust. This approach helps you avoid expensive costs and keeps the trip smooth outside peak hours.

Average daily connections: how many CMB–Kandy trips are available per day

Based on current timetable data, expect about 12–16 public CMB–Kandy trips daily, with 3–6 express options that cut travel time. In peak periods, the total can reach 18–22 departures. For groups or families, main routes offer comfortable seating and easy bookings. Explore Lanka using public routes; these are a favorite choice for travelers on a budget.

Where to catch: Most connections start from Colombo’s main depots or airport-adjacent stops and route through Colombo Fort before heading to Kandy. Depending on where you board, the schedule might shift by 15–30 minutes. On weekends and holidays, added departures appear as demand grows. To keep your plan smooth, carry water, and aim to board at least 10 minutes before departure. If you travel with tourists or in a travel group, express services may be faster and have fewer stops, though you might pay a bit more. For the cheapest option, public routes remain reliable and easy to book; always check bookings ahead to guarantee seats. Police checkpoints may occasionally add time, so schedule a small buffer.

Airport boarding guidance: where to catch the bus, payment methods, and tips

Catch the bus at the Airport Bus Stand just outside the arrivals area. Follow the signs to the departure point labeled for Kandy. The stand is on the curb near the terminal exit; drivers and staff will direct you to the correct bus.

1. Where to catch and board: After you exit arrivals, locate the Airport Bus Stand with Kandy on the destination boards. Stand in the queue, present your ticket if needed, and board when the doors open. Keep belongings close and store larger items in the overhead rack or luggage area before you sit.
2. Departure times and schedules: Schedules vary by operator and day. Check the boards for the latest times and platform. Some services run only a few times per day; thus, plan ahead and arrive 15 minutes early to avoid missing the bus. Sometimes delays occur due to traffic; however, you can expect a reliable service during regular hours.
3. Ticketing and payment: Tickets are sold at the stand counters. Pay in lankas; cash is the most reliable method. Some operators offer card payments or mobile wallets, but you should not rely on them. The total fare depends on class; second-class is the cheapest option; air-conditioned options are pricier. For faster purchasing, carry exact change and have your route clearly in mind, as there are several modes of payment offered.
4. On-board experience and equipment: Buses to Kandy vary in comfort and equipment. A variety of buses operate, including second-class non-air-conditioned and higher-class air-conditioned options. If you want simple, easy travel, choose the cheapest option; for comfort, pick a bus with conditioning and better seating. Note where to place belongings and keep valuables with you; some buses offer better luggage compartments for larger items.
5. Tips for tourists: Plan your journey around the departure times and expect a busy stand at peak hours. Tourists often prefer direct services to Kandy, but if you need a transfer, know the stopping places along the way and plan onward connections. Further, if you travel with rich belongings, use the luggage space wisely and keep a close eye on your equipment. If you want the cheapest option, second-class is available, but a richer travel experience comes with higher-class service.