Anuradhapura is well-connected by its central railway station and a new town bus stand, serving as key transport hubs for arrivals and departures.
Direct trains operate daily from Colombo Fort to Anuradhapura. The journey typically takes around 3 hours 45 minutes to 4 hours 12 minutes. Ticket prices vary by class: First Class AC can be approximately 2,000-2,400 LKR, Second Class Reserved around 1,200 LKR, and Third Class around 360 LKR.
Traveling by train from Kandy to Anuradhapura usually requires a change at Polgahawela Junction. The total travel time can range from approximately 4 hours 10 minutes to over 7 hours, depending on the connections. Ticket costs are estimated between 1,100 LKR and 2,600 LKR.
Direct bus services are available from Colombo Bastian Mawatha Bus Terminal to Anuradhapura, with departures every 30 minutes. The journey typically takes about 5 hours 45 minutes. Fares range from approximately 550 LKR to 1,000 LKR, or around $13-$17 USD.
Direct buses depart from Kandy Good Shed Bus Station, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours to reach Anuradhapura. Ticket prices for these services can be around 100-400 LKR. Some intercity bus options may take around 3 hours 51 minutes and cost between 2,600 LKR and 3,300 LKR.
Direct buses run hourly from Dambulla to Anuradhapura. This journey is relatively short, taking about 1 hour 45 minutes. Fares are typically between 170 LKR and 300 LKR.
For convenience, taxis offer a direct route. From Colombo, a taxi ride can take about 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 24 minutes, with costs ranging from approximately $66-$74 USD (around 29,000-36,000 LKR). From Kandy, a taxi journey takes about 3 hours. From Dambulla, a taxi will take around 1 hour 10 minutes and cost approximately 2,600-3,800 LKR.
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